10 Pieces of Common Travel Advice You Should Ignore

We're constantly bombarded with travel advice, but some of it might actually be leading us astray. This article explores 10 common pieces of travel advice that could hinder your trip, offering expert insights to help you create a more authentic and enjoyable experience.

Book early to get the best deals

While booking early can often save money, you can also find incredible deals and discounts closer to your travel dates. Rosie Bell, an independent travel journalist and educator at Discovery Sessions, says, "Over seven years as a digital nomad, I've seen firsthand that flexibility in your travel plans can lead to better deals closer to your departure date." This is especially true for flights, which use dynamic pricing models. Bell, for instance, found a flight to Barcelona from London for 50% cheaper just two days before her trip.

Always carry a carry-on bag

This common piece of advice can be frustrating for many travelers. Devaki Das, founder of luxury travel concierge service Weave a Thousand Journeys, says, "It's just annoying." Colleen Newvine, author of "Your Mini Sabbatical," agrees. "Can I pack for a conference or a weekend getaway with just a carry-on? Sure. But I find it takes so much mental energy that I'd happily throw down $35 to streamline my wardrobe and shoes to fit."

Avoid all street food

Lotte Nash, head of emerging markets and luxury travel expert at Wayfarer Travel, explains, "Exploring a new destination's cuisine is one of the best ways to connect with its culture, and trying local dishes is a fun and delicious way to discover new flavors you might bring home." While many travelers opt to avoid street food out of fear of getting sick, they're missing out on some of the most authentic and flavorful parts of local culture.

Always avoid tourist traps

While many people want to escape the crowds, there's a reason why certain places attract a lot of attention. Angie Rice, owner of Boutique Travel Advisors in Scottsdale, Arizona, says, "Iconic landmarks and cultural sites offer insights into the heart of a destination, and experiencing them firsthand adds significant value to any trip." Sometimes, being a tourist can actually help you understand your destination better. It can provide a deeper understanding of the area's heritage and significance.

You don't need travel insurance

Lisa Niver, a travel expert and author of "Brave-ish: One Break-up, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty," says, "The advice you need to disregard is people telling you you don't need travel insurance. You need it when something unwanted happens." Niver has experienced a storm at sea, her cruise line going bankrupt seven days after 9/11, a medical emergency, and a diving accident. "Trust me, travel insurance is vital!" she says.

You can get cheaper prices by booking everything yourself

Melanie Marsell, co-founder of boutique travel company Dive the Americas, explains, "Many modern travel agents charge the same prices you'd get if you booked everything yourself, so using them won't cost you extra." Travel agents typically make money from commissions from hotels and other partners, not by marking up your trip. "When an agent has a strong relationship with a hotel or tour provider, they often get access to the best deals, which means lower prices than what you find online," says Marsell.

Exchange your money at the airport

Kevin Mercier, a travel blogger at Kevmrc Travel, says, "While convenient, exchanging currency at the airport is often the worst option because of the high fees and poor exchange rates." Many travelers are advised to exchange money at the airport for convenience, but Mercier recommends only doing so if you need a small amount of cash immediately. "You'll get a better exchange rate at a local ATM or a reputable currency exchange bureau," says Mercier.

Avoid public transportation

Mimi Gee, founder of Find Your Resort, is a big fan of exploring destinations through public transportation. "I had a client once tell me they were spending a weekend in London and planned on taking an Uber everywhere, and I suggested they consider using the bus instead," says Gee. Public transport can be significantly cheaper than taxis. And in the middle of a congested city, the train might even be faster.

Travel destinations that are viral on TikTok and Instagram are the best

Social media can showcase appealing tourist spots, but it doesn't always present the full picture. Alice Teramoto, a destination specialist at travel agency Goway, says, "What looks beautiful on social media can be misleading and disappointing in the real world." Before booking a trip or joining a tour based solely on TikTok, take some time to research it further. Read reviews on Tripadvisor and Yelp, ask people who've been there, and imagine what the place is actually like without filters and edits.

Don't travel during peak season

While peak season is typically more crowded, booking only outside of peak season could mean missing out on key moments of a specific destination. "There are certain experiences, like whale watching or events like Carnival, that can only be enjoyed during the peak season," says Rice. These events can define the culture and character of a destination, making visits during these times unforgettable experiences.

When to avoid exchanging money at the airport?

Travel bloggers often advise against exchanging money at the airport due to high fees and poor exchange rates. While it may be convenient, travelers should consider using local ATMs or reputable currency exchange bureaus for better rates.

What travel advice does Angie Rice offer about tourist traps?

Iconic landmarks and cultural sites offer insights into a destination's heart, and experiencing them firsthand adds value to any trip. Angie Rice, owner of Boutique Travel Advisors, believes being a tourist can provide a deeper understanding of the area's heritage and significance.

How does booking outside of peak season affect travel experiences?

Booking solely outside of peak season could mean missing out on key moments of a specific destination. Certain experiences, like whale watching or events like Carnival, can only be enjoyed during the peak season. These events can define the culture and character of a destination, making visits during these times unforgettable experiences.

What is the best way to avoid getting sick while traveling?

Many travelers opt to avoid street food out of fear of getting sick, but they're missing out on some of the most authentic and flavorful parts of local culture. Lotte Nash, head of emerging markets and luxury travel expert at Wayfarer Travel, suggests that exploring a new destination's cuisine is one of the best ways to connect with its culture.

What does Devaki Das say about carrying a carry-on bag?

Devaki Das, founder of luxury travel concierge service Weave a Thousand Journeys, says, "It's just annoying." Colleen Newvine, author of "Your Mini Sabbatical," agrees. "Can I pack for a conference or a weekend getaway with just a carry-on? Sure. But I find it takes so much mental energy that I'd happily throw down $35 to streamline my wardrobe and shoes to fit."

Travel Advice: Embrace the Journey

Don't fall into the trap of blindly following travel advice. Do your own research, consider your personal preferences, and tailor your journey to create an unforgettable and authentic travel experience.