Whether you are a seasoned traveller or planning your first trip, it’s always helpful to be reminded of potential pitfalls. Before you embark on your next great adventure, take a moment to read through this list of mistakes to avoid when travelling.

Going Rogue When Booking

One of the biggest travel mistakes you can make when booking is going rogue and not doing your research. Sure, it might be tempting to book the first ticket or hotel room you see, but chances are you will end up paying more than you need to. While it may work out cheaper in some cases, the peace of mind and convenience that comes with having a travel agent is often worth the cost. Not to mention, they likely have access to deals you don’t and can offer valuable advice based on experience.

Booking the Cheapest Accommodations or Travel Fares You Can Find

When it comes to booking accommodation or airfare, it can be tempting to choose the cheapest option available. However, scrimping in this area can often lead to regret later on. If your accommodation is uncomfortable or in a less-than-desirable location, it can make your entire trip more difficult than it needs to be. The same goes for flying – opt for a few extra amenities like seats with extra legroom or early boarding and you’ll be glad you did when you are stuck on a long flight.

Not Being Prepared for the Weather

This one seems like a no-brainer but you’d be surprised how many people get caught out by unexpected weather changes while travelling. Always check the forecast before you pack and be sure to include items that will keep you comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. This is especially important if you're travelling to a destination with drastically different weather than what you're used to. 

Overpacking

We’ve all been there – trying to shove our overstuffed suitcase into the overhead compartment only to have everything come spilling out at our feet as we struggle to zip it shut. To avoid this stressful situation (and potential fees for excess luggage), try to pack light and only bring items you know you’ll need and use. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and leave it at home as chances are you won’t miss it as much as you think you will. 

Not Managing Your Time 

This is especially important if you're travelling for business or have limited time for sightseeing. It can be easy to underestimate how long certain activities will take or how tiring travelling can be, resulting in a rushed trip without any opportunity to truly relax and recharge. A popular travel tip to follow is when planning your itinerary, build in some buffer time in case things go off schedule or you simply need a break from sightseeing. That way, you can rest assured knowing you have enough time to do everything on your list without feeling rushed or stressed out. 

Let Us Help You Plan Your Next Adventure

From booking flights and hotels to dealing with expenses and itineraries, there's a lot to keep track of. That's where CTI Business Travel comes in. 

We're experts at handling all the details of business travel, so you can avoid these common travel faux pas and focus on what's important - your trip. We'll work with you to plan every aspect of your trip, from finding the perfect hotel to making sure you get the best possible rate on airfare. Connect with our team today and let us help make your next trip a success.