6 Controllable Travel Tips

Traveling is arguably an activity that has drastically changed for the millennial generation. It is no longer the 1960s dream of loading up the winnebago and driving to a nice summer retreat complete with clean watering holes and fresh lemonade. Now it’s ticket prices that will have you taking out a second mortgage, TSA employees that never cease to figure out a way to take your toothpaste, and traffic so dense that you might as well have walked to your destination.  Here are six "controllable" travel tips.

1. Meal Prep

Preparing food for your trip can make an extreme difference in travel time and overall trip experience. I’m vegan, have a four year old, and a fiancee who gets hangry so meal prep is key. Depending on what you like to eat will determine how far in advance you should prep the food but I recommend at least a day prior to your departure. For me this tip is an absolute must, regardless of the kind of trip I'm going on because it assists with the following:

My Pocket: If I’m not spending the money on food then I'm able to save it or use it towards experiences during the trip.

Travel Time: If I’m not stopping at every gas station and food shop along the way then I ultimately can get to my destination faster.

My nerves: Like I said I have a family, so the less they are complaining about their bellies the happier I am.

Made this to bring with us to Santa Cruz. Lasted us all day.

2. Do Research

Now this is one that I struggle with because I’m the improv, get up and go type but my better half has more foresight and I have learned to appreciate it. Something as small as knowing the weather before you pack can make sure your suitcase is filled with useful items and keep you from struggling to find a Walgreens in order to buy an umbrella. Also research is key when traveling abroad. I highly recommend a quick google on social norms and customs before you visit another country. You wouldn’t want to offend anyone (we Americans have a bad rap as it is).

3.  Know your Weaknesses

This one is for those like me that struggle with the sickness known as too much pride. If you know you have a weakness or limitation please provide yourself with the solution and stop trying to be a tough guy. For example, I get really bad headaches that can come from out of nowhere an if I don’t treat them they develop into excruciating migraines and my trip experience will be an instant zero. Solution, bring Tylenol, it’s that simple. Whether it’s sunscreen, medications, or particular walking shoes all I’m saying is if you know that not bringing an item could result in pain or high discomfort then just bring it!

4. Never miss the opportunity

Never miss the opportunity to eat, use the bathroom, or fuel. No matter what kind of transportation you are using to get to your destination, treating yourself or those traveling with you like SIM avatars can prove to make your trip run that much smoother. My rule of thumb when traveling by car is, once I reach a quarter of a tank I stop to fill up. At that point the crew knows if they need to use the bathroom or need an item from the trunk of the car speak now or forever hold your peace. Same goes for when I’m hiking, if we take a break that is the time to get something in your stomach or relieve yourself if need be. If your traveling with kids don’t fall for the old “I don’t have to” when referring to bathroom breaks. Trust me, breaks serve a higher purpose than just to relax, when you ignore the opportunity to replenish resources or tend to your body’s needs you put yourself at risk for trip pitfalls that could have easily been avoided.

5. Go with the Flow

Congrats! You made it to your destination safely. Now the vacation can start. You have a wine tour at 10, reservations at 1, and a whole list of sights to see all before the day is over….

Don’t get me wrong planning a few activities can give your trip direction and keep you from being bored, but don’t forget to smell the roses. Don’t make the mistake of not taking the opportunity to see or experience something on your trip because it’s not on your list and don’t over plan activities to the point where you have no time for random discoveries. Some of my best memories while traveling were when I was just walking along in a neighborhood taking in the scenery. Don’t neglect the power of random or be afraid to change your plans if another opportunity seems better.

6. Be Nosey

Much like going with the flow this tip embraces the power of random. Being nosey or listening to nearby conversations can provide useful information that can add or subtract items from your trip. For example, I took my family on a camping trip to Yosemite. While we were on one of the park's free shuttles, we started listening to a tour guide that was giving information about the area to his group. By the time he got off the bus we knew what trail we wanted to hike, what stop to get off at, and approximately how long it would take us. Being nosey or "ear hustling" can also help you stay away from places that will lead to bad experiences or ones that are not worth the money. If you are headed for an attraction listen to groups that are already walking back. If you hear “Well that was a waste of time” or “I want my money back” maybe it's time to stop and think of plan B or at the very least ask more questions when you do get to the attraction to assess if it’s truly worth the time and money. 

No matter if you're a backpacking veteran or a weekender; if not executed properly, traveling can be a nightmare. There are many hurdles that one can experience that are often uncontrollable and just come with the territory. However, neglecting to take care of elements that are under your control can turn a slight irritating travel moment into a horrible experience that could ruin the trip all together. My advice is to always bring food, plan when possible, and embrace the random when it strikes.