Guys think they know everything, and because of this we tend to make mistakes. It’s not that we’re stupid, it’s just in our nature. But as the saying goes: wise men make mistakes, fools repeat them. So we are going to keep that in mind for this article, as we discuss the ten most common mistakes guys make when they plan and go traveling.
1. Planning at the last minute
Every now and then, last minute planning of your trip or vacation works out great. But the fact of the matter is that this usually results in a high-priced crappy trip. Why? Last minute deals are usually available for places nobody wants to go! They have to clear them out because nobody would ever pay full price to go, or there is a civil war, rebellion, terrorism, hurricane, etc. Conversely, last minute trips can also cost full price. And paying full price does not mean you are getting the best, it just means you are getting what’s left.
2. Not packing the right things
Most guys are notorious for packing the wrong things, clothing in particular. Do yourself a favor and check out the country/resort you are going to before you pack a single Speedo. Lots of island countries have great websites that will give you an idea of the weather you can expect for the month you are going. This will help you plan for rain, sun, mosquitoes and more. And don’t over pack. Chances are you will be in shorts or trunks 90% of the time, so go easy on the clothing.
3. Going at the wrong time
While you are at that website, check out when hurricane and/or the rainy season starts and ends. Going to the islands when hurricanes are chugging through can be an awful experience, and one you do not want to experience first hand. Also, the website might give you information on events and festivals that are happening in each month.
4. Going to the wrong resort
Everybody wants the perfect vacation, so finding the right resort is key. There are a few ways to check out resorts. First, go to the resort's website and see what the pictures look like. Second, ask a travel agent if they can offer some info. Third, check out a website that offers first hand travel information (like tripadvisor). Fourth, ask people you trust who have gone to this area. Finally, if you are looking for the ladies, don’t go to a family resort.
5. Going with the wrong people
The right group can make or break a holiday, but most of us go with someone out of necessity. It can be tough to arrange a time, place and price that works for everyone, so make sure it works for your friends you like to hang with. Be wary of going with someone you have never been away with, and stick with people who share your interests.
6. Overpaying
Guys are notorious over payers, since they don’t like to look cheap by questioning the price. Don’t take the word of your travel agent about pricing without first checking things out on the net. There are MANY travel sites on the net, and most resorts have individual sites as well. Compare, compare, and compare. The more time you give yourself to do this, the more money you will save.
7. Getting mugged
Guys are more likely to get drunk and travel alone, which makes them targets for thieves. Keep in mind you are in a foreign country, not getting pissed at your neighborhood pub. Be wary, particularly if you go off your resort. All-inclusive resorts are usually very safe, and they control who comes inside the resort. This means you are going to be with other drunken tourists, and all should be well. But once off the resort, you are on your own. Corrupt cops and organized crime await the naïve traveler.
8. Getting sick on vacation
You have to watch what you eat when you are traveling, or you could end up with something nasty like the Norwalk virus. If you have the option of fresh cooked or grilled, then take it. Avoid the buffet if you can, as well as anything with a skin (like apples) that might not be washed properly. Pack lots of Pepto and Imodium just in case, and when you drink water make sure it’s bottled.
9. Getting scammed by the locals
You can’t blame the locals for trying to milk tourists of their vacation money, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it willingly. You have to learn how to barter like a pro. Never pay what anyone asks, particularly if it is a vendor. If you want to get a better deal, show up just before closing and low-ball them. Tours and ‘fun things’ are offered by absolutely everyone. Ask your fellow vacationers what was worth doing before you shell out the money to go hang gliding or Para-sailing, or to take that catamaran out to some island. They will give you an insiders view on what is worth doing. Make sure you book with someone reputable, as tourists die every year due to faulty equipment or lacks safety standards.
10. Hitting on the locals
When you are in a foreign country, the local ladies look exotic and exciting. But not all local girls want to go with a foreigner, particularly if this is a tourist area. If you find one that is willing, you might want to be careful at the local bars. The local guys may not be too pleased that you are getting friendly with one of their own.
Final tips
You can’t make your trip fool proof, but keep some of these ideas in mind and you can help cut down on the stupid mistakes. Nobody wants the vacation from hell, particularly if you prepaid a few thousand just to be there. So play it smart, have a few cold ones on the beach, and don’t forget to wear sunscreen.
