Author: waleed

There is no denying that air travel can be stressful.

Between delays, cancellations, and crowds, it’s easy to become overwhelmed at the airport. Don’t let long TSA lines, lost luggage, or extra security checks cramp your travel style.

These 7 air travel tips to have an enjoyable flight will help you in both the airport and once you are on the plane.

1. Check-In Early

Checking in online will assist in avoiding long check-in lines at the ticketing counter. It will also help you to save time if you hit traffic on the way to the airport. If you are checking a bag you will still need to check in upon arrival, but most airports have separate, much shorter, lines for those who have checked in online before arrival.

2. Pack A Carry On

For minimalist travelers, this is easy, but for everyone else, this may be the most difficult of these air travel tips. Packing a carry-on will make your trip more enjoyable, not only do you get to skip the lines at check-in, but you also don’t have to lug gigantic bags around the airport. Another positive of traveling light is that you won’t have to worry about lost luggage or to wait at baggage claim once you reach your destination.

3. Make Security A Breeze

To make going through security easier consider enrolling in TSA-Precheck; you’ll want to do this long before your travel plans because it’s a lengthy process. However, it’s worth it and most beneficial for those who fly three or more times yearly. To make security a breeze, have all your items that will need to be shown in a separate clear plastic bag.

Make sure that your electronic devices like a laptop, tablet, or kindle are easily accessible because you will need to take them out of your carry-on. Wear slip-on shoes and clean socks, and don’t wear belts or jewelry. Also, have your I.D. out and ready to go!

4. Have Entertainment Options

Downloading e-books, movies, t.v. shows and music for the flight will keep you entertained for hours. If it’s offered, WiFi on board is typically unreliable and often expensive and slow. You can never count on the plane’s entertainment system to be working. This is also a great way to pass time at the airport before your flight.

5. Pack Snacks

Bringing snacks with you will help both at the airport and on the plane. Airlines have cut down on giving passengers food and drinks on board, so it’s always a good idea to bring a few snacks of your own. It also helps you to avoid splurging on airport food, which is often overpriced and unhealthy.

6. Bring A Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle can be taken through security as long as it’s empty. Most airports have water fill stations, making refilling your bottle easy post-security. This is the most eco-friendly of the air travel tips, as you will help reduce waste by bringing your own refillable bottle.

It’s important to stay hydrated while traveling, and buying water bottles at the airport is both expensive and not environmentally friendly.

7. Dress In Layers

In terms of comfort, this is the most important of the air travel tips. Plane temperatures can range from freezing to sweltering and everywhere in between. Dressing in layers will keep you comfortable no matter the temperature. Your best bet in most climates is a t-shirt as your base layer, with a sweater or light jacket to keep you warm.

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These seven air travel tips to have a more enjoyable flight will facilitate a more carefree air travel experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or traveling for the first time, having GPS navigation apps on your phone is essential. These apps can help you find your way around unfamiliar streets and landmarks, and they can also give you helpful tips and advice.

Gone are the days of carrying flimsy paper maps around! Here are five of the best GPS navigation apps for overseas travel.

1: Google Maps

Google Maps is easily the king of GPS navigation apps. It has incredible voice navigation that guides you to your destination using simple instructions. It has an easy-to-use interface and provides clear and accurate directions.

Google Maps also has a vast database of places to see and restaurants to try. It works for every country. You can even download local maps for offline use.

2: Waze

Waze is an app that relies on crowd-sourced data to give alerts and updates on what’s happening on the roads. Users alert Waze about traffic jams, accidents, and blockades, which get relayed to you.

Waze also uses the power of social networking to help you find gas prices at different filling stations. Waze is free, but you need a Facebook account to use it.

3: Sygic

Sygic is an offline GPS navigation app that uses TomTom maps. The app has voice-guided turn-by-turn directions, and its 3D mode makes it easy to drive on unfamiliar roads. 

Sygic has a speed limit warning system that lets you know if you’re over the limit, and it also gives estimated journey times for your route.

4: Maps.me

Maps.me is a GPS navigation app that works offline. The app includes offline maps, searches, and directions. Its navigation mode shows your GPS location on the map and provides voice-guided turn-by-turn directions.

Maps.me even lets you download your location for offline access. It is free to download and use.

5: Mapquest

Mapquest is a reliable GPS navigation app and is among the pioneers of commercial navigation. Whether you’re walking, driving, or looking for a specific place, Mapquest has got you covered.

In the USA, you can also use Mapquest’s gas price comparison tool. It also has some paid options such as traffic updates and voice-guided navigation.

Conclusion

GPS navigation apps are a must-have when you’re traveling overseas, but with the fantastic GPS navigation apps we’ve mentioned above, you have nothing to worry about. Whether you’re driving through busy streets or hiking through unfamiliar terrain, these apps have your back.

Travelers often look for a place to stay every night while enjoying their trips. To make a journey memorable, they constantly seek accommodations that are both economical and enjoyable without spending too much.

Accommodation can significantly impact your budget.

Many agencies and online booking sites can help you plan a trip within your budget.

Factors such as location, comfort, and reviews are crucial when picking affordable accommodations for a temporary stay.

Making a list of services you need at minimal cost can help lower your travel expenses.

Key Takeaways

• Clear factors must be considered before choosing accommodations.
• Pro tips and personal experiences can help find cheaper stays.
• Reviews and comparisons are important steps in the selection process.

What Are the Deciding Factors?

When selecting accommodations, many elements play a role.

Budget is critical—travelers need to consider both upfront costs and hidden charges.

Location matters too, whether it’s a downtown area or a resort.

Type of accommodation enriches the experience, from hotels and bed and breakfasts to inns and motels.

Travel mode like car rentals, trains, or buses influences options.

Number of travelers impacts the choice between spacious holiday lettings and cozy spots.

High season can spike prices, affecting both domestic and international stays.

Always consider fees and convenience for a smooth journey.

Tips for Finding Affordable Accommodation

Share an Accommodation

Renting a shared apartment can help you keep costs down.

If traveling with family or friends, opt for a spacious place with all necessary amenities.

Sharing the cost among multiple people reduces the financial burden significantly.

Choose a Hostel Room

Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative to hotels.

They offer rooms for different groups such as couples, families, and solo travelers.

Perks often include free Wi-Fi, kitchen access, and laundry.

Sharing a dorm-style room can further cut costs.

Stay Just Outside the City

Renting a place in the city center can be pricey.

Opt instead for accommodations slightly outside the city.

This strategy usually results in lower rent, but make sure the extra transportation costs do not outweigh the savings.

Check the Reviews

Reviews can be invaluable in helping you find cost-effective lodgings.

Guest reviews provide insights into the quality and affordability of a place.

Always read through the reviews to get a sense of what to expect and avoid falling for misleading advertisements.

Compare Prices Online

The internet is a great resource for finding the best deals on accommodation.

Use multiple booking sites to compare prices and select the best fit for your budget.

Websites often have filters that help you narrow down your options based on price, amenities, and other preferences.

Earn Reward Points

Many hotels offer reward programs where you can earn points through bookings or using a specific credit card for payments.

Accumulated points can be redeemed for free stays, turning your expenditures into future savings.

Pro Tip: Always look for free cancellation options and keep an eye on price alerts for last-minute deals.

Various travel sites offer price tracking features to help you book at the lowest possible rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Find Budget-Friendly Hotels in a Certain Area

Finding budget-friendly hotels in a desired area starts with online searches and booking platforms.

Look for deals on sites like Booking.com, and set filters for price range and preferred amenities.

Reading reviews from other travelers can help identify the most affordable and satisfactory options.

Best Methods for Locating Affordable Lodging Near Tourist Spots

To locate affordable lodging near tourist attractions, search for accommodation options outside major tourist hotspots.

Sometimes, prices drop significantly just a few blocks away from popular sites. Use Google Maps to view proximity and compare rates on various booking sites.

Choices for Affordable Accommodations When Traveling on a Tight Budget

Travelers on a tight budget have several options.

Hostels offer shared rooms at lower prices. House or pet-sitting can provide free lodging in exchange for services.

Websites like Couchsurfing connect travelers with hosts willing to offer a place to stay at no cost.

Online Platforms for Comparing Budget Accommodation Prices

Online platforms such as Agoda or TripAdvisor can compare prices for budget accommodation in different areas.

These websites aggregate listings from multiple sources, allowing users to easily compare rates, read reviews, and find the best deals.

Expected Amenities in Budget Hotels or Motels

Budget hotels or motels often provide essential amenities like free Wi-Fi, basic toiletries, and complimentary breakfast.

Some also offer perks such as free parking, air conditioning, and TV.

It’s best to check the specific amenities listed for each hotel.

Ensuring Safety and Cleanliness When Booking a Low-Cost Hotel Room

Ensuring safety and cleanliness in budget hotels involves reading guest reviews and ratings. You should also check for certification or inspection labels, and choose properties with high scores for cleanliness. Booking through reputable websites ensures better standards and customer service.

‘Tis the season!

We are right in the middle of the busy holiday season.

That means it’s time to make all of your holiday travel plans.

This can be a stressful time of year to travel but whether you’re off on a tropical getaway, checking out a magical winter wonderland, or simply visiting family, there are ways to keep your sanity.

Here are the top holiday travel tips and tricks to help you to enjoy holiday travel.

1. Avoid Popular Travel Days

The general rule of thumb for holiday travel is to hit the road or the skies on unpopular days.

The days surrounding Christmas will be insanely busy, consider extending your stay or arriving at your destination early. However, December 25 is one of the best days to travel as most people have already reached their destinations, and airports and roads are considerably less crowded.

2. Pack Smart And Light

If you are flying this holiday season avoid checking bags.

Holiday travel means crowded airports, which leads to more room for error when it comes to baggage. Also, you won’t have to wait for luggage at your destination. If you have to check a bag make sure to pack a change of clothes in your carry-on, just in case.

3. Don’t Fly With Gifts

It’s not a great idea to bring gifts on your flight, not only due to extra costs but also because they can be lost in your checked bags.

TSA recommends not flying with wrapped gifts because they may need to be unwrapped for inspections. Instead, ship the gifts to your destination weeks in advance to make sure they arrive on time.

4. Prepare For The Unexpected

The most essential of holiday travel tips are easier said than done but having a backup plan can save your trip. It’s a crazy time of year, unexpected things are sure to happen, and it’s smart to be prepared for anything.

If you are flying, leave extra time before flights and between connections. If you are hitting the road, be prepared for inclement weather and traffic. Make sure to pack snacks, bring backup chargers for electronics, map your road trip route, and confirm reservations.

5. Mentally Prepare Yourself – Inhale And Exhale

Take a deep breath in, and exhale! Holiday travel often means long lines, traffic, and cancellations, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the ride.

Be kind and treat people respectfully, particularly those who are working diligently to help you travel. Patience and flexibility will help in combating holiday travel stress and avoiding a Frosty-sized meltdown.

A Few More Holiday Travel Tips:

• Travel early or late in the day
• Check ahead for airline delays 
• Pay attention to the weather on driving routes
• Make sure your cellphone is fully charged
• Verify your passport is updated some countries require a 6 month validation rule when traveling and have a valid signature on your passport.
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Don’t let the crowds during the holiday season stop you from traveling. Although holiday travel is known to be difficult, using these holiday travel tips will ensure a relaxing and stress-free experience.

Government offices will be closed on select holidays.

When applying for a passport or other government documents, keep in mind that some offices may be closed during the holiday season, so you will need to plan accordingly.

Taking a virtual tour is a great way to satisfy your wanderlust during these stay-at-home times. 

There’s been an influx of virtual traveling videos and interactive experiences lately. We’re seeing great travel streams, VR adventures, 4K drone flights, and more! Add in a lot of travel discussion on social media and platforms and getting through the lockdown won’t be too hard for those that live for travel.

Here are our top picks for must-see virtual travel tours and experiences if you’re feeling up for an adventure while doing your part in keeping everyone safe during these tough times.

4K Urban Life’s Showcase of Big Cities & Metropolises

4K Urban Life’s YouTube channel is a stunning collection of 4K ultra HD, long-form video tours of cities from all over the world. The videos are absolutely perfect for those who love people watching and taking in big city sights and sounds. There are also many, many 4K drone videos showcasing urban sprawls and big city life.

The Louvre’s Virtual Tours and Exhibitions

The Louvre is one quite a few bucket lists which is why we’re adding it to our list! Since travel is tough right now and going to the Louvre doubly so, we recommend taking a virtual tour of some of its best exhibitions. From its ‘The Body of Movement’ exhibition to ‘Egyptian Antiquities’ and more, this is an experience you could totally check off on your travel list (go on, we won’t tell anyone it was all done online!).

ActionKid’s NYC Walks & Tours

The ActionKid’s YouTube channel sees videos uploaded daily of his experiences traversing New York City. Kenneth Chin, our star, has an incredible knowledge of the city and gives us a great overview of every nook and cranny while presenting it in 4K60FPS!

Preparing to Travel (Once Things Open Up Again)

Taking a guess — some of you reading have never traveled. Some may have created some plans but the whole pandemic thing disrupted things big time!

If you haven’t yet:

Now’s a good time to start the U.S. passport application process.

Government agencies are backed up because of everything that’s going on. Eventually, travel will open up to everyone again. Don’t wait until then because there will be a huge backlog!

And if you’ve got a passport and it’s going to expire? Get the passport renewal process going for these same reasons. It’s best to be ready for adventure when we return to normal than put it off for a couple of months longer, right?

Okay, now back to the virtual travel list…

Geographics’ History Lessons & Adventures

Geographics is a channel that’s quickly becoming one of our favorites because of it’s informative content and fun adventures. In a little over 20-ish minutes, you’ll experience a great adventure and learn something amazing about it, too. If you enjoy this history-travel type content then you’ll love the other channel, Biographics, presented by their team, too!

Google Maps’ Grand Canyon, USA ‘Hike’

Google Maps sometimes creates experiences using their ‘Stree View Trekker’ system which is basically the photo apparatus mounted to a person. This creates all kinds of amazing opportunities to show off the world. In this case, the Google Maps team took to the Grand Canyon for an extensive hike! All of it is presented in 360 panoramic images.

https://www.google.com/maps/about/behind-the-scenes/streetview/treks/grand-canyon/

BookingHunterTV’s Breathtaking Worldly Tours

BookingHunterTV’s YouTube channel is chock full of amazing, long-form travel videos from all over the world. From Rome, Italy, and Vienna, Austria to Pisa, Italy, and more, the channel is a fantastic way to explore some of the most popular destinations around the world. Set it on a second screen while doing some work and the day will fly right by!

Virtual Japan’s Lush, Lo-Fi Japanese Adventures

Virtual Japan, as you could guess, offers virtual experiences of Japan. Presented in glorious 4K resolution, you’ll get to wander through the streets, visit parks, attend events, shops, and so much more. The channel also features a 24/7 stream of the videos set to lo-fi music.

Discover the World One Experience at a Time

There’s no replacement for real-life adventure but virtual tours are a nice alternative until things return to normal! In some ways, this downtime is perfect for figuring out your next itinerary.

Use this downtime to discover the world and make those big travel goals!

We also might suggest having a look at a travel blog for write-ups about various destinations, experiences, and cultures. Or, join a language program where you can learn a new language AND make friends with locals! 

The possibilities are endless when you start to adventure what’s available through the Web!

No one enjoys the feeling of coming back from a great trip abroad only to find yourself stuck in line at US Customs. The welcoming of standing amongst tired and sweaty travelers makes you remember that the vacation is over and it’s time to get back to regular life. But this process can be skipped entirely with the help of Global Entry and makes the travel back home a little less dreadful.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a US Customs program that allows approved travelers entering the United States to go through an automatic kiosk instead of going through the standard process of waiting in line to be allowed entrance into the country. It works by only going to a kiosk, inserting your passport, and placing your fingerprint. From there, the machine will give you a receipt and allow you to proceed to the baggage claim.

Additional Perks

In addition to being able to skip the lines at US Customs, Global Entry also gives you TSA pre-check privileges. Similar to being able to cut through lines at a watermark, the TSA pre-check allows you to go through the TSA security lines without having to take off any of your clothing or put aside personal belongings.

Although you can get the TSA pre-check on its own, getting the Global Entry will include the pre-check for just $15 more. The Global Entry lasts up to 5 years, which for people who travel often turns out to be very convenient.

What is the Difference Between the Global Entry vs TSA Pre?

TSA Pre

The TSA PreCheck provides expedited security screening for anyone with TSA Pre benefits for the flight departing from airports around the United States.

Global Entry

The global entry service provides the TSA Pre benefits plus expedited U.S. customs and border Protection for international travelers when entering the United States.

Global Entry Requirements

Since this program was designed for travelers that have no history of crime or problems with traveling in general, make sure that you clear any of those problems up before you apply for Global Entry. Things like that can be reasons for your Global Entry denial as it might not consider you a low-risk traveler.

Besides not having a criminal record or any other serious infractions, not any traveler can get accepted into the Global Entry program. The program is limited to citizens of:

• United States
• Argentina
• India
• Colombia
• United Kingdom
• Germany
• Panama
• Singapore
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Taiwan
• Mexico

Even if you are a citizen of one of these countries, getting Global Entry permission as a non-US citizen is still a bit difficult.

How to Apply for Global Entry

There is only one way to apply for Global Entry, which is through the online application. Regardless of where you are from or your age, the form is the same.

The application will require personal information and specific questions about your past and any criminal history. It is done to ensure that everyone that gets approval for the Global Entry is not a threat to any other travelers. Once you sign up and pay the application cost of $100.00 which includes the TSA Pre you will have to wait for a conditional approval this approval. Once you have this approval you will be able to schedule an appointment at any of the enrollment centers for approval. Once you have been approved you will then be able to activate your membership.

Cost for the Global Entry

Once you have completed the application, there is a $100 fee to have it submitted. Remember that the money for your application will not be refunded if you are denied Global Entry, so make sure you look over all your information before submitting.

Global Entry Enrollment Center

If you get approval, you will have to schedule an appointment with a Global Entry Enrollment Center. These are usually located at airports or borders, depending on where you are traveling. These appointments are often booked for a couple of months ahead, so make sure to make your appointment well before you go on your trip.

For the scheduled interview, bring your passport, proof of approval, and evidence of residence. The meeting will not take long and will mostly be repeating the questions that the application already asked you. Once you leave the meeting, the time it will take for you to get your Global Entry usually takes between 3 to 5 weeks to be delivered.

If you are planning on taking your pet on vacation or for any other reason to another country, you should know the laws that apply to travel with pets.

Understandably placing your pet in someone else’s care while you’re away might be uncomfortable or too expensive, so it only makes sense to take the pet with you. From documentation to health checks, here’s all you need to know about traveling with your pet.

Traveling Local or International With A Pet

When traveling domestically, your dog does not need any identification, though it is highly recommended to bring it regardless.

When traveling internationally, on the other hand, you will need a few things. For starters, like any person, a pet requires a passport to travel abroad. Commonly known as a ‘pet passport,’ it is additional forms of documentation that allows your pet to go over an international border.

Some Requirements Before Traveling

Before you take your pet on an adventure, there are some requirements you must adhere to before going. Here are some conditions:

• make sure that your pet has been in the US for at least six months for safety reasons involving the contraction of rabies
• your pet needs to go to a veterinarian location approved by the USDA
• it should get a rabies vaccination
• visits and vaccination must be within 30 days before travel abroad

Plane Regulations For Pets

There are also plane regulations for taking your pet. Your pet must be able to live in the environment comfortably; it is traveling depending on the temperature and other factors. Make sure the pet is well fed and not thirsty before boarding.

There are three ways your pet can travel with you:

• on the plane with you
• on a separate flight
• or, by a licensed commercial pet shipper

While having your pet travel with you is the best option, your pet might not be permitted to travel with you, whether it is due to size or breed. This is when the commercial shippers come in as they have more options as to transporting your pet, all to give your pet the best experience.

So, make sure you abide by all the rules so that your pet can travel. Once you are on your vacation, keep a close eye on your pet. Make sure it doesn’t come in contact with other sick animals before returning home. You do not want to carry any disease when traveling as well as return with any.