navagio shipwreck beachTravel presents so many options, so many opportunities for fun and memorable experiences, and very many possibilities for trouble and disappointment too. Here's a few facts and astute tips that will help you to make your next trip a wonderful one.Only pack the essentials. The less you bring with you, the less you have to lose or get stolen. Limit how many shoes you take as they can take up a lot of room and are the heaviest things you will be taking.Plan your packing. In these days of baggage fees and weight limits, most travelers carry one suitcase. To fit everything in, you need to be a smart packer. Check the weather forecast for your destination and choose outfits that you can mix and match. Opt for layers, which can easily be added or removed as the temperature changes. Also remember to wear your heavier/bulkier shoes so that they don't hog too much space in your luggage.Don't get carried away with taking too many photographs on your trip. Some people get so caught up in taking pictures of everything that they forget to experience the culture and landmarks. Take a few pictures, but also make sure to spend enough time outside of the lens to enjoy your trip to the fullest.Search for discounts for all of your travel arrangements. Taking a trip provides you unlimited areas to save money in. In everything from the flight, to the rental car, to a walking tour of the city, discounts abound. Search online taking advantage of packages and check what deals are available to you through your credit cards and memberships.Having a good set of maps or road atlas can save one from a possible disaster if they get lost or electronic map devices such as GPS or smart phones run out of battery. Many things can cause electronics to malfunction and stop working. Having backup option can save one's trip.Don't rely on ribbons and bows to make your luggage stand out from the rest of the pack. These adornments can very easily be torn off in transit. Instead, opt for luggage in a bright, unusual color or vivid pattern that stands out on its own and can't be removed.If you are traveling on a cruise ship, take a fishing tackle box with you. Put all your valuable jewelry in it; someone who is trying to steal from you probably will not look in it. Tackle boxes even have small compartments that allow you to store earrings or rings as well as larger areas for other jewelry.After you drop off your items in your hotel room, step back outside. To prepare for an emergency, count the number of doors between your room and the emergency exits. You want to be able to get out safely and if you are unable to see, you will need that number. You may want to have a flashlight handy, as well.When you first arrive at your hotel room, check the mini-bar. Some guests are known for refilling bottles with water, so make sure each and every bottle is fully sealed. If any of them are not, you should immediately phone the front desk and tell them what you have found. You do not want to be charged for someone else's dishonesty.As you plan your vacation, consider taking the bus instead of flying, driving or taking a train. This method of travel is relatively inexpensive, and depending on who you book with, the bus fleets often boast newer models that are clean and attractive. They also include wifi access.Bring a dry erase board and markers with you when you are traveling on a cruise ship. Put these items up on your door; you will now have an easier time identifying your room, and your family can write notes on it to tell you where they are going. Prepare the dry erase board before you leave for the trip by gluing magnets to the back of it.Joining a travelers club like AAA will help keep money in your pocket through discounts and specials. Many hotels, restaurants and other organizations will offer moderate to steep discounts to members of travelers clubs. With little research and questioning, you can target companies that offer these discounts and save a bundle.One of the best ways to understand the culture of another country is to visit their supermarkets. This is where the locals are almost certain to be found and seeing the real food can help give you a great overview of what type of culture you are experiencing. Be sure to pick up some new snacks too!When you travel, double check airport security regulations before you leave. What's allowed on the plane and what's not change frequently. Make sure you know what you can bring in your carry on. When in doubt, check anything you can't bear to lose or leave it at home.Now that you have found out about the secrets to having a successful trip take a moment to see how you can apply them directly to your planned destination. Enjoy having better preparation for anything that comes your way. Use these tips to build memories that you will remember for the rest of your life.