Ten Tips for Happy Travels

Traveling should be a good experience. Yes, there are various inconveniences that come along with traveling, but in general you can make traveling a happy experience if you so desire. Following are some tips to make your journey more enjoyable....

1. Travel light. This is the first and foremost rule so that you are not lugging around extra luggage and weight. For a practical strategy on packing lighter, see my separate article on this.
2. Dress comfortably. Wear what makes you comfortable and confident. Good shoes are paramount. (Note: the first two rules can be compared to taking a walk in the park. Would you rather wear comfy clothes and shoes while simply walking your dog, or wear a suit and dress shoes while pulling a fifty pound wagon and carrying a thirty pound back pack? You see my point.)
3. Plan out your trip in advance. A few minutes of basic planning pays off by making your trip less stressful. Look at a map, gather your tickets and hotel information, etc.
4. Avoid the rush, and leave in plenty of time. Arrive early at the airport early, leisurely stroll through baggage check and security, use the restroom, and chill at the gate. When you arrive early, you will be happier and more relaxed in general. Wether you choose to entertain yourself or get a little work done before you board is up to you. Same goes for driving to your destination.
5. Pack a snack. Having tasty food within reach is a basic human comfort.
6. Take a water bottle and stay hydrated. If flying, it will need to be empty before going through security, but then you can fill it afterwards. Most airports now have water bottle filling stations with filtered water.
7. Take stuff to entertain yourself. For me this is books, magazines, and my journal. For my wife it is books and movies on her tablet.
8. Listen to music that you like. It is as simple as plugging earphones into your smart phone or tablet now a days.
9. Reward yourself along the journey by doing something fun or buying something you've been wanting. For instance, when driving somewhere and arriving early, seek out that museum you've been wanting to go to. Or when flying, do a little shopping at the airport or a local specialty store.
10. Travel with people you enjoy spending time with. A good companion or fun group can make your trip a memorable adventure.

Remember that great experiences are more valuable than material things when it comes to human happiness. So turn your journeys into happy events that will enrich your life.