Unlock your trip’s full potential

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or packing for your first adventure, there are ways to enhance your journey. From protecting your mobile phone on the beaches of Bali to planning how to secure your home while you explore the sights of Tokyo, discover how these travel tips can unlock your trip’s full potential.

1. Language classes

What better way to really dive into the culture of your holiday destination than to learn the language? Using your extra cash to enrol in a few language classes is a great investment in making sure you get the most out of your time abroad. You can find excellent night-school classes at universities and community colleges at home, or you can go for a local one-on-one tutoring crash-course once you arrive.

There are also some great free learning resources, like Duolingo, that can supplement your studies. Duolingo is an engaging app and website that offers interactive classes in over 30 languages, and its fun step-by-step program is easy to do on the go. The video game layout of Duolingo, with levels and rewards, makes getting the kids excited about learning a language a breeze. Recruit the whole family and test each other!

Having even an elementary understanding of the language of your holiday destination can be a vital asset in avoiding a worst-case scenario. The cultural customs may be vastly different to those you are familiar with, and being able to identify regulation signs or understand the warnings from a local citizen will put you in good stead with the law.

2. Travel accessories

There are so many innovative products out there designed to make your travel experience as comfortable and convenient as possible. Whether you are looking to shoot underwater highdefinition video on your smartphone, or just trying to grab some elusive in-flight sleep, there is a product out there for you

Waterproof smartphone cases are a great investment, even if you don’t intend to step foot in the ocean or the pool. Knowing that your phone is protected rain or shine will keep your mind on the more important things. Over Board make excellent phone and tablet cases that will ensure your electronic devices are secure from scratches and water damage.

There are also a number of products designed to make your transit time more comfortable. Airports can be a stressful experience, but knowing your luggage is under control can let you focus on the bigger things, like making your flight! Travel document organisers, passport covers, bright name-tags and even jacket grippers can make the bustle of the airport easier to navigate.

3. An eye at home

If you’re the kind of person who worries about the safety of their home as soon as you leave for the airport, a home surveillance kit could provide the peace of mind you need to enjoy your time away to the fullest.

There are a number of security devices that can be accessed through mobile apps, such as Manything, even while overseas.

Knowing everything is in order at home will let you focus on having an unforgettable travel experience.

4. Upgrade your bag

Getting the most out of your holiday can be as simple as having your luggage under control. Whether you’re a luxury traveller or a shoestring backpacker, the importance of your bag is paramount. So why not spend your extra savings on upgrading that road-worn and threadbare pack of yours to a secure and comfortable item. Here are some tips on choosing the right luggage for you.

Theft-proof luggage items are great innovative options designed specifically to offer high security for your valuables without compromising on functionality and comfort. We hear of many theft-related incidents occurring overseas, some of which could have been avoided with more effective baggage precautions.

5. Take a tour

Hiring a local guide to show you around is a fantastic way to get the inside scoop on your chosen destination. Not only will you find the tastiest hidden restaurants in town, you will also be giving back to the community in a positive way. Taking a tour with a licensed supplier early on in your holiday will give you the local insight you need to enjoy the place to its fullest for the rest of your trip.

There’s a lot to say for exploring a city on your own accord, and the thrill of discovering exciting places without being shown around. However, a professional tour can be the best way to learn the rich history of your destination without having your head stuck in a book.

Tours are especially useful for those short on time. For instance, if you’re embarking on a cruise holiday, having a tour already arranged for when you dock at port will ensure you can get the most out of the limited time you have at your disposal.

It is important to research the company hosting your tour thoroughly when considering a booking. Safety standards you would expect to be met at home may not be of the same calibre overseas, so choose your adventure carefully. Review websites like TripAdvisor and travel communities on Reddit are good places to start your research.

6. Start a blog

Starting a blog is not only a great way to document your travel adventures, it’s also a great way to keep those at home in the loop. There are even stories of personal travel blogs exploding in popularity to become successful online publications!

Brooke Saward began her blog World of Wanderlust in 2012 as an easy way to document her travels, and the website now has a team of eight writers to bring quality travel and lifestyle content to its readers.

A two-year “.com” web address will cost you around $70 to register, but if your blog takes off it may end up paying for itself.