Learn Before You Travel

Being away on vacation is very exciting. However, unfamiliar territories come with their own challenges and they can greatly inconvenience you. For this reason, you should learn the following in order to have a safer and convenient vacation:

  1. Learn the basics of sewing

Learning how to sew is easy and it’s a skill that you’ll be grateful to have when the need arises.

You are on your own if your buttons come off or your seams rip because you will most likely not take your seamstress with you on vacation.

After you learn the skill, invest in a sewing kit, and carry it in your bag always.

  1. Learn how to pack light

If you have too much luggage, you will pay for it at the airport. You will also take longer to check-in and check out at the airport.

If you are staying at a vacation rental, you do not need to pack too many clothes because you’ll have access to a laundry machine.

Get in touch with an agent who knows about luxury rentals and confirm the list of the things provided in the house so that you exclude them from your luggage.

  1. Know the location of your embassy

Research the location of your embassy and keep the contact details on you.

If possible, when you arrive at your holiday destination, make a stop at your embassy’s office and let them know you are in the country. This is important because in case of an emergency, the embassy needs to account for your whereabouts and extract you if need be.

  1. Have an emergency fund

Nothing is more inconvenient than running out of money while in a foreign country. Do not keep all your money in the same place in case you lose it or it gets stolen.

You can take further precautions by taking out travel insurance prior to travelling. Double-check with your insurance agent to find out the terms of the cover and to ensure they have offices in the country you are travelling to in case you’ll need their help.

  1. Learn phrases and words in the language spoken in the holiday destination

If you are travelling to a non-English speaking destination, you should learn a few basic words and phrases in the local language. Learn how to say: Hello, Yes, No, I want to go to, how much and thank you.

These few words are enough for you to pass meaning and get assistance.

  1. Get your international driver’s license

Going everywhere by taxi is very costly. Taking public transport may not be convenient for you. Renting a car may be the best option as it is both convenient and cost-friendly.

Before you start driving, ensure that you don’t need to take further driving tests in the destination country.

  1. Learn how to swim

Not only will learning how to swim allow you to take full advantage of the swimming pool during your vacation, but it will also give you the confidence to learn different water sports such as kayaking, white water rafting, and surfing.

Swimming will also come handy in case of emergencies.