10 Travel Tips

Hi there! I’m Marie Clevenger (Velosa), and if you know me, you know I’m absolutely passionate about travel! I had the incredible fortune of living in Switzerland for 25 years, which meant endless opportunities to jet off for long weekends across Europe. Plus, with 5 weeks of paid vacation each year, I got to explore the world for 2-3 weeks at a time.

Now, let me tell you, my travel adventures haven’t always been smooth sailing. I’ve had my fair share of stressful situations and crazy mishaps that could have ruined my trips. But guess what? Those moments are what made my travels unforgettable and taught me valuable lessons (like never forgetting your passport again!). 😉 From lost passports to forgotten luggage and even missing the right vaccines, I’ve seen it all.

Through my blog, I want to share some tips and tricks on what to do (and what not to do) to ensure your adventures are nothing short of amazing. I’ll also be dishing out recommendations for the best restaurants, and how to navigate traveling between and within cities. Let’s make your next trip the best one yet!

Planning Ahead but Staying Flexible: Travel Tips for the Savvy Explorer

This title says it all, planning ahead, but also planning for spontaneous actions.

1. Book Tickets on Tuesdays for Cheaper Flights

One of the best-kept secrets in travel is that airline tickets are often cheaper on Tuesdays. Why, you ask? Well, airlines typically release their weekly sales on Monday evenings. By Tuesday, other airlines scramble to match these prices, creating a perfect storm of deals just waiting for savvy travelers like you to snatch them up!

So, if you’re dreaming of your next getaway, mark your calendar for Tuesday. Grab a cup of coffee, fire up your laptop, and start hunting for those bargain flights. Trust me, your wallet will thank you, and you’ll have more cash to spend on fun activities and delicious food at your destination.

2. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to saving money on travel. If you can, try to avoid traveling during peak seasons and holidays, especially in Europe. It is a fact that Europeans have a minimum of 4 weeks paid vacation (holidays), and the months of July and August, and the end of each year are what I would consider peak season.  Not only will you dodge the crowds, but your wallet will thank you too!

Instead, aim for those off-peak times when flights and accommodations are cheaper. Use fare comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to find the cheapest days to fly. These tools are like your personal travel detectives, scouring the web to bring you the best deals. So, keep an open mind and let flexibility lead the way to your next adventure.

3. Use Incognito Mode When Searching for Flights

Airlines and travel sites often track your searches and may increase prices based on your browsing history. Using incognito mode can help you avoid this and find the best deals.

Did you know that airlines and travel sites can track your searches and might hike up prices based on your browsing history? Sneaky, right? But don’t worry, there’s a simple trick to outsmart them: use incognito mode! 🕵️‍♂️🔍 This way, you can search for flights without leaving a trace, ensuring you get the best deals without any sneaky price increases.

4. Sign Up for Fare Alerts

Want to stay ahead of the game when it comes to flight deals? Sign up for fare alerts! Websites like Kayak, Airfarewatchdog, and Scott’s Cheap Flights offer fantastic fare alert services. Just enter your desired destinations, and they’ll notify you when prices drop. It’s like having a personal travel assistant keeping an eye out for the best deals.

5. Consider Alternative Airports

Sometimes, flying into or out of smaller, nearby airports can be cheaper than the major hubs. When booking your flights, don’t forget to check all nearby airports. You might find a hidden gem of a deal that saves you money and adds a bit of adventure to your journey. So, keep your options open and explore those alternative airports for potential savings!

6. Consider Paying a Little More for Flexible Cancellation Options

When booking flights, it’s always wise to think about the possibility of unexpected changes. Airlines typically offer three fare options: Cheaper, Cheap, and Expensive. While those cheaper options might be super tempting, they often come with strict cancellation policies and hefty change fees.

Paying a bit more for a flexible fare can provide peace of mind. These fares usually allow for changes or cancellations with minimal fees, or even for free. This can be a lifesaver in case of emergencies or sudden changes in your plans.

Always read the details of each fare option carefully. Look for terms related to cancellations, changes, and refunds. Investing a little more upfront can save you a lot of stress and money in the long run. So, next time you’re booking a flight, consider going for that flexible option. Your future self will thank you!

7. Pack Smart and Light

Now depending on what type of adventure you are going on (sightseeing or visiting friends and family or any other situation where you will need specific outfits, you can avoid those pesky extra baggage fees by packing light.  Make a packing list and stick to it like glue. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later! Remember, you can often do laundry at your destination, wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a sweater or jacket just in case but there is no need to pack your entire wardrobe.  Keep it simple, and you’ll breeze through the airport with ease.

• Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling your clothes can save space and reduce wrinkles.
• Use Packing Cubes: These handy organizers keep your items neat and make it easy to find what you need.
• Limit Shoes: Shoes take up a lot of space, so try to bring just a couple of versatile pairs.
• Wear Bulky Items: If you have heavy or bulky items, wear them on the plane to save space in your luggage.
• Mini Toiletries: Opt for travel-sized toiletries or transfer your favorites into small containers.
• Layer Up: Pack clothes that you can layer, which gives you more outfit options with fewer items.

8. Plan Your Itinerary but Leave Room for Spontaneity

Having a rough itinerary is a great way to make the most of your trip, but remember, it’s all about balance! Now this is the hardest thing for me to do, because I want to do it ALL and it has to be scheduled! But with time I have learned, that while it’s good to have a plan, don’t over-schedule every minute. Leave some days or time open for spontaneous adventures go out and explore and get lost in the city. I would strongly suggest you get lost in the streets during the day!

Sometimes the best travel memories come from those unplanned moments—like stumbling upon a hidden café, joining a local festival, or simply wandering through charming streets. So, give yourself the freedom to explore and let the magic of travel surprise you.

9. Use Public Transportation for a More Authentic Experience

Public transportation is often cheaper and gives you a more authentic experience of the local culture. 🚌✨ Before you go, research the public transit options at your destination. This way, you’ll know how to get around like a local and save some money too!

A fun thing I love to do is take the double-decker hop-on-hop-off city tour bus upon my arrival. It’s a fantastic way to see the whole town and get a feel for the place. Plus, you might spot a hidden gem or a cool spot you hadn’t planned to visit. Use your free time to hop off and explore these unexpected finds. Who knows what adventures await?

10. Travel Insurance is a Must

Unexpected events can happen, and when they do, you’ll be glad you invested in travel insurance. 🛡️✨ It’s your safety net for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen issues that could otherwise ruin your adventure.

Think of travel insurance as your trusty sidekick, ready to swoop in and save the day if things go awry. Whether it’s a sudden illness, a missed flight, or lost luggage, having that extra layer of protection can give you peace of mind and let you focus on enjoying your trip.

So, before you set off on your next journey, make sure you’re covered. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference.

Conclusion

Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. With a bit of planning ahead and staying flexible, you can enjoy your adventures without breaking the bank.  Remember, it’s all about finding those hidden gems, embracing the unexpected, and making the most of every moment.

So, pack your bags, grab your travel insurance, and get ready for an amazing journey. Whether you’re hopping on a double-decker bus, exploring new cities, or just soaking in the local culture, there’s a world of adventure waiting for you. Happy travels, and may your trips be filled with unforgettable memories and lots of fun!