Summertime is the most popular season to explore both abroad and at home but searing heat, new destinations and experiences are all likely challenges. Follow our specific tips and advice for travelling during the summer period.
1. Stay Hydrated
In the hot summer months one of the biggest dangers is dehydration. This has a way of sneaking up on people, especially when they’re preoccupied with fun summertime activities. When you’re traveling be sure you take something to drink with you, especially if you know you’re going to be traveling through an area by car that doesn’t have a lot of stops along the way.
2. Have Your Car Checked First
One huge mistake that many summertime travellers make is not checking their car before setting out. It is well worth the time and money to take your car to a trusted auto-shop and have it looked over before setting out. Being stranded on the side of the road is no fun, especially if you’re with your family.
3. GPS is a Big Help
Getting lost can be a huge was of time, gas, and ultimately money. Worse yet is the fact that if you get lost in an unknown area you could find yourself running out of gas and becoming stranded. Prevent this by taking a GPS unit with you. These days GPS units are relatively cheap and will ensure that you always know exactly where you’re going.
4. Plan Your Route
Whether you’re traveling by car or by plane you’re going to want to plan out your rout, even if you have travelled to your destination before. This will help you get familiarized with any layovers you may have to go through if you’re traveling by plane and can help you find more efficient, gas saving routs if you’re traveling by car. Also be aware that planning out what time of the day you’re going to travel if going by car can really help you avoid high-traffic areas, such as the interstate around big cities during rush hour.
5. Proper Pet Planning
Whether you’re taking your pets with you on vacation or if you’re leaving them at the kennel, you’re going to need to make sure you plan ahead. If you’re going by plane be aware that there are certain procedures that you must follow for pets. If you’re going by car, make sure you take along water for your pet so they don’t dehydrate during the trip. If you’re leaving your pet at a kennel or having someone else watch over them, make sure they have clear instructions on any special needs your pet may have. Also be aware that some hotels allow pets, some don’t.
6. Safety First
In addition to taking dehydration and navigation into account, you should also follow these safety tips as well:
• Pack a first aid kit, especially if traveling by car
• Tell someone where you’re going, what rout your taking, and when you expect to arrive at your destination
• Try to avoid “dead zones” for your phone if you’re traveling by car
• Make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving or use a car charger
• Don’t pick up hitch hikers
• Avoid questionable parts of town at night
• Check the peephole before opening your hotel room door if someone knocks
7. Avoid or Prepare for Hostile Areas
It’s no secret that certain parts of the world are somewhat hostile to people from other parts of the world. If you’re intent on traveling to an area like this, make sure you familiarize yourself with specific safety tips for that area before going. Hiring someone from that country to act as a guide for you can also help if they’re trustworthy.
8. Check the Location of Your Embassy
If you’re traveling to another country, even one that is friendly; you’re going to want to make sure you have the contact information for your embassy. This will be a huge help if anything goes wrong, such as if you’re charged with a crime or if there is some other type of misunderstanding.
9. Protect your Wallet
During the summer the pickpockets come out to play, especially in populated tourist cities. Carry your wallet in your front pocket or use a chain wallet to avoid theft. If you’re really concerned you can even get a special wallet that fits under your pants around your waste. If you’re a woman, don’t ever leave your purse unattended in public.
10. Choose Your Company Wisely
Summer time trips are supposed to be all about fun. Avoid traveling with people you don’t get along well with and people who bring down your mood. A trip is always more fun when you’re with people you genuinely enjoy spending time with.
