Last Minute Travel Tips

Travelling is supposed to be a fun and exciting time but sometimes it can make a person incredibly anxious.

Like me.

I always feel like I have forgotten something important.

So I plan. A lot. And I thought I would share with you, my last minute packing/travel tips!

Firstly make a list of everything you will need. If you have it written down, you won't forget to pack it in your suitcase. Once you have your list, take that list to a friend or family member and they might prompt you to remember something. Or like a lot of friends, they told me I don't need to pack so many shoes (we are no longer friends!).

Photocopy your important documents. Save them on a USB stick or email them to yourself so if anything happens, you will have a copy of them. Always keep the originals and photocopies in separate bags. It will double your chances of keeping them safe!

Next, get all your clothes and shoes organised for packing.  Do this about a week or two before you take off. You can see if you have forgotten anything and you can also take stuff out if you don't think you need it. And check if some of the things you are taking require dry-cleaning. Take it in with plenty of time.

Pack everything properly! Make sure all your shoes are at the bottom of your suitcase so they don't damage your clothes. And also, pack things into your shoes. This uses up wasted space and it helps keep your shoes in shape. Bring lots of spare zip lock bags. You can separate your dirty clothes from the clean ones and you can wrap your shoes in them once they get filthy. This will ensure, your clean clothes stay clean. And pack your toiletries into plastic bags. It will contain any spillages or explosions.

Break in any new shoes. You don't want to wear new shoes when travelling as they are more likely to give you blisters. Break them in first so when you do start travelling, they will be comfortable!

Your carry on bag will be the most important thing you pack.  

What should you pack in you carry on?

• You want all your valuables with you at all times just in case your suitcase goes missing (touch wood)! This may be your electronics or travel documents but keep them close.
• Always pack a change of clothes and emergency toiletries in your bag. Again, if your luggage goes missing, you have fresh clothes, underwear and toothpaste at the ready! 
• Pack a scarf. Planes can get very cold so use it to keep you warm.
• Aspirin is also important. Planes can dry you out so drink lots of water and take some medicine if you get a headache. You want to be as comfortable as you can be.
• Pen and paper is also important. You'll need to fill out declarations and luggage tags so make sure you have a pen ready. Also, you are going to be stuck on a plane with so much spare time, you never know what inspiration may occur when you are travelling at 35,000ft.
• Wear shoes that are easy to put on and take off. You'll be going through security and you might want to take your shoes off in the plane. Have a pair of socks or slippers in your bag too incase you have to go to the bathroom or stretch.

It's important to tell your bank that you are travelling overseas! There will be nothing worse if they cancel your cards and you will be stuck without your funds!

Speaking of money, take some cash in the local currency. You won't want to be changing money at the airport plus you'll need it for transport out of the airport.

Don't forget your universal power adapter. There would be nothing worse if you couldn't charge your camera or laptop (oh, the horror!) while your away.

And finally, learn the local language. Now, I don't mean you have to be fluent in the language but it's important to know the basics. Write them down and try to use them when possible. It shows you are making an effort and it shows respect. 

Here are some of the basic French words you may need to know:

• Good morning/Hello - Bonjour
• Goodbye - Au revior
• Yes - oui
• No - non
• Please - s'il vous plaît
• Thank you - Merci
• My name is Fiona - Je m'appelle Fiona

But lastly remember to relax! If you plan ahead, you'll feel prepared and ready to explore the world.

Where is your next dream holiday?