Avoid these 5 common mistakes when shopping for an RV

Avoid these 5 common mistakes when shopping for an RV

Today, many travelers understand the importance of enjoying not just the destination but also the journey. Consequently, recreational vehicles (RV) and travel trailers, equipped with accommodation facilities like living rooms and cooking spaces, are becoming increasingly popular, allowing travelers to experience blissful journeys en route to their destinations. However, buying an RV or travel trailer is a significant decision. So here are some common mistakes to avoid while purchasing these vehicles. Lack of research Buying an RV without researching properly on the vehicle can lead to significant losses in the long run. Therefore, it is important to explore the various brands and companies offering these vehicles and opt for test drives to check for any damages before purchase. Underestimating or overestimating the space required Sometimes, customers may purchase smaller RVs or travel trailers, typically if they are occasional travelers. However, even in such cases, one may require more space to store luggage or accommodate on-the-go activities. Conversely, a huge RV can be challenging to maneuver. The best bet is to reflect on one’s requirements and discuss them with family members, friends, and other travelers before deciding on the ideal size of RV to purchase. Not considering tow weight Tow weight is the aggregate weight that a towable RV or travel trailer can haul. If one is purchasing a towable RV, it is essential to check the tow weight and estimate the total weight of your towed goods in your upcoming travels to make a sound purchase decision. Not setting a budget range and limit Another critical aspect to consider while buying an RV or travel trailer is your budget range and limit. Not setting a budget limit can result in overspending or buying a poor-quality vehicle for a low price. This price range should be based on one’s travel requirements and affordability.
3 common mistakes to avoid when using travel credit cards

3 common mistakes to avoid when using travel credit cards

Travel credit cards are useful financial tools that allow travelers to save money on flight bookings, hotel reservations, rental cars, and more. Some travel credit cards offer perks like complimentary elite status in hotels and access to airport lounges, which can improve one’s travel experience. These benefits help travelers reduce travel costs and enjoy a convenient journey. But, to use a travel credit card wisely, it is important to avoid certain common mistakes. Not using the card enough One of the main features of a travel credit card is that an individual earns some points for every expense made using it. They can redeem these points for massive discounts on other travel-related expenses. Also, most travel credit cards come with welcome offers. As a part of these offers, the cards reward users with many points once they reach a specific spending limit. But, to enjoy these rewards, one must use a travel credit card frequently. Otherwise, one might miss out on earning points. Also, travel credit cards, like regular credit cards, have consumer protection for disputed transactions, making them a safer alternative than cash or debit cards. Redeeming the points at the wrong time A user may notice they have collected many points after using the travel credit card for some time. At this point, they may be inclined to redeem the reward points as soon as possible on the next big purchase. But this isn’t always a good idea because some places charge more when an individual pays with points than with normal transactions. For instance, a flight ticket may cost around $200 for normal transactions. But if someone wishes to redeem their points for it, the airline may require them to pay about $300 worth of points. So, it would be better to pay using cash than to redeem points for a lower value than what they are worth.
Common mistakes to avoid when buying travel insurance

Common mistakes to avoid when buying travel insurance

Travel insurance is an essential financial cover that protects one from unforeseen circumstances while traveling. From losing luggage to hotel cancellations, there are a few incidents against which insurance can be claimed. But before opting for one, it is important to thoroughly understand the policy document, including what is covered in the insurance and what is not. Here are a few common travel insurance mistakes that travelers can easily avoid. Ignoring credit card perks Several credit card companies offer travel insurance benefits to card holders. If you purchase a ticket using the card, you may be eligible for insurance. Credit card-based travel coverage may include claims against delayed, lost, or damaged baggage; trip cancellation or interruption; medical emergencies; evacuation; travel mishaps; or rental car insurance. With these advantages, frequent travelers might not need to get additional insurance. Not reading the details of the insurance Most travel insurance policies have a “cancel for any reason” provision. However, the requirement for this is often overlooked. The “cancel for any reason” coverage often has to be bought 7 to 21 days after paying the original trip deposit. Additionally, one can only receive compensation if they cancel their trip 48 hours in advance. Depending on one’s level of insurance, the reimbursement amount may vary. Most of the time, 50 to 75 percent of the trip’s cost will be refunded. So, it is advisable to carefully examine the terms before choosing any insurance. Buying the wrong policy One can opt for travel insurance that covers particular requirements or concerns for one’s upcoming trip. For instance, one may not need to carry much baggage on a brief business trip. In this instance, it may be preferable to forego baggage or personal item loss coverage and avoid paying premium prices. Similarly, customers who wish to take a cruise in 2023 might need to get cruise insurance.
7 amazing hacks to book cheap flight tickets

7 amazing hacks to book cheap flight tickets

The thought of taking a holiday feels so relaxing, doesn’t it? It is time to take that break for real now without having to break the bank. Contrary to popular belief, traveling doesn’t always require big savings because there are plenty of ways to save money and travel in a pocket-friendly manner. This article explores seven amazing hacks customers must try to book flights for cheap for their next getaway. Be flexible with travel dates Being flexible is one of the best ways to score discounts and deals on flight tickets. Try to travel when most people stay home, as airlines are more likely to offer better prices then. Book in incognito mode Websites often track users’ searches and may eventually present inflated rates. To avoid this, it is better to use a VPN or switch to incognito mode when researching and booking tickets. Follow airlines on social media platforms Subscribe to airline newsletters and social media platforms to stay up to date on any new or upcoming deals they may be offering. This can be a superb way of getting an additional discount on one’s airfare. Check ticket prices on less busy days Scheduling flights for the weekends could cost travelers a lot of money. According to recent studies, one can save anywhere between 12-20% on economy tickets for flights scheduled in the middle of the week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Try to plan the travel around these days to travel cost-effectively. Choose a budget airline Instead of booking with well-known airlines, look for budget options to save extra bucks. Note that these airlines generally do not offer the same amenities and may charge extra for luggage, seat allocation, etc. Consider these expenses to get an overall estimate of the cost of the flight. Use a travel credit card Travel credit cards are also a great way of saving money, as they often offer customers a sign-on miles bonus and other benefits.
Top 4 travel mistakes to avoid

Top 4 travel mistakes to avoid

Whether it is for business or pleasure, traveling calls for meticulous planning and execution. Frequent travelers probably have their own set of tried and tested tricks to easily move through airports, avoid being stranded or stuck in a foreign place, and have an altogether safe and efficient trip. As most of us resume travel after a long break, it is important to revisit and avoid common traveling mistakes for a smooth journey. Overpacking This is a common issue for most people regardless of the number of trips they have taken in the past. The art of packing light doesn’t have to be complicated. It is okay to repeat a few outfits to make space for the essentials. Also, wouldn’t you want to set aside some space in case you decide to go shopping on your trip? To avoid paying an excess baggage fee, review your itinerary and pack accordingly. No cell phone plan One of the common traveling mistakes is completely relying on Wi-Fi. However, not every café, station, or hotel is likely to offer free or reasonably fast internet. So, when you have no access to the Wi-Fi, you wouldn’t want to be stranded and have no means of calling for help. This is why you must always look for affordable cell phone plans while traveling. You may get a local sim to avoid any exorbitant traveling fees/prices on your original plan. Not notifying your bank You must always check if your cards can be used internationally, and if they are not activated for international travel, you can either do it through the mobile app or ask the bank to provide access. Credit cards can get blocked when swiped in another country if your bank has not been informed about the travel plans and destination beforehand. No buffer between flights International travel could mean that there is no direct flight to your destination, and you might have to book a connecting flight.
Top destination travel options in Asia

Top destination travel options in Asia

Asia is a beautiful continent and is home to some of the most exciting destination travel options. With so many exquisite countries to visit, the task of picking the best once can be a bit overwhelming. Well, fret not! Given the availability of affordable flights in-between prime hubs of Asia, you can certainly visit a couple of top destinations in Asia on a single trip. You can pick any one of the listed destinations below for your next destination travel trip. Chiang Mai, Thailand A lot of travelers visiting Thailand prefer its northern capital over Bangkok. The Old City of Chiang Mai is bustling with tourist activity all year round. The most beautiful thing that you’ll witness here is the welcoming and calming smile of monks. Happening night markets, a multitude of cultural festivals, beautiful temples, and sprawling mountains for trekking– Chiang Mai has something for every type of traveler. Every year the city gets a footfall of more than a million travelers that leave the destination enriched with hope and satisfaction. When in Chiang Mia, make sure that you take a tour of the magnificent riverside village, Pai, which is located only a few hours north of the city. Penang, Malaysia If you are looking for a destination travel trip where you can relax, unwind, and experience mouth-watering cuisine, then Penang in Malaysia is the right destination for you. It is a magnificent island in Malaysia that is proudly referred to as the Pearl of the Orient. Home to some of the most scrumptious delicacies of Asia, the food in Penang is a fine blend of Malay cuisine with influences of Indian and Chinese flavors. Additionally, the island has some of the finest art galleries and delectable museums to keep you entertained. Singapore While Singapore should be high on your list of destination travel spots in Asai, beware that it is notoriously expensive.
4 common travel mistakes to avoid

4 common travel mistakes to avoid

When it comes to traveling, a common cliché is that it involves the discovery of the unknown. This causes people to make certain travel mistakes, which are fairly basic. But with time, one learns to eliminate such errors. Essentially, one has to tick several boxes while traveling, especially if the trip is for multiple days. Keeping that in mind, here are some of the common travel mistakes that one should avoid. Overpacking One should only carry what they need during a journey. This is because carrying multiple large, heavy suitcases can be tiresome and dispiriting for long travels. Additionally, one will always have worries in the back of their head about their luggage throughout the journey. What’s more, packing multiple items also causes one’s hotel room to be messy, having too much dirty laundry to wash back home, and, ultimately, a sore back and a headache. Booking flights too close together One always takes a risk while booking connecting flights for a travel plan. If there are delays or cancellations on the first flight, then there is always the risk of the second one being affected. This is why, it is never advisable to book connecting flights too close together. One must always at least keep a two-hour contingency period between multiple flights. This helps to save a lot of time, and in case of unforeseen disruptions, loads of money as well. Not negotiating a taxi rate beforehand On foreign tours, taxi drivers and other service providers are likely to be dodgy when it comes to service rates. Taxi drivers especially may exploit their customers if the latter are not assertive and firm when it comes to service charges. A common trick the drivers employ is to not confirm rates and then overcharge when the trip concludes. To avoid this, one must negotiate and clarify in absolutely certain terms the amount of money they will be paying for taxi rides.
Business class flights and its features

Business class flights and its features

All of us have daydreamed about traveling business class when we make a steady shuffle from business class to economy. Yes, it lures us with its spacious cabins, and luxe and cushy comforts. So, is it worth flying in a first-class or business class flight? Let’s discuss some of the best business class flight features that will prove that it is worth every penny. Priority check-in For travelers traveling business class, the check-in process is a lot more convenient and easier. You don’t need to stand in the long queue to finish your check-in procedure. Go ahead and sit down at the waiting room seat while the staff handles the check-in for you. Extra baggage allowed Now, this completely depends on the policy of the airline. However, irrespective of the airline you are traveling with, the permissible baggage allowance for a business class is certainly more than economy class travelers. So, if you are a shopaholic, it could be a huge plus. Access to the special lounge Ahead of the boarding time, business class travelers can wait in the exclusive lounge dedicated to them. Again, it might vary from airline to airline and airport to airport, but in most lounges across the globe, you’ll get scrumptious snacks and food. Furthermore, you will have an area to rest and recharge your energy. A few business class lounges also offer sleeping rooms, massages, and shower facilities. Priority boarding facility As soon as the airplane is ready for boarding, the first passengers to board the flight will always be the business class travelers. So, you will never have to wait to board a flight. Spacious and better seating Business class flights have spacious and bigger seats to accommodate you comfortably. Usually, most of these seats are adjustable. So, you can convert your seat to a flat-bed and rest properly.
Travel precautions for hemophilia A patients

Travel precautions for hemophilia A patients

Hemophilia is a rare genetic bleeding disorder that affects a fraction of the people in the country. According to the Centre for Disease Control, roughly 12 out of every 100,000 males are diagnosed with hemophilia A. The bleeding is caused by a missing factor VIII protein, responsible for the blood’s clotting function. This inherited disorder is challenging to manage, and one must take the following precautions, especially while traveling with hemophilia A. Consult with a specialist Always consult with a doctor to understand if traveling with hemophilia A is possible in the first place. One should reconsider if the bleeding symptoms are severe. Some vaccinations for hepatitis A and B are recommended for patients who plan to travel. Doctors also provide a travel letter that explains the disorder for security purposes. Only then can airport officials allow prescriptions and care package supplies on board with the passenger. Prepare a precautionary kit Understand that airline baggage restrictions are not applicable for doctor-approved prescriptions and emergency supplies. So, patients can pack everything conveniently into a carry-on bag. However, it is the patient’s responsibility to label and mark all supplies, as there are certain prescriptions or equipment that cannot be exposed to X-ray scanning at the airport. Also, travel delays can happen, so pack enough to ride out any contingencies. Checklist for supplies The regular checklist should include vials of the prescription, a diluent for preparing thin solutions, and a reconstitution device for mixing the factor VIII solution. Other things include disposable syringes, cleaning alcohol, cotton pads, disinfectant, and a container to dispose of all supplies carefully. Doctors may also recommend additional supplies that need to be packed with the emergency kit. The checklist should also contain a list of hemophilia treatment centers (HTC) along the planned route. National and global HTC directories are available online for reference.
4 mistakes to avoid when traveling by train

4 mistakes to avoid when traveling by train

Traveling by train is a privilege not everyone can have on a daily basis. Moreover, traversing long distances by train can be exciting and challenging. Despite its seemingly straightforward nature, people make some mistakes when traveling by train. First-time or infrequent travelers generally make these mistakes, which can reduce the overall experience of long-distance train journeys. Here are four common mistakes to avoid when traveling by train. Relying solely on train food A common mistake people tend to make in the pre-booking phase is assuming that food will be served onboard the train. That detail is usually specified in the itinerary and can be seen when one books a ticket online or offline. One should certainly know whether the train they are boarding for a long journey has food served onboard or not. Once in, another common mistake people make is relying solely on train food. Now, eating train food is convenient; however, it is still processed food to a certain degree, and its health-related credibility can be slightly questionable. Ideally, one should get food from home when on a train journey. Not reading the itinerary carefully The itinerary contains all the details of a given journey, such as the stations at which the train will stop, the ETA at the destination, and the seat information. Not reading all these details carefully and then not making necessary changes can be significant mistakes, especially if they come in as shocks during the journey itself. That can be corrected by avoiding the next mistake on the list. Not booking tickets in advance People often miss reading the tickets or itinerary carefully when in a hurry. That happens when travelers book their tickets and the holiday schedule at the last minute. When one books at such a late stage, the ticket prices are at their highest, the best seats are often taken, and travelers have little choice in anything they wish to include in their reservation.
Top 5 hotel booking websites

Top 5 hotel booking websites

Indeed, booking hotels has become easier than ever. But there’s no denying that the sheer number of booking platforms and offers can overwhelm most travelers. Typically, the best hotel booking sites feature great deals, scores of room options in any given location and allow you to filter your search results based on your preferences. We’ve listed some excellent hotel booking websites that can help you get a great room at an affordable price. Booking.com This is one of the most popular and reliable hotel booking websites. No matter where you are traveling and what time of the year, you can easily find amazing deals on a wide variety of hotels, apartments, and hostels on the platform. Another advantage is that the website is easy to navigate, filters search results accurately, and the search engine displays total upfront cost (pretax), allowing you to determine what fits into your budget quickly. HotelsCombined HotelsCombined is a top-rated metasearch engine or aggregator, meaning it shows you the best results after comparing listings from hundreds of travel sites in seconds, including top online travel agencies like Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, Agoda, and many more. It’s a great platform if you’re looking for something at the lowest possible price. HotelsCombined even refunds you the difference if you find a hotel listed cheaper elsewhere after booking with them. Kayak If you’ve booked a flight ticket before, you’re already familiar with Kayak’s interface. It’s uncluttered, easy to use, and has many filters that can help specifically look for something you want. Being an aggregator, you can easily find a wide range of hotels and other types of accommodation at amazing prices on Kayak. TripAdvisor Here’s another popular metasearch engine that you must check out. TripAdvisor has a reputation for curating some of the best hotel deals from an array of sites, including top ones.
4 common traveling errors to avoid

4 common traveling errors to avoid

As your long-awaited trip approaches, you should start preparing and packing so that you are all set well in advance. You have probably made a mental to-do list; however, you should account for uncertainties and anything that could be a hindrance. Forgetting something important or booking the wrong tour are common mistakes that could ruin the trip. So, here are a few other errors to avoid for an ideal experience. Booking back-to-back flights Avoid booking long flights with a short layover or inadequate buffer period. Delays are inevitable when flying; you may also need time to make it to the next connecting flight. If you are planning a trip that involves consecutive long-haul flights, make sure you account for a suitable buffer period to rest and recoup. Overpacking Even if you are planning a long vacation, avoid stuffing every piece of clothing and accessory into your luggage. When you have multiple layovers and transfers, lugging heavy suitcases is something you want to avoid. Also, you can find basic amenities and essentials at your destination. Traveling light is the best solution to save space for things (like souvenirs) you buy on vacation. Improper planning Am overambitious itinerary can be a nightmare to follow, especially if you are traveling with family. Avoid overplanning as not everyone can keep up with a hectic schedule. Additionally, it may be impossible to have enough time to enjoy all events or visit all the spots according to the plan. Plan your travel itinerary in a way that allows covering as much as possible without causing exhaustion. Carrying valuables Why take your expensive laptop, gadgets, or jewelry with you on vacation? The whole point of the vacation is to escape the everyday humdrum. Further, carrying valuables is risky as they could be stolen or misplaced, and retrieving them in a foreign city could be challenging.