Whether you are a frequent flyer, globetrotter, business traveller or on a bon voyage, there are a few mistakes that can happen, either intentionally or deliberately, which may put you on a spot. Check out these 10 big travel mistakes you may commit, and learn how you can avoid them from happening in the first place.

Overstuffing your travel bag

Does this seem tempting to you? Yes, for all reasons, it may. But think of carrying and hauling your luggage around you, and the frightening weight limit haunts you forever. Be judicious, and plan your outfit accordingly — as simple as that! Ask yourself if you are going to wear them all. If not, go out and do some laundry you find on the road.

Failing to check your mobile plan

How often do we do that? Have you any measure of your data roaming fees? Does your mobile plan cover data roaming? Do you forget to turn off your data before getting on the plane?  Is your phone set on airplane mode? If data is of utmost importance to you, you need to check international plans or go for a local SIM card at your destination.

Failing to have enough buffer time in between flights for booking

Nothing can get so unpredictable as the flight conditions or your flight booking status. If your flight is delayed, your Adrenaline rushes, and you might not make it in time to catch the connecting flight. Sounds familiar? The point is to exercise precaution, and have a cosy buffer in between. It is advisable that you plan with a buffer time of minimum 2 hours every time, lest you need to go through endless security measures while moving from one flight to another.

Not having enough local currency

Have some local currency and cash on hand to avail for public transportation or for taking a cab once you arrive at your destination.  Don’t be of the idea that every little shop in the planet accepts Credit card. Most don’t, therefore, you will find that airport ATMs offer better exchange rates. Take out cash as required, and maybe, even a wee extra during emergency situations.

Failing to inform your credit card company of your travel plans before hand

This can get serious when your credit card company may well flag foreign transactions, and consequently freeze your account. Now what? Ensure you inform your company before hand of your travel plans, and check out if you are charged anything for foreign transactions.  This may not surprise you later!

Don’t have Travel Insurance?

There are times when you don’t hit your vacation or business trip, as expected. If you are covered by travel insurance, it will help your running out of hundreds of dollars. Check if your plan also covers contingency medical expenses, supposing your health insurance plan fails to offer coverage outside your country.

Not Checking Visa Requirements

We have seen, on numerous occasions, of travellers being whooshed away at checkpoints overseas on account of incompliance to visa requirements.  This is rather time-consuming, off-putting, and expensive, and could play spoilsport of what would have been a memorable trip. There are a host of websites online that elucidates travel visa requirements for several countries. Google, and find them out;  don’t be in for any surprises.

Jam-packed schedule

Scheduling an overseas trip shouldn’t be like overstuffing your belly or over-packing your travel luggage. Trust the locals, Google and find out the must-visit touring spots, and give quality travel time in visiting those places to make the most of your trip. More importantly, relax and enjoy the moment as it comes along.

Failing to keeping track of your reservation details

‘Go digital’ is today’s mantra, and go for web and mobile travel apps that can help plan your itinerary, or online reminder apps. Business travellers are more agile and dynamic in their approach towards itinerary planning. It pays to be a bit tech savvy? Isn’t it

Failing to keep your valuables safe

The last thing you would want in a travel is theft of your valuables, cash or electronic gadgets. Therefore, avoid carrying too much cash, and again — take the digital payment way. Anti-theft bags may help; but then, it is your safety that matters most.