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Travel can be one of the most stressful parts of life, but also one of the most rewarding. Being prepared and knowing what to expect on the road, at sea or in the air is essential to having a good trip. Read on to discover some knowledge that you can use to make good memories away from home.

When traveling to a new city, try your best to look as if you belong there: Never let anyone see that you are lost. Checking your map in the middle of the sidewalk is a sure-fire giveaway, as is asking for directions. Remember, new arrivals are good targets for pickpockets and muggers.

For safe traveling, don't carry all your valuables in one place. No one wants to deal with missing belongings while on a trip, but if you do have to, it's better to minimize loss. Put your credit cards, cash, jewelry, and whatever else you value in a variety of different locations -- some in your bag, some in your pocket, some in your wallet, and such. That way even if something gets stolen or lost, you probably won't lose everything.

The lighter you pack the easier you travel. This is the closest thing there is to an absolute rule in travel. Pack the lightest clothing you can, and restrict yourself to only the clothes you are sure you will wear. The less you pack, the less you carry and the less tired you will get.

One of the questions I most often get about traveling is the transportation question. "How do I get about when I reach my destination?" The answer really depends on the amount of driving you intend to do. If http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/index.html you intend to go places within walking distance perhaps only use a taxi as needed. Contrarily, if many of the places are a bit away, then it might be more prudent to rent http://feeds.feedburner.com/ukcottagesbyAbby a car for the duration of your trip.

Select a hotel in an older, more central part of town if your travel budget will possibly allow it. While these centrally-located hotels are usually more expensive, they are also much more vibrant and memorable. They are right in the middle of the action. Suburban hotels can be cheaper, but the hassle of their isolated locations often offsets your savings.

Whenever you are flying to your travel spot, make sure to use the airport limo or a possible airport pick-up service. This ensures that you do not have to wait in line for a taxi and that you can promptly arrive at your hotel with the least possible frustration.

GPS units can really help out when you are traveling in an unknown area. With just the touch of a few buttons they can lead you right to someone's doorstep. It's important to remember, however, that GPS units don't work in all locations. Just in case, don't forget your maps!

If you are traveling by airplane, take advantage of the in-flight entertainent. In most cases, it is free to watch a movie or TV show from your seat and you can even pick which shows you want to watch. It's a great way to escape the noise of other passengers and the airplane.

As you make your travel arrangements, consider staying at places other than hotels and resorts. Alternative choices like a house swap or a farm stay may be a better deal, and they can offer you a unique experience. There are several websites that can help you locate "unusual" lodging options.

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If you have the option to do so, use a business card as your luggage tag to avoid revealing your personal information. Many unscrupulous people out there are looking for opportunities for theft or other devious schemes. Knowing you are going on a trip means that gaining your personal info from luggage offers a potentially empty home.

When you are choosing a hotel for your travel needs, target hotels that offer complimentary breakfast. Eating is a big cost factor for a trip. A family of four can spend, on average, $25 on breakfast. This can easily be avoided by choosing the right lodging. Be sure to clarify exactly what complimentary means and what is offered before deciding.

Do not forget to take a camera with you. Find one that is very slim and lightweight so you can take it with you anywhere during your trip. A simple point and shoot camera is all that you really need to capture all of the memories you will make during your vacation.

Destination travel to popular locations does not have to be too expensive, even with larger families or travel partners. There are many destination guides that offer discounts on larger parties for travel, lodging, as well as dining and rental of vehicles while visiting. Booking all your travel plans together can save you so much more money.

Saving money on your trip is important, so take advantage of frequent-flyer miles. Your miles can offer nothing if you do not use them. Miles may have an expiration date so it is in your best interest to use them. Free flights or discounted hotels are great uses for these miles and can save you a bundle.

Avoid iced drinks if you are traveling in an area with questionable water. Most people are aware that they should stick to bottled water in certain countries, but they often forget that a getting a soda or tea with ice is just as bad. Request your beverages sans ice to avoid potential stomach discomfort.

Never underestimate the power of a small medicine kit while traveling. Include an over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medicine, antibiotic gel or cream, anti-itch cream, stomach acid reducers, pain relievers and Band-Aids. You never know when tiny medical irritations may strike and it is better to be prepared. You may even be able to help out a fellow traveler!

Bring a ruck sack with you when you are traveling on an airplane. Since many airlines are charging fees to check luggage, a lot of travelers are choosing to stick with carry-on bags instead. These bags are typically small, so to ensure that you have enough room for all of your stuff, take a ruck sack. It will fit into the overhead compartment and has a lot of space in it.

As you can see, there are a number of ways to reduce the stress of planning your vacation and simplifying the logistics. Make use of any or all of these tips when planning your next vacation. Instead of being stressed out, you will have the time and energy to truly enjoy your vacation.