Travel is one of those things that everyone can get into, but in which not everyone really excels. Making travel arrangements can be a fast, painless thought-free process. However, getting the best deals and making the best plans, takes a little more effort. Here are a few tips for maximizing the benefits that good travel planning can bring.

Always bring a personal set of earplugs. Whether it is a child crying two rows ahead of you or an annoying person sitting next to you who wants to discuss his dream from last night of the plane crashing, it always helps to have a way to drown out that extraneous noise.

If you have the time, travel by car instead of flying. Driving through the states is a wonderful way to see the country. You will pass by quaint towns and attractions that are often overlooked by tourists. Traveling by car offers you more flexibility in case you need to change your itinerary at the last minute.

If you are traveling light and planning to wash laundry as you go, use your daily shower as an opportunity to wash your underwear and even your lightweight shirt. It only takes a few moments and prevents you from building up a pile of laundry that needs to be washed all at once.

Trust locals over the concierge. Unfortunately, many hotels and their concierge services have agreements with certain businesses to steer guests to them, regardless of whether or not it is in your best interest. Instead, scope out a place that looks like your style and ask other customers for additional recommendations.

When going on a trip, make sure to split up your bank cards, credit cards, checks and cash. Put them all into different hidden pockets of your purses and travel bags. Following this simple tip will ensure that if you do get robbed, you will not be stranded without any money.

When going on an extended trip, make sure to pack weather appropriate clothing. Go online to check out the weather channel’s website and see what kind of weather is expected in your travel area. For example, don’t pack mini skirts and tennis shoes if where you’re going has a lot of rainfall and cold weather. It not only will prevent you from getting sick, but also from getting strange stares from the locals who can pinpoint tourists and make you feel awkward.

When traveling to a different area, make sure that you’re open to different local customs. Some ideas might be strange, but be respectful of other cultures. Not showing respect and not paying attention to local customs can be a real downer for your trip causing you to not feel welcomed in a city.

If you are planning to fly, make sure that you purchase your ticket under the same exact name that is on your identification. Airport security has increased these past years and you don’t want to get to the airport and realize that you are not allowed to fly because your ID doesn’t match up to your ticket.

Making the necessary preparations will make a big difference before a trip. These preparations range from ensuring that one has packed everything that is needed to using the bathroom before leaving the house. Having everything prepared and in place before traveling will give one more time to relax and enjoy themselves.

If you’re going on a cruise, make sure you bring a small day bag with you. You’ll find that your luggage won’t be available right away when you board the ship. So you’ll want to have a bag with a swim suit, a book, an extra change of clothes in it, and anything else you might need right away.

Before you travel out of the country, make sure your immunizations are all up to date. There’s no way to know whether your fellow travelers are all current on their shots, or what diseases they might unknowingly be carrying. Keeping yourself vaccinated will help protect you from any diseases you may encounter.

National Parks are usually open all year, but it is best to check with the park you are wanting to visit to confirm that it will be open when you are planning on going. During the summer and winter the parks are generally more popular. If you want to avoid crowds, go in spring or fall.

When packing your bags for a trip on an airplane, always remember 3-1-1. Regulations now limit the amount of liquids and gels passengers can have in their carry on luggage. When you take your bag through security, they will make sure you only have your travel-size toiletries which are less than three ounces and fit into a one quart zip top bag and only one bag per passenger.

If you sleep light, try using some earplugs. Some hotels don’t have great sounding in their walls. Earplugs can help you sleep well by allowing you to block out everything around you.

Consider eating at the public market when you are traveling. These markets have an abundance of fresh food that was grown locally. You can eat a variety of dishes that you might not have been able to experience otherwise, and the food is notoriously inexpensive. You will also have the opportunity to experience and learn about the culture of the area.

Create an impromptu humidifier, using a bottle of water and a handkerchief or small towel. Airplane cabins are notorious for their dry air, which can irritate your lungs and sinuses. If the dryness starts to bother you, moisten a small towel with a bit of water and lay it across your nose and mouth. Lean back and as you breathe, the water in the towel will hydrate the air you inhale.

Everyone on board a plane, train or ship, has something in common, they have all paid for the privilege of being there. Some passengers seem happier than others, though. These are the wise travelers, who have made an effort to arrange their travel plans for maximum convenience and economy. A little education can help you to join their ranks and travel with a smile.