Challenges to prepare for as you travel

Challenges while traveling are inevitable. There are numerous “Oops” that can come up and the best way to avoid things going wrong when you’re traveling is to prepare for them anyway.

Problems might be frustrating, but dealing with them is a skill that traveling develops. The key is to understand the situation and be on top of it. When unexpected circumstances happen, remember to clear your mind and not panic.

In this article, we have identified five challenges that you have to be prepared for when you travel. It is our hope that this will be helpful to you in the event that any of them happen to you in the future.

1. Getting Lost

Getting lost can happen to any traveler, whether it is a local or an international trip, or if he/she is alone or with a group.

It is easy if you have lost your way while in the city. Even without having read this article, you would know what to do: find a landmark, look for a Public Transit Stop, get a cab, consult Lord Google if you have access to wi-fi/data, or simply ask around.

However, when you find yourself lost while exploring a new or unfamiliar destination, follow the STOP Rule as advised by travel blogger Caroline Morse Teel:

Stop: Wandering aimlessly will only make it harder for you to find for a search party. Hence the first step to take: stay where you are.

Think: Do not panic. It’s nonsense to waste your energy trying to do anything until you’ve thought it through. So, think!

Observe: Look around and look within you.  Is there anything in the area or have you brought anything that can help you?

Plan: Figure out how you can make your way out.

For more on this, here is a link to the blog: https://www.smartertravel.com/get-lost-traveling/

2. Delays

Delayed flights are a bummer. When this happens, remember to be patient. Try to understand the situation. Wait before you begin making complaints.

Also, understand your rights as a passenger if your flight is delayed. Many airlines have what’s called a Contract of Carriage which describes what you’re entitled to in the event of a flight delay when the airline is at fault. It may be tedious, but it is recommended to read those terms and conditions when you book.

Make some calls as soon as your flight is delayed (or canceled). Let the parties that will be affected know of the situation. For instance, the car rental service, your accommodation, etc.

Try to be productive with the time being. Hopefully, you have brought something to keep yourself entertained: a book to read, a downloaded movie on your device to watch, a journal to write on. You may also initiate a chit chat with other passengers and make new connections. Or, if you don’t feel like talking to a stranger because of frustration, do some walking and check the attractions at the airport.

But… try not to fall asleep! In some cases, an airline may tell the passengers that the flight delay will last three hours, only to suddenly announce over the P.A. system that they’ll be boarding soon. Better to be not sleeping when such a scenario happens!

3. Illnesses

Getting sick while on your holiday is the last thing that anybody wants, but unfortunately, it can happen anywhere. So, make sure you are prepared with a variety of over the counter medications for common illnesses that can happen when you’re traveling. With that in mind, a first aid kit is a must. Read this article to know what should be included in your traveler’s first aid kit: https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/travelers-firstaid-kit%3famp=true

4. Accidents

We all wish for a fun and safe trip. As a prudent traveler, here are some things you would have to secure.

Before you travel, it is advisable to get your paperwork in order, to be ready in the event that you end up getting into an accident. Check your health insurance policy to determine your coverage if you would need to go to a hospital, especially if you need emergency care abroad. Determine if you need travel insurance as well. Lastly, familiarize yourself with the emergency assistance numbers for the area you are traveling.

5. Natural Calamities

Before your trip, plan it with safety in mind. Start by researching your destination. Are you traveling on a season that is prone to natural calamities? Be aware of what is happening out there. Also, having some knowledge might be beneficial in the future. Educate yourself. Check the Red Cross mobile apps (https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps.html) for natural disaster-specific tips.

The specifics of what exactly you should do during a natural disaster vary depending on the type of event, but in the event that it happens while on your trip, keeping calm is critical. As soon as you can, update your family and friends of your situation. Give them an assurance, if you are OK. 

Also, make sure to be updated with the latest news to assess your next move. Listen to the authorities and obey them. When things have settled, leave if able.

If you are abroad, contact your local embassy if injured or in need of emergency assistance.

Here’s a final word on this: when you travel, expect the unexpected so you won’t get caught off guard. Pack with a worst-case scenario in mind.

With this, we leave our best wishes. Have a safe journey!