21 Years of Global Travel: Essential Tips for Every Traveler

It all started with a five-week trip to Thailand in 2000. We fell in love with travel, but we’ve had our fair share of mishaps over the years. From being airlifted from the Amazon to getting lost on Swiss Rail, we made a lot of travel mistakes. So we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of our best travel tips from the things we learned over the past 21 years of traveling the world.

We’ve done everything from cycling the continent of Africa to driving a car from England to Mongolia. By traveling both independently, with groups, on guided tours, and for business to 115 countries over the past two decades, we learned a lot.

Money Travel Tips

So are you ready to make the most of your travels when we can all hit the road again? Let’s get started with these top travel tips for traveling the world!

1. Don’t Go Into Debt

This is one of the most important tips for traveling we can give you. Don’t spend beyond your means when you decide to travel. You’ll regret every moment of your travels if you come back from a trip of a lifetime only to face a mountain of debt.

If you can’t afford to travel internationally yet, do some adventures in your own backyard. When we were dreaming of traveling the world, we explored a lot of our home province of Ontario, Canada. Being in nature on weekends got us out of our rut and inspired us to try new things. As you explore your backyard, you can save money and plan to travel the world. For us, we put away a lot of money by doing adventures close to home, and within a year we were on a trip around the world.

2. Always Get Travel Insurance

This is seriously one of the best travel tips we can offer. Get travel insurance before you leave home. A lot of people say, “I only need travel insurance if I am going off the beaten path,” but they are wrong. Accidents can happen anywhere. We were on a luxury cruise a few years ago when an accident occurred, and we understood the importance of having insurance.

3. Hire Local Guides

One of our top travel tips is to hire a local guide. By hiring local guides, you are directly supporting the local economy. It cuts out the middleman and helps local families. Plus, it’s a great way to make new friends and immerse yourself in local culture.

4. Apply for a Rewards Travel Credit Card

While we emphasize not going into debt, we also believe that credit cards can enhance your travel experience. A good rewards credit card can help you save money and offer perks like free travel, upgrades, and bonuses. Just remember to pay off your balance each month.

5. Debit Card and Credit Cards

Before you travel, let your bank and credit card companies know of your travel plans. If they suddenly notice a purchase overseas, they may lock your credit cards. Carry a variety of cards, as we’ve faced challenges accessing cash in different locations.

6. Cash in Small Bills

We always carry a couple of hundred US dollars in small bills for tipping upon arrival at hotels or for transportation. Whether in Africa, the Caribbean, or Europe, US dollars work almost everywhere.

7. Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours

Whenever we arrive in a new city, we join a free walking tour. It’s a great way to orient yourself and usually, these local-led tours offer more value than those booked online.

8. Get a City Pass

When visiting a city, we recommend acquiring a city pass. It often gives you great savings on bundles of attractions, public transit, and skips the lines at major sites.

9. Choose Tours Wisely

When selecting tours, make sure to go with responsible companies. Avoid unethical interactions with wildlife and support practices that respect local cultures and environments.

10. Respect Local Culture

One of the best travel tips is to learn about the culture and customs of your destination. Before you go, research the local dress and behavior expectations to blend in comfortably.

11. Give Back

When traveling, you have opportunities to positively impact the local community through volunteering or supporting local businesses. This connection often enriches your travel experience.

12. Take Lots of Photos of Yourself

Don’t hesitate to ask other travelers to take photos of you at those iconic sites. Capture those epic moments instead of relying solely on selfies.

13. Splurge Every Once in a While

Traveling on a budget is great, but it’s equally important to indulge occasionally, especially after an exhaustive journey. Finding a little luxury can rejuvenate your travel experience.

14. Step out of Your Comfort Zone

Travel allows you to try spontaneous things you might not at home. Embracing the unexpected can lead to exciting adventures and inspire new hobbies.

15. Don’t Compete with Other Travellers

Traveling is personal and shouldn’t involve comparing experiences with others. Embrace your journey and enjoy it without feeling pressured to compete.

16. A Smile Goes a Long Way

A simple smile can ease awkward situations and enhance interactions. It opens the door for communication, especially in non-verbal contexts, and tends to lead to better service.

17. You Don’t have to Be Fluent in a Second Language

You don’t need to be fluent in a foreign language to travel. However, knowing a few basic phrases can make a significant difference in your interaction with locals.

18. Sunrise is Better than Sunset (Most of the Time)

While waking up for sunrise may seem tough, many memorable and quiet experiences occur at dawn when popular spots are less crowded.

19. Make a Plan – But Don’t Over Plan

Having a flexible travel itinerary allows you to adapt to new experiences. We recommend planning the first few nights of your journey, then staying open to changes.

20. Be Flexible

Staying open to changing your plans can lead to amazing adventures you might otherwise miss. Flexibility often allows for unexpected discoveries.

21. Buy Souvenirs and Use the Post Office

Don’t be afraid to buy souvenirs, even if you worry about luggage space. Sending items home from local post offices can be an adventure and revive memories later.

20. Don’t Be Afraid of Street Food

Street food often reflects local culinary culture and can be fresh and authentic. Just ensure the food is cooked properly and observe hygiene practices.

Travel Tips for Safety

21. Follow Your Instincts

If something feels amiss, trust your gut. Following your instinct during travel can prevent unfortunate situations.

22. Don’t Let Your Guard Down

Stay vigilant and be smart about safety just as you would at home. Avoid risky situations, especially when traveling alone or at night.

23. Don’t Put Yourself at Risk – Be Smart

Don’t take unnecessary risks for social media content. Engage in safe adventures and seek professional help when needed to ensure your safety.

24. Cover-Up and Wear Sunscreen

Protect yourself from sun damage with appropriate clothing and sunscreen on exposed areas, especially during outdoor activities.

25. Vaccinations and Disease

Consult a travel doctor for necessary vaccinations well ahead of your trip. Preparation in advance ensures your health and safety while traveling.

Travel Tips for Packing

26. Pack Light

Packing light is crucial for a smoother travel experience. Avoid overpacking by choosing versatile clothing that can be washed easily.

27. Choose the Right Backpack

Selecting the right size backpack can make a significant difference. A smaller pack prevents overpacking and eases transport.

28. Carryon Care Package for the Plane

Ensure you have essentials in your carryon in case your checked baggage is lost. Include a change of clothes and personal items for comfort.

29. Always Pack a Sarong

Packing a sarong can add versatility to your travels. It can serve multiple purposes including a beach blanket, travel towel, or lightweight cover.

30. Pack a Water Bottle and a SteriPen

Reduce plastic waste by using a refillable water bottle. A SteriPen purifies water, providing safe hydration anywhere you go.

31. Carry Portable Chargers

Bring a portable charger to keep your devices powered during long travel days. Don’t miss capturing those precious moments due to a dead battery.

32. Do an Idiot Check

Before leaving a hotel, conduct a final check of your room to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything important.

33. Always Make the Bed

Making your bed before leaving can help you spot any items you might have left behind, as it forces you to check everything.

Travel Tips for Couples and Groups

34. A Fight Doesn’t Mean the End of Your Relationship (or friendship)

Traveling together can lead to stress and disagreements. It’s important to communicate openly and reconcile differences.

35. Don’t Get Hangry

Plan meals and ensure everyone has snacks to avoid conflicts when you’re hungry. Preparing in advance can enhance your overall travel experience.

36. Tell your Companion How Much You Appreciate Them

Be vocal about your appreciation for your travel companion. Acknowledging each other’s support fosters better harmony on your adventures.

37. Compromise

Traveling requires balancing each other’s preferences. Compromise leads to deeper understanding and often reveals unexpected enjoyment.

Budget Travel Tips

38. Skip Hotels if on a Budget

Renting an apartment with a kitchen can save significant money, especially on meals. This also allows you to experience living like a local.

39. Don’t Eat Out Every Meal

Preparing some meals can be both economical and enjoyable. Shopping at local markets adds a cultural experience to your travels.

40. Try the Local Food

Eating local cuisine enhances your travel experience. Seek out local eateries to immerse yourself in the culture while saving money.

41. Get off the Beaten Path

While iconic sights are must-sees, exploring lesser-known areas can lead to memorable experiences and a more affordable trip.

42. Feel Free to Wander

Immerse yourself in local culture by getting lost in markets or neighborhoods. Authentic interactions often happen off the main tourist routes.

Airport Travel Tips

43. Get a Priority Pass

Priority Pass offers access to over 600 lounges, enhancing your travel experience with comfort and benefits like food and wifi.

44. Get a Credit Card that Lets you Skip the Security Line

Some credit cards allow you to access priority security lines. Research what options are available at your local airport.

45. Look for Business travelers at the security line

Choosing a security line with business travelers can expedite your process, as they often know the fastest routes.

46. Pack Liquids in clear ziplock bags

Having your liquids neatly packed allows for quicker processing at security checkpoints, ensuring a smoother experience.

How to Book Cheap Flights

Utilizing online platforms like Skyscanner can help you find the best deals on flights. Flexible travel dates often yield significant savings.

Final Thoughts – More of the Best Travel Tips

47. Put Down the Cell Phone

Focus on the present while traveling. Experiences often outweigh the value of capturing the perfect photo.

48. Have an Open Mind

Approach each destination with an open heart and mind. Understand that every culture has unique values and lessons to teach.

49. Back up your Photos

Safeguard your memories by regularly backing up your photos to avoid losing them altogether during your travels.

50. Relax – Things Will Go Wrong

Maintain perspective when faced with travel-related challenges. Taking a step back allows you to navigate issues with grace.

51. Remember Travel is a Privilege

Traveling is a gift. Stay gracious throughout your journey, considering the hard work of those who assist you on your travels.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is a list of our best travel tips from 21 years on the road. Nobody is perfect at traveling and the only way to get better is to keep doing it.

We’d love to hear your words of wisdom too. Do you have some good tips on travel to share? Tell us below.