Light Packing is the Way to Go

Smart travelers are the ones who go with a carry-on because they’re terrific at packing light. They bring only what they absolutely need & nothing more, including versatile pieces.

It also leaves them some room for those unique items they’ll want to bring home which makes going on a last-minute train much easier.

Always Have a Plan B (and C)

Things don’t always go as planned. But the smart travelers shrug it off because they have backup plans.

Missed flight? No sweat, they know the next one or they’ll have an app to find it quickly.

They have a sense of flexibility that means they’re never stuck; just momentarily rerouted on another adventure.

Exploring the Local Scene

There’s more to travel than just seeing the sights and smart travelers love experiencing the local culture. They’ll learn a few phrases in the local language & try some interesting street food, even if they’re not quite sure what it is.

The goal is to be respectful and curious. It makes even the simplest of visits into a far more enlightening trip.

Flexibility is Key

Spontaneous days that become part of your best memories are completely normal for smart travelers. They keep their plans loose so they’re able to take on an unexpected festival any time of the day or even a newfound friend’s recommendation.

It’s a kind of open-mindedness that makes for experiences you just can’t plan for.

Tech-Savvy but Present

Of course, technology is great for travelers as you have maps & booking apps at your fingertips. But smart travelers also know when to put the phone down and live in the moment.

Why? Because they use technology to improve their journey instead of dominating it. They look for that sweet spot between convenience & genuine experience.

Document Safety is a Priority

Losing your passport abroad is a nightmare and smart travelers do their best to avoid this stress. They’ll keep their important documents safe by making copies and emailing themselves a version.

Better yet, they’ll use secure cloud storage. This way, if anything goes missing, they’re not starting from scratch.

Know Before You Go

Staying informed is something that only the smartest travelers do. They’ll do their homework on their destination, including learning about the weather patterns and local customs.

By doing this prep work, they’re never caught off guard and can travel with peace of mind. They know they’re going to be safe.

Money Matters

Managing money smartly is important so smart travelers let their banks know they’ll be going abroad to avoid any card issues.

They get familiar with the local currency & always have a mix of payment methods on hand. At least then, they’re never unable to pay for that once-in-a-lifetime experience; or, more importantly, dinner.

Health and Safety First

Nothing ruins a trip faster than getting sick or feeling unsafe. That’s why smart travelers take precautions by researching health requirements, getting travel insurance & packing a basic first aid kit.

They’re also streetwise enough to keep valuables out of sight and stay aware of their surroundings.

Reflect and Appreciate

Travel involves more than simply moving from place to place; it gives you a sense of growth and reflection.

Smart travelers take time to think about their experiences and write down their thoughts.

Doing so helps them process what they’ve learned & truly appreciate their travels, making each trip a part of their story.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock.

That little carving

It’s easy to assume that any small ivory figurines you see at the market are no different from other handmade souvenirs. Unfortunately, that’s not how the Canadian government sees things.

You’re not allowed to bring raw elephant ivory in without a permit, and even then, only museum workers or those using the ivory for scientific purposes are allowed.

The rule applies to carved items as well, including jewelry and decorative pieces. You’ll need to have export paperwork and a Canadian import permit before bringing them across the border, no matter how small these pieces might be or how old they are.

The polished version

Another similar banned animal product is rhino horn, although it’s less common than elephant ivory. Still, no polished or shaped form is allowed into Canada because the rules state that raw rhino horn is prohibited without a permit. 

Those with worked items will still need to get full documentation from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Sure, you might simply have a small rhino horn keepsake, but that still falls under the same regulations as raw material.

The beach-market pickup

So many people see sea turtle shell products being sold openly on holiday as combs or bracelets, and they see them as everyday souvenirs. But that’s not how things work in Canada.

Under official regulations, sea turtle shells and leather are products that require permits.

There’s no exemption for travelers, and especially not for the species that fall under stricter categories. Even a single bracelet or wallet made from turtle materials could be enough to cause you trouble at the border. You’re better off leaving it at the beach.

The fancy scarf

There are a lot of places that sell shahtoosh shawls as a luxury textile, and they come from the Tibetan antelope. As you might’ve guessed, the antelope is protected, and the Canadian government specifically lists shahtoosh shawls as banned items.

The simple tourist exemptions don’t apply here.

Those who want to bring one in will need to get a permit, and that’s pretty difficult to get. It’s more likely that you won’t be allowed to bring it in at all, despite the fact that it might look like a piece of regular clothing.

The deli counter favorite

What could be wrong with cured meats? After all, they’re sealed and portable. They’re also sold practically everywhere.

However, the Canadian food import rules state that fresh, dried, and cured meats don’t fall under the personal-use rules, including meats like salami and jamón. Chorizo is also banned.

You’re only allowed to bring in commercially prepared items that are fully cooked and shelf-stable. They’ll also need to be sealed in specific ways, meaning that even the most professionally packaged cured meats may not meet the requirements.

The flower-market idea

Any bulbs or plant kits that you pick up at a flower market aren’t as harmless as they seem.

These are classified under Canadian regulations as plants for planting, meaning that you’ll need to have an import permit as well as a phytosanitary certificate for plants coming from outside of the continental U.S. and Canada.

Yes, the rules also apply when the bulbs are cleaned and boxed. You’ll need the paperwork to bring them in, despite the fact that the bulbs might seem as though they’re ready to gift immediately. 

The holiday decoration

It’s a similar issue with decorative plant items, although they might be dry and appear fine. Pine cones and wreaths, as well as dried branches, are still heavily regulated because they can carry pests.

The rules state that any untreated cones will need to be properly processed before coming into Canada. 

You’ll also need to bring some documentation. Essentially, any natural holiday decorations you might’ve picked up abroad are going to be a lot more than simple décor at the Canadian border.

The hand-carved mask

You might expect a wooden mask or bamboo carving to be something that you can bring home without any issues. Sadly not.

In fact, the Canadian government looks quite closely at how such items are made, and pieces with untreated wood or bark are a problem.

These items can carry pests, including larvae or eggs, that could potentially cause major problems for Canadian agriculture.

While heavily processed items tend to be okay, handmade pieces don’t always meet the standard. You should get them checked out before trying to bring them home.

The shore necklace

Practically every seaside jewelry shop in southern Europe sells strands of red coral beads, which are often described as local heritage items. That’s why they’re such a problem.

Most travelers don’t realize that such coral falls under international wildlife trade rules, and you’ll need CITES permits to bring them into Canada.

These permits are required for almost all coral items, including finished pieces like necklaces and bracelets. Border officials are able to confiscate any coral items that you bring if you haven’t got the proper paperwork. Don’t let that happen to you.

The star decoration

Many travelers don’t give dried starfish a second thought when they’re on holiday, and they’ll try to bring them back to Canada, thinking they’re mere decorations. Yet the government treats dried marine animals as more than harmless objects.

The wildlife rules still apply for dead animals. Really, it’s one of those cases where something that might look like a basic ornament is still enough to be stopped at the border, unless you have the right documentation for it.

Sources: Please see here for a complete listing of all sources that were consulted in the preparation of this article.

Experiences

Many people are choosing to travel instead of paying for a big wedding. They save money this way and also spend on what really gets them excited.

This includes once-in-a-life experiences and memories that organizing a party will never give them.

Freedom

Many people these days want the freedom to make a last minute decision to fly to Paris or trek a mountain pass if they want to. It’s an incredibly freeing feeling.

In a marriage, people have to make joint decisions and often cut out risks for the sake of family. Many are choosing freedom over this restriction.

Pressure

It’s quite liberating to escape the cookie-cutter life script that society has laid out. No more hearing, “When

Travel allows many people to escape the cookie-cutter life that society often expects. By making their intentions clear to travel, they escape the pressure to marry that many young people succumb to.

They’re trying to prove there’s more to life than just following the crowd.

Diverse Lifestyles

For those questioning the traditional marriage-home-kids package, meeting people who live with different priorities is rather validating.

Suddenly, you’re not just reading about alternative ways of living in a blog post; you’re living it & breathing it.

Self-Discovery

Being in a new place makes you see yourself differently as it strips away the familiar, challenging you to grow & discover who you really are. It’s a journey of self-discovery that many people think is more fulfilling than the journey to the altar.

With each place you visit, you’ll deal with challenges that turn you into a stronger, more independent version of yourself.

Commitment

The world’s in no rush so why should you be? More people choose to explore & understand the world around them before deciding to settle down; there’s nothing wrong with that.

When you travel, you improve your life with new experiences and perspectives. You might even find a purpose that doesn’t fit the conventional mold.

Career

Work can happen from anywhere these days and that makes staying put less attractive. Traveling helps your career in ways staying in one place might not, including international networking & unique job opportunities abroad.

As such, many career-focused people believe that the globe-trotting lifestyle is much more appealing than domestic bliss.

Authentic Connections

Those friends you make when you travel can become lifelong ones in just a few days. Shared adventures forge deep connections and for many people these authentic relationships are more fulfilling than those that come from a more settled life.

These connections are real and often more impactful than you might expect.

Non-Traditional Relationships

Speaking of relationships, travel gives you new possibilities for connections that don’t fit the traditional marriage mold.

For example, they might find some long-distance love or open relationships. Even though these relationships aren’t always easy, the understanding that love isn’t confined by geography can be a huge benefit.

Uncertainty

There’s such a thrill in not knowing where you’ll be next month, next week or even tomorrow.

Unlike the structure of marriage, travel forces you to accept the unknown and simply see where life takes you. And that’s why, for thrill-seekers & lovers of spontaneity, nothing beats the feeling of traveling.

Unique Story

Finally, choosing travel over marriage allows you to tell a story that’s all your own. That’s quite important these days since everyone seems to be following the same script.

Being the author of your own unique story is darn cool. Beyond the destinations, each chapter is yours to write and the best part? There’s no telling how it’ll end.

Couples who travel together often have these 10 habits

Beyond taking some cool pics for Instagram & ticking off bucket list destinations, traveling with your significant other brings you closer. Here are ten habits that seasoned traveling pairs swear by.

Couples who travel together often have these 10 habits

Voluntourism Without Vetted Programs

Helping to build a school or homes on your vacation is a great thought, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

You should ensure that the program is set up properly, the community actually wants it and benefits from it in the long term.

Also check that the locals are fairly paid and that there’s a long term plan for maintenance.

Visiting Orphanages

The thought of bringing a smile to an orphan’s face sounds great, until orphanages turn into tourist stops. When that happens, it’s the kids who suffer because they’re not zoo animals to be observed.

In fact, fleeting attachments they form with visitors can actually mess with their heads.

Wildlife Selfies

Many wildlife selfie spots have stressed & mistreated animals that are living in conditions far from their natural habitats.

It would be much better to observe wildlife in their natural habitat from a distance. Use ethical companies that don’t disturb the animals’ peace.

Supporting Animal Entertainment

Similarly, things like elephant rides and dolphin shows are not great for the animals.

These creatures are trained harshly and kept in places that don’t meet their basic needs.

Instead, try going to sanctuaries that actually care for the animals without making them perform tricks for treats.

Buying Souvenirs Made from Endangered Species

There’s no denying that ivory trinkets and tortoiseshell bracelets look pretty. The truth is quite ugly, though.

It supports a dark industry that’s pushing some species to the brink of extinction. You should always check what your souvenirs are made of and where they come from, especially since many ethical alternatives are far better.

Disrespecting Local Customs and Dress Codes

Walking into a sacred site dressed for the beach is only going to rub locals the wrong way. Every place has its own set of rules & norms; showing respect involves following them.

Rather than simply blending in, you’re acknowledging that you’re a guest in someone else’s home. 

Leaving a Large Carbon Footprint

Flying here, there & everywhere is part of the thrill yet it’s also a big reason why our planet is heating up. Skipping flights altogether isn’t exactly doable but there are ways to lessen the impact.

For example, you should choose direct routes and research ways to offset emissions. Don’t forget to use public transport once you land.

Over-Tourism

Visiting a place so crowded you couldn’t actually see or enjoy it is never fun; that’s over-tourism for you. It strains local resources & damages the environment while also making life difficult for residents.

Try visiting less popular places or traveling during off-seasons.

Wasting Food and Resources

It’s easy to over-order in a restaurant or leave the hotel room lights on all day when you’re in vacation mode because you think you’re not paying for it. But all that waste adds up; it’s even worse in places with scarce resources.

You should be mindful about how much food you order and conserve water & electricity. They’re small steps that make a big difference.

Taking Cultural Artifacts

You might be tempted to take items that are actually cultural artifacts, like ancient stones or pieces of pottery from historical sites. However, this is often illegal.

These items are part of a place’s heritage & history, so taking them means taking a piece of the story that belongs to everyone. Stick to buying them from legit stores instead.

Planning Together

Planning a trip is sometimes as fun as the trip itself & couples who travel a lot get this. They sit down to throw ideas around, then craft their adventures side by side.

They don’t care about picking fancy hotels or cool spots; they want to make sure both get to do what they love and this teamwork makes the dream work.

Embracing New Experiences

Traveling isn’t always easy. For couples that do it a lot, these setbacks are a way out of their comfort zone.

No matter how daunting these things might be, doing them together is where the magic truly happens. It’s these “let’s go for it” moments that turn into the best stories & memories.

Learning to Laugh Off the Mishaps

Similarly, no matter how well you plan, something’s bound to go sideways on a trip.

The hotel loses your reservation or you miss the bus to that must-see landmark; but couples who travel a lot learn to laugh these things off. Doing so helps them keep the mood light & their bonds strong in everyday life, too.

Budgeting Together

Money is hardly the most romantic topic yet these couples often become really good at managing their travel funds. They know when to splurge & when to save.

This way, any adventures they go on don’t drain the bank. It’s a rather practical way of budgeting that’s useful in other parts of their lives by keeping money squabbles to a minimum.

Packing Efficiently

When you travel a lot, you get really, really good at packing. Couples who’ve been around the block know that less is more and they’ve got their packing list down to a science.

And that means no more lugging around stuff they don’t need. It makes life a lot easier so they can focus on enjoying their time together.

Creating Traditions

Many traveling couples have a special ritual for every place they visit, like collecting a specific souvenir or taking a photo in the same pose in every new city.

These little traditions are part of their way of celebrating their adventures together. After all, traveling becomes far more enjoyable when you have your own way of doing it.

Discovering New Interests Together

When you travel, you’re introduced to things you never knew you’d enjoy before. Traveling couples will try these new interests together because it broadens their horizons & keeps their relationships fresh.

Essentially, they’re open to new experiences and they’re growing together through them.

Taking Turns Leading

One person naturally takes the lead in figuring out where to go or making decisions. These couples know how important it is to take turns in these roles, with one person picking the activities one day and the other doing so the next.

It helps each person feel involved & valued while also creating a sense of mutual respect.

Documenting Their Journeys Together

These days, social media makes recording your vacations easier than ever but well-traveled couples do more than this.

They’ll take pictures of moments that tell a story, like the street food vendor they became friends with or the hilarious fail when they were trying to learn a local dance. All of these memories help enrich their shared history.

Practicing Patience and Understanding

Travel tests your patience like little else with delayed flights and confusing language barriers. Yet couples who travel often learn the art of patience with the circumstances as much as with each other.

They understand that stress can run high but empathy & support are always important. These traits help them take on the complexities of life together.

Happiness Hits a Ceiling

Throwing heaps of cash on your vacation doesn’t always mean you’ll have a better time. In fact, there’s a point where the joy you get from fancy hotels and exclusive tours doesn’t really go up, even if the price tag does.

What’s the point of spending so much? You’re not going to make the trip any more enjoyable. Instead, you should save that cash for stuff that really matters like some nice souvenirs or excursions.

Money Can Ruin the Mood

Stressing about money takes the fun out of just about anything and that’s exactly what will happen with expensive trips.

You might be staying at a luxury resort but if you’re constantly worrying about how much everything costs, you won’t be able to relax. Instead, you should spend within your budget so you’ll actually enjoy your time off.

Feeling Pressured 

When you’ve spent a small fortune on a trip, you’ll have a nagging feeling that you have to make every second worth it. You’re not able to relax.

Eventually, you’ll fill your schedule with so many things that you’ll need a vacation from your vacation.

You’re rushing from one activity to the next, trying to get your money’s worth. That kinda defeats the entire purpose of going away.

Missing Out 

One of the best parts of traveling is getting to know a place through its local culture & people. But being stuck in a luxurious area will make you miss those authentic experiences.

The most memorable moments come from trying street food and walking around, not from the exclusive experiences of expensive vacations.

The Environmental Toll

High-end travel often comes with a hefty carbon footprint, whether that’s because you’re flying first class or staying in resorts that aren’t exactly eco-friendly.

Choosing simpler ways to travel will save you money and our beautiful world. These cheaper options may also be better for the local community, especially if you stay at a place owned by local small businesses instead of big corporations. 

Exclusivity Might Be Overrated

That feeling of exclusivity that expensive vacations promise is sometimes a letdown. For example, you might pay extra money to visit a secluded beach, only to find it boring or with an obstructed view with no facilities.

It’s not so exciting after all. You’re left trying to find a nice place to sunbathe on the private beach, rather than enjoying yourself.

Less Chance for Spontaneous Connections

Traveling in style will stop you from genuinely connecting with people. Always being in the VIP section means you don’t get to meet fellow travelers or even locals who could make your trip all the more magical.

Are you really going to remember the thread count of your sheets? We don’t think so. It’s the people who make a vacation unforgettable & they can teach you a thing or two about life in your destination.

Too Much Like Home

When your vacation just feels like a fancier version of your everyday life, where’s the adventure? The whole point of traveling is to experience new things instead of experiencing the most luxurious version of what you already have.

Get out there. Stepping out of your comfort zone is where the real fun begins, even if it does feel rather scary at first. But that’s how you’ll make your memories.

The Opportunity Cost

Spending a ton on one vacation could mean you miss out on other experiences. For example, you could use the money you spent on one holiday to fund several smaller trips.

This would give you the chance to explore more of the world instead of just one corner of it. Better yet, you’ll also get to go on multiple vacations throughout the year rather than just one.

If that’s not your thing, you could even put it towards something else that makes you happy, like a hobby or saving for the future.

Unrealistic Expectations

The hype around expensive vacations may set you up for disappointment. When you’ve invested so much, receiving less than perfection feels like a letdown.

But the truth is that travel is unpredictable. It’s the surprises & mishaps that give you the best stories, like ordering the wrong food at a restaurant or getting a taxi to a completely different landmark.

Lowering the stakes makes the whole experience more enjoyable.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Capilano Bridge

Ranked the #2 most expensive attraction in the world in a recent global poll, admission prices to this BC landmark can top $250 for a family of four. This highly priced ticket is just for a 15-minute walk across a bridge.

It might be worth it for international tourists looking to check it off their once-in-a-lifetime list. But Canadians often feel the sting of domestic prices that rival the most expensive sites in Europe.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls itself is incredible. But every time you go there, there’s an invisible sign above every attraction that funnels you into a gift shop.

Hotels and restaurants in this tourist district add on a “Tourism Improvement Fee”, also known as TIF. This is basically a voluntary tip they get to keep and shows up on your bill looking like a tax.

With the overpriced parking tickets and wax museums, you would end up spending more money on a weekend than you would on a week in Mexico.

Canada’s Wonderland

Canada’s Wonderland is often ranked as one of the most overpriced amusement/theme parks in the entire world. The true trap at Canada’s Wonderland is the secondary spending you’re forced to do once you’re there.

Between the $30+ parking, $20 locker rentals, expensive food and Fast Lane passes that can cost double the price of admission, what was supposed to be a local day trip with your family can easily become a $600+ ordeal.

Disney World

Disney World is expensive for everyone but it can be a particularly nasty travel trap for Canadians. When the $CAD is low, they are basically paying nearly a 30-40% surcharge on everything from tickets to bottled water.

In addition, unlike most Europeans who visit Disney World once in their life, many Canadians seem to flock to Disney World multiple times a year. This makes the exchange rate one of the largest invisible travel traps Canada faces.

Blue Lagoon

If there’s one place Canadians are flocking to in record numbers, it’s Iceland. The short flight times from Canada’s East Coast make Iceland very desirable.

However, Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is consistently ranked the #1 most overpriced attraction in the world. Entrance fees for the famous geothermal pool often start around $100 CAD, and don’t include the fully inflated transport from Reykjavik.

Calgary Stampede

Arguably one of Canada’s greatest sources of national pride, the Stampede is an absolute wallet-drainer for Canadian travelers. Hotels use surge pricing, which typically triples the price of a nightly room during Calgary’s ten-day festival.

Couple that with hiked prices of food and drink, and visitors from other provinces often end up paying more money to go to Calgary than to fly to London or Paris.

CN Tower (Toronto)

Planning on going to the top of Canada’s most iconic tower? You’ll spend about $45–$55 per person just to get there. But if you want to go all the way to the highest point, you have to pay more.

For a family of four, climbing Canada’s Tower will run you $250+ for what amounts to a one-hour visit. That’s more than you’ll spend at just about any theme park, for the whole day.

Banff Gondola

Banff is arguably one of the most beautiful places on planet Earth, but their gondola ride charges dynamic pricing. In other words, whenever they anticipate being busy (aka. weekends), the prices skyrocket.

You could end up paying $95 CAD for a 10-minute ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Many Canadians don’t understand why looking at their own mountain range from a cable car is so expensive.

Edmonton Waterpark

Winter-weary families from across Canada will travel to Edmonton just to visit the waterpark at West Edmonton Mall. While it was once a reasonable outing, tickets now sit at $65–$70 per person. That’s $300+ for a family of four before you even buy lunch or rent a locker.

Las Vegas Resorts

Las Vegas is an ultra-popular vacation spot for Canadians, but resort fees are one of Vegas’s biggest hidden fees for visitors. Nearly every hotel charges guests an extra $45–$60 USD on top of the nightly room price.

Converted into Canadian dollars, that’s upwards of $80 you’re paying per day for things like Wifi and gym access you may never use.

Columbia Icefield Skywalk

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a glass walkway overlooking a massive canyon just outside of Jasper. The admission price is steep at about $40, but you can only get there by paying to take their bus.

Even then, most travelers find the walkway too short to justify the price when there are tons of free, world-class views just minutes away from the Skywalk.

Casa Loma (Toronto)

Toronto’s trendy castle charges over $40 to get in. It’s a historic building, but many think the castle isn’t worth it. And you have to pay for parking too.

The biggest ripoff is that it gets booked for private events all the time. So chances are, even if you go there, some parts will be closed.

Tacky T-shirts

Tacky T-shirts with loud prints and cheesy phrases might catch your eye and look so cute at the moment. But when you get home, their low quality combined with the cheesy messaging will make them unwearable.

Additionally, these t-shirts often lose color or shrink after just a few washes, making them look even less attractive.

Shot Glasses

Sometimes we grab these as they are easy to find and don’t take up too much space in our luggage. For most people, they eventually wind up on a shelf to collect dust.

How often do you use these glasses? They lose their charm quickly and pretty soon, you will be cleaning these glasses instead of using them.

Keychains

Keychains are very cheap, small and seem like an easy last-minute pick-up. But you can only have so many of these keychains.

Once used for some time, they become clutter.

Magnets

You go on a couple of trips and your fridge door is covered with magnets that you never even look at.

In no time, you have a mishmash of novelty eyesores that take over your kitchen. Most of them don’t even stick well & fall off easily.

Local Snacks and Sweets

At the time, those exotic snacks and treats might seem like cool souvenirs to bring back from your trip. However, on your return, they rarely taste anything like the flavor you remember.

Many of them might even expire before you get to them, and then all you’d have is a bag full of stale treats.

Handmade Jewelry

Handmade jewelry made with beautiful beads, pearls, threads, and metal seems to be a rare find while you are out for local shopping in town centers.

But when you get home, those pieces may seem too loud or might not be in line with your daily style. They could also be poorly manufactured, break easily, or tarnish within a few years.

Cheap Sunglasses

When you’re on holiday, you will definitely buy a pair of cheap sunglasses (especially if you’ve left your own behind).

These cheap sunglasses have no UV protection at all. Then the plastic screws fall off or the lens comes out or the paint starts chipping off; and into the trash they go.

All guaranteed to happen before your plane lands back in your hometown.

Decorative Plates

Decorative plates are something of a tourist trap; yep, you buy that as a collectible souvenir and then what?

It’s not like you can eat off them. They are space wasters and without the correct setup, they make your home look like a mess.

Eventually they become more of a storage problem than anything else.

Postcards

Postcards are a nice way of remembering the places we visit as they have really nice pictures to show.

But how many times do you give those photos a second look? Most postcards just end up in a drawer, forgotten, or even thrown away when you declutter.

Local Alcohol

It may seem like a great idea to buy a bottle of wine or local hangover drink to bring home, but how many expired bottles of these do you already have at home?

It never quite tastes like it did on vacation or you save it for that certain occasion that really never comes.

Oversized Hats

Traveling in tropical lands, you will always buy large, sun-blocking hats. These hats are big, and difficult to carry.

Walking around carrying them is often not the most pleasant experience. Additionally, when you get back from the trip, they hardly ever go with your day-to-day wear.

14 souvenirs you can’t legally take out of some countries

Think twice before pocketing sand or statues abroad. These fourteen souvenirs could cost you a lot at the airport. Why? Because they’re illegal.

14 souvenirs you can’t legally take out of some countries

But why? What is it that makes skip-gen vacations so appealing to both grandkids & grandparents? And why has 2026 become the year when this type of vacation is so popular? That’s what we’re going to find out.

The term is in research literature

Unlike a lot of travel terminology, the phrase “skip-gen travel” didn’t actually come solely from travel blogs, as it’s something that one peer-reviewed 2026 study looked into.

The researchers interviewed different sets of grandparents about the trips they had taken without the middle generation.

They referred to this phenomenon as “skip-gen travel.” Previous tourism researchers also referred to it as “grandtravel,” with one 2019 paper explaining it as a vacation where grandparents & grandchildren travel together.

Trips can be short

One interesting detail about skip-gen travel is how flexible it can be. Grandtravel includes day trips & overnight stays, as well as longer holidays. It doesn’t necessarily have to involve flying across the world.

Something like a simple road trip or a weekend stay in a cabin functions as skip-gen travel. Even visiting a museum for a few hours with your grandchildren counts as grandtravel, as the most important aspect is the fact that you’re spending leisure time together.

What are people doing during skip-gen travel

The NYU School of Professional Studies Family Travel Survey looked into skip-gen travel, specifically at the activities involved in these sorts of vacations. They found that cultural attractions are some of the most popular, including trips to museums and historic sites.

Interestingly, beach-focused travel didn’t appear to be as common during skip-gen travel experiences. It appears that grandparents are aiming for more learning-focused outings when they’re traveling with their grandkids.

Practical details families often plan around

Interviews with skip-gen grandparents indicate that they choose to have slower travel itineraries and more accessible lodging. They also try to ensure that they choose activities that both generations are able to deal with.

It makes sense. After all, many grandparents help with childcare at home, meaning that travel planning tends to be similar to the routines that these families know. Grandparents are often comfortable with maintaining the details of skip-gen travel.

How the lack of parents affects the trip

The biggest effect that comes from parents not going on vacation is in terms of group dynamics. Fewer adults being involved in the trip means there are fewer roles to juggle overall. In the 2026 study, skip-gen grandparents described how the pacing and decision-making aspects of the vacation felt rather different.

They also mentioned how their sense of shared responsibility wasn’t the same as regular multi-generational trips, simply because they were the only adults going on this vacation.

The idea of legacy

So why exactly do people decide to go on skip-gen vacations? According to research, participants claim they wanted to give their grandchildren experiences that they would remember years later.

The 2026 research also found that some grandparents claimed that they want to leave a legacy for their children. They wanted to create travel memories that actually have meaning for their descendants.

Retirement timing

We can’t ignore the fact that grandparents have a lot more say in their schedules once their work starts to slow down. They start filling their weekdays differently when they leave full-time jobs. With such flexibility, families start planning around school breaks or quieter travel days.

Grandparents don’t have a fixed block of vacation days they have to use. Instead, they’re able to suggest midweek travel or longer stays that parents might not be able to deal with, giving the older generation the chance to take their grandchildren on trips that may not normally be possible. 

Parents get an actual break

There’s also the fact that parents get a chance to have an actual break, while knowing that the childcare side of things will be covered. In fact, a 2026 health economics paper found that grandparent support helps to create parental time for leisure or rest.

However, that doesn’t necessarily translate into emotional benefits. One study from the University of Exeter found that grandparents caring for younger children didn’t affect the mothers’ well-being. It really depends on each family’s situation and expectations.

It’s not separate from bigger family patterns

It’s important to remember that the concept of skip-gen travel doesn’t exactly exist in a vacuum either, as demographic studies have shown the impact grandparents have on their grandchildren. They provide childcare & emotional support, for starters.

A working paper from the Oxford Institute of Population Ageing actually referred to grandparents as being ongoing supporters of their grandchildren. As such, it’s not surprising that some families feel comfortable planning vacations without the parents present.

What we can say carefully

Tourism research now talks about skip-gen travel as being an emerging travel type. It’s also something that university surveys have been tracking alongside multigenerational vacations, although that’s about as far as the evidence goes.

The exact number of skip-gen vacations happening each year isn’t exactly clear. However, what we do know is that many sources indicate that it’s a travel type that’s on the rise in multiple places. 

Sources: Please see here for a complete listing of all sources that were consulted in the preparation of this article.

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Before you seal your suitcase, here are the most common winter packing mistakes travelers make and how to avoid them.

Throwing in too much or too little clothing

Cold-weather outfits are bulkier, and luggage gets filled up fast. Many travelers end up panic-packing, tossing in everything they could possibly need. The result? Skyrocketing overweight baggage fees and a sore back.

On the other hand, overzealous attempts to “travel light” often leave travelers shivering in the same cold outfit every day of the trip.

Find a middle ground between these extremes. Stick to 3-4 outfit combinations that you can mix and match. Stick to neutral colors so every layer pairs with the others.

Forgetting essential winter gear

Winter hats, gloves, scarves, earmuffs, and thermal socks may seem small and trivial until you realize how much pain cold hands and ears can cause in below-freezing temperatures.

Even moderately cold destinations can drop rapidly at night due to wind chill. Thermals and breathable base layers trap body heat from escaping. So pack at least 2 pairs of gloves (one waterproof), thermal leggings &  tops, a warm hat covering your ears, and a neck warmer or scarf.

Packing shoes that aren’t weather-appropriate

Fluffy sneakers or basic boots are cute, but not much help on ice. Shoes that aren’t waterproof will soak your socks within seconds. Wet feet dramatically increase the risk of frostbite in freezing temperatures.

So always pack waterproof, insulated shoes, anti-slip soles or attachable ice grips, and at least 2 warm pairs of socks for every day (wool is best).

Ignoring layering techniques

Layering is a necessity in cold temperatures. Indoors will be overheated, while outdoors may be unbearably cold. Without layers, you’ll feel like a popsicle outside or like you’re melting indoors.

The basic layering formula:

1. Base layer (thermals: keeps body heat in)
2. Mid layer (fleece or wool: provides extra warmth)
3. Outer layer (coat: insulates against wind/rain/snow)

With the right strategy, you can withstand almost any temperature change.

Don’t forget a weatherproof backpack or bag that can strap across your chest to keep your hands free. Many great models have additional insulation or can convert to a coat or windbreaker.

Neglecting airline weight limits

Winter jackets, sweaters, boots, and all the other essentials are heavy. Many airlines, especially low-cost budget airlines, have strict baggage weight and size limits. Surprise fees right before a flight can decimate your trip’s budget.

Travel tips:

• Wear your bulkiest items on the plane.
• Roll up clothes instead of folding them to save space.
• Double-check your airline’s baggage restrictions before packing.
• Use your coat as a comfy airplane blanket.

Neglecting to protect electronics from cold damage

Cold temperatures zap battery life much faster, especially in phones, cameras, and power banks. Some camera lenses fog up or crack from drastic temperature changes.

Keep electronics in inner pockets against body heat. Make sure to store your camera in an insulated case. Carry a power bank (and keep that warm too). If you’re snapping snowy pictures, let your camera adjust to  temperature slowly indoors to avoid condensation on the lens.

Forgetting toiletries or plug adapters

Cold weather dries out your skin fast. Chapped lips, cracked hands, and itchy skin can sour your mood. If you’re traveling abroad, not having a plug adapter will mean you can’t charge anything at all.

Don’t forget:

• Travel moisturizer & lip balm
• Hand cream
• Mini sunscreen (yes, you need sunscreen in the snow. Snow reflects UV rays)
• Plug adapter for your destination country

A small toiletry pouch can save a lot of headaches.

Overlooking important documents

Winter clothing involves multiple layers, which means more pockets and more opportunities to lose necessary documents. Gloves also make handling small papers a hassle.

Essentials checklist:

• Passport/ID
• Travel insurance
• Hotel confirmation
• Copies of reservations & emergency contacts

Keep all documents in a waterproof document holder.

Choosing unsuitable luggage for winter

Dragging your suitcase through slush or heavy snow is less than ideal. Canvas or soft fabric suitcases absorb water like a sponge. Broken wheels on ice? Forget about it.

Choose a bag with weatherproof qualities. Waterproof or water-resistant hard-shell luggage with sturdy double wheels is best. If you prefer a backpack, choose one with weatherproof fabric, extra back support, and a protective bottom panel.

Not planning for travel delays

Winter storms can lead to airport closures and travel delays. Missing connections or being stuck at an airport with nothing warm to wear is no fun.

So don’t forget to pack your carry-on with a warm layer or spare sweater, a pair of socks, medication, phone charger, and snacks. If your main bag gets lost, you won’t be shivering while waiting for it.

Neglecting comfort + entertainment

Cold weather equals longer waiting times: traffic jams, train delays, slow airport lines. A bored traveler is an unhappy traveler. Make sure you have entertainment like movies, Netflix episodes, music, podcasts, an audiobook or e-book. It’s best to download to your device before your trip. Also, toss in a travel pillow and warm socks.

Forgetting to pack emergency items

You arrive late, get caught in a storm, or hotels/shops are closed. Your own emergency mini-kit keeps you prepared. Pack basic first-aid items, prescription medication, energy bars or nuts, heat pads or pocket warmers. It doesn’t have to be large, just enough to be safe.

The following sources were consulted in the preparation of this article:

1. Winter Packing List: How to Pack Light for Cold Weather Trips
2. Tips for Packing Efficiently for Winter Trips and Holidays