Tips from the road: Things to consider when travelling

Since I’m on the road traveling, I wanted to share with you as much as possible that might be useful.

One night after dinner, Hubbie and I started discussing our top tips to share with friends who will be travelling this winter.

I know some people prefer to have an all-inclusive holiday. You make one decision about a destination and then all you worry about is what to eat and drink and if you want to do anything (doing nothing being the leading option).

I’m not knocking that. I’ve had those experiences and they are lovely. But just in case you are feeling adventurous, and that may apply to a day’s outing too, then here are the top tips that have worked well for us.

• Hand sanitizer is still a good idea. Public bathrooms are less plentiful in many places and it’s easier to catch something when you spend more time in public areas. No one likes to be sick on holiday.

• If you’re going somewhere where the weather is nice enough for al fresco meals, bring supplies for picnicking, such as quality plastic cutlery. A knife for cutting and a small plastic cutting board are invaluable. We have a facecloth we carry damp in a resealable plastic bag too, for wiping up. If you’re not going somewhere very warm, it’s important to note that picnicking can also be done in hotel rooms or on trains.

• Bring a refillable bottle that keeps your water fresh. We forget sometimes how fortunate we are in Canada to have easy access to drinkable water. Here in Europe, you pay for water at restaurants, and hotel rooms may not have glasses to fill or taps that allow you to fill your travel bottle. With your own travel bottle, you can buy a large cold bottle and refill your own for the day to keep up your consumption and stay hydrated. (This is another factor in staying healthy while away.)

• Do as much research as possible before leaving about what to see, do and eat. Plan a few things to do to avoid wasting valuable time. There is much to learn as you go, but it’s nice to have a general plan at least some things you don’t have to figure out when you arrive somewhere, for example.

Certainly if you want to see major sites or attractions, plan ahead. Many places expect you to book online, and it may be less expensive if you buy tickets in advance.

• Be wary of third-party operators however, many of whom will usually charge more than the facility’s fee for entry. Unless you are in high season and this is the best available ticket, we recommend looking to the source first. (In Madrid, tickets to the Prado were 15 euros at the door, plus 6 euros for the optional audio guide. Online sellers had the same package starting at 37 euros with a restricted time entry and no exchange or refund.)

• Freebies and package deals can be good for some things. Look for free things to do where you are. Sometimes attractions are free during certain hours of the day or on certain days of the month, and they often have discounts for students and seniors, as well as educators.

• Ask about meals included with lodging. Sometimes they are worth it and sometimes they are not, but it’s always good to plan your strategy.

• In many places, set-price menus at restaurants offer a great bargain (they’re called menú del diá in Spain, table d’hôte in France). You’ll get a starter, main course and either a drink or dessert for one price.

• If you find you need extra clothing but don’t want to splurge, look for a local thrift/charity/second hand store for less expensive finds with local flair.

Lastly, I have some general advice to make that trip unique and special:

• Don’t be afraid to splurge occasionally for something that you want to experience- what does a cherished memory cost?

• Be prepared to go outside your comfort zone- think of hand gestures if you don’t know the language, have an open mind about food and cultural traditions.

• Take the subway at least once to know what it’s like - you might see some great urban art or hear an amazing musician in addition to riding the rails.

Remember plan A rarely works, but it all adds to your experience (and makes for great stories when you get home!). You chose to embark on an adventure, so make it one you enjoy.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.