Common travel mistakes

10 Common Travel Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

by Northern Life

Don't let simple mistakes ruin your trip

A vacation or trip is one of the best ways to relax and recover from the hustle and bustle of a busy life. However, the thrill and excitement can quickly turn into chaos with simple mistakes. To avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure you stay focused on enjoying your travel experience, take a quick look at this list of common travel mistakes.

1. Forgetting Necessary Equipment and Tech Essentials

Businesswoman checking flight eticket on phone

Most of our plans, documents, and even safety now depend on our mobile devices. Keeping your phone charged at all times should be a key priority when travelling. Check the outlet and power compatibility (e.g., the US has 110V outlets, whereas many other countries use 220V). Purchase a power adapter if needed, and definitely invest in a power bank before travelling. Most people drain their phone batteries more than usual while travelling due to apps like Google Maps, so having a power bank will ensure you don’t run out of battery at the end of the day. It’s always a good idea to fully charge your phone and power bank before starting your journey.

Don’t assume you’ll find ramps or elevators in every country.

Don’t rely solely on your phone for essential plans. In case you lose your device, carry a printed copy of your itinerary, maps, tickets, hotel address, and contact numbers. Lastly, ensure you have a working data connection at your destination and don’t depend entirely on free Wi-Fi.

2. Not Researching Your Destination Enough

Travelling mistakes

If you’re travelling to a new destination, it’s important to research it thoroughly to ensure a smooth journey. Figuring out everything on the go will leave you with little time to enjoy your trip. Your research should not only cover popular activities but also include an understanding of the local culture, customs, language, payment methods, transportation options, and more.

An AI travel planner can be a great help, reducing your research time for most of your travel preparations and creating a personalised itinerary within seconds. This will free up your time to focus on other important tasks.

3. Overpacking or Underpacking

Overpacking or Underpacking

Packing for every possible scenario might seem smart, but it can leave you hauling heavy luggage everywhere or even facing fines for overweight bags at the airport. Don’t assume you’ll find ramps or elevators in every country. Unless your destination is far from civilisation, most tourist areas have shops where you can buy essentials.

Pack backups of items you might need immediately if lost or damaged, such as an extra outfit, medications, or contact lenses, in your carry-on bag. Also, ensure you pack weather-appropriate clothing, toiletries, and all necessary medications.

4. Overlooking Home Preparations

Home preparations for travel

This is often an overlooked aspect of travelling. The last thing you need is to worry about something happening at home while you’re away. Turn off or unplug unnecessary electronics, adjust the thermostat, set light timers, double-check that doors and windows are locked, and notify a trusted neighbour if possible. Don’t forget to turn off any morning alarms that might disturb your neighbours.

5. Poor Time Management at the Airport

Don't be late for flights

Running through the airport to catch a flight might make for a good movie scene, but it’s far from enjoyable in real life. This usually happens because people underestimate the time needed to travel to the airport, check-in, or get through security.

In some countries, the journey to the airport might take longer than the flight itself. Also, note that immigration checks might be required both when entering and leaving certain countries. Plan accordingly.

6. Not Double-Checking Documents

Check your documents

This may seem obvious, but many people fail to plan their documentation properly. First, check your passport’s validity—many countries require it to be valid for at least six months. Renewing a passport can take time, so start the process early if needed.

Next, review visa requirements and travel restrictions. Crossing national borders can be complicated, so ensure you have all necessary documents, including health and insurance paperwork. Lastly, carry printed copies of all documents while travelling.

7. Neglecting Transportation Options

Taking a bus on holiday

Travel isn’t just about visiting attractions; it’s also about getting from one place to another. Failing to plan transportation connections can lead to missed bookings and frustrating experiences.

In some countries, greeting strangers is customary, while in others, it’s not.

Never assume anything. For example, don’t assume ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft will be available everywhere or at all hours. Taxis may also be unavailable in certain areas, so plan your return to the hotel in advance. Being stranded late at night, especially in a place where you don’t speak the local language, can be a terrible experience.

8. Overlooking Local Customs, Laws, and Cultural Research

Local customs

Failing to understand local etiquette, tipping practices, or cultural norms can easily sour your trip. Research these aspects in addition to planning activities. For example, in some countries, greeting strangers is customary, while in others, it’s not.

Spend time learning about local laws and guidelines as well. For instance, does your destination allow drinking alcohol in public? Knowing such details can save you from trouble.

9. Ignoring Weather and Health Preparations

First aid kit whilst travelling

Just like your phone, your health needs to be fully charged while travelling. Health precautions aren’t just a matter of convenience—they’re essential. Check local health requirements, such as vaccinations, travel medications, and first-aid kits.

Weather is another factor many tourists neglect. Prepare for rain or extreme heat in advance by packing suitable gear, such as raincoats or sunscreen.

10. Payment Readiness

Review the common payment methods at your destination

Lastly, review the common payment methods at your destination. Will you need a lot of cash? Major airports usually have currency exchange services. Don’t assume ATMs will be easily available everywhere or accept your card.

Inform your bank of your travel plans to ensure your cards work abroad.