Kayla Mahon

Sometimes I forget that not everyone is an experienced traveller and something that seems normal for me to check or pack is not something that may even cross someone else’s mind. I booked my sister and her friend an amazing trip to Hawaii a while back and with it getting closer to departure we were talking about anything she may need. Things like US currency not being on par with Canadian, hotel resort fees not included in the original price, getting to and from the airport, how they do not need 2 large suitcases for 2 weeks all seemed like second nature to me, but for her it was all newer information. I was so glad I was there to answer any questions and make sure she wouldn’t have any hiccups in the trip! 

Below are some things I have come across in my travels that would have made my trip a bit smoother: 

#1. USB with more than one port  

If you are traveling with someone or with multiple devices that need charging, always bring a plug that has multiple USB plugins. I never thought of this as I always just thought there would be more than one outlet but not always. I ran into this problem in Venice with my boyfriend and we had to take turns charging our phones, not the best use of you time while away.

#2. Outlets and Air Conditioning  

 When booking a private room in a hostel, make sure there are outlets in the room and if you are somewhere really hot make sure there is air conditioning. I absolutely love the heat, the hotter the better but after walking around all day in the sweltering heat it is nice to come home to a cool breeze. 

#3. Ditch anything jean in hot climates 

If you are traveling to a hot, sunny destination and are going to be doing a lot of walking, leave the jean shorts at home. Jeans are so heavy and not breathable and I wanted to cry when it was over 30 degrees and I was sweating to death in my jean shorts. I found that a flowy lightweight dress is the best travel partner. I rarely even wear shorts of any kind now because a dress is so much lighter and more comfortable. You can get any length and bring a light shawl or coverup for visiting places such as temples and churches. Make sure your dress is non wrinkle so you don’t have to worry about it being all scrunched up while traveling. 

#4. Detergent and dryer sheets

Always bring laundry detergent and dryer sheets to keep your bag smelling fresh, or to do some on-the-go laundry. Not all hostels/hotels will have the option for laundry or you could be in an area with no laundromat nearby. A quick sink wash will do until you can get to a laundry machine. Traveling for longer periods of time and packing and unpacking can leave your clothes sometimes smelling musty or not so fresh, having dryers sheets in between clothes keeps everything smelling great. 

#5. If you don’t HAVE to check a bag, don’t

Waiting in the airport at the baggage carousel sucks enough time out of your trip on a good day. Waiting an hour or more for your suitcase to roll around the corner is even worse, you probably could have been at your hotel by now, checked in and starting your adventure.

#6. Back up cards 

I was standing in the bank at the ATM in Colombia and BOTH my debit card and credit card would not withdraw money. I had spent all the cash I had and now I was putting my cards in and out over and over again panicking! I finally was able to withdraw money at another bank but the sheer panic I felt about not having access to money for anything was not worth me not having a back up plan. 

#7. Learning a little bit of the language and culture 

I will never again travel to a destination where I cannot say even one word in the language spoken in that country. What a world of a difference it makes to be able to communicate in the tiniest bit with someone when you are trying to find your apartment that has no address on it, the streets don’t have signs and it is getting dark. Or not showing up to a temple wearing short shorts and a tank top (I did not do this one but know people who have!). The locals appreciate you being able to say hello and thank you in their language, or showing respect to them in a way specific to their country - it shows you took the time to learn a bit about their culture and language. 

#8. Knowing a little bit about the exchange rate and what those millions mean

When I exchanged my money in Vietnam and got 2.5 million dollars I didn’t understand the currency at all. I couldn’t for the life of me figure out how many US dollars were equivalent to a certain amount in Vietnamese dong. If I had done a bit of research it would have been easier.

#9.  Research where you are going 

More times than I would like to admit I have been strolling around fascinated by my surroundings to only notice I’ve walked maybe a little bit too far. Every single city in the world has areas that are rougher than others. Especially as a female traveller, keep your wits about you and know where you are. 

#10. Don’t be scared to try new things!

No matter where you are in the world, even in your home town, keep your wits about you but do NOT let this deter you from trying new things, meeting new people and enjoying local culture. As long as you look out for yourself and don’t go looking for trouble you should always sample local life. Introduce yourself to locals and other travellers, learn about places and cultures that are different than your own. After all this is what travel is all about! 

 Seek adventure & explore - Kayla