Travel will often entail lots of different methods of travel all of which can cause havoc to our plans if something goes wrong, such as a break down or delay in connecting flights. By forward planning we can often minimize the consequences of these on our travelling plans.

Travelling by Car

When you travel you should make sure that you plan well where you are going and the route that you are going to take. If you have to be somewhere at a particular time, such as catching a plane or train, then make sure you leave enough time to get there. When planning your journey you should account for traffic jams and rush hour, make sure that you have included time to park the car, and enough time to check in. You should also plan so that you are able to stop and have regular breaks. There are lots of route planning websites which will be able to help you out and the internet is a great source to point out where any major road-works are going on!

Before you leave!

You should ensure that your car is in good working order. There are several key things which should be checked before you leave:

Engine: you should check that there is enough water and coolant and that you have the correct amount of oil.

Tyre pressure: If you have the wrong pressure then it will affect the steering and braking. You car manual will indicate the right pressure for you car.

Spare tyre: check that it is at the right pressure and that you have the jack.

Tyre Tread: you should ensure that you have the legal minimum tread on your car.

Windscreen and lights: ensure that the windscreen washer reservoir is full and that your wipers are in good working order. Lights must be clean and in full working order to meet legal requirements

Staying Fresh

When you are tired your concentration levels are not going to be the same. You need to be fully alert at all times, to be aware of the traffic and other dangers on the road.
If you feel tired stop and have a nap, drink some coffee or an energy drink.

Travelling by Plane (see link at end)

When travelling by plane you not only need to remember to bring your tickets but need to give thought to what you take your luggage in and what you take with you!

You should pack in something which is suitable, durable and secure, but also something which can be easily transferred from place to place, so a case on wheel with a combination lock is normally a good bet! A good tip is to tie something round your suitcase so that it is easily identifiable when you are at the baggage carousel!

When you pack you should make sure that you are aware of the weight restrictions and dimensions that the airline that you are travelling with. If your bags are too heavy you could be charged horrific charges. Many airlines are also often restrictive about carry on baggage that can be carried on; you can expect to pay charges for excessive hang luggage as well.

In hand luggage there are many things which you cannot take onboard, to save the hassle at check in do not try and carry any of these items on board:

- Guns
- Knives
- Explosives
- Chemicals
- Fireworks and flammable liquids
- Penknife
- Nail scissors
- Tweezers

SEE MORE ON TRAVELLING BY PLANE WITH RESPECT TO MEDICINES AND SUPPLEMENTS