Becoming an Astute Adventurer: 50+ Tricks to Perfect the Travel Game
Traveling ranks among life’s most rewarding adventures, yet it doesn’t come instinctively to everyone. Many individuals aren’t naturally adept travelers — they transform into one through experience and learning from mistakes. With occurrences like missed connections and overflowing luggage, along with cultural blunders and financial missteps, travel expertise is acquired. But what if you could bypass the trial and error and embark on your journey with assurance?
After nearly twenty years of exploring the world, I have created an extensive compilation of travel strategies to assist you in steering clear of typical pitfalls, economizing, engaging with locals, and enhancing your travel skills. Whether you’re preparing for your inaugural trip or your fiftieth, these tips will enable you to travel more intelligently, efficiently, and meaningfully.
Here are 50+ indispensable travel tricks to help you become a travel expert:
1. Always Include a Towel
A lightweight, quick-drying towel is essential. Whether you’re lounging at the beach, trekking, or staying in a hostel lacking towels, you’ll appreciate having one.
2. Utilize a Compact Backpack or Suitcase
A smaller bag compels you to pack efficiently and evade superfluous items. Aim for a 35–45L backpack or a small suitcase.
3. Travel Light
Lay out all the items you think you need — then reduce it by half. You’ll seldom require as much as you believe.
4. Opt for Hostels
They are cost-effective, social, and frequently centrally located. Use Hostelworld to discover the finest options.
5. Carry Extra Bank Cards
Always have a backup debit and credit card handy in case one goes missing, gets stolen, or is compromised.
6. Choose No-Fee Bank and Credit Cards
Dodge foreign transaction and ATM fees by opting for travel-friendly banking options.
7. Avoid Flying Directly Every Time
Occasionally, flying into a nearby city and taking a train or bus can be more economical.
8. Experience Solo Travel at Least Once
Traveling alone enhances confidence, independence, and opens the door to meeting new acquaintances.
9. Check Out Local Tourism Offices
They provide free maps, insider information, and discounts on attractions and transport.
10. Join Complimentary Walking Tours
These tours serve as an excellent introduction to a city and are often conducted by enthusiastic locals.
11. Don’t Hesitate to Use a Map
It’s better to appear like a tourist than to end up lost in an unsafe area.
12. But Embrace Getting Deliberately Lost
Exploring without a set plan can lead to unforeseen discoveries and unforgettable experiences.
13. Ask Hostel Staff for Recommendations
Even if you aren’t staying there, hostel personnel are a treasure trove of local insights.
14. Enroll in Flight Deal Alert Services
Websites such as Scott’s Cheap Flights and Skyscanner can assist you in finding fantastic deals.
15. Limit Your Belongings When Going Out
Bring only what you need — a card, some cash, and your mobile.
16. Keep a Lock Handy
Crucial for hostel lockers and safeguarding your valuables.
17. Duplicate Important Documents
Have both digital and physical copies of your passport, ID, and insurance.
18. Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language
Even a simple “hello” or “thank you” significantly helps in connecting with locals.
19. Don’t Feel Embarrassed to Use Chains Like Starbucks
They provide free Wi-Fi and clean restrooms — handy when you’re in need.
20. Position Yourself Behind Business Travelers in Airport Lines
They know the process and navigate security swiftly.
21. Steer Clear of Families in Security Lines
They move at a slower pace due to children and additional luggage.
22. Request Hotel Upgrades
It never hurts to ask — especially if you’re courteous and the hotel isn’t fully booked.
23. Explore Attractions During Lunchtime
Tourist spots are less crowded when most people are dining.
24. Refrain from Dining Near Tourist Hotspots
Walk a few blocks away for more delicious, affordable, and authentic meals.
25. Shop at Local Markets
It’s more economical, healthier, and provides insight into the local culture.
26. Dine at Upscale Restaurants During Lunch
Lunch menus often cost less than dinner for the same meals.
27. Bring a Headlamp
Helpful for hostel dorms, camping, or during power failures.
28. Carry a Basic First-Aid Kit
Band-aids, antiseptic, and pain relievers can prove invaluable.
29. Don’t Fixate on Cheap Flight Myths
There is no magical day to book — just rely on trustworthy search engines like Skyscanner.
30. Embrace the Sharing Economy
Platforms like Couchsurfing, EatWith, and BlaBlaCar help you connect with locals and save money.
31. Be Receptive to Strangers
Greet, ask questions, and make new connections.
32. But Remain Cautious
Trust your instincts and be aware of common travel frauds.
33. Avoid Taxis
They’re costly and often unnecessary. Utilize public transportation or rideshare apps.