1. Check-in to your flights online to save a long, unnecessary wait at the airport. Nearly all airlines have a mobile app you can download for free.

2. Carry your wallet and phone in your front pockets, better safe than sorry.

3. Turn off your mobile data to avoid a costly bill, unless you’re one of those lucky sons of guns who has an unlimited date plan – I envy you.

4. Pack small, reliable headphones, you will always use them.

5. Wear comfortable shoes.

6. Make copies of all important documents. Especially reservations.

7. Let your banks know you’ll be traveling to prevent your accounts being flagged.

8. Pack multivitamins. More energy and less chances of getting sick with just one simple daily pill.

9. Pack hand sanitizer. Airports, hostels, and attractions no matter how seemingly clean are all filled with germs and who wants to get sit on vacation?

10. Bring a reasonable amount of cash for emergencies and cash only places and fares but not too much $50 bucks is plenty.

11. Bring your student or military ID for easy discounts at hostels, museums, and other attractions.

12. Drink plenty of water daily, especially in the morning or late at night, to stay hydrated and feel rejuvenated.

13. Don’t drink on the plane to minimize jetlag and keep your budget.

14. Buy a key lock for hostel lockers and or the zipper compartment in your personal or carry-on bag where you’re keeping your valuables and electronics.

15. Reserve a seat in the center of the plane. Less turbulence and the seats will generally be the best of the “cheap” seats.

16. Bring a portable phone or stick charger literally everywhere. There is nothing worse than having a dead phone battery and not knowing your way around.

17. Do not take naps no matter what to combat jetlag.

18. Research the basic do’s or do not’s of where you’re going. Example: Open container law in Orlando, Fl.

19. Google sample daily itineraries then customize, fit what you like into your schedule and throw away the rest.

20. Research the generally opening and closing times of stores and museums. Example: A fair majority are closed or have reduced business hours on Sunday and or Monday.

21. Research when bars, liquor stores, as well as beer and wine sales end where you’re going. Example: Alcohol can’t be sold in certain states on Sunday.