Travel Tips: On the Go

It's no secret that traveling makes individuals happier, has been found to boost creativity, and broadens worldviews.

So whether you resolved to travel more this summer or just want to shake things up in a new place, I've gathered some tips to make sure your trips are memorable in all the right ways.

Early bird gets the worm & the photo (Big Bend)

Wake up early to avoid crowds.

You know the saying - the early bird gets the worm. Well, it's the same for tourists. Want to sightsee and actually be able to see the sights without others in the way? Set your alarm. You didn’t come all this way for a bunch of photo bombers to clog your camera lens.

Spend more time in fewer places.

It's natural to want to cram in all the experiences and places in your trip, but challenge yourself to slow down a bit. Make the most of where you are and fully soak the experience in. Take time to just be, whether it means sipping a latte and people-watching or taking a breather on a park bench.

Capture memories wherever you are (Greece)

Make sure to take photos - with you in them.

Most of us don't have to be reminded to take photos of picturesque views. However, we can be so busy soaking up the memories or pointing the camera in the opposite direction, that we forget to capture ourselves in these photos as well. Trust me - you're going to want these pictures with you in them later.

Lost in Ireland = discovering St. Stephen's Green Park

Get out of your comfort zone.

Say yes to something new and/or different. This can come in the form of trying a foreign cuisine or saying yes to an activity you haven't done before (salsa dancing, etc.). Be open to new experiences - life happens at the end of your comfort zone. Traveling keeps you on your toes and delivers the neatest surprises - go with it.

Terrified of heights but did the thing (Ireland)

Get lost on purpose.

Yes, you read that right. Take the road less traveled and all that jazz. By doing this, you can discover places and meet people that you may have skipped over otherwise. Also, there's usually a good story or two that you can take home from the experience.

A few other tips for the road:

• Write down the address of where you're staying - the old memory bank aka your brain is sometimes not so helpful.

• If traveling solo, let someone at home know where you are - for your and their peace of mind.

• Take an extra credit card & some cash - be double-prepared.

• Make copies of travel documents - store these in a different place than the original docs you are bringing with you.

• Bring shoes you're comfortable walking in - your feet will thank you.

• Pack less, not more - no, you won't wear all those shoes.

Overall, like most things in life, travel is what you make of it. It is dreamy and gritty, exhilarating and terrifying, and it is always, always utterly life-changing.