Common Travel Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Now we’re in a position where we can travel again, it’s always worth considering the way in which you choose to see the world. Travelling is a wonderful but risky business, as there’s always something that could go wrong.

I’m currently gearing up for a skiing holiday in France, and I’m SO excited! But in doing this it’s also got me thinking about the best ways to keep myself and my belongings safe.

So, with this in mind, I’ve compiled a list of common mistakes people (including myself) make while travelling, as well as some ways to prevent them.

Mistake…

Having an over-ambitious itinerary

I put this first because I’m TERRIBLE for doing this, and I’m not exaggerating when I say I do this every single time.

Granted, filling our itinerary while on holiday has paid off multiple times in the past, but it’s not always sustainable – especially if your travelling companions aren’t that way inclined.

Trying to see the whole country or city in one trip is not only stressful (which you don’t need on holiday), but it can also leave you feeling unaccomplished if you don’t tick absolutely everything off your list.

Instead…

Be a bit more flexible and don’t be afraid to change your plans, because anything could come up e.g. weather change, money shortage, delayed travel times, illness etc.

So, remind yourself that you don’t need to cover everything in one visit, because it just gives you the excuse to go back!

Mistake…

Overpacking

Even if I haven’t worn a particular item of clothing for six months, I’ll still end up convincing myself that I need to take it on holiday with me. But, having said that, I have been improving over the last few years.

Instead…

Make a packing list, and only include things you need and what you know you’ll use. Check the forecast to see what weather you need to pack for, and try to only pack clothes that go with at least two or more items that you’re also taking – because taking shoes that only go with one particular pair of jeans and jumper just takes up valuable space in your case.

Also, if you’re still feeling restricted, feel free to buy the rest of what you need (like toiletries) when at your destination – it can save a lot of weight while travelling, and you could get things for a fraction of the price.

To help you be more organised and efficient with your packing, I’d also recommend some packing cubes, which I talk about in a previous post.

Mistake…

Not backing up photos

This is by far one of the most heartbreaking mistakes that can be made while travelling, and the worst part is that sometimes it’s not even your fault.

Your memories are arguably the most valuable things you get from your trips, so it’s important to allow for the possibility of running out of storage space, or if your phone/camera gets lost or stolen.

Instead…

Save your pictures on a USB drive, cloud storage space, or online on sites such as Google Photos. If it’s possible, back them up more than once.

Mistake…

Not allowing enough transfer time

Rushing around while travelling to and from places is nothing short of stressful. A lot of people try and save money and/or time by booking more than one flight, but these can often have short layover times which don’t allow for:

• queues at customs
• getting your bags
• flight delays
• long distances between gates/terminals

Therefore, you miss your connecting flight.

Instead…

Book direct flights wherever possible (they may cost a little more or mean being on a plane longer than you’d like, but at least you know you’ll actually get there on time). Also, make sure to give yourself at least a couple of hours between flights to allow for delays of any kind.

Mistake…

Not making copies of important documents

If your passport gets stolen while you’re away, it can take a long time to renew it, which is likely to leave you feeling vulnerable in an unfamiliar area.

Instead…

Make multiple copies of documents, such as your passport and travel insurance. Take one copy with you and leave it in a secure place e.g. your hotel safe, and make sure you have another copy accessible from home, either with a family member or in your email account to send to yourself or the authorities.

Copies quickly verify your identity and quicken the renewal process, so it’s always beneficial to have an extra copy of everything at your disposal.

Mistake…

Standing out

This may seem odd, but it’s unbelievably easy to spot a tourist in a crowd, which is one of the worst positions to be in as it makes them a prime target for pickpockets.

Instead…

This is easier said than done (goodness knows I haven’t mastered it), but it pays to try and blend in when in a crowded and touristy area. Of course you’ll have to get your phone or wallet out in front of people from time to time, but it’s not wise to constantly expose your valuables. If you don’t need to wear expensive jewellery on a day out in a city, leave it safely in your accommodation.

Don’t tempt pickpockets with flashy items, and try and blend in with the crowd – because stereotypical tourists (whether they mean to or not) practically walk around with an ‘I Have Money’ sign on their foreheads

If you’re travelling alone or with a small group then be aware of where your belongings are, and if you’re in a larger group it pays to stick together, as thieves aren’t likely to target big numbers. Don’t make your valuables accessible e.g. putting your phone in your back pocket, and check you have everything with you when you arrive and leave a place.

Mistake…

Thinking you have all the time in the world to book the trip

It’s no secret that last minute holidays can be cheaper, but there are risks that come with it which could lead you to not being able to go at all.

Instead…

Spend more time researching and checking out different packages and deals to make sure you have the trip you always wanted, rather than having to settle for what you aren’t 100% happy with because you left it to the last minute.

Mistake…

Being insensitive towards other cultures

Turning your nose up at the way somebody lives their life on the other side of the world won’t help you get the most out of your trip. Plus, it’s offensive.

Instead…

Try the local cuisine, visit the attractions, attempt to understand the culture and the surroundings in which you’re travelling, and have an open mind.

Making an effort will make you feel more accepted into another community, and may make you a friend or two along the way – so throw yourself into it!

Mistake…

Relying solely on guidebooks

Guidebooks are great, but they aren’t the only way to research where you’re travelling to.

Instead…

Do a Google search to get the lowdown on the places to visit, what time things close, and average costs – plus, customer reviews are priceless.

Also, speak to locals! Nobody knows more about a place than the people who live there, so pay attention to what they say – they may know the best times of the day to visit places to avoid foot traffic, and they could save you some money as well as help you stay safe.

Are there any mistakes that you’ve made while travelling? If so, how has this impacted the way you travel? Thanks for reading x