Top 37 Things to Remember When Traveling (Part 1 of 3)

Travel is perhaps one of the most rewarding things one can do in his or her life. The world we live in is so vast, and there is just so much to learn about different cultures and peoples. However, travel can also be incredibly frustrating, especially if you do not go about it smartly.

Here are a few things that you should never forget when traveling to any destination.

1. Pictures make the best souvenirs.

Invest in a good camera that you can easily take along in your travels. If you forgot your camera (or lost it somewhere), you can easily find disposable ones in tourist offices or souvenir shops. Photographs of your trips are the best and cheapest souvenirs that will keep well for years.

2. Extra batteries.

Bring extra batteries for your camera, and for your smart phone, if possible.

3. Back up your photos.

When photos are the souvenirs that you keep from your travel, it is important that you back them up in a USB flash or hard drive, or upload the photos on online storage such as Google Drive and Drop Box.

4. Back up your IDs.

Before you leave for your trip, make sure to scan your IDs (including your passport) and send it to your email. This is just a precautionary measure in case your belongings get stolen—replacing your travel documents will be a lot easier if you have scanned copies.

5. Keep hygiene stuff in your carry-on.

Make sure to carry a set of fresh underwear, toothbrush, toothpaste, and baby wipes in your carry-on for emergency situations. Baby wipes is worth its weight in gold if you find yourself in a place without showers.

6. Books are your friends.

Traveling involves a lot of waiting, and you do not want to use up the battery of your smart phone or computer tablet. Make sure to bring a book with you to keep boredom away.

7. Your mood swings might be coming from a physical problem.

If you find yourself grumpy or tired, you just might be hungry or tired. Do not forget to take care of yourself, even when you are having the time of your life exploring your destination.

8. Do not forget to bring sneakers.

In case you go on a hike or engage in some outdoor activities in your destination.

9. Bring a nice outfit with matching shoes.

These can come in handy in case you go out on a date or visit a classy place.

10. Check the validity of your passport.

Do this even before you buy your ticket.

11. Do not bring your beach towel to the beach.

Use a sarong to cover up or to lay in the sand; reserve your bath towel for the shower. There is nothing worse than rubbing your body with a sandy towel.

12. Pack your toiletries in a Ziploc bag.

Make sure to keep your shampoo, cologne or perfume, body soap, and lotion inside Ziploc bags to prevent them from leaking in your bags.

13. Always wear sunscreen.

Especially if you are going to walk a lot outdoors on your trip.