{"id":757,"date":"2016-07-20T08:42:00","date_gmt":"2016-07-20T08:42:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/"},"modified":"2023-08-31T06:29:31","modified_gmt":"2023-08-31T13:29:31","slug":"11-things-do-you-travel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html","title":{"rendered":"13 Things to Do Before You Travel","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Traveling is an enjoyable experience. You leave your hometown to see different places and people. And in the process, you learn a lot about the world. To fully enjoy your trip, you should plan. And here are a few things you should do before you ride that plane.<!--more--><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-663386d66f286\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-663386d66f286\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#1_Take_Some_Cash\" title=\"1. Take Some Cash\">1. Take Some Cash<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#2_Global_Tipping_Guide\" title=\"2. Global Tipping Guide\">2. Global Tipping Guide<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#3_Download_Maps\" title=\"3. Download Maps\">3. Download Maps<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#4_Hotel_Reservations\" title=\"4. Hotel Reservations\">4. Hotel Reservations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#5_Plug_Converter\" title=\"5. Plug Converter\">5. Plug Converter<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#6_Exchange_Rates\" title=\"6. Exchange Rates\">6. Exchange Rates<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#7_Pets\" title=\"7. Pets\">7. Pets<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#8_Google_Translation\" title=\"8. Google Translation\">8. Google Translation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#9_Plan_Your_Trip\" title=\"9. Plan Your Trip\">9. Plan Your Trip<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#10_Pack_Like_a_Professional\" title=\"10. Pack Like a Professional\">10. Pack Like a Professional<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#11_Trip_Preparation_Checklist\" title=\"11. Trip Preparation Checklist\">11. Trip Preparation Checklist<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#12_Keep_Burglars_Away_With_a_Digital_Mailbox\" title=\"12. Keep Burglars Away With a Digital Mailbox\">12. Keep Burglars Away With a Digital Mailbox<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#13_Virtual_Valet_Service\" title=\"13. Virtual Valet Service\">13. Virtual Valet Service<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#8_Things_You_Need_To_Pack_Before_Traveling\" title=\"8 Things You Need To Pack Before Traveling\">8 Things You Need To Pack Before Traveling<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/blog\/11-things-do-you-travel.html\/#5_Lifehacks_to_Make_Your_Business_Trip_Relaxing\" title=\"5 Lifehacks to Make Your Business Trip Relaxing\">5 Lifehacks to Make Your Business Trip Relaxing<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Take_Some_Cash\"><\/span><strong>1. Take Some Cash<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Yes, we all know that you can use your credit card almost anywhere you go, but that doesn\u2019t mean you shouldn\u2019t take cash for just-in-case situations. You never know. Maybe you need to tip a waiter, take the bus, or go shopping in local areas that don\u2019t have credit card machines. So make sure to grab some cash and convert it into the local currency. This can easily be done at most banks, airports, and local malls.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Global_Tipping_Guide\"><\/span><strong>2. Global Tipping Guide<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The worst thing that could happen to you in a foreign country is unintentionally offending people. The rules of giving tips differ from one country to another. And giving the right tips or not giving any could be the kind of information you need. So, you can read \u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cntraveler.com\/stories\/2008-11-11\/etiquette-101-tipping-guide\">Global Tipping Guide<\/a> and the application will tell you exactly how much tips you need to pay.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Download_Maps\"><\/span><strong>3. Download Maps<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Because of the language barrier, you\u2019re not a language expert, and asking people about where you are or where you want to go can be a devastating experience. Downloading maps can help you find your way around the city without asking others. Don\u2019t count so much on an internet connection because you will not find a good WiFi connection everywhere. The <a title=\"Google Maps App\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.google.com\/\">Google Maps<\/a> app allows you to seamlessly download maps on your phone without an internet connection.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Hotel_Reservations\"><\/span><strong>4. Hotel Reservations<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>if you haven\u2019t made any reservations yet, there\u2019re a few things that you should consider: how long you are going to stay and your budget. Many websites, like Hotels.com, Travelocity, and Expedia allow you to make hotel reservations. \u00a0Alternatively, there is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.airbnb.com\">Airbnb<\/a>. Available in over 150 countries, Airbnb allows users to list their vacation homes or spare rooms for rent at an affordable price.<\/p>\n<p>Always check the travel sites to find the best rates on hotels no matter where your travels take you.<\/p>\n<p>You can also check reviews to make sure previous guests have had a good experience with the hotel as well. The last thing anyone wants is to get to what is supposed to be a nice hotel and find out that Motel 6 would have been better.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Plug_Converter\"><\/span><strong>5. Plug Converter<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Check out the plug and socket types of the country you are visiting and make sure you get the right plug converter. A plug converter is the only item that most people do not remember to take. Put that in your bag. After all, you don\u2019t want to end up with an uncharged cell phone.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Exchange_Rates\"><\/span><strong>6. Exchange Rates<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Now whether you are exchanging money from your country or from the country you\u2019re traveling to, you don\u2019t want people to fool you. XE Currency is a good application with live currency rates. Make sure you check that application before you exchange money.Also there is a global money app and debit card called <a href=\"https:\/\/www.revolut.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Revolut<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0that helps transparently manage money around the world.\u00a0 Revolut supports at least 90 different currencies all without international transfer fees.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Pets\"><\/span><strong>7. Pets<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>No one needs to remind you, and you are already worried about your pets.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>First, you can travel with your pets, but you must make sure you go to pet-friendly hotels.<\/li>\n<li>Second, you can ask your friends or family to take care of your pets.<\/li>\n<li>Third, you can check the services of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.trustedhousesitters.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TrustedHousesitters<\/a><\/strong> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.care.com\/en-ca\/profiles\/pet-care\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Care.com<\/strong><\/a> and find someone to take care of your pets when you\u2019re away.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Google_Translation\"><\/span><strong>8. Google Translation<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>It\u2019s a good app for translation and will help you in your day-to-day activities. The application translates about 90 languages, so you will be alright.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Plan_Your_Trip\"><\/span><strong>9. Plan Your Trip<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You have to plan your trip. Check all the places you want to visit before you go and ensure that you don\u2019t go around like crazy to visit all the places. After all, you want to relax. And you don\u2019t want to spend the trip on transportation, either.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Pack_Like_a_Professional\"><\/span><strong>10. Pack Like a Professional<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Take items that you truly need. There\u2019s no need to try to fit all your wardrobe inside. Take essentials only because you don\u2019t want to carry a heavy bag from one place to another. Plus, don\u2019t put items in two bags when you can easily put them in one. Check this for how to pack like a professional. You will get good ideas about how to use space properly.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Trip_Preparation_Checklist\"><\/span>11. <b>Trip Preparation Checklist<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have a passport that is in-date and any necessary Visas pre-arranged\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are traveling out of the country, make sure your passport isn\u2019t expiring in the next 6 months. If it is, apply for an expedited passport.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Double-check the airline\u2019s luggage weight and size restrictions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit a travel doctor and receive the required vaccinations\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pack a basic (or not-so-basic) first-aid kit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Purchase comprehensive travel insurance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Speak to your bank about travel money options and let them know, specifically, where you are traveling to<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ensure that your mobile phone is unlocked for an international sim<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discuss communication expectations with your friends and family<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research climate and pack accordingly (try not to over-pack!!)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Download any entertainment you might want onto your tablet (ex your favorite podcasts and albums, computer, or Kindle for the plane ride or beach reading.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buy an amazing journal for goal-setting and keeping travel memories safe\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An open mind, a sense of adventure, and a passion for meaningful travel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pay or schedule all bills that might be due while you\u2019re away.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Print out or save all of your important travel documents, including flight, hotel and car confirmations, details for excursions, plus driving or walking directions you\u2019ll need.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Print boarding passes, or download an online boarding pass to your phone.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reconfirm your ride to the airport. Make sure you\u2019ve left plenty of time so you\u2019re not rushing and stressed about missing your flight (if you will travel by plane )<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confirm that your seat assignments haven\u2019t changed (i.e. make sure you\u2019re still sitting together)(if you will travel by plane )<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do laundry and\/or dry cleaning.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Keep_Burglars_Away_With_a_Digital_Mailbox\"><\/span><strong>12. Keep Burglars Away With a Digital Mailbox<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Nothing shows signs that you\u2019re away from home except a bulging mailbox. You want to enjoy your trip without worrying about your house or postal mail. Check <a href=\"\/services\/virtual-mailbox.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">how virtual mailbox works<\/a> and how can it help you with your postal mail. <a href=\"\/\">PostScan Mail<\/a> offers digital mailboxes. When you sign up, your mail is directed to their mail facility, where it is sorted, and the envelopes scanned, and then when you log into your web-based account, you see notifications of any item you\u2019ve received. It\u2019s a fantastic way to handle postal mail when you\u2019re not home.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Virtual_Valet_Service\"><\/span>13. Virtual Valet Service<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Check out\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.dufl.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>DUFL<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0the\u00a0<strong>virtual valet service<\/strong>\u00a0that allows you to travel bag free.\u00a0 Saving you time and hassle of checking your bag at the airport and dragging a heavy suitcase along with you.\u00a0 With DUFL all you do is pick the clothes, toiletries etc. that you need and they have them cleaned and ready for you at your destination.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Things_You_Need_To_Pack_Before_Traveling\"><\/span>8 Things You Need To Pack Before Traveling<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You&#8217;re bound to forget something no matter how long you spend packing. Some items just seem so insignificant that you won\u2019t remember to pack them until you say, \u201couch, I forgot.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Many people, and most definitely you, stress over what to put on during a vacation that they forget to pack almost anything else.<\/p>\n<p>Adding to that, there are some things you never thought you would need while traveling. Here are some items, applications, and services you will need while traveling.<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"line-height: 1em;\">1. SanDisk Ultra 64GB USB 3.0 OTG Flash Drive With Micro USB Connector<\/h3>\n<p>Through this device, you can back up your mobile or tablet\u2019s data without connecting your phone to a computer, and store as much as 64GB.<\/p>\n<p>If you love photos, you will capture as many photos and videos as you like without worrying about space.<\/p>\n<h3>2. Thick Plastic Bags<\/h3>\n<p>You can pack shoes inside thick plastic bags. Remember to take extra plastic bags for items you didn\u2019t have time to wash while packing for home.<\/p>\n<h3>3. Travel Luggage Packing Organizer<\/h3>\n<p>To find items easier, it\u2019s always good to use luggage packing organizer to separate items in your bag. Luggage packing organizers are available in many sizes.<\/p>\n<p>You can easily get ones that will fit perfectly inside your bag.<\/p>\n<h3>4. Skype or Viber<\/h3>\n<p>You can always text or send emails, but sometimes you just want to listen to the lovely voices of family and friends.<\/p>\n<p>Through Skype or Viber, you can easily make free phone calls using the internet. So if you don\u2019t already use them, remember to download them before you travel.<\/p>\n<p>Read more: <a href=\"\/blog\/how-cancel-usps-mail-forwarding.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How to cancel your USPS change of address request<\/a><\/p>\n<h3>5. Ear Plugs<\/h3>\n<p>Ear plugs can help you inside the plane or at the hotel. Wherever you are, it\u2019s likely that you will come across babies who just do not stop crying.<\/p>\n<p>Pack that ear plug and don\u2019t let your sleep count on babies\u2019 crying patterns.<\/p>\n<h3>6. Mini-First Aid Kit<\/h3>\n<p>A mini-first aid kit is a most forgotten and not a very appreciated item, but you never know. It\u2019s indispensable especially if it contains anti-diarrhea meds or pain pills.<\/p>\n<p>Just think of the items or medicines that you usually use and pack some.<\/p>\n<h3>7. Wet Wipes<\/h3>\n<p>You can buy wet wipes from almost anywhere. But if you just left the airport after grabbing a few bites of something and your hands are sticky, it won\u2019t be such a bad idea if you find wipes at hand.<\/p>\n<p>Just pack some wet wipes, preferably in purse or somewhere where you can easily find them.<\/p>\n<h3>8. Virtual Mailbox<\/h3>\n<p>When you travel, you worry about your house and try to secure it as much as you can. There is no telltale sign that you are on vacation like a bulging mailbox. Before you go, you want to fix that.<\/p>\n<p>You can check the website of PostScan Mail, one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/services\/virtual-mailbox.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">best virtual mailbox service<\/a> provider in the US for details. They receive mail on your behalf and scan it so you can view it and manage it online.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Lifehacks_to_Make_Your_Business_Trip_Relaxing\"><\/span>5 Lifehacks to Make Your Business Trip Relaxing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Whether this is your first time traveling or you\u2019ve traveled for more times than you can count, relax. Business trips can be fun. Of course, you have meetings to attend, business to take care of and employees to follow up with.<\/p>\n<p>Work does not mean you cannot see new places and meet new people. If you\u2019re visiting a new city, you should take time to walk around and have fun. Here are the things you need to do to make your trip relaxing.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>#1 Plan Your Trip<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The words sound like a no-brainer but seriously, plan your trip. If you want to have fun, check events, restaurants, and places you want to see online and how close they are to where you intend to stay. You don\u2019t want to spend your trip worrying about missing a meeting and not exploring the city\u2019s transportation system. Take some time before you travel and plan exactly where you want go. For directions, you can download Tripomatic: Trip Planner. This application comes with maps needed, so download it to your phone, and you\u2019re good to go. Tripomatic works offline.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>#2 Follow Up With Your Employees<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>You can\u2019t fully relax when you think of the disasters you might encounter when you return to your company. All the issues you should\u2019ve taken care of when you were traveling suddenly pops up. A good work-fun balance is definitely needed but once you start running your own business, you know that you have to work 24\/7 to keep everything running smoothly and there are tools to help you. Sign up for an online time tracking system and easily follow up with your employees and check who showed up for work and who did not. And also they can write shift reports daily so you can exactly see what they are working on. <a href=\"https:\/\/clockinportal.com\">ClockIn Portal<\/a> is a good online time-tracking tool that your company can use.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>#3 Read Your Postal Mail Online<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>One thing that makes many company owners or managers worried when they travel is postal mail. A simple life hack is to get yourself a digital mailbox. That way, you can read your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/how-it-works.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">p<span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">ostal mail online<\/span><\/a><span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">. Virtual mail companies receive your mail, and you can view what you receive online. You can also decide what to do with your mail through an online application. So if your business trip lasts for only a few days, you can ask the mail facility to scan the contents of your mail and read it like you would read an email. All through an easy-to-use online application. PostScan Mail offers this service for a very reasonable price. I forgot to mention they also do an electronic check deposit.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>#4 Make Sure You Are Connected to the Internet<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>When it comes to an internet connection, most hotels, if not all hotels, provide a WiFi connection. It depends on when and how frequently you need internet access. In worst-case scenarios, you can use data roaming. Make sure your hotel has an internet connection, and also ask about data roaming expenses. Plus, it mainly depends on where you are going. Some countries have free WiFi almost anywhere. Just check before you go.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>#5 Minimize Time You Spend Online<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>It sounds like a strange advice after listing all the applications you should use and online services you should download. If you want to relax and focus on what you traveled to get done in the first place, you should not be distracted by Facebook or Twitter. You can focus on how your employees are doing and which mail items you received but that should not take more than an hour or two of your day. Decide on a time to take care of business at home and forget about it the rest of the day. Being a businessman is an all-day-long career but schedule a time to take care of business, and remember to have fun. Look around and enjoy the city you are at.<\/p>\n<div id=\"primary\" class=\"content-area\">\n<p>Photo by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pexels.com\/@vojta-kovarik-388639\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Vojta Kova\u0159\u00edk<\/a>\u00a0from\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pexels.com\/photo\/smartphone-beside-watch-and-camera-3243090\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Pexels<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false,"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"html"}]},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Traveling is an enjoyable experience. You leave your hometown to see different places and people. And in the process, you learn a lot about the world. To fully enjoy your trip, you should plan ahead. And here are a few things you should do before you ride that plane.<!--more--><\/p>\n<h2><strong>1. Take Some Cash<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Yes, we all know that in almost anywhere you go, you can use your credit card, but that doesn\u2019t mean you shouldn\u2019t take cash for just-in-case situations. You never know. Maybe you need to tip a waiter, take the bus, or go shopping at local areas that don\u2019t have credit card machines. So make sure to grab some cash and convert it into the local currency. This can easily be done at most banks, airports, and even your local malls.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>2. Global Tipping Guide<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>The worst thing that could happen to you in a foreign country is unintentionally offending people. The rules of giving tips differ from one country to another. And giving the right tips or not giving any could be the kind of information you need. So, you can read &nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cntraveler.com\/stories\/2008-11-11\/etiquette-101-tipping-guide\">Global Tipping Guide<\/a> and the application will tell you exactly how much tips you need to pay.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>3. Download Maps<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>You\u2019re not a language expert and asking people about where you are or where you want to go can be a devastating experience because of the language barrier. Downloading maps can help you find your way around the city without asking others. Don\u2019t count so much on an internet connection because you will not find good WiFi connection everywhere. The <a title=\"Google Maps App\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.google.com\/\">Google Maps<\/a> app allows you to seamlessly download maps on your phone for use without internet connection.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>4. Hotel Reservations<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>if you haven\u2019t made any reservations yet, there\u2019re a few things that you should consider: how long you are going to stay and your budget. There are many websites that allow you to make hotel reservations like Hotels.com, Travelocity, and Expedia. &nbsp;Alternatively there is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.airbnb.com\">Airbnb<\/a>. Available in over 150 countries Airbnb allows users to list their vacation homes or spare rooms for rent at an affordable price.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>5. Plug Converter<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Check out the plug and socket types of the country you are visiting and make sure you get the right plug converter. A plug converter is the only item that most people do not remember to take. Put that in your bag. After all, you don\u2019t want to end up with an uncharged cell phone.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>6. Exchange Rates<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Now whether you are exchanging money from your country or from the country you\u2019re traveling to, you don\u2019t want people to fool you. XE Currency is a good application with live currency rates. Make sure you check that application before you exchange money.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>7. Pets<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>No one needs to remind you, you are already worried about your pets.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>First, you can travel with your pets but you will have to make sure you go for pet friendly hotels.<\/li>\n<li>Second, you can ask your friends or family to take care of your pets.<\/li>\n<li>Third, you can check the services of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.trustedhousesitters.com\">TrustedHousesitters<\/a> and find someone to take care of your pets when you\u2019re away.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>8. Google Translation<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>It\u2019s a good app for translation and it\u2019s going to help you in your day-to-day activities. The application translates about 90 languages, so you will be alright.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>9. Plan Your Trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>You have to plan your trip. Check all the places you want to visit before you go and ensure that you don\u2019t go around like crazy to visit all the places. After all, you want to relax. And you don\u2019t want to spend the trip on transportation, either.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>10. Pack Like a Professional<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Take items that you truly need. There\u2019s no need to try to fit all your wardrobe inside. Take essentials only because you don\u2019t want to find yourself carrying around a heavy bag from one place to another. Plus, don\u2019t put items in two bags when you can easily put them in one. Check this for <a href=\"\/blog\/traveling-packing-tips.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">how to pack like a professional<\/a>. You will get good ideas about how to use space properly.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>11. Keep Burglars Away With a Digital Mailbox<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Nothing gives sure signs that you\u2019re away from home other than a bulging mailbox. You want to enjoy your trip without worrying about your house or your postal mail. Check&nbsp;<a href=\"\/services\/virtual-mailbox.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">how virtual mailbox works<\/a> and how can it help you with your postal mail. <a href=\"\/\">PostScan Mail<\/a> offers digital mailboxes. When you sign up, your mail is directed to their mail facility where it is sorted and the envelopes scanned and then when you log into your web-based account, you see notifications of any item you\u2019ve received. It\u2019s a fantastic way to handle postal mail when you\u2019re not home.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 12px;\">Photo by rawpixel.com from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pexels.com\/photo\/adult-book-business-cactus-297755\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Pexels<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p>{{cta(&#8216;10516d5d-bb2f-44cb-a004-857528c05ed8&#8242;,&#8217;justifycenter&#8217;)}}<\/p>\n","protected":false,"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"html"}]},"author":6,"featured_media":6390,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[1],"tags":[],"acf":[],"amp_enabled":true,"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"link","format":"url"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/757"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=757"}],"version-history":[{"count":21,"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/757\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17478,"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/757\/revisions\/17478"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6390"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=757"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=757"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.postscanmail.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=757"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}