What preparations do you make before going on a trip? How can you pack your luggage to save the most space? What are the essentials? The editors at Tanlulv recommend 12 travel tips summarized by 12 travel experts—come and learn them now!

1. Prepare a Luggage Packing List in Advance
It’s a big no-no to pack things as you think of them—that often leads to forgetting items or bringing too many clothes you don’t actually need. So it’s best to prepare a list a few days before your trip. Categorize your items like in the table above to make things clearer, help eliminate duplicates, and give yourself time to double-check any last-minute essentials.
Note: Remember to separately list items you need to carry on the plane.

2. Keep Backups of Important Documents
In addition to thoroughly checking that you have all your documents before leaving, it's best to take photos of both sides of each document using your phone or camera for backup. It’s also wise to have a copy of your flight tickets saved, and send one to your email for archiving. Also, bring two passport-sized photos in case you need to replace lost documents while traveling. If you’re traveling abroad, be sure to note down the address and phone number of your country’s embassy in the destination.

3. Always Prepare a Mini First-Aid Kit
No matter how much luggage you have, never skip the first-aid kit. Items like stomach medicine, cold and flu meds, motion sickness pills, painkillers, motion sickness relief oil, disinfectant, and band-aids are all essential. If you find medicine bottles take up too much space, you can buy a small portable pill organizer and just fill it with the pills you need—but remember to write a note listing what each color pill is and how to take it.
Some travel experts online suggest carrying a small piece of ginger. If you suffer from sudden stomach issues, taking a bit can quickly relieve symptoms—and it’s said to be even more effective than stomach medicine. It’s worth a try!

4. Fast Packing Methods That Save Space and Keep Things Tidy
Ditch traditional packing methods. If you want to fit most of what you’ll need for your trip into one suitcase, you must learn how to pack properly. While putting socks and underwear in shoes can save some space and prevent the shoes from getting squished, it’s not very hygienic, so it’s better to seal them separately in zip-lock bags.

5. Buy Travel and Medical Insurance
Many people overlook this, but if you’re traveling independently, it’s advisable to get insurance—just in case you lose your luggage or need sudden medical care. If you’re traveling to more developed and safe countries where the airline has a good reputation and will compensate for lost luggage, you might skip comprehensive travel insurance and focus mainly on medical coverage. But be sure to research beforehand, otherwise insurance agents may try to upsell you a full package.
Note: Don’t forget to give a copy of your insurance policy to your family.

6. Prepare and Reconfirm Accommodation and Transportation Reservations
When traveling to another place, we usually book transportation and lodging online in advance. But don’t assume that once booked, everything is set—remember to call or email a few days before your trip to confirm, and save proof of booking via screenshots or printed itineraries.

7. Small Items You’ll Need but Often Forget
Such as universal travel adapters, portable yet waterproof flashlights with good brightness, earplugs, eye masks, face masks, multi-tool knives, storage bags, a small amount of chocolate or other energy snacks, as well as personal safety items female travelers should carry like rape alarms and pepper spray. Also consider a money belt and small padlocks for areas with higher security risks.

8. Notify Your Bank in Advance
Some banks may freeze your card if it’s used abroad without prior notice for security reasons. So it’s best to call your bank’s customer service in advance to ask whether you need to report your travel dates and destinations.

9. Install Timed Lighting at Home
If you’re traveling for an extended period and no one will be watching your home, consider installing timed lights (Automatic Light Timer). Once installed, the lights will switch on and off at the times you set, giving the impression someone is home and helping deter burglars to some extent.

10. Ensure Your Travel Guide Has Comprehensive Information
Everyone does some research before a trip, but don’t just skim through it—organize the information and save a copy on your phone, and print one as a backup. In addition to routes and travel schedules, it should include the addresses, contact numbers, and business hours of places you want to visit. It’s also good to jot down notes such as prices and important tips.
Note: Remember to send a copy of your itinerary and contact numbers to your family.
11. Don’t Flaunt Valuables or Carry Too Much Cash
As the saying goes, “Don’t show off your wealth”—being too flashy may attract unwanted attention. As for cash, it’s not recommended to carry too much. Prepare some small bills for cheap purchases and tipping, and use credit cards for larger expenses whenever possible.
Note: Be sure to check in advance how tipping works at your destination—know when it’s expected and how much to give.

12. Remember These Safety Tips

For example:
Do not discuss your detailed travel itinerary with strangers or in public places
Carry only enough cash when going out, and keep the rest locked in the hotel safe
If someone claiming to be a police officer asks to check your bag or passport, first ask to see their ID or request to go to the nearest police station before cooperating
Female travelers should avoid asking directions from lone men, and it’s better to approach families instead
Ask hotel staff about areas that require extra caution, and try to avoid those places
Avoid dressing too flashy
When using a card for payment in less developed areas, always do it in person

HowToTrip, an outdoor adventure and self-driving travel website!For more comprehensive travel information, outdoor knowledge, experience, guides, and self-driving tips, visit AiLvXing (Love Travel),Route Guides,Self-driving ToursandOutdoor Adventuresections for more details!