Travelling is not for everyone. I (usually) enjoy the destination but the process of getting there can be quite mind-numbing, and that’s putting it mildly.

If, like many others, you have plans to go ‘big farrin’ this summer, there are some travel tips, I have found useful after much trial and error which can make the process less overwhelming for the unaccustomed (or lazy) traveller.

Ensure your documents are up to date

I know you probably rolled your eyes reading that because it seems pretty obvious but you would be surprised how many people are turned back daily because their travel documents are either expired or near expiration. Generally, most countries require that a passport be valid for at least six months after the planned return date and, with a Jamaican passport being valid for all of 10 years for adults, it’s easy to lose track of when renewal is due. As a note, you can apply to renew your Jamaican passport once it has less than a year’s validity remaining.

Get all relevant shots and fill prescriptions

Many countries have vaccination requirements for people wishing to travel there. Before you go, it’s important to make the necessary checks to see what shots you may need and also refill any prescriptions that may finish before your return date.

Print copies of relevant documents

The marvel of technology continues to awe but it does have a knack for failing when you need it most. Printed copies of all tickets, reservations and bookings for travel are always a great backup, especially when travelling alone and or to an unfamiliar place.

Share your itinerary

I am steadily working towards breaking myself out of the habit of travelling in ‘secret’, that is telling my mom I’m going on vacation but with no specifics as to where, who I’m staying with or how I may be contacted in the event of an emergency. If you’ve watched any criminal investigative show ever, then you can think of at least half a dozen reasons to not do this.

Pack appropriately

I thought Mandeville was cold until I made the mistake of travelling to New York for the very first time and being greeted by single-digit weather while wearing just a tee and jeans. Never. Again! Check in advance to know what the weather forecast of your destination is so you can pack accordingly. Few things ruin a trip faster than not having correct clothing.

Charge EVERYTHING!

Imagine being stuck on a five-hour flight with nothing to read or watch or arriving at the airport in a foreign country with a dead cellphone and no way to contact your host or tell your friends you missed your connection. You do not want to be that person, trust me.

Bring CASH

I never have cash on me when at home. It’s the mark of someone who has never been robbed but lives in constant fear of it. However, when travelling, I always ensure I have enough cash, in the destination’s currency, naturally. You never know when you may need to buy a quick snack or if your cards don’t work, for whatever reason. Also, I don’t believe in tipping good service from cards, but that’s another article.