5 Steps to Help Prepare You Before Travelling

April 17, 2018
Jess

As travelling can be an incredibly exhausting experience, it is wise to know the right tips and tricks to help you feel more confident and ready for your travel day. Here are 5 important steps you need to know to help prepare you before your journey.

Organise Your Packing

The first step to ensure you are well prepared for your trip is to have your luggage well organised and planned out. It is important that you factor in how long you plan to be away for, so you can implement this into how many items you need to pack. It is best to think of the ‘less is more’ approach when packing your suitcase and to only take necessities with you. It can be easy to begin packing everything and anything you own; however, the weight will soon add up and you may be charged extra fees by your airline. Being realistic about what you will need for your trip will ensure you do not go overboard with packing excess clothes and items. There may also be products that you can purchase abroad such as sun lotions and creams.

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Research Your Destination

Before you travel, it is recommended that you do as much research as possible on the destination you are going to. Having a better idea on your destination’s climate, culture, and day to day life can give you valuable knowledge that can help you make suitable plans for getting the most out of your trip. You should research into activities and excursions that are on offer, so you are able to make the right choices for you. Also, make sure you are vigilant and aware of your surroundings when travelling. Taking precautionary measures beforehand such as carrying your valuables on you rather than in your suitcase can help eliminate the risk of any stolen or lost luggage.

Valid Passport

It is vital that you have a passport that is in date before you travel. There are a variety of countries that do not allow you to travel without at least six months validity so make sure that you check the expiry date on your passport so that you can take appropriate action. To obtain a passport, you will need to send two passport-size photos, your birth certificate as well as another form of identification that can prove you are a citizen in your country of origin.  Also, renewing or replacing a passport can be a lengthy process so ensure you set aside enough time beforehand so there are no problems that could occur that may hinder your travel.

Parking

Once your travel day arrives, it is important that you make plans for how you are getting to the airport. If you are planning to travel by car, usually airport websites such as birminghamparking.com can give you all the information you need on where to park and what services could benefit you. If you are flying long haul to places like North America or Tokyo, it may be worth considering the hotel park and fly Birmingham airport has to offer. This service offers travellers the option to book an overnight stay in a hotel situated at Birmingham Airport. Parking is also included in the package which ensures your car is in a safe and secure spot whilst you are away on your trip. Make sure that you book a service well in advance as you are likely to be able to save money in the long run.

Flight Entertainment

Another way to help prepare you for travelling is to bring items that can provide you with entertainment throughout the duration of your flight. If you are travelling a long distance, being on a plane for a lengthy period can test your patience so make sure that you bring items that can help stimulate and occupy your mind. Many travellers bring books, iPods and tablets in their hand luggage which can provide you with the entertainment you require. If you are travelling with children, try and pack some suitable activities in your hand luggage to keep them occupied. If you are wanting to get some sleep whilst flying, it is recommended that you bring ear plugs with you. The plane environment can become very noisy so having ear plugs will help block out sound and allow you to have some much-needed rest. Be aware that there are weight restrictions regarding hand luggage so try not to bring too many items on board with you.

Simply following these five steps can have an enormous difference in how your travelling experience goes. If you require more information or need a little more guidance, it is best to speak to family and friends who have travelled who will be able to assist you and answer any queries you may have.