There’s a strong possibility that if you’ve traveled for any considerable duration, your skills in doing so have improved compared to earlier times. Each journey provides a chance to [improve your packing techniques](https://foxnomad.com/2012/04/17/save-8-or-more-space-in-your-backpack-by-letting-it-settle-overnight/), cut down on a few [minutes at the airport](https://foxnomad.com/2019/11/21/what-do-you-need-to-declare-at-the-airport/), and uncover the [finest airfare bargains](https://foxnomad.com/2013/11/26/framing-effect-screws-best-airfare-deals/). What you should aim to do is pinpoint some frequent blind spots in your travel approach that could hinder your progress.
These are [10 typical travel blunders to avoid](https://youtu.be/avBN5Lg6uvw?si=lc83kIqwq28kyZWr).
**1. Booking Too Early**
Buying [plane tickets at the very last minute](https://foxnomad.com/2023/11/15/the-worst-websites-to-book-flights-with/) involves certain risks (such as the chance of not securing a ticket) along with benefits ([landing a fantastic deal](https://foxnomad.com/2018/07/17/kayak-explore-lets-you-see-how-much-it-costs-to-fly-from-home-to-anywhere/)). Conversely, making reservations too early can also tie you to unnecessarily high prices for airfare.
**2. Avoiding AirBnb or Hotels**
In certain situations, one option may outweigh the other. Confined to *only* [hotels or vacation rentals](https://foxnomad.com/2019/03/21/when-airbnb-is-better-than-a-hotel-and-the-other-way-around/), you could miss out on amenities, deals, and a more authentic experience. Investigate both and determine which may suit you best for every journey.
**3. Getting From Airport To Accommodation**
Even those who dislike planning should have a clear understanding of how to reach your lodging from your arrival point *before* you land. You’re most susceptible to scams, overcharging, and wasting time with all your [luggage](https://foxnomad.com/category/travel/luggage/) as you wait to figure out how to secure a cab. [foXnoMad Podcast guest Laurie Woolever](https://youtu.be/_D06VVJ0i_A?si=dVntIOPH6KfXC3Bp)‘s book [World Travel: An Irreverent Guide](https://amzn.to/4mek4x2) contains information for many major cities globally.
**4. Excessive Packing**
Pack only the items and clothing you’ll need for a week. Anything more indicates that [you’ve packed too much stuff](https://foxnomad.com/2010/07/08/why-packing-for-2-weeks-is-no-different-than-packing-for-2-months/) that you won’t require or can simply obtain at your destination.
**5. Not Taking Advantage of Mileage Programs**
One flight is sufficient to justify [participating in a mileage program](https://foxnomad.com/2021/01/26/5-ways-to-use-frequent-flyer-miles-other-than-flying/). Here’s how to optimize their use, and since most program miles don’t expire, they can accumulate, even with infrequent flying.
For the remaining 5 travel blunders (some of my favorite choices on the list) [check out the video here](https://youtu.be/avBN5Lg6uvw?si=MVw9AmR3RujYg25m).