Don’t be afraid to rip it up and staple together only the pieces you need. A well-kept guidebook might make a nice souvenir, but it may not be worth the extra weight of carrying around information that you don’t need. Travel blogs, photos, and recommendations that you can find online can also be helpful. [2] X Expert Source Amy TanTravel Planner & Founder, Planet Hoppers Expert Interview. 5 March 2020.

The infamous #64 bus in Rome, for instance, is popular with pickpockets because it’s the only bus in Rome that hits all of the popular tourist destinations. It’s usually packed with tourists, and thick with thieves. Know what each local coin and bill is worth. For example, in Panama, everything is tied to the US dollar, so money comes in the same size, denomination, and material. In the UK, you’ll find 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, and £2 coins, as well as 5, 10, 20, and 50 pound notes. By knowing your denominations and specifying how much you are handing over, you can help avoid another common scam: intentionally incorrect change.

Think about staying in an apartment if you’ll be in one place for more than half a week. Hotels can be expensive, and you can often get much better deals renting someone’s home. Furthermore, this approach might give you a more authentic idea of what it’s like to live in a given city. Consider a Bed and Breakfast or a self-service vacation rental. This last type of accommodation can help save money, as they’re often cheaper than hotels, and you’ll save money by buying your groceries and cooking there instead of going out to eat. While you might find a great accomodation deal, consider the overall cost of living as well. Do your research to figure out how much you will need to pay for meals, drinks, entertainment, sightseeing, and local transportation. [7] X Expert Source Amy TanTravel Planner & Founder, Planet Hoppers Expert Interview. 5 March 2020.

Trains can be relaxing over long distances. Consider taking night trains – in theory, you can sleep on the train and awake as the train pulls into your next destination! If you plan to rent a car, look into insurance requirements. Consider applying for your international driver’s license. Ferries are a solid option for crossing water. They are usually cheaper than another plane ticket, with better food.

If you are still struggling with what to pack, you can find an online rough guide with the essentials and basics. When you are all packed, take out you passport and any other travelling documents and keep them with you in a separate bag with your purse/wallett and phone, so it all stays together.

A few classic pieces that are easily mixed and matched and a knowledge of how to use the local laundromat can save you money on overweight baggage fees. Know the common dress codes for your destination. For example, if you’re visiting the Vatican, women will need their shoulders covered.

A few classic pieces that are easily mixed and matched and a knowledge of how to use the local laundromat can save you money on overweight baggage fees. Know the common dress codes for your destination. For example, if you’re visiting the Vatican, women will need their shoulders covered.