3 Mediterranean Charter Specialists for Travellers Who Want More Than a Standard Route

 At a Glance

The Mediterranean offers far more than famous marinas and busy waterfronts. With the right private yacht charter, you discover secluded beaches, historic coastal towns, hidden bays and quieter islands at your own pace. This guide explores three established specialists, helping you understand their different approaches while considering how each could shape your next Mediterranean escape.

Discover a Different Side of the Mediterranean

When you picture the Mediterranean, busy marinas and glamorous harbours come to mind first. But your yacht takes you much further, giving you access to quieter places that are hard to reach from land. You wake beside secluded coves, swim in clear waters and reach coastal villages before the crowds arrive.

The beauty of a private charter is that your journey does not have to follow a fixed tourist itinerary. Instead, you work with experienced guides to create a route around your interests, whether you want relaxed beach days, excellent food, cultural discoveries or a mixture of everything.

Here are three charter specialists worth exploring when you want to experience more of the Mediterranean.

1. 212 Yachts

When you want to explore the Mediterranean beyond its famous marinas, personalised planning makes all the difference. 212 Yachts gives you access to fully crewed luxury yachts while helping you create an itinerary around how you actually want to travel.

Founded on the French Riviera in 2012, the brokerage, a member of MYBA and ECPY, specialises in luxury yacht charters and has organised hundreds of journeys along the coastline.

Explore Beyond the Familiar

Look beyond the better-known ports and consider destinations like Corsica, Sardinia, Italy, Greece, Spain and Croatia. The team arranges charters and helps you explore the French Riviera, including Cannes, Antibes, Monaco and Saint-Tropez, depending on the experience you want.

The company is based in Antibes on the French Riviera, and you benefit from detailed knowledge while still accessing a global fleet. The team regularly visits yachts and works closely with captains and crews, helping you receive recommendations based on more than online listings.

Bespoke Experiences From the Water

You can shape your itinerary around fine dining, cultural experiences, nightlife and quieter beach escapes. The team works with your captain to develop itineraries, allowing local knowledge to shape how you spend your time onboard and ashore.

You can also consider high-end day charters around the French Riviera if you want something shorter. Alongside exceptional week-long Mediterranean charters, 212 Yachts offers day yacht experiences around Antibes, Cannes, Monaco, and Saint-Tropez, giving you a wonderful way to experience the coastline.

Why Consider 212 Yachts?

If you want your Mediterranean journey to feel genuinely personal, you can discuss your preferences before choosing a yacht. With many charter yachts under central agency management across the Riviera, Corsica and Sardinia, you can also explore options with strong regional connections. Many of the finest yachts available for charter aren’t publicly listed. Get in touch with the 212 Yachts team to explore yacht charter options not visible online.

Customer Review

Here’s what a customer, Lonica, has to say about 212 Yachts’ service on Trustburn:

I recently chartered a yacht from 212-yachts.com, and it was a fantastic experience. The yacht was beautiful and well-maintained, and the crew provided impeccable service throughout the trip. The booking process was straightforward, and the staff was very helpful. I highly recommend their services!

2. TWW Yachts

If you want to combine Mediterranean exploration with broader superyacht expertise, TWW Yachts offers another option. Headquartered in Monaco, they provide yacht charter services, yacht management, crew placement and technical support. This wider involvement in the industry distinguishes TWW from businesses focused only on arranging charter holidays.

Explore Mediterranean Destinations

You can explore charter opportunities across Mediterranean destinations, including the South of France, Italy, Greece and Turkey. When comparing options, consider your preferred destinations, travel dates and onboard requirements to help narrow down suitable yachts. These services are separate from your charter booking, but they show their broader involvement in the superyacht industry.

Why Consider TWW Yachts?

If you value specialist knowledge when comparing charter options, TWW’s wider experience in the superyacht sector is worth considering. You can discuss your preferred itinerary and onboard expectations with its charter team before choosing a yacht suited to your Mediterranean plans.

3. Bluewater Yachting

If you are looking for an established yacht specialist, Bluewater Yachting offers another option to explore. Alongside yacht charter, sales and management, they provide crew recruitment and professional training. Their presence in Mediterranean yachting hubs, including Antibes and Palma, gives you a useful starting point when exploring charter options in the region.

Plan Around Your Interests

You can approach your Mediterranean journey with your own priorities in mind, whether you want to explore popular destinations or discover quieter coastal experiences. Working with a specialist lets you discuss your preferred pace, destinations, and onboard expectations before confirming your plans.

A private yacht also gives you more freedom to shape your experience at each destination. Instead of spending every day around busy waterfronts, you can explore different anchorages, swim stops and coastal locations while keeping your itinerary flexible.

Bluewater also operates crew training centres in Antibes and Palma, supporting professional development in the yacht industry. This provides a more specific point of difference than charter planning, although training services are separate from the arrangements made for your individual trip.

Why Consider Bluewater Yachting?

If you want to compare charter options with a company experienced across several areas of yachting, Bluewater is worth considering. Their involvement in chartering, crew recruitment and professional training gives you a clear picture of their wider industry experience. You can discuss your preferred destinations and onboard requirements with their charter team before deciding which yacht charter you want.

To Sum Up

Discovering the Mediterranean by private yacht allows you to experience familiar destinations differently while reaching places that traditional holidays easily overlook. You move beyond crowded marinas and spend more time exploring secluded bays, coastal villages, islands and waterside experiences at your own pace.

The right charter makes that experience easier by matching your yacht, itinerary and activities to your personal expectations. Whether you prioritise local knowledge, international access or wider yachting expertise, taking time to discuss your plans helps you create a Mediterranean journey that feels truly your own.

How to Stay Calm When Travel Plans Change

 

Image Credit: Unsplash

Travel plans can change in minutes, but a delay or canceled reservation doesn’t have to spoil the whole day. A calm response starts with giving yourself enough time to understand what happened before rushing into the next decision. Once you know what the airline, hotel or transit company can offer, you can adjust your schedule without adding more stress. The following habits can help you stay grounded, protect your time and find a workable alternative when your original itinerary falls apart.

Anticipate the Unexpected

Build a small cushion into each part of your itinerary. A 90-minute connection may look efficient, but a longer layover gives you room for weather delays, gate changes and long security lines. Keep reservation numbers, addresses and customer service details in a note that you can open without internet access.

Think through one backup option for major bookings. If a delayed flight leaves you several hours before hotel check-in, secure luggage storage in Fort Lauderdale can help you store your bags while you wait. You should also save enough money for an unplanned meal, local transportation or one night of lodging.

Finding Your Inner Zen

Pause before joining a long customer service line or making an expensive replacement booking. Take five slow breaths, relax your shoulders and check what you know. A short travel delay meditation can guide you through a reset if your thoughts keep racing.

Physical tension can make a frustrating situation feel worse. Walk around the terminal, stretch gently and drink some water. These simple ways to stay limber are especially useful after sitting for hours. If the surrounding crowd feels overwhelming, find a quieter gate or waiting area before reviewing your options.

Lighten Your Load

Pack so you can handle a short disruption without opening every suitcase. Keep medication, chargers, toiletries, a clean shirt and essential documents in your personal item. If checked luggage arrives late, you’ll still have what you need for the first night.

A lighter schedule helps too. Avoid filling every hour with reservations that can’t be changed. Leave open periods for meals, rest and spontaneous stops. The idea of traveling lightly through chaos applies to both your belongings and your expectations. When one activity disappears from the plan, an open schedule gives you space to substitute something nearby without feeling that the entire trip has failed.

Focus on Solutions, Not Problems

Identify the next decision that actually needs your attention. If your train is canceled, start by checking the next departure, then compare a bus, local transit or an extra hotel night. Trying to solve the rest of the week at once can leave you overwhelmed.

Speak clearly when asking staff for help. Explain the disruption, state the outcome you need and ask which options are available. Take screenshots of schedule changes and save receipts for meals, lodging and transportation in case your travel provider or insurer accepts reimbursement claims. Once the urgent issue is settled, tell anyone waiting for you about the revised arrival time so they can adjust their plans.

A changed itinerary may lead to a quieter afternoon, an unexpected neighborhood or simply a needed break. Once you’re safe and the next booking is confirmed, give yourself permission to stop troubleshooting. Find a comfortable seat, charge your phone and treat the new plan as the plan.

5 Reasons Why NYC Tops Every Sports Fan's Bucket List

New York City isn't just a concrete jungle where dreams are made, it's a paradise for sports fans too. From iconic stadiums to legendary teams, NYC offers an unparalleled experience for every sports enthusiast. There is a reason NYC's top all the bucket list of sports fans. If you are looking at ways to sell a trip to NYC to your other half this might just be the blog post for you. This will give you all the reasons you need to convince them and more. So let's get into it. 

Home to Legendary Teams

NYC boasts some of the biggest franchises in sports history, including the New York Yankees, New York Knicks, New York Giants, and New York Rangers (find more info on this website). Whether you're a baseball aficionado or a die-hard basketball, or ice hockey fan cheering for these iconic teams in their hometown arenas is an experience like no other. 

Iconic Sporting Venues 

One of the best things to do in the city is to visit the historic Madison Square Garden or Yankee Stadium, NYC is home to iconic sporting venues that have witnessed countless legendary moments. Step foot into these hallowed arenas and soak in the rich history and electric atmosphere that defines the city's sports culture. This will wow even the non-sports fans in your party. The sheer magnitude of these stadiums. 

Year-Round Sports Action

In NYC, sports are a year-round affair unlike here in the UK.  Whether it's catching a baseball game at Yankee Stadium in the summer, attending a basketball showdown at Madison Square Garden in the winter, or witnessing the excitement of the US Open Tennis Championships, there's always something going on in NYC sports scene. No matter the time of year you will be able to get tickets to some sort of sporting event and maybe witness history for yourself. 

Diverse Sporting Events

From mainstream sports to niche competitions, NYC hosts a wide array of sporting events that cater to every interest. Whether you're into tennis, football, boxing, or horse racing, you'll find an event to satisfy your sports cravings in the Big Apple. Like everything in NYC there a place for every sport fan. 

Immersive Sports Culture

NYC's sports culture extends beyond the stadiums and arenas; it's ingrained in the fabric of the city itself. Come on you have seen it on TV, NYC has a range of sports bars buzzing with game-day excitement filled with people chatting about all things sports. The city offers a vibrant and immersive sports experience that's guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. I mean what not to love about grabbing paint with fellow fans and chatting all things about your favourite team. 

With its legendary teams, iconic venues, year-round action, diverse events, and immersive culture, NYC is truly the ultimate bucket list destination for any sports fan. You would be crazy to not book a trip to NYC if you are a fan of sports.  Whether you're cheering on your favourite team from the stands or soaking in the city's rich sports heritage in a local bar, the Big Apple promises an unforgettable experience that will satisfy your sports-loving soul. This might just convince even your other half a trip to NYC is a complete must. 

Road Trip Tips for the UK

 A road trip in the United Kingdom is a fantastic way to see the country. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that road trips are becoming increasingly popular. However, there are a few things to remember when planning your trip. This blog post will give you our top tips for road trips in the UK.

Via Pixabay

Make Sure You Apply For An International driver's Licence

If you're visiting the UK from another country, you'll need to make sure you apply for an international driver's License. This will allow you to drive in the UK without any problems. You can apply for one easily online or at your local post office.

Plan Your Route

The first step is to plan your route. The UK is a small country, but there's still a lot to see. You'll want to make sure you hit all the highlights while allowing time to explore some of the smaller towns and villages along the way. One way to do this is to map out your route in advance and then give yourself some flexibility by planning for detours and side trips.

Choose The Right Car Rental Company

Choosing the right car rental company is vital to a successful road trip. Make sure you read customer reviews and research to find the best deal for you. You want a comfortable, reliable, and fuel-efficient car to get the most out of your trip.

Know Local Road And Driving Laws

The UK has different laws, rules, and regulations regarding driving. Make sure you take some time to research these before your trip, so you don't get caught out or fined for breaking the law. It's also important to familiarise yourself with local road signs and speed limits – failing to obey them could result in points on your Licence.

The Weather

Another thing to consider when planning your route is the time of year. The weather in the UK can be unpredictable, so consider that when choosing your destination and travel dates. For example, if you're planning on driving through the Scottish Highlands, you'll want to avoid winter when the roads are often covered in snow and ice.

Pack wisely

Once you've planned your route, it's time to start packing! When packing for a road trip, it's essential to strike a balance between bringing everything you need and not overpacking. You want to avoid being stuck lugging around heavy suitcases full of clothes you never wear or souvenirs you never use. Instead, pack light and only bring what you know you'll need.

A few items we recommend packing for your road trip include:

A first-aid kit

A map of the UK (just in case!)

A power adapter (if you're coming from overseas)

Comfortable walking shoes

A raincoat

An umbrella

A driver's License (if you're renting a car)

Bring Snacks and Drinks

No road trip is complete without snacks and drinks! When packing food for your trip, try to choose non-perishable and easy to eat-while driving. Some of our favourite snacks for road trips include:

Trail mix

Dried fruit

Granola bars

Jerky

As for drinks, we recommend bringing plenty of water and some coffee or tea for long drives. If you're travelling with kids, pack juice boxes or other kid-friendly beverages. And, of course, remember the all-important cooler full of beer for those post-drive relaxation sessions!

Drive safely 

Finally, one of the most important tips we can give you is to drive safely! The roads in the UK are generally very well maintained, but they can be narrow and winding in places. Be sure to take breaks every few hours to stay refreshed and focused on the road ahead. Try to avoid driving at night as this can be more dangerous. If you have to go at night, be extra cautious and watch for animals on the side of the road. 

Book Overnight Accommodation In Advance

When planning a road trip, booking accommodation in advance is essential. A good B&B is an excellent option for road trips as they offer comfortable lodging and often provide discounts when you book multiple nights. B&Bs also allow you to experience the local culture, something that can't be done if you're staying in a chain hotel.

Via Pixabay

Make Use Of Various Apps

Another great way to make your road trip easier is using various apps. From finding the best places to stay to navigating unfamiliar roads, many apps can help you get the most out of your journey. Some of our favourite road trip apps include Google Maps, Waze and TripAdvisor – all of which offer great features to make your road trip a breeze.

Prepare In Advance If You Are Driving An Electric Vehicle

If you plan on travelling in an electric vehicle, an extra step must be taken. Electric vehicles have a limited range and require more frequent recharging stops than traditional petrol cars. To make sure your trip goes smoothly, we recommend doing some research beforehand to find out where the nearest charging points are located. This will ensure that you have enough power to get where you need to go.

Be Prepared For Delays

Road trips can be unpredictable, so make sure you allow for delays when planning your route and activities. That way, if something goes wrong – like horrible traffic or car trouble – you won't rush to make up for lost time.

Get Travel Insurance

Lastly, getting travel insurance before setting off on your road trip is essential. Unexpected things can happen while you're travelling, and having the right coverage will give you peace of mind knowing that you are protected in case of an accident or illness. Be sure to research different insurance policies and ensure they cover all of the activities you plan on doing during your journey.

In conclusion, road trips can be a fantastic way to explore all the UK offers. With some careful planning and a few of our tips, you can ensure that your journey is both safe and enjoyable. Bon voyage!

Common Travel Mistakes People Make- And How You Can Avoid Them

 It doesn’t matter whether you are venturing overseas or whether you are more of a nomadic explorer, because it’s no surprise that you will sometimes experience a few hiccups along the way. If you want to make the most out of your travel experience, then this is the guide for you.

Overpacking

The number one mistake that so many people make is that they overpack. If you take a heavy suitcase with you then this can put a real downer on your holiday. If you have too many packed items then this can lead to you having a sore back, a lot of dirty laundry and even a messy hotel room. Overpacking starts with you packing a suitcase that is just bigger than what you need. If you can, start with a carry-on and then size-up if you truly need to. Choose everything you think you are going to need and then try and remove half of your items. The great thing about this exercise is that it helps you to narrow down your selection to the bare minimum.

Source: Pexels (CC0 License)

Dining too Close to Tourist Attractions

Cafes, restaurants and more that are close to tourist attractions will usually command a way higher price when compared to everywhere else. You will probably find a way better selection if you go a little further out, not to mention that you might save some money too. If you can, do some research before you go or ask the receptionist at your hotel if they have any recommendations. Local insight is invaluable at the end of the day, and it gives you a way better taste of the culture of the city you are travelling to.

Not Checking your Passport

It is absolutely essential that you check your passport before you go so you can make sure that it is not running out of time. You can renew your passport through MyBritishPassport if you are abroad already, and this is a great way for you to make sure that you are covered.

Taking Valuables with You

When you take expensive jewellery with you, such as a camera or even your smartphone, you may find that you end up attracting the attention of various pickpockets. Even if you know that pickpockets aren’t rife at your particular destination, you still have to make sure that you leave any items that cannot be replaced easily, at home. If you do need to take some valuables with you then do this mindfully. Take a jacket with some zip pockets or even wear a bag around your waist for your bank cards.

Being Overambitious

There is probably so much to see and even more to do at the destination of your choosing. If you want to visit 9 countries in 8 days then this may sound great on paper but at the end of the day, you may find that your trip becomes a blur because you can’t take in what is around you easily. If you can, you need to restrain yourself when the time comes for you to create your itinerary and you also need to add some unscheduled time so you can then immerse yourself into the culture of the place.

3 of the best place to go on a multi generational family holiday

You have been tasked with planning the family holiday this year, but wait the In-laws have decided to tag along and now so have his sister and her children. There is nothing more stressful than planning a trip for more than just your own small family. You have ranges of ages of people to take care of and you want everyone to have a great trip. The more people involved the more stress for you. 

But today we are going to take the stress away from you and give you 3 of the best place to travel to for an easy and fun family trip no matter who decides to tag along. 

1. Egypt, Hurghada

Egypt is a really good option with endless summer weather, crystal clear water and yellow-gold sands. Choosing a resort in Egypt is tricky as there are so many amazing places to visit. But I would choose Hurghada. Hurghada has an average temperature of 30 degrees which is wonderful and little rainfall. 

Hurghada has beautiful hotels and restaurants. It is not as commercial as say Sharm El Sheikh. It still keeps the nice traditional qualities you can only find in smaller resorts in Egypt but with the added benefit of a range of hotels which will suit every budget. It is also one of the most beautiful places in the world. With stunning beaches and waters so blue you will feel like you are in a dream. 

If you are looking for a relaxed holiday you can look at booking one of the many beachfront hotels and your groups can spend the days enjoying the beach, and be mesmerised by the beautiful array of marine life you can see within the ocean in Hurghada. The nights enjoying the delicious food and hotel entertainment. 

Or if your group is looking for Hurghada Excursions you are in luck. I recommend checking out Landious Travel when you are looking to book a trip. They offer everything from  Sea trips in Hurghada to trips to see the pyramids in Cairo.  They offer a high-class experience but with purse-friendly prices. There will be a trip that will be a winner with every age group in your party from the grandparents to the children. 

2. USA, Orlando 

Now I know what you are thinking but everyone might not like Disney. Yes, that is true but Orlando has something for everyone it's not all just Disney or universal theme parks. With temperatures hitting the high 30s in the summer season Orlando is a great option for sun worshipers who also want an active holiday.

Orlando has been designed with adventure and activity in mind. You can spend two weeks enjoying some of the many theme parks like Disney or Universal. If your group decided to do this then it would be worth looking at staying onsite at one of the theme parks hotels as there are many added extras for resort guests like magic hours in the theme parks where only hotel guests are allowed in. This gives you access to your favourite ride or attraction with less queuing. 

If you do not fancy a theme park trip. I would recommend hiring a rental property with a pool these are really affordable when you are travelling in a group. This gives you your own base and you can cook your own food which will save money on eating out all the time. 

Orlando is famous for its shopping and amazing malls if you have a keen shopper in your family head to Orlando International Premium outlet where you can get up to 50% big brands like Armani and Guess and they even have a Disney outlet perfect for gifts. 

There is something for everyone in Orlando from museums to theatres to going to watch American sports games to just chilling out in the sun or eating at some of the world's best restaurants. 

3. The Highlands of Scotland

Why not consider somewhere a little closer to home and explore the Scottish Highlands. The land of the Loch Ness monster,  rugged mountains and myths and legends. Summer is the best season to visit the Highlands as temperatures are more favourable. 

When travelling to the Highlands many people forget how big the Highlands actually are they are the same size as Belgium. They are vast and very different depending on where you travel to from the mountainous west coast to the rugged east coast to the beautiful western islands. There are many places to explore in the Highlands.   

Depending on where you would like to visit there are options for you. If you fancy an island break book early as accommodation can fill up years in advance. Plus if travelling via car you need to factor in ferry crossing. 

Inverness is the biggest city but it is not as vast as other Scottish cities and still has a very small-town mentality and friendliness.  

There is something for everyone in the Scottish highlands for the adventurous head to the mountains for hiking or biking for the more relaxed head to the island and enjoy a dram in front of the sea whilst sitting on your deck visit a castle or two and let the history of this wonderful place seep in. 

I hope this has given you some great options for a family group holiday. 

Tips To Make Your Next Trip Abroad Truly Memorable

 Travelling abroad is an exciting experience that can be filled with adventure, discovery, and new experiences. But it's also essential to ensure that your trip is truly unforgettable for all the right reasons. Whether you are planning a road trip across Europe or a beach vacation in South America, here are some tips to help make your next trip abroad truly memorable.

Research Your Destination

The best way to ensure your trip will be enjoyable is by doing plenty of research beforehand. Look up tourist attractions and popular sights, read reviews from people who have been there before and familiarize yourself with local customs and culture so that you can avoid any awkward cultural faux pas while away. The more you know about the places you're going to visit, the easier it will be to make the most of your time there.

Prepare Yourself

Taking care of all the practical details is essential before embarking on a journey abroad. This includes getting the right visas and travel documents, organizing health insurance coverage for when overseas, researching transportation options at each destination, and ensuring that you have a valid passport with enough pages left for any stamps you may receive during your travels. Taking care of these details in advance will mean that once you land in another country, all you have to worry about is having fun!

Photo by Stanislav Kondratiev

Bring A Camera

Capturing memories from your trip can be one of the most rewarding elements of travelling abroad - but don't forget to bring along a camera or smartphone in order to do this properly! Photographs will serve as lasting reminders of all the amazing sights you saw on your journey, plus they can also be great conversation starters if you ever find yourself talking about your travels with friends or family back home later down the line.

Pack A Map

Paper maps are still a great way to explore your destination, no matter how well-versed you might be in the latest digital mapping technology. Packing custom old maps of your destination can even help you uncover off-the-beaten-track places and attractions that may not appear on digital maps, giving your trip a special, unique touch. Plus, there's nothing like the thrill of planning a route on paper to make your adventure even more exciting!

Connect With Locals

Meeting local people is one of the best ways to learn more about a destination – plus, it's also an excellent source of useful tips and recommendations on where to go and what activities are worth trying out! You don't need to necessarily join organized tours or sightseeing groups; simply exchanging pleasantries with locals at cafés or restaurants can often lead you onto paths less travelled by tourists – which often leads to discovering some amazing hidden gems!

In conclusion, travelling is an incredible experience that can open up a whole world of opportunities and memories. By taking the time to do some pre-trip research and planning, packing the right items, connecting with locals and having fun along the way, you will make your next trip abroad truly unforgettable!

Planning a Weekend Getaway

 When you are getting bored of the 9-to-5 and Monday to Friday routines with Work, you often need something to look forward to. You don’t have to take very many annual leave days to be able to enjoy yourself, either. The key is in making as many memories as possible, and if you want to do that then you need to plan a weekend getaway. 

Your weekend getaway doesn’t have to be flying in luxury travel to Paris and spending time in hotels outside the Eiffel tower. Of course, you can do those things, but camper van hire and camping in the wilderness with a blanket of stars above your head is just as amazing and romantic. The tips below will help you to plan a weekend getaway that you and your family will never forget.

Image source: Pexels

• Consider the kind of trip you want. Are you daydreaming about beaches? Then we can get away somewhere hot and sunny is going to do it for you. Why do you want to go off grid in the first place? If it’s for peace and quiet, then holding up in a cabin for a couple of days in the wilderness will really scratch that each. When you plan a weekend getaway you need to think about the kind of trip that you are looking for. This can help you to select the right destination and really get your creative juices flowing. There’s nothing wrong with daydreaming while you do this!

• Consider your timing. What’s the weather like right now in the destination you are hoping to go to? You don’t want to try going camping in an area that’s likely to flood or rain all weekend. You also probably don’t want to go to the beach when there are going to be gale-force winds and minus temperatures. So checking out the weather forecast and whether your destination of choice is going to be well time is so important. Pack a spare battery. This will save time in an emergency I recommend picking up a Aolithium lithium-ion battery for travel these are used in most campervans.

• Be flexible. When it comes to choosing your destination, keep your mind open. That’s the whole beauty of a small trip, you might think you want to go back to the same well-traveled haunts, but someone you can really make a difference. Imagine taking yourself away for a weekend in an entirely new city or country town and discovering some amazing history, people and fantastic food? These are gonna be the things that truly make the memories you are looking to make and give you a break from everyday life.

• Plan your budget in advance. Most weekend getaways can be planned quickly, but you are starting to consider how much money you’d like to take with you for fun activities and delicious food. If you can go to a five-star restaurant in each location you had to, it’s going to make a big difference to your experiences. No matter what you do, you should make sure you plan things that you know you will enjoy. The whole point is for you to have a break and have fun.

5 packing essential that you have likely not thought about.

I am about to embark on my first holiday abroad since the pandemic and I have been wracking my brain about what I need. It has been three long years since I went away. For an avid traveller like me, these words are shocking. Yes, I have been hon staycations but I crave further afield adventure and cultures. 

I have never really been a nervous traveller but I am feeling very apprehensive about this trip. I haven't packed in a long time for a proper holiday. Things keep popping into my head that I need to add to my list. Yes, I am a list person. I love a list. I would happily make a list to make a list I am that person. 

So I thought today I would list the items you need to pack that you have probably forgotten all about. 

1. Plugs

This is something I almost forgot. Honesty I woke up the other night thinking oh my gosh I dont have any converter plugs. Now for normal people that would be added to a shopping list but being in the highlands I had to panic buy on amazon and hope they arrive on time. 

2. GPS tracker

Have you watched the news at all? The airports are choices. There are late flights, flights getting cancelled and even worse missing luggage. One of my biggest fears is my bag going missing. I have learned that hard way to not pack valuable in my hauls luggage now but getting to any destination without my clothes makeup and toiletries would be a costly problem for me. 

So I have a solution I have ordered the PAJ EASY Finder 4G This is a very clever little GPS device which I can pop in my suitcase. The PAJ easy finder is cram packed with features. It has 4G to enable a wide worldwide network coverage. The battery will last up to 14 days after one charge on standby mode. It has an emergency SOS button in case you want to use it as a personal alarm too. It is waterproof. You can use it for  GPS tracking of vehicle, people and valuables. 

I love that the PAJ is so simple to use. You just have to connect it to The finder portal by registering it. It is so easy to set up. Then turn it on and you have access to the location of your tracker at all times. You can receive text messages or emails update if you like. It has worldwide tracking making it perfect for travellers like me. It is small and won't take up any room in my case. 

The Paj easy finder gives me complete peace of mind that if my bag goes walk about I will be able to locate it and have it forwarded on to me. It is so simple. 

3. Medication

Your medication. Let's face it most of us are on some form of medication, for example, I have asthma and I have stomach issues which all require daily medication. First things first check the country you are travelling to. Some have very strict policies on certain medications. I always carry a spare inhaler in different bags. I can not live without these meds so If one when missing I would be in big trouble. 

I also make sure that all my medication has the pharmacy label on it. In some countries, you might need a doctor's note for your medication. So make sure to double-check and get this sorted asap. 

4. Money

Now I didn't even think about money. We live in a virtual cash-free society now and I never have cash on me. I only have my card. My husband made a very good point we will need euros as we are going to rural France and just because we are pretty much cash free it does not mean they are. 

I just didn't think about it at all. I am just so used to beep and go. Prepandemic I would have had the euro all sorted by now but I honestly just didn't think about cash. I mean am I that out of touch with travelling that I forgot money? I do have one of those low charges cards that I have topped up but actual cash just didn't enter my head. 

5. E111 or EHIC travel medical card

The E111 travel card is no longer and it has moved to The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). But if you have an E111 it is valid until the expiry date but it is worth checking if your is still in date. 

Firstly this is not travel insurance! Please get proper travel insurance and make sure you check all the fine print very carefully. There is a lot of company out there and not all of them cover everything. 

The GHIC will get you access to medical help in most EU countries but again it is better to check which country you are going to and what is required. 

The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) lets you get state healthcare in Europe at a reduced cost or sometimes for free.

If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you’ll need to apply for a GHIC to replace it.

So please make sure you properly check you have your card and travel insurance. I recommend leaving a copy of your insurance with a friend or family member just insane something bad happen and they would be able to help you out. 

I hope you have enjoyed this post and it has helped you remember some things to pack before you travel. 

6 Tips On Packing Light

 

Photo by Anete Lūsiņa on Unsplash

Packing for holiday is something like an art form. You’ve probably got memories of the first holiday you took without your family, where you packed anything and everything in heir with you just in case. Add an extra bag for makeup, toiletries and hair products. 

You don’t always have the luxury of packing whatever you want though. Expensive baggage fees, family holidays and lack of space mean you need to get better at planning and organising your luggage. 

Use the correct bag 

The type of trip you’re taking should dictate the type of bag or suitcase you choose. If you’re travelling in Freestyle RVs or caravans, you will need something that can fit into a smaller storage space. Holdalls are good choices for this kind of trip as they aren’t hard-bodied so when you’re unpacked, they can be folded down to store. If you’re packing carry or for a flight, then a specially designed flight case is a perfect choice. They are usually light and the exact dimensions that airlines will allow, with wheels to help you get around easily. 

Roll your clothes

The majority of your packing is probably going to be clothing. Try creating a travel capsule wardrobe to minimise the amount of clothes you travel with.. Rolling your clothes tightly means that you’ll be able to get more clothes into the same space, or the same amount of clothes into a smaller space, leaving room for other things. 

Put socks and underwear in a bag and stuff them inside your shoes. 

Wash items 

Reduce the number of clothes you need to pack by washing items when you’re there. Underwear, socks and small items are easy to wash and dry in most situations. 

Buy your toiletries when you get there

Items like shampoo and shower gel can be quite bulky. Putting them into small travel bottles can save a lot of space but if you really need to pack light, then buy these things when you get to your destination. Unless you need specialist products, then these shouldn’t cost you a lot and can be picked up in most places. 

Use multipurpose cosmetics

Is your makeup bag big enough to warrant its own luggage charge? Take some time to pare down your cosmetics before you go so that you aren’t carrying multiples of everything. Another good tip is to take multipurpose products such as moisturizers with SPF, and makeup that can be used on eyes, lips and cheeks. Invest in a few versatile travel brushes rather than taking your own full-size ones. 

Wear your biggest items

If you’re travelling light then packing a huge coat or pair of knee-high boots is going to take up a lot of space in your bag. Wear these items to the airport or on your journey there so that they aren’t taking up that additional space. 

Takeaways

Packing is something that you’ll probably get better at the more you do it. If you ever need to pack for kids too, then you’ll probably learn some great tips fast to make sure that you pack like a pro and only take the essentials with you.