At Explorica, we all have the travel bug! Our dedicated staff is passionate about all kinds of travel, whether it’s an educational trip to Europe or a solo adventure across Latin America. We asked around the office for our colleagues’ best travel tips and put them into this list so you can pack, travel, and experience your next adventure like a pro.
Packing for your trip
Pack light! I practice packing the things I want to bring in a backpack or suitcase that’s much smaller than the one I plan on bringing so that I can take things out when I notice I’m overpacking. You never need quite as much as you think you do.
—Mary Gannon, Loyalty Programs Coordinator
Always pack a carry-on — never check a bag. It’ll be easier to carry, you can avoid checked bag fees, and it’ll force you to be a smart packer. Think realistically about the things you’ll need on your trip. Clothes can be re-worn and items that can be layered are always useful.
—Haley Samiljan, International Program Consultant – Account Manager
Always bring some duct tape. You never know when it will come in handy. Broken sandal, zipper won’t close on your suitcase, etc. I never have space in my suitcase for an entire roll, so I just roll a bunch around a Q-Tip so I can fit it anywhere without taking up major packing real estate.
—Samantha Runge, Senior International Program Consultant
I keep a toiletry bag in my closet that’s already filled with everything I need. That way I never have to worry about packing the toothbrush/facewash/anything that’s already in my bathroom. It makes packing a lot less stressful!
—Irene Rojas, International Program Consultant
Bring shirts and items of clothing that you only want to wear one more time. Toss them as you go to make room for souvenirs and to lighten your luggage.
—Julia Payne, International Program Consultant
Squeeze liquids from larger containers (like face wash, moisturizer, sunscreen, or foundation) into a contact case. They won’t leak and take up very little space!
—Sabrina Enriquez, Director of Loyalty Programs
Planes, trains, and automobiles
Don’t stress! You can’t control what you can’t control. Flight delays, traffic, busy lines…Find a way to remain calm. Meditate, focus on the positive, or play “I Spy” with a friend.
—Chelsea Kelley, Senior Account Manager, Team Lead
Someone once told me they always take one of the barf bags from the plane to keep in their backpack because you never know when someone may get motion sickness. They also come in handy for holding trash when there aren’t any trash cans around!
—Laura Jones, Senior Account Manager, Team Lead
Keep a small pouch of disinfectant wipes to wipe down your armrest, tray tables, and in-flight entertainment screens. Wash your hands often and turn off the air nozzle. These little tips will help you avoid getting sick on long flights. And don’t forget to stretch and walk around the plane!
—Nicole Snaid, International Program Consultant – Account Manager
Experience everything
Charge your electronics using the TV’s USB port — and make sure you have Viber, Whatsapp, and Skype for connecting with friends and family!
—Julie Caligiuri, International Program Consultant
Pick one must-see attraction per day, then spend the rest of the day exploring the surrounding area. You won’t miss out on the major sites, and you’ll end up getting a more authentic feel for the city.
—Sarah Hegarty, International Program Consultant, Team Lead
Get off the beaten path. Leave gaps in your itinerary to explore outside of major sites and attractions. Be open to a little spontaneity and try something out of your comfort zone!
—Ashleigh Condon, Senior International Program Consultant