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5 Must do’s before traveling

9/24/2013

6 Comments

 
Picture
(Photo by © Brandon Elijah Scott / Eye & Pen)
1. So you want to travel?
Well, that’s a great decision... Travel is one of the most life changing and amazing experiences a person can have. Humans are meant to explore, and to learn and grow, for without travel, bad habits, judgements and things like racism never evolve and close-mindedness is never truly cured.
The biggest question after deciding to go abroad is ‘where the heck am I going to go?’ In today’s highly connected world, you can travel anywhere in the world. So, literally, ‘the world is your oyster.’ A lot of people already have their destination in mind – perhaps you’ve been dreaming of a certain place since you were young... But if that’s not you, then think about what experience you want to have. To grow and to experience new things, try traveling to a far flung place, where the culture is as different than you can imagine. For example, if you’re from the USA, UK or Canada, try India or China, or even Ethiopia – for these cultures are all vibrant and unique, which will provide you with endless chances to experience everything anew.

2. So you’ve picked your destination... What now?
Taking a look into where you’re going and what you’re wanting to do is always a good thing to do, however it’s not always best to over-plan every aspect. But there are a few MUST DO’s that you need to dedicate proper attention to, like travel logistics and visa requirements. If you’re from the USA, you don’t have to worry about most country’s visa requirements (like for Europe, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.), however you should ALWAYS double check the requirements, because some destinations require prior-approval and paperwork, some require fees, and others sometimes require certain health tests and records to be submitted.

3. So you’ve checked on everything... Time to plan!
As I said prior, try not to over-plan every aspect, because one of the best aspects of traveling the world is spontaneous change and just going with the flow. But do study a bit, find some things you want to do and become somewhat familiar with the geography of the areas you’re visiting. It’s important to understand how the local transportation works, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Sometimes renting a car is easier than using the public transportation systems – and the opposite is also quite true, in a lot of destinations.

4. So you’ve planned it all, booked it all... Time to pack, eh?!
Before buying that backpack or rucksack that you’ve had your eye on, it’s always important to check on the airline’s baggage restrictions. Most major, traditional airlines have pretty common, and easy going rules, however as new budget airlines pop up, so do the baggage rules, fees and complications – remember, that’s how they make their money. Once you understand the size and weight restrictions, grab a bag that will service you well, yet don’t pack too much junk that you will be miserable each and every place you have to lug it around to. In most places around the world, you can purchase the various toiletries or clothing options that you may THINK that you MIGHT need, but aren’t quite sure. When it comes to traveling abroad, especially when backpacking, it’s typically best to pack as light as possible.

5. So you’ve done everything you can think of?
Last, but not least, after you’ve booked and researched everything, and all of your packing and preparations are done, it never hurts to check on the major details of your trip... Check the dates and times, and reservations, and each booking, for fine details or issues that you might have overlooked.

And... Good luck! Click here for more of my tips and tricks to travel planning.
6 Comments
John link
9/25/2013 03:26:28 am

Brandon Scott, with his sublime photography, romantic pen and goodwill will stir up the dreamer and adventurer in us, even if we never leave home to travel.

Reply
Brandon Elijah Scott link
12/17/2013 02:39:30 am

Awe! Thank you very much! I appreciate your words of encouragement! It really means a lot to me to read that you feel that way about my material. I love being an inspiration to others. This is my passion and I put every inch of my being into this. :)

Reply
Paula McInerney link
9/30/2013 02:34:53 pm

I am sitting here looking at my bag that has what i need for Europe in it, (we leave in a couple of days) but ... I don't do neat and organised well. So i have invited an anally retentive friend for coffee. The minute she sees this she will have a fit and re-pack it. Problem solved! I also posted on 'what to do before you go away' on our site that fits in with yours

Reply
Brandon Elijah Scott link
12/17/2013 02:43:19 am

I checked out the blog post. It does fit well with mine. Great minds think alike! :) I think that inviting your friend over for coffee is a great way to get them in the mood to organize your bag! You will be ready to leave in no time! Hope you have a safe trip!

Reply
Justin link
7/17/2014 04:25:00 pm

All these are most important things we can do before going on a road trip It ensure us that your vehicle is in good working order and the peace of mind. Thanks!

Reply
Plan for a Guided Road Trip link
8/24/2014 07:32:51 pm

These are the necessary things while planning a road trip. I felt those who are planning for an enjoyable road trip must go through these tips. Thanks for sharing.

Reply



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