Whether you love your career or are temporarily stuck in a job, it’s important to take time and re-charge outside of the office. Traveling is a great way to reconnect with the world around you. Whether you are taking a weekend trip to a location a few hours away, or spending a year in a completely different country, these tips can help you make the most of your time away before you leave.
Figure out that Flight: If you want to get the best flight deals, either plan very far in advance, or wait for those last minute deals. It all depends on your schedule. There are plenty of sites and apps to choose from when it comes to comparing flight costs, and getting alerts for good deals. If you’re planning a big trip find out what kinds of miles you can get for future trips!
Pack Light: This may be easier said than done, but come up with a list of basics for when you travel so that you’re not burdened with heavy bags and excess stuff. Bringing too many things just means you’re increasing the number of things to potentially lose. Another advantage to packing very light, is that it will be easier to bring back things that you buy on your trip. But do make sure you bring good walking shoes. Hopefully you will be exploring this new destination which means a lot of walking.
Bring Extra Cash : Although this may not be completely necessary depending on where you are going, it’s always good to have a bit of cash (both in your home country’s currency, as well as in the currency of the place that you’re traveling to) in case of emergency, a credit card loss/freeze, etc. Keep some of it hidden, and make sure you don’t keep it all in one place. Along those lines, make sure you alert your bank to where you’re traveling.
Medicine: Make sure that you have all medication with you and an extra supply kept in a separate place in case anything gets lost, or if you end up staying longer. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date for where you are traveling and don’t forget your passport and a copy (also kept in two separate places).
Tie up loose ends before you go: Pay your bills, finish your work, take out the trash – you don’t want anything hanging over your head while you’re away.
Culture Prep: Learn a few expressions, and get a small phrase book. Do some research on the areas you’re visiting to get to know a little bit of the history and culture before you go.