7 Tips to Make Travel Stress-Free and Successful

1 General Travel Preparation Tips â€“ Part 1
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General Travel Preparation Tips â€“ Part 1

Today, I was realizing how my travel style has changed over the years. I worry less about having everything I need, yet make sure I always have the essentials. Here are 7 tips for travelling, anywhere in the world.

1. Pack Three Basic Outfits

Think about the climate of your destination, and then select three outfits that will be perfect for your activities. For example, if you are going to a Caribbean island, three sundresses or shorts with T-shirts, and a bathing suit or two, and you are set. If you are going hiking in the mountains, plan warm weather clothes and layers, but again, three outfits maximum. I find that unless you are going for weeks and will be without any option for cleaning clothes, three basic outfits is enough. After that, you can add a couple fun extras, but think in terms of outfits to keep it simple and make sure you actually wear everything in your suitcase. Of cyourse you can also fill it in with PJs, underwear, a swimsuit, and gear for planned activities (such as ski gear or a nice outfit for a special event).

Consolidate your packing – you will have less weight and nearly everything you need

2. Remember You Can Usually Get Anything You Forget!

Pack your essentials â€“ supplements, makeup, and toiletries â€“ but remember that unless you are going high up in the mountains backpacking (no makeup needed!), or to a rural area of a developing country, you can probably get more of what you need.

You might even find a new product you like better in your destination. For example, I found an incredible Indian rose essential oil and toiletry line of facewash and shampoo at a pharmacy in the Delhi airport. You can also get many familiar brands of pads/tampons/soap/shampoo wherever you go. So pack small amounts, and if you are staying in a hotel, also take advantage of the complimentary toiletries. Supplements are the one to pack enough of, if you have a specific brand or type you like.

3. Pack some Snacks and Food

Anyone who has travelled with me, knows my bag is usually half full of food. Unless you are sure you are going to eat 100% of the time, you can save time when you arrive by having snacks. Remember you canâ€™t pack liquids in your carry-on, so it is best to focus on dry foods. I like to always have some snack bars, a couple bags of nuts and trail mix, greens powders like wheatgrass juice and Tonic Alchemy, stevia, any current favorite breakfast foods, and a jar or two of nut butter. Remember to wrap everything in plastic bags and/or leak-proof containers to protect your clothes.

4. Pick Priority Activities and Restaurants Ahead of Time

Map your favorite/priority activities in each destination

If you research your destination ahead of time, you get the extra joy of anticipation! Find a couple restaurants you want to try and your top 2-3 activities.

While researching, you might discover something you didnâ€™t even know was available in the area.

5. Water Purity and Health Concerns

Itâ€™s also important to find out if the water is clean where you are travelling. If not, be sure to brush your teeth with bottled water (India and Mexico, Iâ€™m looking at you!), so you donâ€™t inadvertently get a parasite. I also like â€œlife strawâ€ to travel with as a backup. It is really lightweight and ensures you always have clean water to drink.

6. Seat and Food on the Plane

Pick your seats online ahead of time and request a special meal. No matter whether you are flying the lowest economy fare or first class, choosing a seat you want makes a difference. Seatguru.com is good for seeing the layout of each plane.

I recommend selecting a special meal because they will give greater attention to detail, priority service, and even perhaps a delicious meal, because they are made in smaller batches for special orders. My favorite in Jain vegetarian, when it is available (usually only around India), otherwise there are many options including vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, etc.

7. Pack a Laundry Line for Longer Trips

You can always tie a laundry line between two chairs, in the bathroom, or on the balcony. Iâ€™ve done this everywhere from 15,000 feet up in the moutains of Tibet to the Caribbean and Bermuda. Even travelling for a week, you can hand wash underwear, workout clothes, or an outfit. Hang them up, and in nearly almost all cases they are dry within 12 hours, 24 hours at most!

Remember that travel is an adventure. Itâ€™s about the experience, not what you have with you. Savor the experience and donâ€™t mind the temporary inconvenience of not having exactly what you have at home. And maybe you will discover a new favorite food, activity, or even outfit combination!