After ten years of globetrotting, I’ve compiled the greatest travel tips and tactics to help you save money, avoid mistakes, and travel like a master!

I’ve learnt a lot of valuable lessons when travelling, such as the time I was mugged on a train because I let my guard down, or the time Scott and I arrived at the Bozeman Airport only to discover that our vehicle rental had expired.

Be Flexible

 We constantly anticipate delays and try not to become frustrated when things go wrong. Traveling requires a great deal of patience!

Make a List

I prepare a mental list of stuff I don’t want to forget about a week or so before each trip — which I WILL forget if I don’t write them down. I’ve learnt that whenever I have an idea, I should write it down.

Learn Common Phrases of the Local Language

In the native tongue, a simple “Please,” “Thank you,” and “I’m sorry” may go a long way. But that’s just me. I also like to learn the term for beer.

Don’t Forget an Extra Camera Battery (or Two)

Have you ever arrived at your favourite sunset photo location only to discover that your camera battery is dead and you don’t have a backup? On all of our vacations, I try to pack at least three camera batteries so that we don’t miss out on that great photo.

Always Bring a Sarong

Sarongs can be used as a blanket, a towel, a curtain, or a piece of clothing that can be worn in a variety of ways. Solid colours are fine, but if you want to stand out, this sarong is perfect.

Always Buy Travel Insurance

A medical emergency might completely deplete your funds – or even cause you to lose your life savings. For travel insurance, we use and recommend World Nomads.

Make Photocopies of Important Documents

I used to keep a copy of my passport in a separate bag from my actual passport when I was in my early twenties. Then I became lazy.

A buddy of mine just misplaced her passport at the airport. They said they would have allowed her fly if she had provided a duplicate of it and extra passport photographs. She was forced to forgo a $2,000 airfare and a week in Europe because she didn’t. I now have a copy with me at all times.

Pack Extra Underwear

 Because underwear is so tiny, it’s usually a good idea to keep a few spare pairs on hand in case of an emergency. Another alternative is to bring these quick-dry underpants with you so that you may wash them on the go.

Pre-plan Your Outfits

Because I’m a slacker who packs at the last minute, I’ve spent far too many vacations wearing all black or all grey clothes because I didn’t prepare ahead of time. Looking back at photographs, I wish I had spent more time packing.

Enquire about the price BEFORE You Take Public Transportation

Before boarding a bus, guagua, or other type of public transit, it’s a good idea to inquire about the cost. In the Dominican Republic, we learnt our lesson.