10 Ways To Be Prepared For Anything On Your Travels (I Wouldn’t Skip These!)
Something important that I’ve learned on my travels is to be prepared for any eventuality.
Being away on your dream adventure is great, but it’s not sensible to assume everything will always be plain sailing. Part of the beauty of adventure travel is the countless possibilities, and while they’ll often be positive, they can also be negative–don’t let failure to prepare ruin your dream trip.
Here are the best ways to prepare yourself for anything on your travels.
1. Keep Some Emergency Cash
I don’t love carrying cash on my travels. In fact, I try to use my Monzo card as much as possible when I’m abroad!
However, I also think it’s a good idea to always have a little bit of cash on me, in case of an emergency.
While ATMs are nearly everywhere, having a bit of emergency cash can be a lifesaver. Imagine being in an airport and discovering none of your cards work – I’ve been there! Now, I take a low amount of cash wherever I go.
2. Pack Versatile Gear
I always try and pack with versatility in mind. It can benefit you by lightening your load, but it also allows you to adapt easily to changing situations.
I’m a fan of trousers that convert into shorts, walking shoes that look smart enough for a night out, and using swim trunks as casual shorts, for example.
This saves space in your luggage and helps your budget since you won’t need to buy as many clothes. Plus, you’ll always be ready for any event.
A pro tip if you’re checking luggage: Always put a change of clothes in your carry on bag, in case anything happens to your suitcase!
3. Take A Reusable Filtered Water Bottle
I often talk about my reusable filtered water bottle being one of the first things in my bag for any trip. I can’t recommend one more!
They not only save you money on bottled water, but they also reduce the number of single-use plastics ending up in landfills or oceans; Plus, they make water from basically any source safe to drink.
You don’t need me to tell you how important it is to have access to drinking water. My Water to Go bottle takes up little room in my bag, but makes a big positive impact on my adventures!
4. Make Copies of Your Important Documents
Having copies of essential travel documents can be a lifesaver if your originals get lost or stolen; That might sound obvious, but it surprises me how often I see people not doing this.
When I lost my passport, my copies were crucial in filing a police report and proving my identity at the embassy. It’s a good idea to make copies of your passport, health/travel insurance papers, and credit cards.
5. Carry A Small First Aid Kit
While you can find pharmacies in most places, I try to always carry a compact first aid kit, with a few essentials–especially if I’m exploring or hiking!
Things like paracetamol, antibiotics, plasters/bandages, insect repellent and antiseptic ointment are a good idea.
Pharmacies are usually easy to locate, but it’s comforting to know I have some basics with me in case of emergencies.
6. Pack a Torch
I know that most of us these days have a torch on our smartphone, but I always think it’s a good idea to pack one separately.
Whether you’re exploring a cave in Costa Rica, your hike runs longer than expected and the sun sets, or you experience a power cut, which isn’t uncommon in many places, you’ll be glad to have a light source.
7. Download A Translator App
You don’t need to be fluent in your destination’s native language, but you never know when you’ll need to communicate with a local, who doesn’t understand English.
I’d recommend having Google Translate on your phone for basic phrases, and even a pocket language book, in case you can’t use your phone.
8. Keep A List Of Emergency Contacts
There’s not a lot to say about this one, other than if you need something like emergency medical treatment, it’s a good idea to have a list of contacts on you who can be contacted if necessary.
9. Buy Travel Insurance
Don’t skip travel insurance! I know that it can sometimes seem like an annoying extra expense, which eats into your adventure budget, but it’s the ultimate safety net when travelling.
You just know the one time you don’t have it is when you’ll need it, so I always say get travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, and cover yourself for cancellations, lost property, medical bills etc–it’ll save you from a potential world of financial trouble.
It’s rare that something goes wrong, but when it does, you’ll be glad to have insurance.
10. Do Your Research
There’s nothing more valuable than learning about the place you’re visiting–it’s always part of my preparation for a trip. Reading a site like this one is a good start!
Whether it’s reading books or travel guides, understanding the local customs, etiquette, and way of life will help you avoid faux pas and create a better experience for yourself and those you meet.
Conclusion
You never know what might happen when you’re out in the world, and even the best-laid plans can sometimes go awry.
You may not need everything on this list, but being prepared ensures that when things do go wrong, you’re ready.
