 |
We believe that you should never travel without travel insurance. I’m sure that’s no surprise to you – it’s our business after all – but we know firsthand the medical and financial implications of travelling uncovered. |
Trekking is a great way of seeing new places and getting fit at the same time. And to make sure you have an amazing and memorable experience, just follow our list of the top 5 trekking tips . We’ll help you experience the best the world has to offer.
1. Research your destination
When you’re choosing where to trek, you won’t be short of stunning and challenging environments to choose from. Wherever you decide to go, and for whatever reason, do as much research as you can. What will the weather be like? Are there established routes? Are there particular health risks?
2. Think carefully about your trekking partners
However fun trekking can be, it’s of course a tough and demanding activity – people need to be sure they want to do it. Also, avoid going in a group where there’s too much variety of fitness and ability, as that can compromise everyone’s enjoyment.
3. Plan other activities
It’s easy to get caught up in the prospect of ‘going trekking’, and forget that you might feel like doing other things while you’re away. What if someone picks up a small injury, feels unwell, or simply fancies a break? Look into local attractions and places of interest.
4. Brush up on your first aid
Trekking with someone who’s done a first aid course can offer real peace of mind. Otherwise, at least learn some basics: how to bandage a wound, how to recognise signs of dehydration and hypothermia, and how to deal with heatstroke.
5. When it comes to equipment, don’t compromise
You probably can’t exaggerate quite how important good equipment is to an enjoyable trek. Whether it’s a bag that doesn’t dig into your back, boots that give your feet enough room to breathe, or a versatile knife that keeps coming in handy, you won’t regret investing in the right gear.
Trekking is always fun, but never risk-free – so don’t forget to make sure you’ve got travel insurance…
Before going trekking, be sure to get the best backpacker and adventure travel insurance to suit your budget.
Have I remembered…? Can I take…? But I want my… It’s tempting to take more in your hand luggage than you really need. Make the most of your holiday overseas with our guide to flying: what to pack on board .
Check in advance
The rules on what you can take with you on a plane can differ depending on where you’re flying from, and sometimes the airline you’re with. It’s usually clear when you get to the boarding gate, but to save you money and hassle, it’s worth checking in advance. And there are basic items you should include in your hand luggage to make your flight more comfortable.
An extra layer of clothing
Aeroplane cabins can feel quite chilly, especially if you’re flying from a sunny place. And because you don’t move around much on a flight, your body temperature will naturally drop. So take a sweater in your hand luggage to make your journey more comfortable.
Something to pass the time
Flights can be quite boring, even if there’s an in-flight movie. And for some people, flying can be stressful. Either way, it’s good to have something to pass the time or take your mind off being 30,000 feet up in the air! So a book or magazine is ideal. Or a quiet computer game, or some of your favourite music.
A travel pillow
Comfort levels in economy class, especially on long-haul flights, aren’t great. A small cushion or pillow can make a big difference and help you relax or sleep on a long flight. You can buy neck-support pillows from most departure lounges – it’s cheaper comfort than flying first class!
Medicines
You can take any prescription, or essential non-prescription medication on your flight if you’re likely to need it between check-in at departure and baggage claim at your destination. And if you’re prone to headaches, take some painkillers with you – cabin crew can’t give them to passengers.
But don’t pack…
You generally can’t carry sharp objects on board – and that includes nail scissors and knitting needles! At present, there are also restrictions on the amount of liquids you can take on board when flying out of the USA, UK or some European countries – so make sure you check before you pop that expensive moisturiser in your on-board luggage.
And of course, don’t forget your travel insurance, and your passport!
Even if you want to travel like a rock star, you can still have an overseas holiday on a budget. Check out our top five tips on getting the best travel deals , so you can experience the best the world has to offer – at bargain prices!
1. Book early… or book really late
The best time to book your airfares is about 11 months in advance – when the seats have been released but there are plenty of cheap fares available. Or, if you’re flexible about travel dates, airlines and even destinations, use one of the many last minute travel websites to get a great deal on airfares and hotels. They’ll be desperate for your dollars by then!
2. Be your own travel agent
You can use the internet to research everything about your trip, and book it all too. Email makes it easy to book, and even haggle for, accommodation in foreign countries. Tripadvisor is a great site for getting the truth about those cheap hotels – and then finding the best deals online. And some auction sites also let you bid online for hotel rooms – just pay what you think it’s worth!
3. Package it all up
Sometimes it cheaper to use a travel agent if your plans are complicated or you want the best deal on flights, hotels and car hire – they can combine everything into a package that you may not be able to match with separate online sites.
4. Travel off-peak
If you don’t have to be in Europe in summer, then why pay summer prices? It’s cheaper to fly out of season, just be prepared for less predictable weather and shorter opening times on many attractions. It’s also cheaper to fly on a Wednesday than on a weekend. And if you choose an unsociable hour for departure (like a 5am cross-channel ferry) then you’ll pay less too.
5. And when you get there…
Don’t use taxis – take public transport or walk. It’s the best way to really experience your destination. Find out if there are money-saving transport cards, such as the Oyster card on the London underground or the Carte Orange in Paris. Or book a Brit-rail or Inter-rail pass in advance.
There’s just one thing you can’t skimp on, and that’s travel insurance. But if you travel frequently, an annual policy will save you money over time. And the peace of mind will be priceless.