55 Travel Tips You Should Know Before Traveling

6. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to keep your suitcase organized and save space. They’re like little boxes that help you sort your clothes, toiletries, and other essentials. This way, you can find what you need without having to dig through your whole bag. Plus, they help keep your clothes wrinkle-free. Try grouping items by type, like day clothes, pajamas, and accessories, so you stay organized while traveling. When you get to your hotel, you can easily move the cubes right into the dresser, making unpacking a breeze. They’re affordable and reusable, making them a smart travel tool!

7. Carry a Portable Charger

A portable charger is a must-have for any trip. Your phone will be your main tool for navigation, taking photos, and staying connected, so you don’t want it to run out of battery. A portable charger keeps your devices powered throughout the day, especially during long outings or if you’re in an area without easy access to outlets. Look for a charger that can hold enough power to recharge your devices multiple times. This way, you’ll always be ready to explore without worrying about your phone dying.

8. Check Visa and Entry Requirements

Before you travel, make sure to check the visa and entry rules for your destination. Some countries let you in without a visa, while others may require you to apply in advance—sometimes weeks or even months ahead. If you don’t check this beforehand, you could end up being denied entry when you arrive. Always refer to the official embassy or consulate website for the most accurate information on what you need. Also, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, as this is a common requirement.

9. Make Copies of Important Documents

Before you set off on your adventure, it’s a great idea to make copies of all your important documents. This means having both paper and digital backups of things like your passport, visa, travel insurance, and itinerary. For the digital copies, use cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox so you can access them from anywhere. Just remember to keep the paper copies in a different bag from the originals. If something gets lost or stolen, having those copies will make it way easier to get replacements and prove who you are.

10. Inform Your Bank About Your Travel Plans

Letting your bank know about your travel plans is really important to avoid the hassle of having your card blocked while you’re abroad. Banks often see foreign transactions as suspicious, which can leave you stranded without access to your money. Before you leave, give your bank a call or check online to inform them where and when you’ll be traveling. Some banks even let you set a travel notice online. It’s also smart to ask about any foreign transaction fees or ATM withdrawal charges so you’re prepared. And don’t forget to bring a backup credit or debit card and some local cash, just in case!