Many people know that traveling is not very expensive, but don’t know where to get started. In order to make the most of your travel, though, you should learn as much as possible.

When traveling abroad, rather than doing local currency exchanges, use ATMs to make withdrawals. In most cases, banks and other financial institutions are able to get far better rates of exchange that you ever personally could alone. You end up with more savings if you go to a bank.

Make a packing list. Sometime well before your trip, at least a week or more, write down all of the items that you must pack. Even if you won’t have time to pack until the last minute, having a list will keep you organized.

Make sure you are careful about any food allergies you may have whenever you visit a foreign land. Most especially if you have severe reactions to foods, you need to become somewhat fluent in the food related words of the native language. This will allow you to communicate to others what foods you are trying to avoid.

Proper planning is key, so pack the essentials, but don’t over-pack. The less things you have with you, the less chance you will have of losing valuables or risking having them stolen. Limit the pairs of shoes you carry, as they are often the largest and heaviest items you will be bringing on your trip.

Door Stop

Increase safety at hotels by bringing along a door stop. You may not have access to the type of security that you think is acceptable. If the door doesn’t have a chain or deadbolt aside from its main lock, try placing one wedged door stop under your door before bed.

Anytime you are traveling, be aware of all your belongings the entire time. If you have a purse with you, keep it close to your body at all times. Also, pick travel bags with secured flaps that conceal zippers and pockets, so that access is not easy in crowded or dangerous areas. Make sure you take this advice into consideration when purchasing a dependable travel bag.

Utilize travel to educate your family. As long as you’re cautious, the developing world can be a good place to visit, and it can show your kids how life outside of your home country is. Traveling abroad will help you understand the world better and be more tolerant of others.

When packing for your next trip, it is important to take along a light raincoat. You never can predict what the weather will do. You can also use it as a robe or windbreaker.

Make sure your passport hasn’t expired. Some countries have very specific rules regarding passports, including when they expire. Depending on the expiration date of your passport, a country may not let you visit. These range from 3 to 6 months, or could even reach 8 months to a year.

When you have a long flight on a plane, pack some non-liquid snacks to enjoy. Take vegetables or fruit to stay as healthy as possible. This can save you money and give you something great to eat.

Now all that’s left is to decide where you wish to travel to. This is just the tip of the iceberg for travel advice, so keep researching to find the best information and other tips for optimal travel.