The best travel advice comes from experts, people who have visited many countries, from top holiday destinations to those off the beaten track, and who have extensive travel experience. For 30 years, Travel Department has been helping people see the world with ease, creating countless memories along the way, so you can trust we know travel. We’ve collated the top travel tips from our very own staff and local guides to help make your holiday stress free and even more enjoyable.
Top travel tips for guided holidays and tours
Tips to know before booking your holiday
- Before booking, do some research of the holiday destination beforehand and read the tour itinerary carefully, so you know what to expect.
- Check the activity level of the holiday to make sure it’s suitable for you.
- Book as far as advance as possible, the longer you leave it, the more likely the prices will go up.
- We’re a fully licensed and bonded travel company, but if you choose to book elsewhere, make sure the provider is too.
Visa and travel document tips
- Ensure your passport is valid and allow plenty of time for renewal before your holiday if needed.
- Get travel insurance. It can cover medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected situations. It’s better to be protected than face costly surprises.
- Check whether you need a visa for your destination and allow enough time to apply, as processing can take several weeks in some countries.
- "Scan important documents, including your passport, travel insurance, and any visas, and email yourself a copy. Having a digital backup ensures you can access your essential documents easily if the originals are lost or stolen while travelling." -Aine, Product Executive
Top tips for packing your suitcase
- "You never need as many clothes as you think you do!" - Claire, Commercial Director
- "Pack light and keep essentials in your carry on bag, such as documents, chargers, medications, and one change of clothes." - Wal, Business Intelligence Analyst
- "Packing cubes are a great way to keep your suitcase organised, save space, and prevent wrinkles. You can separate clothes by type or day, and even keep dirty laundry apart from clean items, making packing and unpacking much easier." - Lucy, Senior Product Executive
- "Include your name and contact information both on the outside and inside of your suitcase, as a precaution in case it gets lost." - Eve, Graphic Designer
Getting to the airport and flying tips
- "Allow plenty of time to get to the airport. I always factor in an extra hour or so in case of traffic jams or long security queues. I’d rather be sitting bored at the airport than rushing to the gate and risk missing my flight to my holiday destination!" - Gina, Social Media & Content Executive
- "Always double check you packed your passports - doesn't matter how experienced and how many times you travel, it can happen to everyone to forget it!" - Dea, Product Executive
- "When flying back from the East, to avoid jetlag make sure you don’t go to sleep when you get home. Struggle through the day and only go to bed at bedtime and you should avoid the exhaustion of jetlag." - Claire, Commercial Director
- See our other blog post on how to manage a long-haul flight.
Medical travel tips
- Get travel insurance, this is very important for covering medical emergencies, so we’re saying this twice!
- Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date for your destination.
- Consult your doctor if you have existing medical conditions before travelling.
- "Take a small med kit - plasters, antiseptic wipes, bandages, scissors, pain killers etc. - better to have them and not need them, then need them and not have them!" - Eve, Graphic Designer
- "Never brush your teeth with tap water when travelling. If the tap water is not safe to drink, it is not safe to use to brush your teeth, this will help to minimize getting an upset stomach and getting ill. Minerals in water can often do this when we are not used to them too." - Leah, Long-haul product specialist
Top tips for day or carry on bag essentials
- "Bring a money belt or bum bag instead of a large handbag to keep your valuables secure and easily accessible while exploring." - Caroline, Sales & Customer Centre Manager
- "I always have extra food with me, just in case of delays, there’s nothing worse than being hungry and not having access to food! Always have tissues on you, you don’t want to get caught short!" - Gina, Social Media & Content Executive
- "Pack snacks for the long journeys, a packet of your favourite biscuits, sweets for a little sugar on a hot day or hike, you never know as sometimes journeys can be longer than expected and I don’t get hangry. Bring your own reusable water bottle I never leave home without hand sanitiser, and I have been using this on my travels for years. This helps to keep your hands clean if you are having a snack somewhere." - Leah, Long-haul product specialist
Technology tips for travelling
- "Know in advance about internet & sim card options when traveling outside of Europe.
- Make sure to download and setup those apps - also internet connection very much needed for it. Don't get stuck not being able to pay anything while you're there." - Dea, Product Executive
- Bookmark on Google maps any places you want to visit in your free time, e.g. museums and restaurants, so you can find it when you get there.
- Bring a universal adaptor and a power bank so you can charge your devices wherever you go.
Top financial travel tips
- "Avoid the tourist traps and walk off the main streets to find the restaurants where locals eat. It will likely be cheaper and better quality." - Claire, Commercial Director
- "Take some currency for the country you are travelling to, not everywhere accepts cards." - Eve, Graphic Designer
- "I use different cards for travel and a backup in case an ATM machine takes it, or it is cloned, this way I always have a backup for spending. I learnt this the hard way from a card being cloned in the country right in front of me, without my knowing." - Leah, Long-haul product specialist
Safety & security tips
- Make use of the safe in your hotel room
- Even in the safest areas, there’s always opportunities for pick pockets, so keep an eye on your belongings.
- Always listen to your guide. While they’re there to show you the top sights and hidden gems of your holiday destination, they’re also looking out for your safety throughout the trip.
Top tips to follow whilst in your holiday destination
- "Be flexible and patient – travel plans can change unexpectedly and should be embraced to become part of the adventure." - Grace, Customer Service Health & Safety Manager
- "Go outside your comfort zone. Try the food, learn some of the language and talk to the locals. Otherwise, have you really been there?" - Claire, Commercial Director
- "Learn basic local phrases and respect local customs. Study up on the local customs and dress etiquette and pack appropriately." - Leah, Long-haul product specialist
- "When you are on holiday take your time and enjoy everything at a slower pace. Have a coffee, walk through the local streets and take a moment to admire the art, architecture and the daily life around you." - Annalisa, Lake Garda Guide
Now you know the top travel tips, you’re all set for your holiday
With these expert tips, you’ll be ready to make the most of your holiday, whether it’s your first guided holiday or one of many. For 30 years, Travel Department has been helping travellers explore the world with ease, combining expert knowledge, local insights, and carefully crafted itineraries to create unforgettable experiences. With our guidance, you can relax, enjoy every moment, and trust that every detail of your journey has been taken care of.
