1. Keep an open mind!

One thing any traveler needs to bring along with them is the right mindset. Traveling brings surprises; some good, some not so good. Whether your plane is delayed or you get sick, travel can bring some serious woes and obstacles. But these hindrances will be a small deal to get over when you think of the adventure you have ahead of you! When you arrive, you may find yourself overwhelmed and nervous due to unfamiliarity. Instead of comparing what the new place has to offer to what you knew before, try asking questions and following your curiosity

2. Journal, journal, journal!

Returning from a trip will leave you aching to relive the moments over and over again. While bringing along a camera will help you to visually remember parts of the your trip, there is nothing like remembering how you felt in a moment. Bring along a journal and find the time to record your favorite moments, thoughts, feelings, and reflections at the end of each day.

3. Experience with your eyes first, then your camera.

I was traveling through Canada with a guide when we set out on a hike. Before arriving at the most beautiful view point, he told me, “First, look at the beauty of it through the lenses on your face. Then you can capture it with your camera.” All too often we are in a rush to snap the perfect picture and get the coolest GoPro footage in hopes of racking up the views on Snapchat or Instagram likes. We miss out on what is right in front of us in attempts to relive it later. Try not to let moments slip away and understand that a memory in your mind may be more beautiful than how it looks on film. Though a photo to show your friends and family may be great, a vivid story to share with them is even better. The cliché “Live in the moment” saying could not be more applicable than when traveling.

4. Make connections.

Travel is temporary. Allow yourself to be exposed and open yourself up to strangers. You may be completely different than some of the people you run into, but that should not deter you. The people you are traveling with all have their own story. Put down your electronics and talk to them. Listen to their story and share your own with them. You may have more in common than you thought. Or better, you may learn something from your encounter with them.

5. Be a traveler, not a tourist.

​You will have to be vulnerable when traveling. You have to accept that sometimes, you just wont know. And that’s a good thing! Rather than solely looking around at notable “touristy” monuments, or opting for familiar menu items, try immersing yourself in the culture. Talk to locals, taste unfamiliar foods, and push yourself to try new experiences when the opportunity arises. If you are shy when traveling, you will miss out on so many openings that may not be available when you return home. Find coffee shops, bookstores, or places that locals spend their time at to get a better feel for the location. Don’t worry about buying all the souvenirs you can find, but instead know that you will return from your travels with the gift of perspective and experience! Take opportunities. Every single one!

Keeping these tips in mind, you’re set to have a wonderful trip and happy travels!

Traveling does not have to mean a first-class ticket to a place around the world. Even a road trip to another part of your own state can be an adventure and teach you something. Traveling gives a meaning to life. The people and places you experience along the way will shape you into a well-rounded person; a person with a broader outlook on life, great stories to share, and beautiful memories to carry along with you for life.