The season of blankets, quilts and snow is finally here! Well, a number of people must have already planned their winter travel to see the snow and make snowmen! However, travelling during winters requires a lot more preparation than other seasons and we can’t deny this fact.

Be it a snowy adventure or heading to a cold climate for fun, here are 10 tips that will help you travel comfortably and safely in winters.

Know the weather: Before you go on your winter journey, make sure you know about the weather conditions of the place you are visiting. Be aware of potential storms, snowfall, and temperature fluctuations.

Dress in layers: Layering is important while travelling to a cold destination. Add an insulating layer for warmth, and finish with a waterproof or windproof outer layer to shield yourself from rain or snow.

Pack light but right: This should be your winter travel mantra always! Don’t forget to bring essential winter accessories like a durable pair of waterproof boots, thermal gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. Consider investing in high-quality, insulated jackets to ensure comfort during long hours outdoors.

Keep your feet warm: Cold feet can quickly dampen your winter travel experience. Invest in thermal socks and make sure your boots are both insulated and waterproof. Consider bringing foot warmers for additional heat during extended periods outdoors.

Drink plenty of water: We generally tend to skip drinking water in cold weather. It’s easy to underestimate the need for hydration which is not a good thing to do. The dry winter air can contribute to dehydration, so pack a reusable water bottle and sip regularly.

Mind the icy surfaces: Winter travel often means encountering icy sidewalks and roads. Take caution when walking or driving in these conditions. Wear shoes with good traction, and if you’re driving, equip your vehicle with winter tires.

Plan for shorter days: Winter days are shorter, and darkness falls earlier. Plan your activities accordingly, and be sure to have a reliable light source if you’ll be out after sunset.

Charge your devices: Cold temperatures can drain electronic device batteries faster than usual. Ensure your phone, camera, and other essential devices are fully charged before heading out. Carry a portable charger for emergencies.

Be prepared for delays: Winter weather can lead to transportation delays. Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking public transport, build extra time into your schedule to account for potential delays.

Respect local customs: Be respectful of local customs and conditions at your destination. Some areas may have specific winter safety measures or unique winter activities that you can enjoy. Respecting local guidelines will add to your winter travel experience.

No one ever plans to get scammed, especially in a foreign country, but that’s what happens when you have no idea how shady some locals can be.

If you’ve ever fallen for a travel scam, you’d understand how frustrating it can be to find yourself in such a situation. Of course, no one blames you for it. One would expect the locals of a city to be nice to foreigners as a way of sending a good message about their culture and lifestyle to them.

However, it’s sometimes the other way round. Locals look for ways to take advantage of tourists, and exploit them.

The best way to avoid falling victim of travel scams is to be aware of some of them. That way, you can be on the look out and also avoid some of the tricks.

1) Taxi driver scam

Taxi drivers are like the first set of people you meet as you depart from the airport. Some of them are quick to differentiate strangers from indigenes and like to take advantage of them.

When you get into their ride, some of them will tell you that their meter is broken or that rides are cheaper without the meter. At the end of the day, they end up charging you so much, and you’re not likely to realize this because you have no idea what it should normally be.

To avoid this kind of scam, ensure that their meter is working properly and insist on using it even when they say otherwise.

2) Counterfeit money scam

This is another common scams used by taxi drivers or employees at local restaurants. When you make payment for a meal or a ride, they’ll return the money back to you, claiming its counterfeit, and ask for a different payment type.

What you may not know is that you probably gave them original notes but while you weren’t looking, they swapped it for a counterfeit note and handed it back to you as fake money.

A piece of advise here is to always pay attention when you’re making payment. Also, be sure to change money at the bank or hotel to avoid counterfeit money situations.

3) Group photo offer

You know how you sometimes approach strangers asking them to kindly take a photo of you and your friends using your phone or camera? Well, this trick is sometimes used by locals to steal foreigners phone and camera.

They offer to help take a picture of the group, and before you realize what’s happening, they’ve taken off with it. So, rather than give your camera to anyone who offers, choose carefully who to give it to.

Also, be mindful of the environment. Avoid doing such in crowded places, where people can easily get mixed up in the crowd.

4) Attraction is closed scam

This travel scam is another common scam to get tourists to spend more money. Some friendly locals might approach to tell you that the attraction is closed because of religious ceremonies, holidays and the likes.

They’ll offer to take you or show you other attractions close by where you’ll be spending much more. What you don’t know is that they might be getting some huge commission from bringing more people to the alternative attraction.

Also, the attraction you intended to go to in the first place may not be closed. You probably approached the building from the wrong side.

To avoid this scam, always verify the words of locals by confirming with as many people and also head to the ticket counter to verify certain information.

This trick is also used by taxi drivers when you just get into town. They may tell you that the hotel you are going to is closed or overbooked and offer to take you to another. Once again, be sure to verify by yourself before making a decision based on the local’s recommendation.

Embarking on an eco-friendly adventure with our pets provides a rewarding opportunity to make lasting memories, all while being mindful of our environmental footprint

Enjoying a vacation with our furry friends is a joy unlike any other, but as responsible pet owners, we’re increasingly considering the environmental impact of our journeys. Travelling sustainably is not limited to humans alone and extends to our four-legged companions as well. Here, we’ll ensure that every pet’s footprint impacts the environment positively as we explore the fascinating world of eco-friendly travel. From selecting eco-friendly accommodation to reducing our carbon footprint, here is a ready reckoner for eco-friendly travel with our furry companions.

1. Pack Environmentally Friendly Products

Finding “green” products at your destination might be challenging, so it’s important to carry essential eco-conscious items for your pets. Pack your treats, meals, and other essentials in cloth or reusable containers.

• Biodegradable Pet Waste Bags

Always pack more than you think you’ll need. We suggest packing considerably more of these than you think you will need. If you are planning a foreign trip, familiarise yourself with the local regulations on pet waste disposal. Though most countries encourage picking up after yourself, others may have designated places or bins for waste disposal.

• Nutritious, Eco-Friendly Pet Food

Pets may experience stress from travel, and their digestive systems may find adjusting to a new diet extremely challenging.

Be aware that when travelling internationally, especially into the European Union, the rules for importing meat and dairy products have been updated. Now, pets are only allowed to consume meat-based products, including those containing insects, if they’re approved by a veterinarian and necessary for their health. Pet food must be approved if it is meant for the animal flying with the passenger, does not require refrigeration, and is sealed unless in current use.

2. Visit Your Vet Beforehand

Although you might be eager to bring your pet along on your travels, it’s important to consider if it’s the right time for them. Before setting off, consult your veterinarian to confirm your pet is healthy enough for the journey. Now is a great time to get updated prescriptions, vaccination records, and emergency vet contact information.

For added precaution, include a pet first-aid kit in your travel baggage. Additionally, it’s wise to discuss your pet insurance policy with your vet to understand if it covers travel-related incidents.

3. Book Eco-Friendly Parks And Resorts

Finding eco-pet-friendly parks and resorts is essential when travelling with your furry friends. It’s simple to find eco-friendly dog parks where you and your dog can enjoy the outdoors together. These parks will have trash cans so that you and your pets leave nothing but pawprints, as well as waste stations for simple cleanup.

These environmentally friendly, dog-friendly hotels and resorts provide free, biodegradable waste bags, paperless checkout, ecological cleaning practices, and locally sourced foods. When making reservations for these accommodations for you and your dogs, look for green designations to ensure the facility is sustainable.

4. Stock Up On Equipment And Treats

While you must ensure you have plenty of treats for your pet,  be cautious about overpacking. Opt for items made from eco-friendly materials.

Here are some additional supplies you might consider bringing along:

• Brushes or combs, particularly for controlling fleas.
• Extra tags and extra collars.
• Additional prescription drugs.
• Pet wipes and paper towels.
• Cleaning supplies and waste bags.
• Toys, blankets, and comfort items that your pet adores.

5. Go For A Sustainable Travel Option

Plane: According to recent research, flying 2,500 miles on a plane releases enough carbon dioxide to melt 32 square feet of polar ice. If you must travel by air, try to find airlines that make an effort to be more sustainable.

Car: Although not everyone has one, driving a car can be eco-friendly if you have an electric or hybrid vehicle. However, compared to a plane, it is far more sustainable.

Train: Trains produce about 24 grammes of carbon dioxide per kilometre, which is not great, but it’s still better than cars and aeroplanes.

So you’ve made the exciting decision to embark on a travel experience, what’s the first thing you do?

Some might say booking the flight, and while this is an exciting step in planning your travel adventure, there are several crucial and sometimes boring factors to consider before confirming your reservation.

Here are some things you need to know and can do to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey before you book the flight!

Flexibility is key

When planning your trip, it’s essential to remain flexible with your travel dates.

Airlines often have fluctuating ticket prices depending on the day of the week, time of day, and even the time of the year.

Use flexible date search options on travel websites to find the best deals and consider flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons to save money. Being open to adjusting your travel dates can lead to significant cost savings.

Research, research, research – airlines and routes

Not all airlines are created equal, and each may offer different services, amenities, and baggage policies.

Before booking your flight, research various airlines and compare their offerings. Take note of any additional fees for baggage, in-flight entertainment, or seat selection.

Additionally, consider the layover durations and locations when comparing different flight routes. Sometimes a longer layover may result in a more affordable fare, but it’s crucial to weigh this against the added inconvenience.

Get your Visa

Before finalising your flight booking, make sure you are aware of the visa and entry requirements for your destination. Some countries may require a visa or have specific entry conditions, such as mandatory vaccinations or quarantine periods.

Ensure that your travel documents are in order and that you meet all the necessary entry criteria. Failure to comply with these requirements could lead to denied entry or other complications upon arrival.

This can be a tedious process and due to legislation in the country to you traveling to, rejection is possible. To avoid this, ensure you have the correct documentation and complete honesty about the reasons for traveling.

Understand cancellation and refund policies

Life is unpredictable, and plans can change unexpectedly. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the cancellation and refund policies of the airline you choose.

Many airlines offer different fare classes with varying refund conditions. Some tickets may be non-refundable, while others allow changes with a fee. Knowing the cancellation terms upfront can save you from financial headaches in case you need to alter your plans.