Are you planning to travel and take a break from the daily worries of life? Do you know how to plan a successful and fun trip? Here’s all the information you need to plan a journey that encompasses all you need to travel well, from where to go to how to get there to local travel tips.

Travel has a way of stretching your mind with new experiences and making you never want to go back to the old dimensions of life. However, many people find it challenging to plan and make the most out of their travels. And when you fail to put together a half seamless and half spontaneous/planned journey, there is no fun.

But let's be honest, most people aren't born travel-savvy, as traveling well is something that only comes with first-hand experience. To help you create the adventure of a lifetime, we've put together a list of a few ways you can make your travel more enjoyable.

These travel tips will help you create a fantastic journey, save money, and generally be a better traveler.

1. Choose all the top places you'd like to visit 

On the surface, this may appear to be the most straightforward (and most enjoyable) part of your planning. However, there are a few questions you should ask:

• Will I travel by car or by plane?
• Does the location of my trip influence whether I plan it myself or hire a travel agent?
• Which destinations are within my price range?
• How much time do I have to get and spend there?

Side note: Did you know that many popular U.S. cities have low-cost activities, breathtaking scenery, fantastic food, and luxurious accommodation facilities? 

There's no better place to start than with Tennessee when you think of great adventures. Pigeon Forge is a popular destination for a reason; it doesn't disappoint with its plethora of attractions that will have your heart racing from one thrill after another.

In Pigeon Forge, you can expect everything you need for a fun and comfortable vacation. We're talking five-star places to stay in Pigeon Forge and all-around activities that most families and solo travelers can enjoy during their trip.

2. Bring a little entertainment with you

A long-haul flight and staying entertained may be a challenge when traveling, but all it takes is a little forethought and creative thinking. Some things you might want to think about doing on your flight include:

• Read a magazine or book
• Play a good old-fashioned game (bring a deck of cards)
• Catch up on last-minute tasks so you don't have to worry about deadlines
• Listen to a podcast or some new music

3. Bring (fashionable) compression socks

These aren't just for the elderly. Long-haul flights and prolonged sitting can predispose you to deep vein thrombosis, a condition in which a blood clot forms in your more prominent veins (typically your legs). This clot can then spread to other parts of your body, such as your lungs, causing severe problems. It's simple to find cute compression socks online. The added benefit is that your legs will stay warm and comfortable throughout your flight or ride.

4. Purchase a small backpack/suitcase to pack light!

Buying a tiny (but sizable) backpack forces you to pack light and stop yourself from bringing too many items. Humans have a natural yearning to fill space, so if you pack light but have plenty of extra room in your bag, you'll think, "well, I guess I can take more," and then regret it. Remember to always leave room to bring home souvenirs.

5. Travel with the right people

We cannot pick who we travel with, such as when traveling as a family. Still, there are other times, mainly when we are younger, when we can choose who we undergo our travels with.

What makes a good friend does not always translate into a good travel companion. While your best friend may seem like the ideal candidate, it's important to remember that the strain of travel can quickly change a person's personality. Ask hard questions before spending too much time planning together. If you love food and want to experience all of a local cuisine, while your good friend finds food a bare necessity and will eat granola bars while traveling, this is probably not a good fit for journeying together. 

If you're married, don't feel obligated to travel with your spouse at all times. Although some journeys can be great bonding adventures that help you strengthen your relationship, others can leave one or both of you feeling unhappy. 

It’s not easy to pick a good travel companion, but it’s worth it to make the most of your trip!

6. Plan your travel outfits

The savviest travelers understand that creating a positive travel experience requires a combination of factors. Ultimately, convenience plays a huge role in making long-distance travel more pleasurable. It would help if you never left deciding your travel clothes until the last minute.

Some clothing suggestions for travel include:
• Avoid wearing maxi dresses or long skirts – ease of movement is critical
• Respect local cultural mores regarding clothing (do your research!)
• Consider pick-pocket-proof clothing items to keep your passport and cards safe
• Ensure your clothes are breathable, have natural fabric, and do not restrict you
• Wear layers and bring items that can fold into a pillow
• This is not the time to break in new shoes

Aside from comfortable clothes, other items to consider bringing with you include an eye mask, a neck pillow, and noise-canceling headphones. These will ensure you have a comfortable time reaching your destination.

7. Do not be afraid to consult a map

Being mistaken for a traveler isn't as embarrassing as getting lost and ending up on the wrong path. Don't be afraid to look like a tourist by using a map or asking for directions. You are, after all, one! So use a map (paper or on your phone) to get you where you need to go! The local information booth is a great resource for this, as is the concierge at your hotel.

8. Remember to interact with the locals

Unfortunately, many travelers never interact with locals in their destinations beyond speaking with hotel clerks and taxi drivers. Some even book tours led by nationals from their own country who run companies.

While we're not saying you can't enjoy a place without interacting with the locals, it is far more rewarding when you do. One of the most significant advantages of traveling is that it allows you to open your mind to new ways of life. Furthermore, interacting with locals can also initiate you to local hidden secrets that guidebooks do not reveal, such as little-known restaurants and unique attractions. Take a cooking class, a walking tour, or an art class in your destination. You’ll learn so much from expert locals!

Travel is SO important. You don't have to leave the country, but getting out of your driveway is a great way to start exploring the world of travel.