10 Travelling Tips for 2021

Travelling is amazing, but it can take a lot of trial and error.

Travel savviness comes from a multitude of previous mistakes, whether that be a missed flight, stolen money or uncomfortable surroundings.

As we make our way out of a world full of face masks and social distancing, we get ever closer to being able to travel both nationally and internationally once again.

This will be a blessing to some people (aka me). However, for others it can be a daunting and anxiety-inducing thought – which is why it’s best to be prepared.

So I’ve compiled a list of tips, that both I and other people have learned throughout our travelling experiences, that will hopefully help you keep yourself calm, organised and happy on your next trip. Enjoy!

Pack comfortable shoes

If your trips are anything like mine, a lot of walking is involved.

So don’t let your feet suffer – take a comfy pair of trainers or boots if you’re spending an entire day traipsing round a city or going on a hike.

Also, if you have room, bring a nice pair of slippers to show your feet some love after a long day.

Photocopy important documents

Make copies of your passport and other important pieces of information, and email a copy to yourself as well.

You may need identification while you’re out somewhere, but don’t want to take your original passport or ID out of the hotel room.

Ask a local for information

Nobody knows more about an area than someone who lives there. So ask them for recommendations for places to see, eat and visit, as well as the best times to go to avoid crowds.

They may also know of ways to do certain activities more cheaply, particularly when it comes to tourist attractions and transportation.

Plus, they will probably tell you about some hidden gems that you never would have found otherwise.

Pack a towel

It doesn’t matter where you’re going – ALWAYS pack a towel.

You could be staying in the nicest accommodation in the area, but you never know when you will need an extra one or one that doesn’t scratch your skin when you use it.

You may also need it when you’re out and about, particularly if you’re going somewhere like the beach.

A small towel won’t add a huge amount of extra weight to your bag, and will go a long way in making your trip more comfortable.

Choose your line at security wisely

Whether it’s at airport security or passport control, you want to get through as quickly as possibly. Because who wants the unnecessary stress?

So, if you can, try and choose a line with solo or business travellers. Or, simply avoid lines with large groups and families with young children as much as you can.

Although it’s not their fault, families take longer getting through security as they have more luggage and children to contend with.

However, business travellers, solo nomads and couples are normally in more of a rush and travel light.

You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can get through security – unless your bag gets held back for searching!

Eat the street food

If you want to immerse yourself in a country’s culture and save money, eat food from street vendors and markets.

They’re most likely cheaper, and also most likely to be better than most expensive restaurant cuisine.

And if you’re worried about getting ill from the food – see if elderly people or children are eating it. If it’s safe them, then it’s safe for you!

Extra socks

Especially if you’re going on an active holiday, socks are of paramount importance.

Although packing light and wearing clothes multiple times is doable, socks are things I just can’t wear more than once.

Plus, they can be easily lost or become victim to wear and tear while on your travels.

A fresh pair of socks is always a necessity, so always take two or three more pairs than you need.

Take an empty water bottle

Everyone knows you can’t take a bottle of water through security, but it costs to keep buying them at your destination.

So take an empty, reusable bottle with you and fill it up when you get through security, and you’ll also have one to use on your trip too.

Plus, filling up from the taps helps save both money and the environment.

Go on walking tours

Walking tours are one of THE BEST ways to see the area you’re travelling in. They’re often free, and will take you through the majority, if not all, the major attractions in the area.

My friend Katy and I went on a free walking tour in Berlin, and we got to see around 80% of the places we wanted to visit in the space of a few hours.

It saved us a lot of money and gave us more time to explore the city.

So try it! The tour’s guide will teach you a lot, and you get to ask them any additional questions you may have.

Take lots of photos

I’m AMAZING at this (or terrible, depending on your level of patience).

I take photos as if the place I’m photographing is going to be torn down the next day. But it’s important – because years from now, it’s going to be all you have.

Having something to look back on is priceless.

And that’s it! Do you have any tips that you live by when travelling? Let me know! Thanks for reading x

Credit: Nomadic Matt