The idea of traveling evokes many feelings in people. Whether it is for business or pleasure, there is always some level of stress involved. Don't let stress get to you and stop you from enjoying your trip. Read the tips in this article for a safe trip filled with fun.

Before going out to visit attractions for the day, always ask someone at the hotel for directions. You may have gotten map directions there, but those directions may take you to parts of town that are unsafe. A hotel employee will most likely be able to guide you there in a way that avoids an dangerous areas.

Print out directions and confirmation numbers ahead of time when you are traveling. If you have a smart phone, you can save these important pieces of information in a file in your phone for easy access later. You will be much more at ease if you know ahead of time how and where to find your important information when you need it.

Shop around for the best deal. Often, a shift in a day or two from your departure or return can amount to a significant savings of several hundred dollars in your transportation cost. Many websites can check this automatically for you. As a general rule, if you can avoid travelling on Fridays or Sundays, you will save a pile of money.

Make a portable washing machine with a plastic bag. Save money by skipping expensive coin-operated washers and dryers when you travel by using a do-it-yourself tip. Find or pack a large and sturdy plastic bag, and add a little laundry soap and water. Put your clothes in the bag, and shake. Drain the soapy water and repeat the process with clean water, then hang the clothes to dry.

Long driving trips can be fun and economical, but the cost of stopping for meals every few hours will add up, especially for a family. If you are planning a longish car trip, make sure you have plenty of car food available in advance. You may be able to get away with skipping the hourlong lunch stop, which will not only save you money, but will get you to your destination sooner. If you have a second adult in the car, that person can serve as "lunchmaker," handing around sandwiches, cutting fruit, and making sure everybody gets their midday meal on the road.

For safety, when you are packing to go on a trip you should always include a first aid kit. You should also put a pair of tweezers in your suitcase in case of any splinters that get picked up along the way. You always want to be prepared for any emergency.

Travel agencies can sometimes clear out a specific airline or hotels inventory. Look in your local paper or other local publications for specials and sales. Sometimes these can be a great way to take a getaway on a budget. There will be limited amounts of these available, so act fast.

Whether you are traveling abroad or within the United States, you can save a bundle on airfare by employing some simple strategies. Look into flying with smaller airlines. If traveling overseas, you can often save money by choosing a flight that includes your destination as a stop rather than a final destination. If you're willing to get up early or stay up late, "red-eye" flights are frequently discounted. Being flexible in your flight plans can free up some cash for additional entertainment or souvenirs.

As was stated in the beginning of this article, stress is always a major factor in travel, for various reasons. You don't have to let it ruin you, instead conquer it by arming yourself with successful travel tips that are sure to make your journey worry-free and safe.