Here are some tips for travelers:
1. Always pack a towel. It’s the key to successful galactic hitchhiking – and plain common sense. You never know when you will need it, whether it’s at the beach, on a picnic, or just to dry off. While many hostels offer towels, you never know and carrying a small towel won’t add that much weight to your bag.
2. Use a small backpack/suitcase. By purchasing a small backpack (I like something around 35/45 liters), you will be forced to pack light and avoid carrying too much stuff. Humans have a natural tendency to want to fill space so if you pack light but have lots of extra room in your bag, you’ll end up going “well, I guess I can take more” and then regret it.
3. Bring an extra credit card and some cash. Emergencies happen. You don’t want to be stuck somewhere without access to funds. I always bring an extra credit card and some cash just in case.
4. Don’t forget travel insurance! I’ve had to use it twice before and it saved my life both times. Get it from World Nomads.
5. Make sure to have all the travel documents required for the countries you are visiting, as well as identification for your reentry.
6. Check your destination for country-specific health risks and safety concerns.
7. Choose safe food and drink. Contaminated food or drinks can cause travelers’ diarrhea and other diseases and disrupt your travel.
8. Postpone your travel and stay home when you are sick.
9. Visit Getting Health Care During Travel to learn how to connect with a doctor or medical services during your trip.
10. Frequent travelers should pick an airline and stick to it.
11. The best way to save on a hotel room is very simple: book early.
12. Rise before sunrise to have the best attractions all to yourself while avoiding large tourist crowds.
13. Observe daily life in a city or town you are visiting.
14. Learn basic phrases in the local language of your destination.
15. Don't forget to take pictures!
