That trickle doesn’t stop when you arrive at your destination; think of cell phone charges, bank fees, and housekeeping tips, to name a few. To avoid spending more than you have to, check out these 10 travel money mistakes to avoid.

1. Forgetting to Let Your Bank Know You’ll Be Traveling

Forgetting to call your bank before traveling abroad is a common error that even frequent international travelers make; it slips your mind until the plane touches down, and by then, it’s often too late. These days banks have almost zero lag time in noticing a debit or credit card being used abroad, so you will get shut down on pretty much your first swipe in a foreign country.

As banks have gotten more sophisticated about tracking card use locations, this can even be important for domestic travel, and most banks recommend that you let them know about those closer-to-home trips as well. Fraud detectors can be tripped if you’re suddenly using your card across the country, making more or different purchases than you usually do, or charging unexpectedly large amounts (such as a weeklong hotel stay).

Note that this applies to debit cards as well as credit cards. Most banks have a way for you to easily set a travel notification online. If your card has EMV chip technology, you may not need to notify your bank about travel—check with your credit card company if you’re unsure. 

2. Overlooking Bank and ATM Fees

While traveling internationally, each time you get cash, you will likely incur a fee of some kind. These can vary greatly depending on whether a large bank runs the ATM, if the bank is on your card’s network, and more. Remember that fees can change from year to year, so it’s worth checking before every trip. Try to plan ahead and pull out as much cash as you’ll need at once (if you can store it somewhere safe) so that you’re not hit with multiple fees. 

3. Failing to Make a Plan for Getting to Your Hotel From the Airport

That first taxi ride from the airport may be your most financially vulnerable moment of any trip—the time when you have no idea how far it is, what a fair price is for the ride, whether you have lower-cost alternatives such as a train or bus, or even whether your hotel has a free shuttle. It’s best to figure all of this out before your trip; when you arrive, you are tired, often without much cash, and carrying a ton of luggage. You don’t want to be fumbling around trying to figure all this out on the airport curb.

4. Forgetting to Add an International Roaming Plan for Your Phone

How much could a few texts, a bit of mapping, a few email checks, and a batch of social media updates cost per day? Plenty, it turns out—so be sure to purchase an international roaming plan that will cover you while you’re away. 

5. Forgetting to Research the Local Exchange Rate

Especially in the first several hours at your destination, having done a little research on the local exchange rate against your home currency can make a huge difference. Often, it takes a couple of days really to get a handle on how much things cost, but this can take even longer if you are traveling in an area where prices may not be so fixed as they are at home. Memorizing the exchange rate so you can do the math quickly in your head will help considerably. 

It can be helpful to make a note on your phone of common dollar amounts to quickly reference. For example, USD 1 = CAD 1.43, USD 5 = CAD 1.43. 

6. Bringing Traveler’s Checks

Barely anyone accepts them anymore, they’re not cheap, you have to invest a fair amount of time in obtaining and purchasing them, and credit cards give you a far better rate of exchange in most parts of the world. Skip ’em.

7. Assuming You Know How Much to Tip

Tipping customs vary immensely from place to place, and not knowing what’s appropriate can be both awkward and expensive.

Tipping practices can also vary from industry to industry as well; in Brazil, for example, a 10 percent tip is customary in a restaurant, but it might already be included, so you will want to check the bill. On a taxi ride, you just round up to the nearest one (or five if you are feeling generous) for most rides (so for a 13 reais taxi ride, you give 14 or 15 reais).

8. Tipping Your Housekeeper Only at the End of Your Stay

Many travelers will leave it until the end of a trip to tip the housekeepers (usually by leaving some cash on top of the bed); this can backfire. On any given stay, you might have a different housekeeper from one day to the next, and to be the fairest and to get the best treatment, it’s best to leave something each day. 

9. Leaving Your Valuables Unsecured

Shoving your wallet in your back pocket or your purse over your shoulder is such a natural and almost automatic action that almost all of us will do this at some point in our travels. It’s also the easiest way to get pickpocketed or ripped off, as these spots are both obvious to thieves and difficult to protect.

This doesn’t apply only to your wallet; you will want to secure anything that someone could grab quickly. On a recent trip to Rio, we got on a train to the legendary Maracana stadium for a game featuring the local futbol favorite Flamengo. It was rush hour, and the train was insanely packed; despite living for more than a decade in New York City and having taken countless trips around the world, I had never experienced anything like it. If there was ever an environment ripe for pickpocketing and unseen thefts, this was it. I had a backpack with sweatshirts and a camera inside,  so I looked around at how the locals were dealing with it and noticed that everyone had their backpacks and bags in front of them.

A button on your back pocket or an across-the-body bag instead of an over-the-shoulder purse can also help here; adding just a little bit of difficulty is often enough to inspire thieves to look for other victims.

10. Using Public Wi-Fi for Financial Transactions

You’ll want to avoid checking bank balances, making online payments, or entering financially sensitive passwords of any kind while using public internet or Wi-Fi networks. Occasionally, it’s unavoidable, and the number of hotel Wi-Fi systems with keystroke loggers installed by sophisticated hackers is extremely low—but it’s always a risk.

Note also that a hack doesn’t have to be an inside job—that is, a hotel employee or system installer—but can also be a fellow lodger who has hacked into the minimally protected (if at all) hotel Wi-Fi network.

Hopefully, by keeping your money on your mind just a little, these tips will help you keep your money in your bank account as well.

The post 10 Travel Money Mistakes to Avoid appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Political Climate

Recent political unrest sparked by President Yoon Suk Yeol’s short-lived declaration of martial law on December 4, 2024 continues into the new year, with protests both for and against President Yoon’s impeachment drawing crowds. The protests are largely focused in the nation’s capital of Seoul outside the National Assembly. Despite this unfolding situation, visitors should not feel unsafe to travel and the US State Department maintains a status of “exercise normal caution” for the country.      

The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a 155-mile wide stretch of land at the border between North Korea and South Korea, established at the end of the Korean War in 1953. This area remains tightly guarded and there are heavy consequences for unauthorized entry. However, many travelers opt to visit the DMZ with an official tour group. 

Crime & Safety

It’s important to note that overall crime in South Korea is relatively low. However, as with travel to any unfamiliar destination, it is important to be aware of risks to assess the safety of a given situation. 

Solo travelers should exercise reasonable caution when venturing out in popular nightlife areas such as Seoul’s Itaewon and Hongdae neighborhoods. Stay in populated public areas, do not follow anyone to a secondary location, and be wary of sharing travel plans with strangers. 

An ongoing issue in South Korea is the illegal installation of spy cameras in public restrooms and private spaces, particularly those designated for women. These spy cameras are typically found in public restrooms, such as those in railway stations. According to Norton Security, there are a few on-the-fly tricks travelers can use to identify a spy camera. 

Driving

South Koreans drive on the right side of the road and the driver is situated on the front left of the vehicle. The average national speed limit is 60-80 km/h (37-50mph) for single and double lane roads and100 km/h (62mph) for highways. The permissible blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for drivers 0.03%, far lower than the average 0.08% allowance in the United States.

Weather

Monsoon and typhoon season lasts roughly July through November, bringing heavy winds, rains, and a higher potential for flooding. Avoid riverbanks and other areas prone to flash floods during heavy rains and follow local emergency instructions and warnings for severe weather. 

Travelers can expect to experience four distinct seasons in South Korea. The summers are hot and humid summers and the winters can reach -10°C (14° F). Check the weather before your trip and don’t forget to pack crucial items like sunscreen, bug spray, umbrellas, raincoats, hats, gloves, and winter jackets depending on the season.

Nature and Wildlife

In addition to its vibrant cities, South Korea also has several nature areas and national parks including Jeju Island, a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its volcanic landscape. 

When exploring any natural area, take reasonable caution of local wildlife. Jeju Island is home to a species of venomous pit viper called the Ussuri Mamushi. These snakes do not bite unprovoked and their bite is rarely fatal with timely intervention. Increased sightings of copper sharks off the island’s coast has prompted local authorities to warn swimmers and boaters to exercise increased awareness. 

One of the most popular beaches in the country, Haeundae Beach in Busan, is frequently affected by strong riptides. This past summer, the beach instituted a ban on beach tubes due to the dangerously strong currents. Check in with the status of the riptides that day before taking a dip. 

Vaccinations and Medication

Along with the routine vaccinations recommended by the Center for Disease Control, travelers to South Korea should consider the following. 

• Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination: For those traveling longterm to areas where Japanese Encephalitis is a known risk, such as Seoul and the surrounding areas and Geyonggi Province. Japanese Encephalitis is a mosquito-born illness. 
• Typhoid Vaccination: Recommended for most travelers. 
• Preventative Malaria Medication: Recommended for travelers visiting rural areas in the northern area of the country during March through December

Traveler Resources

Program these resources into your phone before arriving in South Korea. 

• Seoul Emergency Ready App: An app designed to alert users to disaster alerts and other emergency reports. Available in English.
• Emergency Number: Dial “112” to be connected to police operators who can direct your emergency call. Translation services are available at this number. 
• Travel Helpline & Complaint Center: Dial “1130” for tourist information from the Korean Tourism Organization. Note that this is not an emergency number. For emergencies, dial “112.”

The post Tips for Safe Travel in South Korea appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Northern Treasures: Tohoku Region

Yamagata Prefecture

Located about three hours from Tokyo by Japan’s shinkansen (bullet train), Yamagata Prefecture is bordered by the Sea of Japan to the west and mountains to the east. It is one of Japan’s premier fruit-growing regions, is known for its hot springs, and is one of the snowiest areas of Japan. Check out the historic temple of Yamader, which dates back to 860, and is where haiku writer Basho wrote one of his most famous haikus. Climb the 1015 steps through cedar forests for panoramic views of Yamagata Valley. Check out Ginzan Onsen, a hot spring town with gas-lit streets. Famous for cherries in June, grapes in September, as well as producing sake, foodies will love visiting as well. 

Best Time to Visit: Late June to early October

Recommended Hotel: Fujiya Inn

Balancing modern conveniences with traditional hospitality, this hotel features private hot tub baths and kaiseki meals (traditional multi-course meal featuring local ingredients). Centrally located in Ginzan Onsen.  

Akita Prefecture

Located in the northern Tohoku region, Akita Prefecture is known for its quality rice and traditional folk cultures. In southeastern Akita, you’ll find the Kakunodate samurai district, home to six original samurai residences from the Edo Period (1603-1868). Nyuto Onsen is home to remote hot springs, many dating to the 17th century. Michinoku’s Namahage Sedo Festival in February has been named a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event, and you can watch Namahage demons dancing under bush lanterns. The main event is held at the Mayama Shrine on the Oga peninsula. 

Recommended Hotel: Route Inn Grantia Akita Spa Resort

This hotel has an indoor mineral hot spring for guests to use, an on-site spa, and modern conveniences. It’s located on the West Coast, yet it will provide an excellent base for your Akita vacation. 

Best Time to Visit: February for festivals, July-August for summer events

Central Japan’s Secret Spots

Toyama Prefecture

Located about 2 hours by train from Tokyo, Toyama Prefecture is located on the coast of the Sea of Japan and offers some of the most fantastic train rides in the country thanks to the Kurobe Gorge Railway. Take a ride and see sites like the Unazuki Dam, Shin-Yanagawara Power Plant, and Shin-Yamabiko Bridge. Toyama is also home to a UNESCO-listed gassho-zukuri house village,  Gokayama. Gasso-zukuri translates to “hands in prayer,” given to them thanks to their pointed roofs, looking like two hands in prayer. Over two hundred years old, these buildings have thatched roofs, sliding doors, and an attic space explicitly designed for silkworm cultivation. The seafood in Toyama is exceptional, as the coastal fishing villages serve fresh fish caught in Toyama Bay. 

Best Time to Visit: April-November (avoiding winter snow)

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Morinokaze Tateyama

With stunning mountain views and proximity to the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, this hotel provides excellent accommodation for your Toyama stay. It offers a shuttle to local attractions, hot spring facilities, complimentary breakfast, and an on-site restaurant. 

Fukui Prefecture

About three hours from Kyoto by train, Kukui Prefecture is known for its dinosaur fossils, Buddhist temples, and traditional paper-making villages. The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is one of the world’s three largest dinosaur museums and is built near the location where Japan’s first dinosaur fossils were found. Visitors can visit Field Station to learn how fossils are excavated and studied, view the exhibition with fossils, life-sized models, and more. Visit Eihei-ji, an 800-year-old Buddhist temple. Keep in mind that tourists are frowned upon at the temple, and since 1244, “its halls have been filled with the sincere atmosphere of Zen practitioners unceasingly carrying out the Buddha’s teaching.” They do offer programs to those wishing to practice. Echizen is home to sixty-seven paper mills, and its streets are filled with artisans selling their paper products. 

Best Time to Visit: March-May or October-November

Recommended Hotel: Hakujukan

Located on the grounds of the Eihei-ji Temple, this hotel allows guests to experience the temple firsthand, offering early morning meditation sessions, the use of a “Zen Concierge” to allow for a full zen experience, includes a complimentary breakfast, and all of the modern conveniences combined with a truly relaxing experience. 

Southern Comfort: Kyushu’s Hidden Corners

Miyazaki Prefecture

Seven hours from Tokyo by train, Miyazaki has a tropical climate, with surfing and beaches alongside mythological and historic sites. Visit the Ancient Takachiho Gorge, where (according to legend) sun goddess Amaterasu hid in a cave and plunged the world into darkness. The gorge was formed by volcanic activity by Mount Aso. Head to Udo Shrine, said to be the birthplace of Emperor Jimmu’s father. For adventure, head to Kisakihama Beach for some surfing. 

Best time to visit: October-April (avoiding summer humidity)

Recommended Hotel: Takachiho RyokanShinsen

Overlooking the Takachiho Gorge, this hotel offers rooms with private open-air baths and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Arrange a private viewing of a Kagura dance performance with the staff, and enjoy a bite to eat at the on-site cafe. 

Saga Prefecture

Located 40 minutes by train from Fukuoka, Saga Prefecture is known for its pottery towns, hot springs, and historical Dutch trading. Arita is known as the birthplace of Japanese porcelain, and is home to the Kyushu Ceramic Museum, where you can learn about the history of the art. Porcelain shops dot the streets, and villages like Okawachiyama are also brimming with pottery history beyond Arita. Visit the Yutoku Inari Shrine,  one of Japan’s three Inari shrines, built into the steep hillside of a valley.

Best Time to Visit: Year-round, avoiding June (rainy season)

Recommended Hotel: Wataya Besso

Combining modern necessities with Japanese tradition, this hotel features an indoor hot spring, Japanese garden, on-site spa, and two on-site restaurants. 

Island Life: Beyond Okinawa

Goto Islands

Off the west coast of Nagasaki, the Goto Islands are accessible via ferry or flight from Nagasaki. High-speed ferries take about an hour and a half and operate throughout the day. Serving as a refuge for Christians during Japan’s period of religious prohibition. Visit churches like the Dozaki Church and Imochiura Church on Fukue Island. What are islands without a beach? The Goto Islands have plenty and Takahama Beach is one of the best in Japan. Foodies will want to try Goto Udon, made from local ingredients and typically thinner than traditional udon. 

Best Time to Visit: Anytime except June, their rainiest month. 

Recommended Hotel: GOTO RETREAT by Onko Chishin

Located on Fukue Island, this hotel is true to its name- offering a retreat for guests to relax at during their Goto stay. The hotel offers a daily manager’s reception, a terrace, on-site spa, on-site bar, and modern amenities. 

The post Japan’s Hidden Gems: Where to Go to Avoid The Crowds appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Monitor Prices

If you want to book a flight or hotel yourself, monitoring the price can help you determine if what you’re seeing is really a deal or not. Have you ever walked into a place to buy something to find it conveniently on sale? Businesses are always running a “sale,” but is that sale really a good deal? The only way to know if you’re getting a good deal is to know your prices. Keep an eye on the average price of hotels and flights to help you realize when costs drop.

Flexible With Your Dates and Destination? Use the Explore Function in Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo

When you’re looking for somewhere to go and just want a deal, you can use the explore function on Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo to find the best prices on airfare. You can search with no destination in mind, or narrow it down to a region like Europe. 

If you can be a little flexible with the time you take your vacation, you’ll be rewarded with very low fares and prices for the travel you want to do. Prices vary widely from day to day and the flexible search on Google Flights allows you to see which days are the cheapest to fly. To use this tool, simply leave the date fields blank after selecting a destination (or leave the destination blank for even more versatility). The search will default to a 1-week trip any time in the next six months. Momondo and Skycanner have similar functions, letting you search for trips within a given month or range of months.

Just be sure the routing you pick works for your schedule and use filters to narrow down your trip based on number of stops, arrival time, or departure time. There’s nothing worse than buying a $300 ticket to Paris that requires multiple transfers and 27 hours of travel time. 

Sign Up for Marketing Materials From Your Favorite Travel Companies

Your favorite travel brands love to advertise to you. Every now and then, they’ll send incredible deals for their email list subscribers. These are different from the run-of-the-mill “We’re having a sale!” emails. You’ll get those, too. But if you’re checking prices to your desired destination often, you’ll know when a sale is much, much better than normal. 

This is how I booked two tickets to Tahiti for a great price. I clicked on an email from United Airlines advertising a fare sale using points. I tried some dates and destinations, and found an incredible points sale to Tahiti at about 40% off. I booked it immediately, knowing I could cancel within 24 hours without penalty. We ended up taking that vacation and saved a lot of money in the process. It never hurts to check prices when you receive those marketing emails!

Getting these promotions is easy. If you love the airline Southwest, for example, you would want to sign up for their email list from a button on their website. When you’re on the email list, you get the information about a sale first. Southwest recently had a 40% off sale and you would know about it sooner than everyone else if you were on their email list. 

Set Fare Alerts

If you’re looking at a particular destination and a specific time, toggling on Google Flights handy track price button is the way to go. If you’re signed into your Google account, you can get these fare alerts automatically when you do this. When the price changes significantly (either up or down), you’ll get an email from Google about the change in price. A flight to Italy I was looking at started around $800. I set my Google alert and got an email when the price dropped to $307. 

You can also sign up to be alerted to the best prices on routes of interest at SmarterTravel’s sister site Airfarewatchdog, which sends out low fare email alerts to subscribers.

Let Someone Else Find the Deals for You

There are countless services that work to find deals for you. They eliminate the need to sit at your computer and see if that email you received has really good deals or is just another marketing tactic you need to wade through. 

Some examples include:

• Travelzoo, an aggregator of travel deals with stellar prices
• NextVacay and Scott’s Cheap Flights, which send out fare drop alerts similar to those listed above
• Facebook groups focused on travel
• Online travel agencies, such as Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, Cheap Caribbean, Kayak, or Funjet Vacation. 
• Warehouse travel agencies, such as Costco or Sam’s Club
• Travel agents

The post 5 Secret Tips for Finding Travel Deals appeared first on SmarterTravel.

She said that about five minutes into the flight, there was a “loud bang noise,” and she looked “to the side and [saw] the ceiling hanging down over two passengers. The flight attendants did not notice, and nobody rang the call buttons.” After a few minutes, the flight attendant took a picture and showed it to the pilot, who said it “wasn’t a big deal and they could keep going.” 

O’Malley said it looked like the little air vents fell, but there were “little plastic tubings that definitely looked like they might be part of the oxygen system, too,” hanging down. No announcement was made, and the crew “seemed to not really care.” O’Malley, however, was unsettled and anxious the whole flight. She was surprised they did not turn back to fix it and just took the chance that it “knocked out the emergency oxygen to those seats or that side of the plane.” 

Ceiling Panel Falls During Porter Airlines Flight

O’Malley stated she typically avoids Porter, as the plane interiors “leave a bit to be desired” and remind her of “an old school bus or public transit and are very cramped.” However, she finds Toronto International a tricky airport to navigate, so she chose instead to fly out of Billy Bishop in Toronto, connecting in Ottawa on Porter. She now will take her chances with Toronto International to avoid Porter Air at all costs. 

We contacted Porter Airlines about the incident and were told that the “overhead panel cover needed to be re-secured. This is a minor requirement and not safety-related, so the Captain chose not to make an announcement. When the aircraft landed, the panel was secured, and the aircraft returned to service.” 

What To Do When Part Of the Plane Breaks Mid-Flight

So, what should happen when parts of the plane appear to break mid-flight? We’ve created a step-by-step guide for what to do when something breaks on an airplane. 

1. Don’t Panic

This may seem easier said than done, but try not to panic and worry other passengers. Remain calm and inform those who need to know first, which brings us to number two. 

2. Tell A Flight Attendant

This may seem obvious, but apparently, it isn’t, as no one pressed the call button when part of the ceiling fell. However, flight attendants can quickly assess the situation and determine whether it is an emergency. They can ask the pilot if it is more unusual (like the ceiling falling). 

3. Follow Instructions

The crew will know if something is an emergency or an inconvenience. If they tell you not to worry, don’t. If they ask you to return to your seat, do so. In this situation, the crew will definitely know more than you do, so listen to what they tell you to do. 

4. If Oxygen Masks Deploy, Use Them

Like the crew’s instructions, the oxygen masks deploy for a reason. If something happens on your plane that causes them to drop, utilize them, even if it seems unnecessary. (And, of course, put yours on first before helping others.) 

5. Don’t Try to Fix Whatever Broke

          If it’s a mechanical issue with your seat (like a broken tray table or recline mechanism):

• Return seat to upright position if possible
• Avoid forcing broken components, which could cause further damage
• Ask to be re-seated if the issue affects safety or comfort

For issues with overhead bins or storage compartments:

• Don’t try to force them closed
• Allow crew to secure items properly
• Accept alternative storage solutions offered by the crew. 

Remember that modern aircraft are designed with multiple redundant systems for safety. Most mechanical issues that might occur during flight are not safety-critical, and the crew is well-prepared to handle them.

The post What To Do If Something Breaks On Your Plane Mid-Flight appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Don’t want to be bored on your next vacation? Skip these ten spots (recently deemed the country’s least fun destinations) in favor of the most entertaining cities in the United States. 

Finance site WalletHub ranked the 182 most populated cities in the US to determine the list of the most fun cities. Each city earned points in three categories: entertainment and recreation, nightlife and parties, and costs.

The entertainment category evaluated a diverse group of attractions, including hiking trails per capita, the amount of parkland as a share of the city area, and sports-fan friendliness.

The nightlife category considered factors such as the time of last call, the legality of public drinking, and the presence of music festivals. 

The cost factor was determined by analyzing financial markers such as the average price of beer, the price of a three-star hotel room, and the prevalence of affordable restaurants rated 4.5 stars or higher.

The 10 Least Fun Cities in America

Poor Pearl City, Hawaii, ranked a low 17.17 for overall fun compared to the top score of 73.78 for the most fun city on the list. 

1. Pearl City, Hawaii
2. South Burlington, Vermont
3. Yonkers, New York
4. Lewiston, Maine
5. Oxnard, California
6. Fremont, California
7. Santa Rosa, California
8. Bridgeport, Connecticut
9. Nashua, New Hampshire
10. Chula Vista, California

The 10 Most Fun Cities in America

With a reputation as Sin City and casinos and bars on every corner, it’s unsurprising that Las Vegas came out on the top of the list for the most fun cities in America. 

1. Las Vegas, Nevada
2. Orlando, Florida
3. Miami, Florida
4. Atlanta, Georgia
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
6. Austin, Texas
7. San Francisco, California
8. Chicago, Illinois
9. Houston, Texas
10. New York, New York

The post The 10 Least Fun Cities in America appeared first on SmarterTravel.

In a statement released Monday, Apple explained that those using AirTags in their luggage will get a link generated in the Find My Item app. “Recipients of a link will be able to view a website that shows the location of the item on an interactive map. The website will automatically update when a new location is available and will show a timestamp of the most recent update.” You can then share the location with the airline, allowing them to find your luggage and reunite you with it. Currently, only the traveler can see the location, and Airlines are helpless when it comes to locating it. 

If you’re worried about privacy (and who isn’t these days), you don’t have to. Once passengers are reunited with their item, the shared location will automatically be disabled, and the owner can also disable it at any time. 

The airlines currently participating in include Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Eurowings, Iberia, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, Turkish Airlines, United, Virgin Atlantic, and Vueling. The technology will first work at select airports of the airlines, with system-wide usage in 2025. 

More airlines are also expected to follow. Apple’s statement also said that “additionally, SITA, a leader in air transport technology, will build support for Share Item Location into WorldTracer, the baggage-tracing system used by over 500 airlines and ground handlers at more than 2,800 airports around the world.”

AirTags can be bought in packs of one or four, and are only compatible with iPhones.

The post Apple and Airlines Team Up to Track Lost Luggage appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Start planning well in advance by making a checklist of things you need to do (along with deadlines) so you can make sure they’re done with plenty of time to spare. Some things, like vaccinations or passport renewals can take months to complete, so you’ll want to start early.

Don’t forget to take care of these 11 important things before your next trip abroad. 

Notify Your Bank/Credit Card

Imagine landing at the airport and trying to take local currency out of the ATM, only to get a “card declined notice.” That will quickly put a damper on your trip as you’ll have to spend time calling your bank to get your card functioning.

Many banks and credit card companies will automatically lock your card if you start using it abroad—unless you’ve notified them of your travel plans in advance. You can generally go online and request a travel notification to be added to your account, where you can let the bank know your itinerary so they won’t view your transactions as suspicious.

Some credit card companies, like Capital One, no longer require a notification while traveling due to chip technology—but be sure to check with your specific card provider before you depart so you’re not caught off-guard.

Check Your Cell Phone’s International Plan

Planning on using your phone abroad? Check your plan to see what options are available for international usage so that you’re not surprised with a huge bill for roaming charges when you return. 

If plans are expensive, consider getting a SIM card to swap out at your destination so you can still use your phone. Or, think about switching to a cell phone carrier like T-Mobile, which offers free international roaming on most plans. 

Check the State Department’s Travel Warnings Site

Visit the U.S. State Department’s Country Information website to learn about potential dangers at your destination. Here, you can search by country and see any travel warnings and alerts for your trip. The site will also provide you with the location of any U.S. embassies in the country (worth saving to Google Maps on your phone), important information on local laws and customs, emergency phone numbers (save to your contacts ), and details on road and aviation safety.  

While on the State Department’s website, you should take a few minutes to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This free service will send you alerts about any safety issues and help the US embassy contact you in case of an emergency while you’re abroad.  

Scan a Copy of Your Passport

It’s important to keep a copy of your passport with you while traveling abroad in case your physical one is lost or stolen. Scan it into your phone so you don’t have to keep track of a paper copy.

It’s easy to create a scanned document on an iPhone. Open the notes app, create a new note, and click the camera icon at the bottom of the screen. This will allow you to scan and save a document to your phone for easy access. 

Check the CDC’s Destinations Page

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Destinations page well in advance of your trip. You can search by country and view travel health notices for any outbreaks or health issues at your destination. 

This website will also show recommended (and required) vaccinations for your trip. Some vaccinations must be done weeks or months before traveling, so you’ll want to check this page as soon as you book your trip.

The CDC also offers country-specific “healthy travel” packing lists with recommended prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and other important supplies to bring. 

Confirm Visa/Entry Requirements

You don’t want to find out when you’re checking in for your flight that you need a visa in advance for your destination. Check the State Department’s country-specific pages to find out entry requirements as soon as you book your flight, as some visas can take a long time to process. 

Many countries require travelers’ passports to have at least six months of validity to enter. You may also need a certain number of blank pages for a passport stamp and visa. You’ll find information on both requirements on the country-specific sites from the State Department. 

Get Out Cash

ATM machines can be finicky abroad and could be broken, out of cash, or just won’t accept your debit card. It’s always a good idea to bring some cash to start off your trip so you can exchange it into the local currency if needed. (Generally, you’ll get a better rate if you take cash out of an ATM than if you get currency in advance or through a money exchange at the airport, but cash is good to have for an emergency.)

Make a note of the exchange rate before you travel, so you can recognize a bad rate when you see one. I like to make a quick note in my phone of how much $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 is in the local currency so I can easily approximate how much something costs without having to do an exact calculation. Or, download a currency conversion app that you can use offline.

Learn Important Local Phrases

Try to learn how to say a few words in phrases in the local language before you go. Knowing how to say “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” can go a long way, even if you’re not fluent. 

It can also be helpful to download the Google Translate app offline and save phrases you’ll need, like “Where is the bathroom” or “How much?” so you can quickly communicate when needed, even if you don’t have an internet connection.

Save Your Trip Information Offline

Before you travel, create a note on your phone with your confirmation numbers (for flights, rental cars, and hotels), your itinerary, and the addresses of your accommodations. If you can’t get online when you arrive, you’ll want to have this information readily available. 

Find Out What Plugs the Destination Uses

Not all hotels will have USB chargers available, so do a quick search to find out what type of plugs are found at your destination. (You can skip this step if you get a universal travel adapter that you can use in any type of outlet.)

Also, look up the voltage used at your destination, although this is less of a concern nowadays, as many electronics (including most smartphones) are automatically dual-voltage.

Create an Airport Transportation Plan

If you walk off the plane and grab the first taxi you see to your hotel, you may wind up overpaying or getting scammed. Do a bit of research before you board the plane to find out what local taxi services are legitimate, if rideshares are legal, and approximately how much a taxi ride from the airport to your hotel should cost.

Also, research alternative (cheaper) modes of transportation, like local buses or trains, and what time transportation stops running at your destination. You don’t want to get off a late-night flight to find out you’re stranded at the airport until the morning.

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Taos, New Mexico

This two-bedroom New Mexico home looks very futuristic, with a glass sunroom that juts out into the snowy landscape. You can walk to the slopes at nearby Kachina Lift, or just get warm by the wood-burning fireplace.

Catskill, New York

Take a two-hour drive from New York and you’ll find an outpost of Postcard Cabins (previously known as Getaway), a vacation haven in the Catskill Mountains. The millennial-focused company built a series of tiny cabins equipped with mini-kitchens and a giant window to the great outdoors. Like what you see? Find Postcard Cabins for nature sojurns all throughout the country, located outside of major metropolitan areas from Pittsburgh to Boston.

Twin Lakes, Colorado

With rustic good looks outside and white-washed clapboard inside, this Colorado alpine cabin on the way to Aspen features cathedral-height windows. Take in a great view of snow-topped La Plata mountain, and then head over to the trailhead for a winter hike.

Hood River, Oregon

Mount Hood is a year-round destination for skiing and snowboarding, and you can watch the snow fall from a boxy, streamlined cabin with walls of windows. This architectural gem on Neal Creek will make you feel like you are right in the treetops.

Stowe, Vermont

Three massive walls of glass look out on the ski slopes of Mount Mansfield at this pricey Stowe five-bedroom rental with architecture that blends the indoors and outdoors. Besides incredible views, visitors can enjoy a cedar sauna, ski lockers, and three wood-burning fireplaces.

Woodstock, New York

The owners of this ultra-luxurious modern glass house claim that it’s “one of the most beautiful homes in all upstate New York,” and it’s hard to argue with this cabin’s vistas both inside and out. Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the home look out into a forested ravine, while radiant heat inside keeps guests toasty warm in the winter.

Livingston, Montana

The Cargill-Earl Guesthouse is designed to make you feel like you are one with the jaw-dropping Montana mountain landscape, with walls of glass throughout the home (check out that bedroom view). You’ll be staying in Livingston, once known as the “Original Gateway City to Yellowstone National Park,” where there are plenty of winter activities to try like dog sledding or cross-country skiing. 

Broken Bow, Oklahoma

The homeowners on VRBO named their three-bedroom forest getaway near Beavers Bend State Park “Through the Looking Glass.” This sprawling setup includes a window-filled soaring main living space—and a game room and bocce court too. 

Tahoe City, California

Located 10 minutes outside of Tahoe City and near great skiing at Squaw Valley, this wood-paneled A-frame cabin is outfitted with a wall of windows. That means great views from the kitchen to the rafters.

Sandusky, Ohio

An associate of Frank Lloyd Wright designed this glass house, and you can see his influence in mahogany wood walls, cedar ceilings, simple finishes, and light streaming in everywhere. Look out over Lake Erie and Sandusky Bay through large picture windows in the main living space. 

Mount Rainier, Washington

Another stylish A-frame option featuring a wall of glass can be found in Washington just 15 minutes from the entrance of snowy Rainier National Park. This cozy two-bedroom spot is situated on four acres of forest. (For singletons or couples, check out a similar glassy one-bedroom A-frame near Mount Rainier).

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Duty-Free Merchandise

Depending on your airport, it may be possible to snag a duty-free deal occasionally. But it’s important to know that duty-free in no way ensures a good buy. Although some items like cigarettes or alcohol might be cheaper if you live in a state with high taxes on these items, duty-free shops are usually more expensive for food items or electronic goods.

The solution? When making duty-free purchases, do a little homework. Go online ahead of time and do some cost comparisons, especially if you’re eyeing a big-ticket buy. 

Foreign Currency

Since currency exchange desks in airports often charge travelers sky-high transaction fees, the airport is probably not the best place to exchange money. 

A good alternative strategy is to get foreign currency by taking out money at an ATM in your destination; this way, you’ll likely get the best interbank exchange rate, which is usually much better than rates offered at airport exchange counters. Contact your bank before your trip for more information on any possible foreign transaction fees.

Bottled Water

Stop wasting $5 on bottled water and instead pack an empty reusable water bottle. Most airports have water bottle refilling stations where travelers can fill their bottles with filtered water after going through security. 

Souvenirs

Plan ahead and buy your souvenirs before you’re at the airport, waiting for your flight home. Airport souvenir stores usually sell severely marked-up merchandise that can be found elsewhere for a lot less. Plus, the wares tend to be quite unoriginal: trite T-shirts, boring mugs, and flimsy key chains that you can find anywhere.

There are exceptions to this rule, as some airports offer unique finds, like gifts crafted by local artisans. Our advice, as always, is to do your research before you get to the terminal so that you can compare prices. You could even take a quick look at what’s on offer when you land and then buy whatever you need when you return to the airport upon departure.

In-Flight Essentials

Trapped in their terminals, travelers are at the mercy of airport prices if they have to replace a forgotten essential like a neck pillow or an eye mask. To prevent paying for a last-minute replacement, keep a packing list on your phone and check off items as you prepare for your trip.

Restaurant Meals

You may have noticed that restaurants commonly charge higher prices for menu items in airport locations than they do elsewhere. There’s a reason for this: Restaurants’ operating expenses are generally higher at airports than at street locations. But food costs can vary even by the terminal, heightening the confusion for travelers who want to compare prices.

Pack your meal from home to sidestep the gouge–it will be tastier, cheaper, and more nutritious. For the return journey, pick up something from a local restaurant that’s easy to transport and can last a few hours without refrigeration or reheating. 

Wi-Fi

Although many airports offer free Wi-Fi, some hubs are still firmly entrenched in the dark ages, charging flyers to search the Web while waiting to depart. Before you enter your credit card number, see if you can get connectivity for free. Some ways to do this: Sit near the entrance of an elite flyer’s lounge or in an airport hotel lobby, both of which might offer free Wi-Fi that’s not password protected.

Or try your terminal’s Starbucks. Although all Starbucks stores offer free Internet, airport locations are sometimes the exception. Some offer free connectivity; some don’t. 

Magazines (While Abroad)

You’re not normally taking a big hit to your budget when you grab the latest copy of National Geographic at the terminal newsstand. But when overseas, watch out. Imported U.S. magazines cost much more than those sold at home and can sell for well over the recommended list price at overseas airports, even if they’re old (primarily due to taxes and shipping costs).

Instead, subscribe to your favorite magazine before heading out for your trip. Some libraries even offer digital access to magazines that you can download on your e-reader for free. 

A Parking Spot

You’ll frequently find a better price at off-site parking lots than at airport lots. Before arriving at the airport, do your research and compare off-airport parking through services like AirportParking.com. Just be sure to leave additional time to take a shuttle to the airport after parking.

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