Published 12:20 IST, October 22nd 2019
6 Travel Mistakes you should not make when travelling abroad
Travel mistakes are easily committed by travellers when they are preparing to travel or when they are at the destination. Here are six mistakes to not commit
The month of October is approaching its end. During this season, a lot of us begin to plan our next getaway, be it to some serene place in India or an exotic destination abroad. A lot of time is spent in locking a destination, arranging the documents required, and booking the tickets and stay at the place and preparing a budget for the trip. However, a few mistakes can be made. Let's take a look at them so that you can avoid these common mistakes.
1. Overpacking
This is the cardinal rule that travellers tend to break. Overpacking for a trip that will only last for three to four days is a strict no-no. Most of our time is spent outdoors, and of course, carrying extra luggage means getting exhausted before your trip even begins. As such, the majority of stuff we pack is rendered useless. Overpacking also means that you will have to carry extra luggage around and you will not have space for items that you shop while travelling. Hence, the rule over here is to travel light, whether that is by train or by flight.
2. Having an extremely tight travelling itinerary
There is sheer and genuine excitement when it comes to visiting a completely new place. There is just so much to do and explore and take in that we get supremely overwhelmed. In such a situation, we tend to chalk out a travelling itinerary that is overflowing with a lot of activities. This robs the fun of exploring the place in a peaceful manner. The ideal advice would be to prepare a schedule that only has activities that really reflect the beauty and importance of the place you are visiting.
3. Exchanging money at the airport
Seasoned travellers are well aware of this fact. For those who are new to the experience of travelling, this is essential information. Airport exchange kiosks charge double the rate. Hence, it is advisable to use an ATM or credit card. While travelling around the place, it does help to carry some hard cash as most places do not have facilities for credit card transactions.
4. Not purchasing a travel insurance
This concept might seem pretty alien to Indian travellers, but it is commonplace in the West. Travel insurance is essential for a traveller in more ways than one. If you have planned a trip in advance and spent a considerable amount already but at the last minute you have to cancel the trip, then you will not be out of cash.
5. Not having a proper cell-phone plan
While travelling, it is essential to have proper roaming services. Or at best, you can avail an international sim card. Having cell phone network coverage in a new place is imperative, in cases of emergencies at least.
6. Not having your documents ready in one place
Whether it is your visa, passport, or reservation details, it is important to have them always ready when you travel. Nowadays, digital copies are quite prevalent. But make sure to carry all your important documents in one folder or bag.
Updated 16:18 IST, October 22nd 2019