At the airport you’ll see two types of travelers – the one who breezes through security and onto the plane like they’ve got their life together…
… and the struggling traveler who seems clueless about how travel really works.
Whether you’re a travel newbie or a seasoned pro – here are 7 secrets every effective and successful traveler lives by when they travel.
They Pack Smart
We’ve all seen “that guy” who’s packed way too much stuff in his suitcase and is scrambling to take things out at the kiosk to avoid paying the extra overweight baggage charge.
Please – don’t be that guy.
You know we don’t recommend you check a bag to begin with…
… but if you must – make sure you weigh it before you get to the airport.
You can snag a luggage scale on Amazon for less than $10…
… or do it the old-fashioned way and hold it while you step on a weight scale.
Consider having a packing checklist ready to go each time you travel and then stick to it so you don’t bring a bunch of useless items.
They Check-In Early
With online check-in – there’s no reason to wait until you get to the airport to check-in.
If you check-in early – you may be able to select your preferred seat if you haven’t already.
Not only does checking in help you avoid long lines at the airport – but it’s a simple and effective way to make the most of your time.
And if you happen to be running late – having checked in ahead of time will give you a bit of a grace period to sprint through the airport to catch your flight.
They Do Non-Touristy Stuff
Yes – if you’ve never been to a certain destination before, you’ll want to visit all the main attractions (tourist traps).
After all – they’re likely popular for a reason.
But after you’ve seen the traditional things – there’s nothing better than strolling down a side street to check out a local hidden gem whether it’s a restaurant or market.
By experiencing a city like the locals do – you’ll get to truly soak in the culture and vibe of where you’re at.
And don’t be afraid to ask the locals their favorite spot!
They Aren’t Flashy
Some people insist on traveling and showing off how rich they are…
… whether it’s carrying a designer bag or wearing flashy jewelry.
But while those people are focused on impressing strangers – thieves are eyeing them as their next target.
Travel pros know it’s better to blend in with the crowd rather than stand out.
They Aren’t Jerks
Believe it or not there are travelers who still think being rude to the flight attendants or airport staff will get them some place.
While it’s important to be assertive when needed – there’s no reason to be rude to the person who is trying to serve you and do their job.
Being classy and… well… not a jerk is always in style.
They Rest
No – we’re not saying you should spend your entire trip sleeping in your hotel room.
But the whole “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” motto is really dated – and foolish.
If you build your itinerary jampacked with no free time – it’s likely you’ll be exhausted and cranky.
Humans need sleep. It’s just a fact of life.
Make sure you schedule an afternoon nap before dinner and allow for some downtime during your trip.
Remember – the goal of a vacation is to RELAX – not burn yourself out and need to take a vacation from your vacation!
They Have Fun
And finally – every highly effective traveler has fun!
While this seems obvious – some people get so focused on “following an agenda” they freak out if they don’t get to see everything on their list.
Relax.
Soak in the sites. Hang out with the locals.
Take lots of photos and savor the present moment.
Whether you identify as “Type A” or “Type B” – with a few tweaks, you can truly have the vacation of a lifetime.
What are your favorite tips for having the ultimate vacation?
Do you do all 7 of the things we listed above?
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