Whether you are preparing to leave town by car, plane, or train, the information found in this handpicked selection of travel tips is sure to help you before you embark on your journey. Use the information below to teach you how to pack your bags, book your hotel and plan your travel itinerary.

After choosing the location for your next trip, take time to learn about. Find a good map of your destination, and take some time to learn about the geography and the main attractions. If you learn the area, you will have an easier time while you travel.

If you have any food allergies, you will want to be particularly careful when traveling abroad. Especially if your allergies are severe, you should learn the names of the foods in whatever language is necessary. Then at least you can warn the staff and possibly get a quicker response for medical professionals.

If you are a visitor to foreign cities, keep your eyes open for thieves that might be dressed as law enforcement or government personnel. Do not give over your personal information, as you could end up with no identification fast. If someone demands that you go to an office, walk. Do not get into a vehicle with strangers at home or abroad.

When you fly, don’t expect the airline to cater to your every need, no matter how long the flight is. And items you may need, such as a pillow or blanket, should be packed before your flight. You should also bring enough snacks to get you to your destination and not have to rely on airport food.

If you are planning a hotel stay, especially in an area that is less safe, pack a doorstop in with your belongings. You can use them to keep doors closed too.

Give a trusted family member or friend access to the itinerary you will be following while you travel. This person should always know your location. Make certain to stay in close touch with that individual. Hearing from you occasionally and knowing your whereabouts eases their minds.

Make travel a learning experience for you and your family. Traveling is a great way to educate your family about other cultures around the world, as long as you take the correct safety precautions. Through cultural exposure abroad, your family can build understanding and tolerance for many types of people.

Rush Hour

Work to stay out of rush hour when driving on a long trip. If you can’t avoid a rush hour in a city, stop at that time for a meal or rest. This is a good time to eat or relax.

Take sleeping pills if you need helping sleeping through a flight. Many people cannot sleep on a plane because of the unfamiliar surroundings, the uncomfortable seats, and the noise from the plane and passengers. You may want to take a sleeping medicine if you will be on an extended flight, so that you may rest comfortable while flying. You do not want to take the pills right before you take off, because if there is any type of problem or delay, you need to be alert.

Keep the information you have read handy on your next trip. This advice can help you with business trips and vacations from the time you arrive to the trip home.