Call Me Ajala

After my last trip and the stressful itinerary I booked, it dawned on me that there are some things that one can do to make their trip more comfortable and less stressful.

I have curated a list based on experience and resources—a guide, if you will—to help make your trips smoother! You’re welcome!

Let’s begin:

SIM and Internet: Check Mobile Plans and E-SIMs

First, check your mobile plan for their roaming rates per country. However, if you are like me and your mobile phone provider is stingy with their offers and they make roaming super expensive, I have good news for you. Airalo is an eSIM platform that has helped me in more countries than one. They offer data, voice, and text packages at different rates for different countries. You download the app and follow the instructions for installing an eSIM on your phone. There are other eSIM options, but I use Airalo. This site https://www.esims.ai/ also helps you determine the best eSIM for your destination.

You really do not want to be stranded in another country, have to rely solely on public Wi-Fi, or—like me before I found Airalo—have to use the exorbitant roaming rates of your phone plan.

Money: Cash at Hand or Card

Always have cash handy in addition to your card for payment. Cash is great, but sometimes, paying for things with a card or Apple Pay is easier. If the location allows you to pay with your card in local currency at purchase, that will be a good option to choose as opposed to allowing your bank to use its conversion rate.

Also, if you can avoid it, do not change money at the airport bureaus as the rates are really high. Some digital apps, such as Wise, have made it easier to change to multiple currencies, so that can be useful. 

Look Into Public Transport

Local transport is something to explore, depending on safety and locale. Public trains and buses can help cut costs and maintain budgets. Ride-hailing cabs like Uber can be quite expensive in some cities, and some have banned them altogether. Local taxi prices vary depending on the locale.

During our Kelowna trip, the local taxis were super pricey, and we had to find public transit alternatives. Using the metro and Amtrak during my trip to Washington also cut costs extensively.

Research—Know Where You Are Going

Before embarking on any journey, always research. Someone has pertinent information that can smoothen your journey, optimize your itinerary, save you resources, and even keep you safe in the new location.

Consider the Weather in Your Preparation

Always prepare for the weather. I tend to check the weather forecast for the travel period and tailor my outfits to it. I also still take it a step further and pack something warm like a sweater and a pair of thick socks in case of weather anomalies. I do not want to be caught unawares, and it can also reduce emergency purchases.

Be Conscious of What You Eat

Be mindful of what you eat on your trip to avoid being a victim of food poisoning. If you have a sensitive stomach, it’s best to be prepared. When I go on trips, I always take some medication with me in case I experience adverse reactions in my insides.

If it’s a short trip, I typically stick to what I know (lies…I mostly stick to what I know irrespective of the trip. I am not an exploratory food person).

Do Not Compromise on Airports

Sometimes, to cut costs, you may land in an airport that is not as accessible. I would personally say avoid that, especially at odd hours of the day because, as a newbie in the location, you do not want to be stranded.

Be Safety Conscious

Be very safety-conscious. Reduce late-night travel in new or suspicious places. Avoid exposing valuables. Ensure you stay connected to the internet most of the time. Familiarise yourself with the location of your nation’s embassy and travel protocol. Do not intentionally break the laws of the land you are in. In summary, safely enjoy yourself.

It Never Hurts to Ask Questions

This goes in line with research—ask before you go, and ask when you get there.

Plan Your Flights Properly

Ensure your itinerary is well planned and aligned so that you are not having inconvenient layovers. If you are having long layovers, let it be done in a way that can allow you to exit the airport and see the area. If you have to stay at the airport for extended periods, try to look into booking a hotel or a lounge because sitting in the airport is not always fun.

I had one itinerary that took me almost two days to get to a destination that was meant to be five hours, and I have never regretted anything more than this. I was trying to cut costs, and it was so ridiculous because my body felt like I had been bulldozed. It did not help that I was lugging my carry-on and personal item all about the place.

Minimal Load

Pack as lightly and compact as your trip requires. I have travel-size containers for trips, which reduces the load. I plan and pack my outfits per day and plan walkable shoes for the trip while cutting down on impractical footwear. It will help if you have to take public transit around the city.

With that, my friends, I hope I have been of some assistance for your trips. There are so many resources available to help you travel well and travel safely!

Traveling can be enjoyable and enriching without always being stressful. With good planning and a few smart choices, you can make your trips smoother. I hope these tips help you on your next adventure!

What are some travel must-haves that you cannot go anywhere without? Let me know!