Think you’ve heard all the best travel tips? Think again!
Quick Jumplinks
Here Are The 10 Most Useless Travel Tips And What To Do Instead
1. “Just go with the flow”
Sure, wing it! What could go wrong? Flights, hotels, and restaurants always have room for spontaneous travelers, right? And everyone loves it when you show up unannounced.
What You Should Do Instead – Have a rough itinerary with key reservations in place. Leave some flexibility, but securing accommodation and transportation ahead of time can save you from sleeping in an airport terminal.
2. “Pack light, you don’t need much!”
Right, because who needs more than a toothbrush, a swimsuit, and one pair of socks for a 3-week backpacking trip across Europe? Laundry services and shops selling essentials are on every corner, and they’re all free, of course!
What You Should Do Instead – Pack light, but don’t skimp on basics. Bring enough clothes to avoid daily laundry duty and pack weather-appropriate items, especially for unpredictable climates.
3. “Eat where the locals eat!”
Perfect! Just walk around until you spot a bunch of locals eating. Be sure to awkwardly stare at them until you figure out if it’s “authentic” enough, then struggle with a menu entirely in a language you don’t speak. What could possibly go wrong?
What You Should Do Instead – Research restaurants ahead of time, especially if you have dietary restrictions or preferences. Apps and blogs often feature highly recommended spots where both locals and travelers dine.
4. “Don’t bother with a map – get lost and explore!”
Fantastic idea! Getting lost in a foreign city with no sense of direction or native language will certainly make for a great adventure, and Google Maps is so overrated anyway. Who needs reliable navigation when you can accidentally wander into sketchy neighborhoods instead?
What You Should Do Instead – Exploring without strict plans can be fun, but always have a map or offline navigation app handy. Knowing where you are is key to avoiding sketchy areas and wasting hours backtracking.
5. “Make friends with everyone you meet!”
Every stranger is a potential best friend, right? Whether it’s your taxi driver, the overly friendly guy at the hostel, or the random person who insists on buying you drinks, everyone has pure intentions. Say yes to everything and worry about red flags later!
What You Should Do Instead – Be friendly and open but cautious. Not everyone is out to scam you, but use your instincts and set boundaries. It’s okay to say no, especially when something doesn’t feel right.
6. “Always bargain for a better price!”
Haggle relentlessly. It doesn’t matter if it’s a chain store, airport duty-free, or a high-end boutique—everything is negotiable if you’re persistent (and obnoxious) enough.
What You Should Do Instead – Bargaining can be appropriate in some cultures, but know when and where it’s acceptable. Research local customs and be respectful of prices in places like small, independent shops or markets where the livelihood of the sellers depends on it.
7. “Avoid the tourist spots – they’re overrated!”
Of course, the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum are just glorified tourist traps. Why would you want to see the things that people travel across the globe to experience? Stick to back alleys and side streets—you’ll find something better (maybe).
What You Should Do Instead – Famous attractions are famous for a reason. Mix iconic sights with off-the-beaten-path experiences to get the best of both worlds. It’s okay to be a tourist sometimes!
8. “Buy souvenirs for everyone you know!”
Sure, go ahead and blow half your travel budget on keychains, shot glasses, and t-shirts for your entire family, your boss, your boss’s dog, and the mailman. Customs and extra baggage fees are just part of the fun.
What You Should Do Instead – Be selective with souvenirs. Choose meaningful, local items for your closest loved ones (or just yourself) that reflect the place, rather than generic trinkets.
9. “Live like a local!”
Easy! Just quit your job, learn the language overnight, master the public transport system, and make lifelong friends on day one. You’ll fit in perfectly within the week. Don’t forget to buy groceries as if you know exactly what you’re doing.
What You Should Do Instead – Immerse yourself in local culture by participating in activities that are accessible to visitors—walking tours, food tours, festivals, or cultural classes—while remembering that a short-term stay doesn’t equate to “living like a local.”
10. “Instagram or it didn’t happen!”
Because what’s the point of having amazing experiences if you don’t spend the entire trip curating content for social media? Your followers definitely need to see every single meal, sunset, and awkward selfie.
What You Should Do Instead – Capture the moments that matter, but don’t forget to be present. Some of the best travel memories aren’t made for social media—they’re made for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really necessary to purchase travel insurance when traveling internationally?
Yes, you absolutely should, especially for international travel. It’s one of the top travel tips for a reason. Whether it’s lost luggage, delayed flights, or medical emergencies, travel insurance covers you in situations where most travelers find themselves in unexpected trouble. The money spent on insurance is well worth the peace of mind.
How important is it to stay organized with documents when traveling internationally?
Keeping your important documents organized is one of the most important travel tips. Have copies of your passport, visa, and flight details. Many travelers keep these in a carry-on bag or a money belt for safekeeping. Losing these documents can turn your trip into a nightmare, so make sure you’re prepared.
Should I rely on free wifi when traveling?
While many places offer free Wi-Fi, it’s unreliable in some locations, especially in rural or non-touristy areas. Be prepared with a portable Wi-Fi device or an international SIM card for when you’re traveling abroad and can’t afford to be disconnected. This also helps with using Google Maps or finding your final destination.
Should I always take the cheapest option for flights and accommodations?
Sometimes the cheapest option isn’t the best. Flight deals can come with hidden fees, bad layovers, or poor service. Look for value, not just price, when booking international flights or accommodations. A good night’s sleep and hassle-free travel are worth spending a little extra.
Should I rely on fellow travelers to give me the best tips and advice on the go?
While fellow travelers are often helpful, they don’t always know the best routes or hidden gems. Doing your own research beforehand can help you avoid common tourist traps. Use reliable resources like Google Maps, apps, and travel blogs to plan your day, while also chatting with fellow travelers for personal recommendations.
Should I forget about booking flights in advance and just search for last-minute cheap flights?
Last-minute deals can sometimes be great, but more often than not, booking flights in advance will give you better options and save money. If you want the best price and selection, especially for international flights, it’s smart to compare deals a few months before your trip.
Is it wise to skip using airport security services like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?
If you travel frequently, enrolling in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry is easily one of the top international travel tips. These programs let you breeze through airport security and customs, saving you time and stress—especially during busy travel seasons. For business travelers or anyone in a hurry, these services are worth every penny.
Is solo travel something I should avoid for safety reasons?
Solo travel can be a deeply rewarding experience. You get the freedom to set your own pace, explore hidden corners of a foreign country, and meet fellow travelers along the way. If you plan well, stay organized, and practice common sense safety precautions, solo travel can be safe and even life-changing.
Should I only book my trip during the high season to ensure I don’t miss out on major events?
Traveling during the off-season is a great way to experience fewer crowds and find cheap flights. You’ll also score better travel deals on accommodations and have a more relaxed, immersive experience at your destination. And don’t worry—there are always interesting events and activities happening, even outside of peak season.