What do savvy travelers know that maybe you don't? That's a great question. Experience is the best teacher, so why not level up your travel and vacation skills a bit? As you start thinking about your future travel plans—whether it's here to Topsail Island for an NC beach vacation or beyond—remember these tips. You, too, can travel well. 

1. To Get Travel Insurance

Most experienced travelers know that travel insurance is a must. Without it, you're letting your investment go unprotected. In these ever-changing days and times, it's added peace of mind that lets gives you confidence that no matter what comes your way between now and the time you travel, you'll be ready for it. You can read more about how travel insurance can protect your Topsail Island vacation here.

2. How to Master the Art of Packing Light

Savvy travelers definitely know how to pack light. Instead of packing for the "what ifs" where you pack everything plus the kitchen sink, change your mindset to proactively packing only what you really need and are going to use on your trip. Who wants to lug all that heavy luggage around whether by car or plane into and out of your Topsail Island rental? No thanks! Worst-case scenario, you'll be able to buy what you need locally if need be.

3. To Maintain an Eco-Friendly Mindset

Wherever you go, try to remember that the beautiful places of the world are affected by the people who live, work, visit and vacation there. Do your part as a visitor to leave as little negative impact on your surroundings as possible. Does your rental have a recycling option? Use it. Do you see litter blowing around the beach? Pick it up. Do what you can to leave the places you travel to better than you found them. 

4. To Always Have a Plan B

With travel, as is with life, there comes the unexpected, the unplanned for, and the unwelcome last-minute changes. If you go into your travel with a flexible mindset where you are mentally ready for whatever comes your way, then that's half the battle. Vacation and travel plans rarely go as expected, so have a few alternative options in case things don't go as you planned. It's also good to be proactive and think ahead of possible scenarios and how you might deal with them if they occur. A Plan C is not a bad idea, either! 

5. To Stay Within Your Budget

You've most likely saved long and hard for this trip. Don't overextend yourself or your finances by splurging too much on things you'll likely regret. Give yourself a travel budget and stick to it. The last thing you want when you come home from a lovely, relaxing vacation is the worry of financial stress because of the unplanned spending that you did. Know what's worth spending money on and how you can save a few bucks on big expenses. Read this for budget-friendly Topsail Island beach vacation tips.

6. To Take It Easy

In a world that moves too fast, your vacation time shouldn't be a sprint from start to finish. This is a time of rest and relaxation after all, and if you overplan your daily activities to the point where everyone is exhausted, yourself included, then you are missing out on what your vacation time is really all about. Travel is best taken slow and vacations are best enjoyed when you take it nice and easy. Sightseeing and attractions are all part of travel experience—but too much, and it won't be fun for anyone. 

7. To Remember to Keep a Journal

If you've traveled or vacationed more than a few times in your life, you know that so many things happen on trips, and many of them you'll want to remember for years to come. Don't fool yourself, though. You may think you'll remember all of the big stories and small details from your time away, but in reality you'll be surprised how quickly those memories start to fade. It's always a good idea to keep a journal of your experiences and travels whether you choose to write it, photograph it, or video it. Your future self will thank you! It's a great habit to get your kids started on, too. 

8. To Go Local 

Make it your mindful mission to stay focused on the building blocks and quintessential traits of the place you're traveling. This includes the local experiences, people, businesses, and community that gives a place its unique character. It makes it so much more special when you seek out authentic travel and vacation experiences that are unique to the area and learn more about the local history, culture, and essence of where you are. So what's behind the history and mystery of Topsail Island, NC? Get to know Topsail better right here. 

9. To Be Open to New Experiences

As much as we advise every traveler and vacationer to have an itinerary in mind (and a Plan B if that itinerary doesn't quite go as planned), it's also good to leave room for new experiences and unexpected opportunities that come your way. Go into your travels with an open mind and an adventurous heart, and you'll be pleasantly surprised what amazing things present themselves along your journey. You also have to leave a little wiggle room in your travel itinerary and vacation to-do list to allow time for these surprise adventures.

10. How to Choose the Right Place to Stay

Every traveler is different, as is every vacationer. Since you'll need a place to call home, don't underestimate how important the right accommodations are for you and those who are traveling with you. Consider what the focus of your trip is: business, pleasure, family related, sports or recreation focused, special romantic getaway, last minute vacay? Depending on what type of travel you're doing, you'll need the right place to stay for your intended purpose. This is why many people choose a vacation rental over any other type of accommodation. Vacation rentals are unique and allow for a more personalized, customizable stay where you choose what you want, where you want to be, and what amenities matter most to you. 

We'd love to show you what our Topsail Island rentals have to offer you, no matter what the purpose is for your travel to our lovely island. Get started here and find your place in the sand today.