Travelling

Taking some time out to travel is becoming an increasingly popular option for young people. But before you even leave the comfort of your favourite armchair, there's lots to think about, like where to go, how to pay for your trip, and how to stay safe whilst you're abroad. If you're thinking of travelling we've set out loads of tips so you can make sure that wherever you go, you get the most out of it and come back in one piece.

Travelling Tips

If you can, make sure you do some travelling before you become an adult and you have lots of responsibilities to worry about. Do something special and see a little of the rest of the world. Here are some tips for things worth thinking about before you set off.

• Where possible, leave a copy of your route with your family and inform them of any changes in your plans.
• Never hitch-hike, and do not pick up hitch-hikers.
• If you are travelling on your own, don't drink alcohol if you need to be alert.
• Phone home at least every couple of weeks.
• Book accommodation in advance if you plan to arrive in a town late at night.
• Try to observe and respect local customs, particularly about the way people dress.
• If you can't bear to lose something, don't take it with you in the first place!
• Always get good travel insurance.
• Don't count your money in public.
• Take some spare passport photos. Also take a photocopy of your passport (front cover, page with the number and personal details) and any valid visas in your passport. Keep these in a separate place to your passport.
• Take a padlock and chain to secure your bags in airports and on buses.
• Carry most of your money as replaceable traveller's cheques. Keep some small change in local currency (not just large bank notes).
• Take a day pack to carry your water-bottle, sunscreen etc. You can then leave your backpack in the hotel or left luggage office.
• Try and speak a few words of the local language - you'll make more friends.
• If you have to carry medicine get a doctor's note in case you get stopped by customs. In the tropics keep cuts clean - tropical ulcers are common and are very painful.
• Never take anyone else's luggage through customs or leave your bags unattended at airports.