Many people fantasize about traveling around the world. It can be nice to dream about the places you can explore; however, the best and most memorable trips start with proper knowledge and planning. The advice you’re about to read is going to help you have the best adventures.

Always carry an updated color photo of your child with you. This will come in handy if they are ever lost. Losing a child in a foreign place can be very stressful and scary. Sometimes though, this may happen. Having a photo of your child handy in case they get lost in a crowd could end up making a huge difference.

When vacationing in a foreign country, be careful what you eat. You need to know the language’s food related words, particularly if you have bad reactions to foods. This way, you can easily explain your allergies to waitstaff or chefs in restaurants or–should something happen–medical professionals.

When planning a vacation, be flexible when it comes to your exact destination. Though you may enjoy visiting the same locale as a favorite, you can enjoy some variety and new memories by choosing an untested destination. Also, picking new destinations can be a money-saving technique.

To travel light, only pack essentials. The less things you have with you, the less chance you will have of losing valuables or risking having them stolen. Take only a few shoes, as they add unnecessary weight to your bags.

Bring a doorstop for safety reasons. These nifty devices can help hold doors closed just as much as they can help keep them open.

Exercise before you get on the airplane. Longer flights can be boring. Sitting in the same position for long periods of time can cause leg and back cramps. Having a quick workout or, at the very least, stretching before a flight can reduce or eliminate leg cramps and soreness.

Always remember to tip any hotel staff. Generally, you will give one dollar per piece of luggage, and anywhere between two and five dollars a day for housekeeping. Tipping the people who assist you during your stay will help to develop a relationship with the staff, and entice them to provide you with optimum service.

Get involved with travel websites and forums. Getting information and sharing experiences with fellow travelers is a great way to prepare yourself for a trip. You can learn what NOT to do on your travels, and you may even pick up a new friend in the process!

Never travel overseas without being prepared for anything, including getting your passport lost or stolen. You can visit different websites to safeguard against this. Department of State has a website (usembassy.state.gov)with the contact information for the United States Consulate or Embassy at the country you’re visiting. Keep this information on you when traveling. Usually, you can get a replacement within a couple days.

National Park

If you enjoy visiting the gorgeous National Parks and plan to do so often, consider investing in an affordable National Park Pass. Each pass costs $50. They are good all year and can be used at any national park.

Travels across different time zones can result in serious jet lag. If you get more sleep before the trip it will help. Sleep on the plane, too.

Before renting a car on your vacation, be sure you are familiar with the terms of your own vehicle insurance. Rental car staff is trained to sell additional insurance, and you might not need it. Vehicle insurance policies often have some third party liability coverage. Consult your insurance agent about what your policy does and does not cover before you leave.

Now that you’ve read these tips, you should not be as confused when planning fun trips. You will become a professional traveler, one that others turn to for advice! When you apply these tips, your traveling will be more relaxed and stress-free.