26 Travel Tips for 26 Years
Happy Birthday to ME! This past Sunday, I turned 26 and I couldn’t help but reflect on all the blessings that have come out of this year. One of the biggest blessings has been this business. As I was thinking of how to commemorate my year, I thought 26 travel tips - one for each year of my life - might be a fun way to do it! Are you ready? Here we go:
26 Travel Tips for 26 Years:
1. Adventure is out there!
What is YOUR definition of vacation? Is it hiking through the Grand Canyon? Exploring a bustling city? Lounging on a tropical beach? Whatever draws your interest, THAT’S where the adventure is. Don’t keep putting it off — the time to book your next trip is NOW!
2. Budget Wisely, but Don’t Skimp on Experiences
Save where you can, but plan to splurge on unforgettable adventures like hot air balloon rides or once-in-a-lifetime meals. I have never once regretted those experiences once I returned home.
3. Carry-On is Your Best Friend
No matter where you go, a carry-on is the move. Especially in Europe. Trust me: dragging a fifty-pound suitcase along the cobblestone streets of Italy is NOT fun. A carry-on bag not only saves time at the airport, but also helps you to prioritize only what you really need.
4. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
It might feel unnecessary until you need it—and when you do, you’ll be so glad you have it. I could tell you stories.
5. Early Bird Gets the Deals
Book flights, accommodations, and tours early to snag the best prices and options. The New Years rush is real — go ahead and book NOW to get a jumpstart on your 2025 vacation!
6. Flexible Itineraries Make for Better Adventures
Don’t plan every minute of your trip. Leave room for spontaneous exploration or the unplanned adventures you never expected. Oftentimes, those are the most memorable parts of your trip!
7. Go Off the Beaten Path
In the same vein as #6 — explore beyond tourist hotspots to discover hidden gems and even connect with locals. Allow yourself the time to not feel like such a tourist!
8. High Maintenance Girlies, Clock In
My #1 travel rule: I WILL be high maintenance, but not at anyone else’s expense. My purse will always have:
Water
Any meds I could possibly need. My favorite pill pack is linked here. I always have Advil, Sudafed, Excedrin Migraine, Tums/Gas X, and ZzzQuil.
Chapstick
Sunglasses
Extra hair ties
A protein bar
Don’t be caught unprepared!
9. Invest in Quality Gear
When it comes to certain products, quality is worth the price. Some of my favorites:
Apple AirPods
New Balance women’s 574+. I’ve worn these all over Walt Disney World AND Europe. They are so comfortable!
The Béis Weekender Tote. Pair this with a carry-on bag for maximum room in your suitcase. This bag was a LIFESAVER for me this summer!
10. Just DO IT.
You’ve had that trip planned in your head for YEARS and you’ve never booked it. Something is always in the way and it’s always “better off next year”. STOP! No one knows where life will take us. JUST DO IT. BOOK THE TRIP. You won’t regret it!
11. Keep a Copy of Important Documents
Take photos of your passport, IDs, and travel itineraries. Store them digitally and print a backup.
12. Learn a Few Local Phrases
A simple “hello” or “thank you” in the local language goes a long way in showing respect and making connections.
13. Maps Save the Day
Traveling to a new city? Download CityMapper. It makes local transit a breeze, no matter where you are! Pro tip: screenshot the directions so that you have them saved in your photos no matter how good/bad your internet is.
14. Never Underestimate Travel Snacks
Pack protein bars, trail mix, or fruit. They’re handy during delays or when local cuisine isn’t your favorite. Some of my favorites include Quest bars, Cliff bars, or small bags of nuts. As someone who is constantly battling low blood sugar, these are a huge help!
15. Open Yourself to New Cultures
This is one of the best parts of travel! Immerse yourself in local customs, traditions, and foods—even if it feels a little uncomfortable at first. Find whatever “the thing” is to do in the place you’re visiting and jump in feet first!
16. Plan for Downtime
Traveling can be exhausting, and anyone who knows me knows that I NEED my down time. I do not thrive on an all-out schedule. Pushing yourself too hard will make everyone cranky, and then the whole trip is miserable! Take breaks to recharge and enjoy the moment. - it will allow you to be fully present and enjoy the time you’re out sightseeing.
17. Quality Over Quantity
It’s better to truly experience a few places than to rush through many. Stop and smell the metaphorical roses: you will return having had a much more immersive experience!
18. Research!!
Even if you’re booking with a travel advisor (and I hope you are 😉), it’s still worth your time to sit down and do a little bit of research on your trip. Whether it’s looking up the menu of your all-inclusive or mapping your walk from your Paris hotel to the closest café, you can only benefit from having done a little digital exploring yourself before you arrive!
19. Stay Connected and Stay Safe
Invest in a good portable charger so that you never have to worry about running out of phone battery. If you’re a female traveler (or want to be but you’re scared to travel alone), here are some quick tips:
Order one of these door stops to pack in your suitcase and slip under your hotel room door at night.
Never look lost/confused when walking and never actively follow directions. It signals that you’re a tourist. If you need to follow map directions, slip in an AirPods and follow them audibly!
Carry a Birdie alarm or some other type of whistle with you when you travel.
20. Travel Advisor — Book with One! AKA Me!
I could try and give you 26+ reasons why I should help plan your next trip, but I’ll settle for this: I am here to help you and I love what I do! I am in the business of creating magical vacations and I’d love to help with yours!
21. Utilize Public Transportation
Exploring a city through its public transportation system can be a cost-effective and immersive way to experience local life. Whether it's hopping on a metro, taking a bus, or even a tram, you'll often find yourself mingling with locals and discovering parts of the city you might otherwise miss.
22. Vaccinate and Prepare
Research required and recommended vaccines. Keep a list of your prescriptions and bring extras. Talk with your doctor before you leave about what medicine you may need to help prevent any issues (ex—medicine to help with nausea, flight anxiety, etc.)
23. Wake Up Early for Popular Attractions
This absolutely applies in a theme park setting, but it’s also true for anywhere that’s a popular tourist destination: beat the crowds and you will likely have a more enjoyable experience. The early morning hours often offer a quieter and more serene atmosphere, perfect for taking in the sights and capturing stunning photos.
24. eXpect the Unexpected
Travel isn’t perfect. Lost luggage, delays, or wrong turns often lead to the best stories and experiences. As my dad likes to say, once the trip begins, just “let the vacation come to you” and don’t stress about the small details.
25. You’ll Be Glad You Did
I have NEVER regretted a trip. I’ve never wish the money could go back in the bank and I’ve never thought it was a waste of time. It always yielded memories, bonding with friends/family, and an exciting break from my regular life. If you’re thinking about it…you should do it!
26. Zoom Out and Reflect
Spend some time after your trip reflecting on what you loved and what you’d do differently next time. Before too long, you’ll be ready to travel again!
Who’s ready to book their next vacation? I think it’s time! Go to my contact page and let’s get started!
