We’ve had our share of travel mishaps over the years. We’ve also learned how to prevent and handle many travel inconveniences. Follow along as we share what we’ve learned with you!
Forgotten items
Forgetting to bring your toothbrush, contact solution, or even your favorite pair of shoes may seem like a big problem the moment you realize you have left them behind. It’s important to remember to keep things in perspective. These are simply momentary inconveniences. Even when you’re traveling abroad, many items are easily replaceable.
Pack Snacks
Make sure you pack snacks! Snacks are essential when you have long layovers, you’re circling in the air for an extended period, or you’re at an airport where you don’t have access to food. Trust us, when you’re stuck on the tarmac for two or three hours, you’re going to want to have food handy, especially with kids.
Understanding the airport security in other countries
It’s important to understand that not all airport security works the same. In fact, during Jeff’s last adventure to Turkey he was exposed to an entirely different security setup. The airport had four separate security checkpoints. And, unlike airports in the U.S., once you’re inside the gate, you no longer have access to quick service restaurants or vending options. (This is where packing snacks comes in.)
Remember size protocols for items you’re bringing home
Many items such as wines and oils will often exceed the size limit set forth by the airlines. It’s a good idea to consider shipping these items back to your home. Along these same lines, if you’re bringing back fragile, expensive, or sentimental items consider shipping those as well. While it may seem more convenient to check a bag, it’s important to remember that many items often return home broken or damaged.
Missed connections
Weather, delayed flights, and various other circumstances can impact whether or not you miss your connecting flight. Jeff recently experienced this when traveling home from Istanbul. Watch today’s podcast episode on YouTube to see what happened. Link here.
It’s important to remember to be patient! Everyone is doing their best to get through an unplanned situation, even the airline staff.
Lost luggage
We try very hard to never check our luggage. In fact, in all our years of traveling, we have only checked three bags. Jeff’s most recent adventure was one of those times. And, the bag was misplaced. Luckily, it made its way home a few days after Jeff did.
Travel mishaps do occur. It’s important to remember that whatever happens is just a blip in your travel timeline. It’s not something that has to affect your entire adventure. Keep a smile on your face and be patient and kind. Things will get better.
Want more information on Jeff’s recent adventure in Istanbul? Check out our post We Visited Istanbul, Turkey…And it Was Budget Friendly! (Part I).
And, remember, break the monotony, not the bank!
–Marnie and Jeff
