The moment you step off the plane into a foreign country, a rush of adrenaline is bound to consume you. Not only are you in for an adventure and as appreciation for cultures other than your own, but you must be aware of safety and rules abroad as well. This article contains a multitude of travel tips to keep you safe while away from home.

When you travel, it’s important to stop for the cheese as well as the big-time monuments. What that means is this: Go to Mt. Rushmore, sure. But first, you need to stop at the Jolly Green Giant Statue in Minnesota and get your picture taken. You need to actually go see the Corn Palace in Mitchell, SD, and Wall Drug. These places are kitschy, and that’s exactly why they’re essential. America is both a place of great beauty and great silliness, and both should be celebrated by the traveler.

Do not be afraid to ask your tour guide for their credentials. Many tour guides are often required to carry a permit. Do not be shy about asking to see it. If you are spending your money on their services, it is well within your right to do so.

Having a good set of maps or road atlas can save one from a possible disaster if they get lost or electronic map devices such as GPS or smart phones run out of battery. Many things can cause electronics to malfunction and stop working. Having backup option can save one’s trip.

For a stress-free vacation, make sure people can get in touch with you. Take your cell phone with you and keep it charged. Bring your laptop with you if you know you will have an internet connection where you are staying. In case of emergency, people can let you know what is going on and you won’t have any bad surprises when you come back.

If you are traveling road-trip style and you have a smart phone, try downloading apps such as GasBuddy so you can look up what gas stations have the cheaper prices before you get into town. Spending 10-11 cents more per gallon can add up to quite a lot of extra cash that you could be spending elsewhere.

Avoid wearing loud or particularly noticeable clothing when traveling. Try your best to blend in with your surroundings. Avoid wearing unusual clothing or acting in a way that marks you as a tourist. Pickpockets and con artists are often on the lookout for tourists. Looking too much like one could make you a victim.

If you’re going on a cruise, you should arrive a day in advance. This will stop those close calls of getting stuck in traffic or having your flight delayed and causing you to miss your trip. The stress of almost missing the ship is not how you want to start your trip.

Prior to your trip, join some forums specifically related to travel. These communities are filled with knowledgable people who can be of great service before, during and after your vacation. Stay active in whatever community you have chosen throughout the year, as you may find some great travel ideas for next season’s adventure!

When going on vacation with younger kids, try to get a room where it would be easy to eat in. This will make it easier on you and the kids. After a long drive to the destination, the last thing they want to do is sit still and eat. It is nice to be a bit free, even during meal time.

Joining a travelers club like AAA will help keep money in your pocket through discounts and specials. Many hotels, restaurants and other organizations will offer moderate to steep discounts to members of travelers clubs. With little research and questioning, you can target companies that offer these discounts and save a bundle.

Remember to pack an eyeglass repair kit if you wear glasses. If your glasses break while away on vacation, it can be difficult to locate the correct parts and tools, especially if you are in foreign country. There is nothing worse than going sightseeing and not being able to see the sights.

Always carry a small bag in your bags. Either a collapsible duffel or backpack that can be easily stored gives you the option of returning with items such as gifts, souvenirs or even duty free items. While it may be one more bag to check, you can avoid potentially higher weight charges from stuffing these items into your regular luggage.

If you are leaving the country, make a copy of your passport to take with you. If you happen to misplace your original passport, it will make getting a new one a much simpler process. The two minutes that it will take for you to make the copy will likely save you hours when getting it replaced during your travels.

One of the most important things that a person forgets about when traveling is their health. There are items you can bring with you that can prevent a cold or other illness including aspirin, hand sanitizers, and vitamins. These are all small items that can easily fit in a carry on bag or purse.

When traveling alone, it is a good idea to speak to strangers, especially if you have never been in your destination before this trip. You can find out many interesting and wonderful facts and things to do and see during your visit, from a stranger. This can really make your trip more interesting.

A great travel tip if you’re traveling abroad is to always take a book of matches with you whenever you leave your hotel. Having this book of matches can be very helpful if you end up getting lost at some point. They can show locals where you’ve just left.

Above all, staying safe while traveling is the most important aspect of your trip. Hopefully, this article has provided some helpful insight into staying safe on your trip and will allow you to travel worry-free. So, breathe easier, sit back and enjoy the finer things in life (while staying safe, of course).