I have a long [Layover, Delay, Day Trip, …] and want to go explore without the burden of my luggage/backpack. What should I do?
Great question! Although luggage storage options no longer seem to exist at airports, there are plenty of places in cities that will store your bag for you. This will usually be provided at a fee, or even for free if you are lucky. The hostel or hotel that you are staying at while in town will likely have a secure luggage room that you can drop off your bags at. If you are checking out but leaving in the evening they will let you keep your bags there until you are ready to leave. Alternatively if you arrive early they will let you drop off your bags so you can explore before check-in time. If you are just in town for the day, some hotels will allow you to store your bag for a fee, or alternatively, even for free. A shoutout goes to the hotel in Sinaia, Romania that allows us to store our bag for free.
Furthermore, trains and bus stations will often have luggage storage. Beware, as I learned in Philadelphia, Amtrak stations (United States) charge 20$ to check your bags. Similarly some stations in large British cities will also charge you a fee. I have found that at many of the smaller stations have lockers, or if they don’t, like the station in Deva, Romania, the attendant will just store your bag behind their counter until you come back for your train. A much more pleasant experience!
I lost or had my wallet stolen. What am I to do do with no debit/credit card?
I’m glad you asked! I had my wallet stolen while in Saranda, Albania. I was without a wallet for over a month. Luckily for me almost every city and town in south-east Europe has a Western Union. I got my parents to wire me money from my bank account back home to western unions along my way. When I would get to a city I would pick up my money. Alternatively you can have your card shipped to a post offices along your route.
Remember to keep spare cash hidden somewhere, preferably in US Currency on you
I want to rent a car while I’m away. Do I need an International Driver’s Licence?
An international drivers permit is just a translation of your licence. When renting a car, look up the country licencing requirements. Many nations do not require an international permit. In the rare case that they do (ex: Poland, Italy…) get the papers though your local automobile association (ex: CAA) instead of online. It is a much better value for your money and will save you the possibility of getting scammed. All you need to bring is your licence and a passport quality picture of yourself. The paperwork will be produced on the same day!
I am a first time backpacker. What should I pack for my upcoming Trip?
Please refer to my post on what you should pack for a backpacking trip.
I am a first time camper. What should I pack for my upcoming trip?
Please refer to my post on what you should pack for a camping trip.
How do I pick what [Hostel, Hotel, Air BnB,…] to stay at?
I usually pick my hostel by evaluating if the establishments vibe suits my mood. This is done by creating a small decision matrix in my head. If I am looking for a relaxing few days I will pick a hostel with a more laid back vibe. This means I avoid party hostels and look for a place with a nice courtyard or terrace (with hammocks of course!) to read in. When in the mood to be social (practically a given) or more party party I will pick a party hostel or a hostel that organizes many activities. These activities will range from trivia nights at the hostel bar to organized excursions. Keep in mind that many hostels run pub crawls as well but these can be a bit of a money grab.
I will be going away on a trip for a long period of time and I am afraid that I wont meet anyone. How do I make friends while traveling abroad?
I understand your fear, this is a common concern share by many first time travelers, but truth is that outside of your first year of university, traveling presents the easiest way to meet new people. If staying in a hostel, your guide to making new friends starts with a simple “Hi, where are you from?” at breakfast. Most people are looking to meet new people and are themselves too reserved to make the fist move. It will not be uncommon for your eager new friends to invite you on a day trip with them. With a short amount of time I’m usually able to rope people into some elaborate day trip or to indulge in a few beers with me. Keep in mind that many hostels have bars and will run pub crawls, this can be a great place to meet people!
Another way to make friends if your hostel is quiet or if you are staying in a hotel is to go to an ex-pat or travelers bar. There you will surely meet some rowdy comrades in drink.
Should I pick up a data plan or cell phone card?
In this humble traveler’s opinion, phone cards are practically useless. Most hostels have wifi and you can just whats app to call. If not, many fast food restaurants and public places also offer free wifi.
I’m going on a roadtrip by car though the United States. Where should I stop to stretch my legs?
The USA is blessed with having a great National Park system. If you can try to incorporate these into your journey. They often have places to stop and enjoy the outdoors before continuing on with your journey. If no National Park is available then it is just as good to stop in at state parks. New York state in particular has a vast network of easily accessible stops, not far from their highways. Most have picknick tables and BBQ’s that are hardly ever in use. One great one in particular was a stop at Crown Point, near Ticonderoga. Here you could explore an abandoned fort while making lunch, a great option if you have kids to entertain.
Do I need any immunizations for my upcoming trip?
Yes, Yes and Yes! Do check what immunizations are required well in advance of your visit to a country. Some vaccines can be harder to acquire than others and can take multiple doses to gain an immunity. Consider the use of a travel clinic and keep your immunization record up to date. For those with sensitive stomachs consider taking Dukaral before your trip.
Do I need a Visa to travel abroad?
Being a Canadian I am lucky to have access to many countries Visa-Free. This being said some countries require the purchase of an e-visa before your trip and others, a visa on arrival. If a country requires a traditional visa be ready to apply well ahead of time. Check ahead of time with your government to see what countries require visas.
I am thinking of taking a low cost airline such as Ryanair. What should I expect and how do I avoid hidden fees?
These low cost carriers can be a great option to save on costs while abroad. Be sure to read the terms of use before you fly though! In choosing a low cost carrier, you sacrifice the comfort of a legacy airline for a cheap ticket. The airports that discount airlines such as Ryanair use are often located further outside the city center and may not have access to public transit. To recoup costs these carriers will ding you for anything they can. Be sure to print tickets at home and don’t order food or drink on the plane. Be sure to bring the right size luggage and if possible limit it to the maximum size for a carry on. Extra luggage is very expensive on these flights. Be sure not to check luggage, bring it to the flight with you and they will be put in the aircraft hold for you!
