How to be prepared for anything while traveling – Lonely Planet

Travel will always involve a little bit of uncertainty. When you are away from home and our daily routine, the chances of something unexpected happening increases exponentially. This is a big reason for many people to travel, but for others this fact is a hard pill to swallow. This partly explains why people travel differently.

Here are two different ways travelers think about what it means to be “ready for anything” and six ways anyone can be more prepared to hit the road.

Some travelers are just as great at booking their airline tickets, and then discovering the rest of their plans once they land. Booking last minute deals from vendors like HotelTonight can be quite a lot of fun. Some are even more extreme, such as the traveler who simply comes to the airport ticket counter and buys the next available flight – wherever it is, whether domestic or foreign. This kind of coincidence can be impressive, but not many can afford it, even if they record extensive travel to every inhabited continent.

For others, the opposite strategy makes the most sense. They may over-prepare and pre-book everything. They do this to ensure that the itinerary goes smoothly as planned and to mitigate any surprises. This type of traveler may overcrowd the foreign store with what he wants. It may seem a little counterintuitive to some, but there are so many different ways to travel, and obviously going with whatever you might need makes some feel more comfortable.

There are a few things any traveler can do to be prepared for anything. It’s possible to venture safely and protect your investment without spoiling the sense of excitement (travel insurance, anyone?). In fact, having the basic affirmations taken care of beforehand will often make it easier to pursue more exciting opportunities once you reach your destination. Here are six ways to do this:

Did you know that it is difficult to find a public bath in some (not all) European countries? In some cases, you may need local currency, often coins, to use it. You’ll know this if you do some basic research, which can go a long way in saving your bladder and sanity while navigating a foreign country. Spend an hour online or talk to someone who has been there to see what to expect. Not only will this help you, but it is scientifically proven to build anticipation and help you enjoy your trip more.

Your packing list will vary depending on where you go. But the following items are particularly suitable for flexibility. Multipurpose gear like quick-drying hybrid shorts instead of swimming trunks (ladies: running shorts and sports bras work in a pinch too), mole skins for hiking, and definitely a reusable water bottle. Even more than food, staying hydrated will sharpen your mind to help you find your next great meal, bathroom, or whatever. A small first aid kit can also be helpful. But don’t feel like you have to pack everything – most places you visit will have well-stocked stores and will gladly accept your money.

Although this proverb applies to life in general, it is especially true of travel. Since travel plans are rarely planned, keeping the flow or rolling with the punches will help you enjoy the trip and avoid unnecessary stress that won’t do you any good. Be flexible with your timing. Accept that cancellations (whether due to weather, flight delays, or elimination) can and will happen. It is also best to learn some basic phrases in the language of your destination. “Hello,” “please,” “thank you,” and amazingly “bathroom” can get you almost anywhere with the help of pointing and gestures.

It may sound boring, but it can save you a lot of trouble later – make sure you have all your travel documents and papers ready ahead of time. If you are traveling abroad, make sure you know about any visa or health requirements. Store backup photos of important documents like your passport on your phone. And keep some cash and a spare credit card on hand in case you lose your wallet, purse, or luggage.

For many, this is the ultimate backup plan. In fact, travel insurance has been particularly useful and increasingly common during the global COVID-19 pandemic, adding a new layer of complexity to domestic and global travel plans. It is likely that you will not be harmed while traveling. Is that true. But when that happens, travel insurance can be a sensible, healthy, and sometimes even life-saving method. Need a recommendation? Consider Seven Corners travel insurance. For nearly 30 years, it has provided 24/7 travel assistance and has helped millions of people around the world get rid of any unexpected problem or serious complications.

People with panic make worse decisions than calm ones. When something unexpected happens while traveling, you don’t want to complicate your situation with bad decisions. It is in your best interest to combat any urges to panic and reassure yourself that most people are naturally good. Many of them will often help you for free if you are in distress. Anyone who travels a lot has seen this happen countless times in dozens of countries and all 50 states. This is an affirmation you can bet on.