I have spent a lifetime traveling the globe on expeditions and filming projects. This is installment four of my top 100 travel tips to make your journey more relaxed and earth-friendly.
1. The Best Gear – My favorite piece fo gear is waterproof, silicone roll-top bag. I can use it as a pillow. I can do a load of laundry in it by filling it with water and a little soap. I can also use that water-filled laundry bag as a substitute for free weights in the hotel or camp.
2. Flashlight Safe – I use an old empty waterproof flashlight to store a small roll of cash. If you get robbed, it won’t be a target.
3. Credit Card Purchase Protection – Look closely at your credit card to see if it offers purchase protection for your trip or valuables like a new camera. Most people are not even aware of the refunds they might get if their luggage or camera is lost or stolen.
4. Nexus or Global Entry – For a minimal fee you can enrol in Nexus or Global Entry. It will take months to process but is current for five years. You can skip long airport security lines and breeze through customs quickly. It can mean the difference between making an international connection and not.
5. Do Not Disturb – If you are a little leery about security in your hotel, use the Do Not Disturb sign to forgo cleaning and interruption of your personal belongings.
6. Making it Dark – If you find an annoying streak of sunlight streaming through your curtains, use a hotel trouser hanger to clip the curtains shut.
7. Hiding Places – If you can’t think of a place to protect your laptop computer, look in the bathroom. Perhaps there is a spot under the sink to tuck it away?
8. Pac Safe – If you want to create your own hotel safe, look to the company Pac Safe for a lockable steel mesh cover for your pack. You can secure the entire bag to the plumbing in the bathroom.
9. Weapons of Choice – These days you might be able to travel with a small knife on a plane. Some countries won’t permit carrying a knife for any reason. If you feel like you are in danger while walking, use a small carabiner as brass knuckles or your stainless water bottle to pack a punch. Then run as quickly as you can to escape further confrontation.
10. Sleep Sac – A silk sleeping bag liner is a piece of luxury, especially in dodgy places where you fear getting bitten in your sleep. Always scrutinize bedding before exposing yourself to critters like bed bugs.
11. Credit Card Tool – A flat credit card sized multitool is worth its weight in gold.
12. Soda Can Safe – It looks like your favorite soda and disguises a secure holding area under a screw off lid.
13. Key Safe – Small valuables, cash, and keys fit in a magnetized box. It can be stashed in your hotel room or on the body of the car while you head off for a swim on the beach.
14. Underwear Safe – I’ll eave it to you to look this one up on Amazon. What appears to be a set of really filthy men’s underwear is instead a place to stash your cash. Nobody in their right mind would dare to disturb dirty britches tossed on the floor.
15. Camera Phone – Your smartphone is a capable professional camera. Download an app like FilmicPro for the iPhone to gain full manual control over your phone instead of taking a larger DSLR.
16. Public Wifi – Accessible Wifi is handy but avoid logging into bank accounts or using passwords at places like airports.
17. Sunscreen – Bring along sunscreen from home to avoid high prices in tourist locations. Don’t forget to use it!
18. Lock It – Always bring a small combination lock if you plan of staying in dorms or hostels.
19. Wifi – McDonalds, Starbucks and local libraries are great sources for free wifi.
20. Sharing – Use the sharing economy, and hospitality websites to meet locals and save money. Couchsurfing offer free lodging. WarmShowers caters to cyclists. Airbnb connects with homeowners who wish to rent space. Ride sharing apps are cheaper than taxis. Getaround allows you to rent people’s unused cars by the hour.
21. VPN – Use a VPN to protect yourself from hackers, and malware that can find you on unsecured networks.
22. Google Translate – if you can use phone data, Google Translate is the easiest way to communicate. Let people read a complicated question or type a complicated answer or directions.
23. Get Up – Early morning is the best time to avoid crowds at attractions.
24. Buy Passes in Advance – Many attractions, ferries and tours offer passes online at discounted prices. You’ll save money and jump the line when you arrive.
25. Disposable Cash – Carry a small amount of cash on one pocket. If you get mugged, Pull that out and declare that is all you have.
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