Travel is a great way to broaden your mind and make your life richer. Of course, it is not free of problems, so careful planning is required. The tips contained in this article are prepared to help you get what you want from your travels.

When going abroad, use ATMs to get some cash instead of using an exchange service. Usually banks and financial institutions are able to offer exchange rates that are better than those available to individuals. This can save you a ton.

Don’t bring any unnecessary valuables with you. If you are bringing your valuables on a trip, there is more of a chance that they will get lost or stolen.

Once you’ve chosen your destination, take the time to get to know more about where you’re going. Buy a comprehensive map of where you are going, study the environment, and research the attractions being offered there. If you learn the area, you will have an easier time while you travel.

Before packing, make a list. As soon as you know you’ll be traveling, start a list of everything you will need to pack. Even last minute packing won’t be as stressful, when you have a list to reference. It will also take the panic out of forgetting anything.

As you travel abroad, be conscious of the taxi services you use. Prior to getting into a taxi, be sure it is legit. Anyone can fool you with a taxi sign.

Alarm Clock

When you get to your hotel room, check the alarm clock. It is not surprising to have an alarm clock go off in the dead of the night, sometimes set by a previous traveler or even set as a prank. Don’t let this bother you on your first day in town!

Clothespins can be a useful item while traveling. While you may not usually think of packing clothespins, they can be very useful.

You should know the tipping conventions for the bellboys and housekeepers. It is usually acceptable to pay $1 for each bag that you have, and about $2-$5 each day for housekeeping. Tipping the staff will make sure that you receive good service while you are visiting.

Carry your hotel’s business card or matchbook with its logo on it when you’re tooling around the city. If you are out on the streets of a foreign city and find yourself lost, this small item will be very useful when trying to get directions from a taxi driver or a local on the street. This simple precaution goes a long way to make up for whatever you lack in speaking the local language.

Be sure your passports are current and not expiring soon. Most countries have specific guidelines concerning expiration dates. If your passport expires soon, many countries will refuse you entrance into their country. Typically if your passport is due to expire in 3-6 months you will be denied visitation. However, this time frame can extend to 8-12 months.

Know what the currency exchange rates are ahead of your vacation, to make budgeting easier and faster. You must know your dollar’s value so you can start planning what you’re going to be able to do while you’re there. You will have more fun this way.

Be aware that you must be at least 18 to rent a car. Some car rental companies require that you be 25. If you are younger than 25, you could have high rates and need a credit card. It’s important to know that in certain cities senior citizens can’t rent a car. It’s essential to ask about restrictions on age before making a reservation.

Almost everyone needs, or wants, to travel at some point in their life. Proper planning can help you have the trip of your dreams, however. Should you be fortunate enough to be traveling, make use of the tips from this piece to get the most out of your experience and make it memorable in a positive way.