Getting to that sweet vacation

By: Isabella Zengotita
Aug 26, 2019

The Itty Bitty Stuff

It's time to start listing everything you and your travel buddy want to do on this upcoming trip. Figure out what would be the best places to stay that are close to the activities that you want to do. Tweak the schedule to get the optimal efficiency in the schedule along with getting the best prices. All this planning of the fun stuff will have you forget the important details in between.
1. Important Documents
Make sure to create copies of all travel documents in case of an emergency. Send a copy to a trusted family or friend and keep another copy on yourself in a different location than the original. This includes; Itinerary, Passport, Visas, and International Driving Permit.

2. Offline backup
Download an offline map of all your destinations, screenshot or take photos of the full itinerary, reservations, accommodation addresses & phone numbers. Get your ID on a digital wallet as a backup.

3. Install the Smart Traveler App (U.S. travelers)
Provides frequently updated official country information, travel alerts, travel warnings, maps, U.S. embassy locations and more. It also has the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP); Enables the State Department to better assist you in emergencies such as natural disasters.

4. Traveler Insurance
Back-up secured. If you get sick abroad or even just delay the trip. These can be covered on a travel insurance.

5. Transportation
Be aware of the operating hours of the airport, it may not open until two hours from departure. Research common transportation to and from the airport especially at night.

6. Laws and Customs
Understand social statuses and possible language barriers. Some countries are more dangerous for women, minorities and LGBTQ members. Make sure to do proper research on customs and respect other cultures. Example: is tipping okay or are there garments recommended to wear?

Almost time to meet your Travel buddy

Things to consider before going to a large event, may save you an empty phone battery or from shivering in the cold. Buying the tickets, checking the weather and dressing accordingly is just the first few steps. Here is a list of things to consider that aren't always blatantly obvious. Keep in mind this list is more for those who are attending day by day and not camping out.

User Verification
There are many ways to verify the person you talk to online is who they say they are. New technology like Yoti the ID on your phone application has made it easy to verify people online with a quick swap. They verify the ID documents and match it to the photo submitted.




Establish Spending
Traveling with a buddy means you can split many things on your travel. Instead of trying to account for every expense, try out Splitwise. SplitWise splits bills the easy way. The application helps track bills and other shared expenses, so that everyone gets paid back!




Meeting Spot
Confirm a place and time to meet. Keep connected phone calls or video calls, and stay updated on each other's eta. Trade back-up contact information, such as emails or choose a messaging app if you will be traveling on only wi-fi. Think ahead and trade emergency contacts. That way if you or your buddy gets sick or lost you can let friends or family know of the situation.



Now that all the planning is out of the way, the trip will be a lot more enjoyable. Have fun exploring and sharing new experiences with your buddy.