Planning Your Trip
Accommodations
Hostelling International Hostels
Hostelling International USA (HI-USA) is part of the largest and most recommended hostelling network in the world. All Hostelling International USA hostels offer low-cost, overnight accommodations that meet high standards for quality and service. Most include shared living space, such as kitchens, common rooms and meeting areas, which provide an opportunity to get to know travelers from other countries. Some also offer programs designed to give you a real sense of the place you're visiting. So when you see the blue triangle with the tree and hut, you are assured of a warm welcome and quality standards worldwide.
Unaffiliated Hostels
If you stay in an unaffiliated (non HI) hostel, you are not guaranteed the same quality standards offered in an HI-USA hostel. While some independent hostels can provide a good stay, most are not inspected on a regular basis or internationally licensed and therefore the quality does vary greatly. It's recommend that you always research any non HI hostel location in advance of your stay.
Pensions, B&B's and Hotels
Pensions, Bed & Breakfasts (B&B's) and small hotels that are often family-run. Price and quality vary greatly. Pensions and European B&Bs do not have the same quality as in the US. Ask other travelers and read up in your guidebooks before going to pensions.
Homestay
A homestay experience is another accommodation option that you may want to consider if you're comfortable with the idea of staying in someone's home and being hosted by a family.
Camping
Campgrounds often charge by the person and for an actual camping space. Many campgrounds provide services such as showers, kitchens, game/TV rooms, laundry, pools, etc. Camping is very inexpensive (sometimes half the cost of a hostel). However, you'll have to carry extra gear and unlike other "fixed roof" options the weather is always a consideration when camping.
Communications
Communicating with Locals
It's easy to stay connected with HI-USA if you're an HI member. Many of our hostels have internet access. If not the hostel staff can direct you to a cyber cafe. Check out the eKit communication kit, making it easy to keep in touch with family and friends while on the road. Below are some tips in communicating with locals:
• Learn how to say basic words and phrases like "thank you," "please," "how much," the numbers 1-10, etc. in the local language(s) before you get there. A little effort opens many doors!
• Phrasebooks may add weight to your pack, but they can probably get you farther than your 10th grade Spanish class.
• Take postcards and photos from home as conversation starters (and perhaps leave them behind with your new friends.)
• Sometimes communicating non-verbally can be easier. Ask people to write things down or draw pictures for you. Carry a small notebook for this purpose.
• Take "risks." When the environment is a safe one, don't be afraid to approach people. They'll probably be as curious about you as you are about them. Remember, strangers are friends waiting to meet.
Travel Documents
When traveling, you'll need to obtain a few important documents before you leave. Obtaining these documents can take time, so plan ahead. They include your HI-USA membership card, passport, relevant visas, international driving permit and car insurance.
HI-USA Membership Card
An HI-USA membership card provides you with discounted member rates at more than 4,000 Hostelling International hostels in over 70 countries. In addition, you'll receive local discounts, local council newsletter and activities, a free one-year subscription to Trips Magazine, an eKit communications card; satisfaction that you're supporting HI-USA's mission, and much more. Click here to get your membership today.
Visas
A visa is approval by a foreign government showing that you have official permission to enter their country for a specific period of time. Once approved, a stamped endorsement is placed in your passport by the embassy of the foreign government. The cost and duration of a visa depends on the country and the type of visa. There are different types of visas. Most travelers only need a Tourist Visa. Depending on the countries you will be visiting, you need to inquire with their embassy/consulate about Student, Transit, Multiple Entry, Work and other visas. For more information, click here.
Money Matters
You don't need to spend a fortune on your trip, but you do need enough money to travel safely and comfortably. A common question is, "How much will my trip cost?" Obviously, it depends on where you're going, how long you'll be gone, and how you plan on getting around. To help you answer this question, this section discusses pre-trip planning, daily budget, carrying your money, exchanging/accessing your money, and getting the most for your money.
Pre-trip Budget
Even if you've traveled a bit, there are some pre-trip costs that just can't be avoided. Costs for airfare, rail passes, and travel gear are likely to be your biggest expenditures. Take the time to shop around and get the best deals you can. You may need to factor some costs for storing your belongings while you're away. Here are some typical pre-trip expenses.
Pre-trip expenses:
• Adult HI-USA membership: $28
• International Student Identity Card (ISIC): $22
• eKit phone card: $20 (plus additional amounts you want to load
on it)
• Guidebooks: $40
• Backpack: $150-250
• Money Belt: $10-15
• Airfare: vary vastly depending on your destination
Daily Budget
In figuring your daily expenses, your itinerary matters almost as much as your spending habits. A country's urban areas are more expensive than its rural ones. You may want to figure out an average and realize some parts of your trip will be above average, others below.
Guidebooks can help you develop a more accurate budget for your particular trip, as can travelers who've already been there. Here's a good daily budget planning rule of thumb. Once you've determined your fixed costs (airfare, backpack, etc.), take the average of the above items for all (high and lower cost) locations. Plan on a night or two in a B&B or pension, even if you plan on camping, and a few $25 dinners to balance out all that bread and cheese. Now add 20%. This is a vacation, so you might as well plan for it in advance and be prepared.
Exchanging/Accessing Your Money
In what form should you carry your cash? Travelers checks, credit cards, and ATM cards, provide convenient and secure ways to access money abroad. Today there is no reason to carry around a lot of cash, although you will need some. Keep in mind that every time you exchange money, you will lose some due to the exchange rate. Spending it is one thing, giving it away in the form of inflated commissions, fees and just plain rip-offs is something else.
Getting the Most for Your Money
Cash
Cash is cash, no matter what currency we're talking about. It spends easily and coverts easily to other currencies. However, cash can be lost or stolen. For this and many other reasons, we recommend that you not rely on just one way of carrying your money - mix it up.
Upon arrival to each new country, get familiar with what the currency looks like as quickly as possible. Don't exchange too much currency at a time, because you'll have to pay to change it back or to another type of currency later. Create a budget and stick to it. Or, at least try to.
Credit/Bank Cards
The more you can rely on your credit card, ATM card or pre-paid debit card, the better. They protect you from theft, they're easy to use, some are easily replaced, and they can help you keep track of how much you've spent. The exchange rates they offer are some of the best around.
Before you go, make sure the PIN (Personal Identification Number) you'll need for various machines is the right length for international use (usually 4 digits). Will they be charging you fees? Are the fees the same for purchases as cash advances? Let them know you will be traveling and you will be using the card internationally.
ATM Cards
Ask your bank for the names of banks or networks you can use and what the transaction fee is abroad. Also, get a four-digit PIN - the only kind international machines recognize, and test it before you go. Make sure you ask about replacement cards. If you lose your ATM card abroad, you may not be able to replace it until you return home.
Give Yourself Credit
Credit cards offer some of the best exchange rates and buyer protection around. Keep track of what you're spending, so you don't reach or exceed your credit limit. If you'll be traveling for a while, talk with your bank about making monthly payments (either electronically or via a reliable friend). If the card is new, test it before you go. Note: A credit card may be required for car rentals to prove your credit worthiness, regardless of how you will actually pay for the rental.
Pre-paid debit cards
If you'd rather not come home with a lot of debt, a pre-paid debit card may be the way to go. It works similar to an ATM card, providing instant access to local currency at ATMs abroad, except it draws against pre-paid credits to your account. They can be more easily replaced than ATM cards, if lost or stolen.
Travelers Checks
Many travelers like the assurance of having traveler's checks on hand. Most US banks sell travelers checks. If you have an account at the bank, the standard commission fee (usually 2-5%) is usually waived. Before you purchase them, see what the replacement policies are and what to do in case they're lost or stolen. You can usually get replacements within 24 hours. Always keep your travelers check receipts separate from the actual checks, and keep up with the bookkeeping of which ones you've used.
Buying fewer checks in larger denominations means carrying fewer checks, but more checks in smaller ($20 and $50) denominations are best. This allows you to exchange smaller amounts of money. Traveler's checks in US dollars are convertible to local cash at foreign banks and most train stations, but may not be accepted in rural areas and small towns.
Don't arrive empty-handed
Plan ahead, and get currency (at a bank) for the next country on your itinerary before you arrive. If you can't, and need to avail yourself of the kiosks, reduce your losses by making your transaction as small as possible.
Exchange the right amount
Too often travelers exchange more currency than they need, and end up having to change it back into dollars or yet another currency. Remember this, every time you change money you lose some. Plan wisely.
Beware of hidden fees
Some places offer great exchange rates, but have a large transaction fee. Ask about all costs before transacting.
Learn banking hours
Don't get caught short of money on a Sunday, after 4pm on a weekday and holidays. Don't assume banking hours will be the same as home.
Know the currency
It's easy to become confused when dealing with foreign currency. Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the various denominations. Look closely at your bills before you hand them over, and as you're getting change.
Do the math
Before making a purchase, do a little mental currency conversion. Use the exchange rate and divide it into the foreign currency to see what it is worth in US dollars.
Look out for scams
Be cognizant of those that may scam you by giving you the wrong change or charging outrageous surcharges. Stay on your toes, especially in popular tourist areas.
Packing for Travel
When traveling, your luggage will be your new home during your trip. Luggage is one of the most important pre-trip choices you can make. What you pack and packing tips are important as well.
Luggage or Travel Pack?
We recommend a travel backpack, especially one that goes from hand-carried luggage and back again for three reasons:
1) It leaves your hands free.
2) It weighs less and is more comfortable.
3) The compartments keep you organized.
When shopping for a quality backpack you should consider price, size, accessories, construction/quality and fabric. Here's a list of things to consider when shopping for a backpack.
Backpack considerations
Size does matter!
And smaller is generally better. (3,000-5,000 cubic inches is a good range.) The more room you have, the more stuff you'll take, and the more weight you'll be lugging around with you. When full, your pack should weigh absolutely no more than 25% of your body weight.
Pack light!
If you follow only one of our suggestions, let this be it. We've seen far too many travelers stumbling under the weight of excess baggage. We can't say this one enough, so we'll repeat ourselves: Pack light! Items that you're considering taking "just in case" or which don't have multiple purposes, should be left at home.
Frame - internal or external? Backpacks generally come in two basic styles: external or internal frames. We strongly recommend internal frames. Your best bet: a convertible travel pack that can be carried as either a backpack or hand-carried luggage similar to a suitcase. We especially like convertible travel packs that also have detachable daypacks as part of the package. External frames are more likely to get bent or broken by mechanical baggage handlers, more difficult to handle getting on and off trains, and less likely to fit in storage lockers. They also typically have to be checked with other luggage on flights, and you may have to sign a waiver giving up all rights to file a damage claim with the airline.
Fit
On packs that fit well and are adjusted properly, most of the weight will go to your hips rather than your shoulders. A pack that fits properly (with a wide and sturdy hip pad, along with good pack length and shoulder straps that allow the pack to properly fit your torso) should put almost no pressure on your shoulders. Try it on, secure the lumbar pad against your lower back, and adjust the hip pad so it rides comfortably on your hips. Then check to see that the shoulder straps are easily adjustable, well-padded, and wide enough to be comfortable. Finally, put some weight inside and hike around the store for a few minutes (hours, or days…) to see how it feels. Many manufacturers make different sizes of backpacks to assure a good fit. The suspension system is primarily what determines fit and with a good fitting pack. While backpack shopping, if a pack does not fit you or isn't comfortable, walk away - no matter how good a "deal" it seems to be. And ill-fitting and/or badly constructed backpack is one of the worst mistakes you can make.
Construction/Quality
The stitching should not be too close to the edge of the seam or the material will unravel and make your pack disintegrate. Look for reinforced stress points, smaller stitches (so more per inch) and lock stitching (which won't unravel if a thread breaks) instead of chain stitching (which will.)
Fabric
Most packs are made of durable materials, usually of some kind of nylon. "Denier" is a rating of the fabric's density - the higher the denier number, the more durable the cloth. Look for a rating of at least 1,000, though you might want to go even higher.
Zippers and buckles
Zippers should be sturdy and slide smoothly. (Make sure the stitching is not too close to the zipper, or it might get in the way.) Carefully check the buckles on the waist and shoulder straps for strength and ease. Make sure that the zippers lock into place. We especially like zippers, that in addition to the pull tabs, also have a place to insert a padlock - at least on the main compartment(s).
Other features
If you're the organized sort - not a bad idea when on the road - then a lot of pockets and compartments will help you keep your stuff sorted. You might even consider a pack that has a zipper along the side so you can get at all your things; top-loading packs aren't great when what you need is at the bottom.
Packing for Travel
Pack light! Click here for a sample packing list.
Packing Tips
• When packing, don't think, "Will I use this?" Think, "Will I use this enough to justify lugging it around everywhere I go?" When in doubt, leave it out!
• Don't take anything you can't afford to lose.
• Veteran backpacker Rick Steves offers the following rule of thumb: When packing, lay out everything you think you need. Then take half the stuff and twice the cash.
• Travel isn't all glamour. Sometimes it can be quite dull, so bring a deck of cards, something to read, or something else to help kill time.
• Bring clothing that is multi-purpose and can be mixed and matched and used over and over again.
• Be prepared to dress appropriately. Some holy places may require you to have your head or shoulders covered or won't allow you to wear shorts.
• Select quick drying, drip-dry materials (e.g., not jeans) and remember that dark clothes hide dirt better.
• Pack in advance and carry your pack for extended periods of time before you go. It will inspire you to eliminate the excess. Better to find out now rather than later!
• You can't plan for everything, and you can always borrow or buy what you might have forgotten.
Being a Responsible Traveler
Hostelling International USA promotes travel that is responsible, thoughtful, low-impact and educational. Our mission is "to help all, especially the young, gain a greater understanding of the world and its people through hostelling."
You'll notice we use the word shared as it relates to our hostels -- shared kitchen, shared common room, shared dormitory. We invite you to expand the philosophy of sharing beyond the hostel to all parts of your traveling experiences. Travel with respect for other people and their cultures. We believe that travel and hostelling can make a difference. Mark Twain said, "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness."
Although we've spent a lot of time talking about the science of travel, before we bid you "Bon Voyage" we'd like to close with some thoughts on the art of responsible travel…
• Realize that others may have attitudes and concepts different from your own.
• You are only one of many visitors. Don't expect special privileges.
• Practice active listening and observing, rather than merely hearing and seeing.
• Instead of looking for exotic, discover the richness of other cultures.
• Be cognizant of other's feelings. Act respectfully and avoid offensive behavior.
• Be especially aware of local sensitivity for taking photographs.
• Travel with the spirit of humility and a genuine desire to meet and talk with local people.
• Spend time each day reflecting on your experiences in order to deepen your understanding.
• Be positive and optimistic. Look for the good in every experience. Learn from your mistakes. Travel builds character.
• Travel is among the world's largest industries. The decisions you make while traveling are important ones.
• Travel light and with your backpack.
Safety Issues
Safety is an emotionally charged subject, especially for novice travelers. We'd summarize our advice something like this:
1) Assume you belong to the "Modified Murphy's" school of travel. If it can go wrong, it might. Being prepared is the best way of ensuring the worst doesn't happen. When something goes wrong, just remember - these temporary dramas make the best travel stories once you get back home.
2) It's your own responsibility to have a safe trip. Stay informed about where you're going, what the local customs are, and get current news from the best sources you can. Travel is always an adventure. Stay aware, open-minded and keep your sense of humor intact.
3) Don't get lazy or complacent while traveling, as it just might provide an opportunity for something to go wrong. Be prepared, not paranoid - before and during your trip. See rule #1.
Your safety relates to medical and health issues, protecting your documents and gear, as well as your personal safety.
Medical and Health Issues
Basic healthy traveling
When was the last time you had a full check up? Dental exam and cleaning? Take care of these before you hit the road. Travel health insurance usually only covers major medical needs and not routine doctor's office visits.
First Aid Kit
You don't want to be lugging around a pharmacy, and you'll most likely be able to find what you need in most places you'll visit. If you're heading to more remote regions, or plan on doing backcountry hiking and camping, you'll want to be a little better prepared. Below is a basic sample first aid kit:
• Bandages/Band-Aids
• Alcohol preps/antibiotic cream
• An Ace bandage if you're prone to joint strains/sprains or other
athletic legacies (so you won't have to hobble out to get one if you
need it.)
• Pain relievers: At some point, you or someone else will be very
happy you have these.
• Sunscreen: just enough SPF15+ so you don't fry on the first
few days. Then buy more as you need it.
Customize this list to cover your own needs.
Glasses/Contacts
If you wear glasses, take an extra pair. Since you could lose both, you should ask your optometrist for a copy of your prescription. A pair of prescription sunglasses or clip-ons are also a good idea.
As for contacts, disposables are best. If these don't work for you, be sure to bring an extra pair. Bring plenty of solution, though you can most likely find this on the road, especially in Europe. Avoid wearing contacts on a long flight - the dry, pressurized cabin air can wreak havoc on your lenses.
Eating well
Most hostels have kitchens where you can prepare your own healthy meals inexpensively.
Insurance/Emergencies
All HI-USA members receive basic travel insurance coverage as a member benefit. In addition to this basic coverage, members can also purchase more extensive coverage at great members only rates. For travelers coming to the US, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Consult your insurance provider for their policies on travel. If traveling from abroad, routine doctors visits, exams, and prescriptions may not be covered. Make sure you understand the coverage and limitations on your policy before you leave.
Prescriptions
If you're on any prescription medication, or require unusual medical supplies, take enough for your entire trip. Find out where you can get replacements in case of loss or theft. To avoid any unpleasant misunderstandings with police etc., always leave the medication in its original packaging, with the label intact. Always take copies of your prescriptions with you, along with a letter from your doctor saying it is needed and its generic name (which may be more recognized internationally). And finally, always carry your prescriptions in your carry-on luggage.
Special Considerations
If you have medical problems or special needs, be sure to schedule a check-up before you leave. Consider taking adequate supplies for your entire trip (or take steps necessary to assure yourself that replacements will be available where you are going). If you have allergies (medication, food, bee stings) or particular conditions (hemophilia, diabetes), be sure to inform your traveling companions of your condition and its implications. You might also consider a Medic Alert bracelet or similar ID.
Protecting Your Documents and Gear
We've talked elsewhere about what travel documents to bring, but how do you protect them?
Use a money belt
Your money belt is like your personal travel safe. Always wear a money belt inside your clothes and keep it with you at all times, even in the shower room. There are several money belt styles available including pouches that go around your waist or neck, shoulder holsters and leg straps. No matter which style you choose, keep this most vital travel item with you 24/7 and make sure it is comfortable.
Make two photocopies of all documents including your birth certificate, driver's license, HI membership card, airline ticket, rail pass, traveler's checks, credit cards, prescriptions (medical an/or eyeglasses), and other pertinent information. Carry one set of copies with you, but separate from the originals (which will always be in your money belt) and leave the other copies at home with someone you can contact if anything happens. You also have the option to store this important information in your secured online travel vault through eKit.
Be sure to take the phone numbers for replacements, in case any of these items are lost or stolen.
Protecting your gear
Keep possessions locked up, but keep your valuables (money belt, camera, etc.) with you at all times. Take combination locks to secure your backpack. Also, hostels, train stations and sometimes airports, have rental lockers big enough to stow your main pack. Before leaving your country, it's a good idea to take anything containing a serial number (cameras, lenses, electronic equipment, etc.) to the US Customs Office at the airport to register it. Having this record can also assist you when filling an insurance claim should any of these items become lost or stolen.
Trust your instincts
If we had only one piece of advice, this would be it. Don't do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.
Stay alert
Practice basic street smarts. Have a general idea of where you are in relation to your hostel or other public places. If you get lost, don't make it obvious by wandering around with your head in a map. Look like you know where you're going and what you're doing. Be wary of suspicious people or offers. If you overindulge, call a cab.
Transportation
A basic transportation plan is essential in determining your transportation needs and costs. Good planning, information, and a good deal of flexibility in your itinerary can save you a lot of money. You need to understand the travel seasons and the opportunities available, whether by air, rail, bus, car and even bike.
What's a Travel Season?
High, low, and shoulder seasons are terms you will very likely hear as you shop around for transportation tickets. These terms also apply to accommodation providers, such as hotels and will very likely determine the overall availability and how much (or how little) you will pay.
High season refers to the peak popularity and usually prime weather conditions of given destination. Good weather makes a destination popular and therefore, its highest season. In the US, summer is considered high season. If you're considering a renowned ski destination, winter is likely their high season.
Shoulder season is in between the other two seasons. You'll pay less than high season, but more than low season.
Air travel
An airline ticket will often represent one of the largest expenses for any international trip. Basically, it's a tradeoff between flexibility and price - the more flexible you are, the less you pay. Here are some general rules:
• Buy your tickets as far in advance as possible (at least 21
days). Although last minute deals are another option, but usually offer
little choice.
• Ask about discounted student fares, if applicable.
• Stay over a Saturday night.
• Midweek departures/arrivals are usually cheaper than other days.
• Compare as many airlines as you can.
• Explore different airports in the same area and different routes.
• The lowest fares sell out fast.
You can save yourself some cash and time by flying into one city and out of another. It's called an open jaw ticket. Start thinking this way before you travel and save money and time in the long run, and see more of the world.
Promotions
Search newspaper ads, airline websites, and e-mail newsletters for special promotions (esp. during low and shoulder season) when some great deals can be available. The more research you do it, the more you'll know a good deal when you see one.
The Internet
Read the fine print (especially related to restrictions, refunds and change fees) very carefully before you commit to purchasing tickets online. Online airline tickets can have the most restricted fares around. Also, frequent flier mile tickets may not be eligible for use when purchasing tickets online.
Straightforward round trip tickets are usually a good deal on the internet. Booking complicated itineraries online, however, may not be conducive to the cheapest fares or variety of choices -- consider a travel agent. In addition to the main retail travel sites, many people purchase their tickets directly from the airlines' Web sites.
Consolidators
The deepest discounts are sometimes found through consolidators, sometimes known as bucket shops. These companies negotiate seasonal contracts with a number of major airlines and sometimes charter airlines. Prices are normally fixed, but not guaranteed until purchased. Regulations concerning change and cancellation fees, payment policies, etc. vary widely. Frequent flyer miles are usually not accumulated with these tickets. Other minor restrictions may apply. Some consolidators deal directly with the public - check the weekend travel section of major city papers to find consolidators. Others work through travel agents only, especially those that do a lot of international ticketing. If you contact a consolidator directly, be sure to ask about and understand all policies and restrictions up front. If the company hesitates to explain clearly or provide information in writing, proceed with caution.
HI-USA Travel Center Services
Consider purchasing your air tickets as well as your travel accessories from an HI-USA Travel Center. You'll support the HI-USA mission and the network of HI-USA hostels in America. HI-USA is always developing travel product partnership too, so watch for special offers and great deals on line at hiusa.org!