Prepare in advance when you are traveling on business. The amount of time you’ll have at your destination is limited, and you’ll want to get all you can out of it. Ahead are some great ideas on doing just that.

Leave most of your items of value at home. If you bring many valuables with you, you run the risk of losing them or having them stolen.

Keep notes of all important documents when you travel abroad. Keep copies of your travel documents with you, and make sure that you always have all the contact info for the US embassy that is located in the areas you will be traveling. This is your first point of contact if an issue arises. They have a lot of experience with issues travelers face, and they will help.

When traveling around other countries, beware of fraudulent taxis. Do not hop in if you get a bad feeling. Any person can throw a “taxi” label on a vehicle, meaning you may have no idea who they are or where you will end up.

Hit the gym before you board your flight. Being on a long flight can be incredibly boring. Sitting in the same position for long periods of time can cause leg and back cramps. Stretching or working out before taking a flight can help reduce soreness.

Stay aware of your belongings all the time while you are traveling. If you have to carry a purse, remember to keep it firmly tucked under your arm. Also, pick travel bags with secured flaps that conceal zippers and pockets, so that access is not easy in crowded or dangerous areas. Security should be one of your top considerations when buying a new bag for travel.

Credit Card

You should be aware of the insurance policies available from your credit card company and their particular policies involving foreign countries. For example, you might be covered for flight cancellations that you charged with your credit card. Conducting research prior to leaving is worth it.

Use travel as an educational tool for the members of your family. If you are safe, even third world countries can be an opportunity to show children how life is in different places. Spending time abroad is a great way to build an understanding of, and tolerance for, other cultures.

You might enjoy traveling on a motorcycle if you have the appropriate license. Motorcycles offer a fun way to enjoy a scenic ride without using a ton of gas. It’s a great experience.

When traveling abroad, research currency rates in advance of your trip. Knowing how much the dollar is worth in advance will help you develop a budget and itinerary. You’re going to have more fun this way, and you’re not going to spend too much money.

When you begin planning your travel, check with major airlines to see if they offer e-newsletters. Their online newsletters often include last-minute discounts, special offers and other promotions not offered to any other consumers. Yes, they will probably clutter your email, but you’ll save a good amount of money by putting up with this small problem.

Many people experience jet lag when traveling to faraway destinations. You can’t avoid it completely, but you can try sleeping more in the days prior to your flight to help lessen any of the expected effects. You should also make an effort to sleep during the flight.

Jet Lag

If you want to adjust faster to a different time zone, try to stay awake until 8pm local time. Though you may be tired, it’s best to not go to bed early so you don’t exacerbate jet lag. The sooner you adjust to your local time, the sooner your jet lag will leave you.

Think about the various ways to travel. Buses aren’t like they once were. It is relatively inexpensive, and many buses offer free Wi-Fi and other nice amenities. Some companies offer package deals, making traveling very easy.

Avert flight delays by taking the earliest flight possible. Usually when flights are delayed it’s because they are waiting for it to arrive at the airport, but if you take the first flight out, chances are the plane is already there. The first flight during the morning is very limited with delays.

Give your friend or family your travel itinerary. Put the names of where you’re going and people that you’re going to see, along with addresses and phone numbers. Be sure to leave copies of your flight, ticket, and passport information.

A road trip is the perfect opportunity to listen to playlists of your favorite music, so do not forget to bring your CDs or MP3 player with you. Radio reception can be spotty when you travel, with some dead or high static areas, so you will need something on hand to entertain yourself.

The above tips can be used for all kinds of trips, whether for business or travel. Keeping these travel tips in mind can help you succeed with your plans to have a stress-free trip.