Disclaimer: This post has been sponsored by OptumCareAZ. All opinions are my own.
Preparing for travel can be a headache sometimes. From calling your credit card company to figuring out who is going to watch your place – a trip can put a lot of extra things on your to-do list.
That’s where I come in.
I’m always trying to help make those trips a little easier, including helping to the best of my ability with the planning. So, if you feel like you’re always forgetting a few simple things, this post was made for you.
Researching any new customs or laws.
Sometimes, when you visit a new place, you find that they may have much different laws or customs. While this is something that is more prominent in places that aren’t traditional Western cultures, it’s important to understand traditions, laws, or customs that may make your trip easier.
In some cases, they may be small things, like a different word being used in place of one you would use. It may change your whole conversation! In other cases, it may be a larger deal, like in some countries where it’s illegal to spit on the street! Don’t get caught up in cultural differences and research this ahead of time.
Figuring out the money situation.
While it may seem obvious to get a bit of cash beforehand, it’s easily overlooked by people who plan to get cash there. Your bank in your home country will probably offer the lowest exchange rate, so that’s your best bet. You definitely want some cash on hand before you go.
If you don’t plan on using cash the entire time you’re there, you’ll also want to make sure that your card will work in whatever country you’re traveling to.
Determining your means of travel.
Have you ever gotten somewhere and realized that maybe you didn’t quite have a plan on how to get around after you got there? Me too.
Instead of waiting until you land in a new country to plan this, think about it ahead of time. If you’re going to Europe, you’ll probably be able to get around on their public transit system. London has one of the best transit systems I’ve ever been on. However, I struggled in Paris. I should have researched routes ahead of time rather than relying on underground train maps in a language I can’t read. Oops.
In Latin America, public transit may not be as widely available. For day excursions, research any buses ahead of time and for day to day activities, research some reputable taxi companies you may need to use.
Learning the Scams.
Every place you go may have a common scam that is targeted toward tourists. Learn them ahead of time so you can figure out the best ways to keep your belongings safe!
Visiting a traveler’s clinic.
One of the easiest things to overlook is a quick visit to the doctor before you go. You’ll want to make sure that you have all the necessary and recommended vaccinations before you go!
If you’re in Tucson, I recommend New Pueblo Medicine, one of the only traveler’s clinics in Tucson. It’s located at:
6365 E Tanque Verde Rd #120
Tucson, AZ 85715
They’re open on the weekdays from 8 – 5 PM. To make an appointment, just give the clinic a call and leave a voicemail with some details about your trip and they’ll get back to you with appointment times. This is one of the few places in the area that’s certified to give the yellow fever vaccination (check for this in your area)!
When you’re planning your trip, you should ideally aim to go in for an appointment at least two weeks prior to traveling to give your body time to build up antibodies from the vaccinations. You should make an appointment as soon as you know you’ll be traveling to make sure you can get vaccinations you need.
During my last visit to New Pueblo Medicine, I learned more about some of the things you have to consider when traveling. The welcoming traveler’s clinic offers a friendly staff and holistic approach, using a comprehensive history to ensure there are no contraindications to receiving the required vaccinations. They also make sure you know about all the health risks in the place you’re going so you’re prepared when you go.
All-in-all, if you need a specialized traveler’s clinic in Tucson, this is your go-to place. As one of the few local traveler’s clinics, they are knowledgable and friendly and will make sure you’re good to go before your next international (or even domestic) trip!
So what are your best tips for preparing to travel?
