Efficient Travel: Making the Most of Your Time

When it comes to travelling, time is of the essence. Having the flexibility to explore at leisure is great, but what happens when you are limited, when there is so much you want to do but only a few days to do it all? Having more time will always be positive while travelling, but you can still enjoy a short trip and capture great photographs in only a few days. There are several key strategies to remember to make the most of it.

Vatican City - 2018

1. Plan Ahead

I think this goes without saying, but if you have limited time in your destination, it’s essential to plan. If you intend to see specific sights or dine at renowned restaurants, plan by researching what is required. Some landmarks and locations require tickets, and many restaurants have reservations, especially if they are popular places. Be sure you know what is involved with what you want to do. Some will be easy and require nothing, but it’s always best to check beforehand to ensure you are not missing any vital information or requirements.

It is also common to pay less for activities or attractions if paid in advance, allowing you to spend your money on other activities.

2. Research Your Transportation Options

Efficient transportation is key to maximizing your time, and numerous transportation options are available depending on where you are travelling. For flights, book direct when you can, but look into the flight details when a connection is involved. Some destinations can appear to be good deals, but as you look further into it, it may not be what you initially thought. Some can have multiple stops, taking much of your enjoyable time away. Some can also require an overnight flight, which takes even more time and potentially results in an additional wasted day.

In my experience, if you find a slightly more expensive flight than the cheapest option, it will probably be more reasonable and worth the extra dollars. Stops consume time and require you to fill that time in the airport. Anything you do in an airport is expensive, and fewer stops and layovers eliminate the need to spend needlessly. This may sound like a small price, but numerous layovers there and back can add up.

Use Google Flights and filter it to only direct flights to start, then select up to one stop. Take note of the travel time; if you have a stop, how long is that stop? Any travel involving an airport right now can be frustrating with delays, cancellations, and other inconveniences. With only a short layover, even a slight delay can cause you to miss a connecting flight. If a layover is unavoidable, look for one that has the appropriate time to factor in a potential delay if it was to happen. It will be worth it, as rebooked flights can sometimes not fly out until the next day.

Taking the train can be another option, as many countries have a fantastic railroad infrastructure. Look into the rail options between your two destinations and compare prices, times, and convenience. Taking the train is excellent as there is no check-in, screening, security check, or checked bags. You arrive at the station, find your train and take your assigned seat on a comfortable chair that is much more spacious than the equivalent plane seat. You can also bring food and drinks on the train; the washrooms are bigger, and you could be fortunate to see some pleasant scenery during your journey. Trains minimize your travel time and avoid unnecessary layovers or transfers to spend more time exploring your destination.

3. Prioritize Your List

You cannot do everything, so what takes priority? What can you afford to miss? Focus on your must-see attractions and must-do experiences that align with your interests and the people you travel with. By being selective, you will be able to experience what matters most. Remember, it’s not about ticking off every box on a generic checklist but about experiencing and enjoying what resonates with you. Having a checklist is okay, but make sure it has meaning to you, not only because others have done it.

4. Take Time to Rest

While it’s tempting to do as many activities as possible, it’s essential to find a balance and not burn yourself out. Exploring a city is exhausting as it can be very hot, and you walk tens of thousands of steps daily. Consider what you will be doing and when you will be doing it. Ensure you are rested and ready for those late nights or early mornings. Make sure you take breaks to recharge, drink water, enjoy the food and give yourself time to absorb the experiences as much as possible. Pace yourself to avoid burning out, ensuring you have sufficient energy to enjoy the entire duration of your trip. It’s not a race to see everything; it’s about experiencing the moments and creating lasting memories. You do not want to get to a point where you exhaust yourself and miss an entire day because of it.

Conclusion

It’s great to have the luxury of time on your side while travelling, but you can still experience and enjoy a location in just a few days. You will not be able to do everything possible, but with careful planning that includes where you want to go, what you need to do to get there, and what you can miss out on, you can maximize your time and create memorable experiences.