THE 12 GOLDEN RULES OF TRAVEL: TIPS TO MAKE YOUR JOURNEY SMOOTH AND ENJOYABLE

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There's no doubt traveling can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences, but it can also come with its challenges. Whether you're heading on a vacation, business trip, or a special event, it's important to keep these 12 Golden Rules of Travel in mind to make your journey more enjoyable and safer.

1. Be nice to everyone

If you subscribe to my newsletter, then you know that my number one travel (and life) tip is to always be genuinely nice to everyone. If you are, then people will go out of their way to be nice in return. I've flown millions of miles, become good friends with gate agents, supervisors and I even dated a flight attendant so I know it works. It's also common sense but you will be amazed how many passengers don't follow this advice. If you really want to go the extra mile, then do this.

2. Have a Plan B

No matter how well you plan your trip, things can (and will!) go wrong. Flights get severely delayed or canceled and weather can be unpredictable. Always have a back-up plan in case your original plans fall through. Having alternatives in mind can reduce stress and keep you calm in unexpected situations.

3. Have important numbers and apps in your phone

Before I head out of the door, I make sure I have all the important phone numbers and apps I'll need downloaded, updated and ready to go on my phone. This includes your hotel’s contact number, airline, travel insurance, emergency contacts and any apps for local transport or translation. Having all this information in one place can save valuable time when you need it most. If your flight does get delayed or canceled, follow this advice.

4. Always arrive a day or two early for important events

If you're traveling for an important event, like a cruise departure or your brother’s wedding, it’s always wise to arrive a day or two ahead of time. This gives you ample time to rest, adjust to the time zone, enjoy the destination and most importantly, avoid the stress of last-minute delays that could impact your schedule.

5. Never take a 'no' from someone who is not empowered to give you a yes

I learned this tip from travel guru Peter Greenberg who has been flying 450,000+ miles a year for the last three or four decades. When traveling, you may encounter situations where someone says "no" to your request, whether it’s a change in flight or a room upgrade. Always remember that some people are not in a position to grant exceptions. Politely ask to speak to someone with more authority or escalate the matter. Often, the person you speak with can make all the difference.

6. Pack carry-on with important items (valuables, medicines, etc.)

Ideally, it's best to travel with carry-on only since it gives you more freedom, saves money, time (you don't have to wait around at baggage claim for what seems like an eternity), and you don't have to worry about an airline losing your bag. However, if you do have to check a bag, make sure to pack your essential items, like valuables, passports, important documents and medications in your carry-on. You don’t want to risk losing these things if your checked luggage gets delayed or lost. It’s also helpful to have a small emergency kit with essentials like snacks, chargers and personal care items. Here's what's inside my carry-on bag. And if you are checking a bag, don't forget to pop an Apple AirTag inside for the invaluable peace of mind it provides knowing that you can track your bag's location yourself and share that information with the airline if necessary.

7. Dress in layers

One thing I learned over the years is that planes, museums, restaurants and convention centers can be freezing. But ... they can also be extremely hot, which is why it's imperative to dress in layers. That way you're always prepared. I always bring a sweatshirt on the plane, even if I'm flying on a short tropical inter-island flight.

8. Double-check your passport's expiration date and keep a copy

If you're traveling internationally, double-check that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Even if you're only going for a week and your passport will expire a few months after your trip, some countries may not let you in. Do your research before having to scramble like this traveler. Also, keep a photocopy of your passport in a separate location, or a digital copy in case it’s lost or stolen during your trip.

9. Research destination for customs and scams

Research the customs, culture and common scams at your destination before you arrive. This will help you avoid misunderstandings and stay safe. Whether it's tipping etiquette, dress codes, or how to spot fake tour guides, being well-informed can make your trip more enjoyable and secure. I was once scammed in Budapest because I didn't take five minutes to read the State Department's warnings on Hungary (or other countries). Here's the story, as well as other notorious travel scams to be aware of. In addition to reading U.S. travel advisories, it’s also a good idea to cross reference your research with the advisories of our English-speaking allies like Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom.

10. Use legitimate taxis

When getting around a new destination, always use licensed, legitimate taxis or rideshare services. Avoid accepting rides from unmarked cars or drivers who approach you unsolicited. This helps you stay safe and avoid potential scams, especially in unfamiliar locations. I know it may seem easy to just accept a ride from the person outside of baggage claim offering rides but they're usually not trustworthy in terms of price and sometimes safety.

11. Get travel insurance

Long before I became a brand ambassador for a travel insurance company (with whom I'm no longer working), I was a firm believer in travel insurance. It can give you a peace of mind and save you hundreds of thousands of dollars, God forbid something goes really wrong. Just make sure you read the fine print and get the coverage that best fits your trip. I travel so much that I get an annual plan.

12. Pay with a credit card

I see a lot of people making the mistake of paying for their travel with a debit card. While cash may still be king in some cases, using a credit card offers significant advantages when traveling. A credit card can protect you against fraud and unauthorized charges, as they typically offer better consumer protection than debit cards. In addition, many premium credit cards come with added perks, such as travel insurance, purchase protection, and rewards points that can be redeemed for future trips. Credit cards also provide a more convenient and secure way to make transactions, especially in foreign countries where your debit card may not be accepted or where fees can be high.

I could easily write 100 tips, but that might be a bit overwhelming! If you think I missed any must-know rules that belong in the top 12, feel free to share them in the comments below.

KEEP READING:

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-Rick Steves got pickpocketed in Paris: Here’s what he wants you to know

-The most important thing for travelers to do according to a safety expert

-What you need to know about renewing or getting an emergency passport in the U.S.

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