If you are planning to travel to Europe anytime soon, you no doubt want to make the very most of your time there. International trips, after all, can be pricey. Consider a few common mistakes that you will want to avoid in order to make wonderful memories throughout your vacation.
- Arriving Without a Plan
Although it may seem exciting to be completely spontaneous on your trip, remember that a little bit of planning goes a long way. Be sure to reserve your living accommodations, research nearby transportation options, and write out a list of the things you most want to see or do. You may be able to find helpful insider information about a given destination by consulting travel bloggers like Michael Canzian.
In some situations, it is helpful to create a tentative calendar for your time abroad. For instance, if you want to visit three different countries over the course of two weeks, you must allocate at least a few days to each destination.
- Forgetting Power Converters
In today’s world, a trip could be a total bust if you aren’t able to use your cellphone. This is especially true if your phone doubles as your camera. European countries use different types of plugins than the U.S. does and there is no way to force a U.S. plug into a European one. Make sure to purchase power converters ahead of time so you can safely charge all your electronics.
- Packing Heavily
If you will be staying at the same hotel for your entire trip, you may be able to get away with bringing a large suitcase. If you plan to travel from hostel to hostel, however, it’s critical that you pack sparingly. Otherwise, you may find it difficult to lug your gear with you while utilizing public transportation. Limit yourself to carry-on luggage only and bring clothing that you can wear on multiple occasions.
- Losing Money or Documents
The feeling of being stuck in an unfamiliar country without money or your passport is not one that any traveler wants to experience. To avoid being the victim of theft, consider wearing a money melt to keep the majority of your money and other key documents on your person at all times.
With a bit of preparation, your European vacation is sure to be a success. Once you’ve taken care of the essentials, you’re free to adjust your schedule as needed in order to savor every moment of your favorite spots.
