Kathy's Essential Travel Tips | FSB Connect Club Iowa

Hello, fellow travelers!

Over the years, I've clocked up quite a few miles, and let me tell you, I've gathered some wisdom along the way. Whether hopping to the next town or preparing for a cross-continent adventure, I'm sharing my go-to travel advice to help you make the most of every trip!

Table of Contents Start Traveling with FSB

Stay Patient

Should You Get Travel Insurance?

What Should You Bring When You Travel?

Other Helpful Tips

Patience Is Important

Patience is my top travel tip. Delays, missed connections, or even language barriers can test your patience.

Don’t sweat the stuff you can’t control. I know it can be hard sometimes, but just take a moment, breathe, and remember: everything will fall into place.

After all, sometimes the unexpected moments turn into the best stories!

Should You Get Travel Insurance?

No one ever thinks they’ll get sick, injured, or called back home while traveling, but it happens when you least expect it.

With insurance, you don’t have to worry about huge hospital bills or flights back home - you can focus on the situation with peace of mind that you’re covered.

What Should You Bring When You Travel?

Pack smart to make your trip stress-free and enjoyable. Here are some things you should bring:

Your Own Water Bottle

Bottled water at an airport is expensive! Not only does carrying your water bottle save you money at pricey airport kiosks, but it's also a small step towards a greener planet.

If you travel overseas and question whether the tap water is safe, you can pack a filtered water bottle.

Good Travel Shoes

A traveler's best friend is a reliable pair of shoes. You'll walk a lot when traveling, so invest in a good pair of lightweight, comfortable travel shoes.

Avoid new shoes that have not been broken in when possible. Blisters or sore feet can quickly dampen the spirit of adventure.

Packing Cubes for the Win

Keep your suitcase or backpack organized while you travel with zippered bags that allow you to keep your items separated.

They take up very little space but allow you to maximize space in your suitcase and easily find your belongings while unpacking.

With packing cubes, everything has its place.

Other Helpful Travel Tips

Keep your travel plans flexible and stay informed about your destination. A little extra preparation can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Write Down the Address of Your Hotel

Just in case you get lost while exploring and need to find your way back to the hotel, it is best always to carry the name and address of your hotel.

If you’re traveling with a group, this is especially beneficial if you become separated from the other travelers.

Having the address in the local language can also help taxi drivers or locals guide you back to foreign countries.

Backup Banking Information is Crucial

Take an extra credit card or ATM card from a second bank account.

This way, if your wallet gets stolen or your ATM card gets declined, you can still access money during your travels.

Prioritize Your Well-Being

Travel can be taxing on the body. The recirculated air in planes is super dry, and all the walking we do on tours can dry out your body quickly; it's important to remember to:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water
Apply sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially in sunny destinations
Eat balanced meals: Local food is a treat, but remember to keep a balanced diet
Get adequate rest: Jet lag can be challenging; ensure you give your body the rest it needs
Keep up with some exercise: Keep active, whether it's a morning swim or a walk through the city