Traveling light and smart can make your trip easier, faster, and more enjoyable. You can avoid baggage fees, save space, move around more freely, and reduce the risk of losing or damaging your belongings.
For example, WSJ travel reporter Allison Pohle recommends using packing cubes, compression bags, and ziplock bags to organize and compress your clothes and accessories. She also suggests rolling your clothes instead of folding them, and packing them in layers, from heaviest to lightest. She also advises travelers to pack versatile items that can be mixed and matched, and to wear their bulkiest items on the plane.
Tip #3: Be curious, but respectful
The third step to a successful trip is to be curious, but respectful. Traveling is a great opportunity to learn about different cultures, histories, and perspectives. But traveling also comes with a responsibility to respect the people, places, and customs that you encounter.
Being curious and respectful means asking questions, listening, observing, and participating, but also being mindful, polite, and considerate. Being curious and respectful can enrich your trip, deepen your understanding, and foster positive relationships.
For example, WSJ travel writer Colette Coleman recommends trying a homestay, where travelers stay with local families, as a way to immerse yourself in a culture and connect with the people. She says that homestays can offer authentic, meaningful, and memorable experiences, but they also require flexibility, communication, and gratitude. She also advises travelers to research the local etiquette, dress code, and language before arriving, and to follow the host’s rules and routines.
Tip #4: Have fun, but be safe
The fourth step to a successful trip is to have fun, but be safe. Traveling is a chance to have fun, relax, and enjoy yourself. But traveling also involves some risks, such as accidents, illnesses, crimes, and natural disasters. How do you balance having fun and being safe?
Having fun and being safe means being aware, prepared, and cautious, but also being adventurous, optimistic, and confident. Having fun and being safe can make your trip more satisfying, comfortable, and rewarding.
