In order to get your body to get used to a different time zone, it is recommended that you do not go to bed until 8 P.M. or later. Stay up even if you feel tired, or you will never adapt to the new time zone and remain jet lagged. If you can quickly adjust to the new time, you will beat jet lag.

If you are going on a camping trip and planning on hiking make sure you have maps of the area that you are in and carry them with you. A hand-held, portable GPS or a compass is a must to have on you when you are out and about as they are very useful if you get disorientated and lose your bearings.

Be sure to allow for changes in weather, as it can completely change your plans without notice. Be sure to always check forecasts for any inclement weather that is headed your way. Weather can ruin even the most thought out plans, and you may even put yourself in a dangerous position if you are not paying close attention to it.

Always look at the expiration dates that are printed on your passports. Every country has their own set of laws regarding passports. You may not be able to enter certain countries if your passport expires soon during a particular time. This can be from 3-6 months of your trip, though there are some places where that time frame can be 8-12 months.

Create a list of the items you need to pack. Create this list either a few months to a week before your trip. Even if you actually pack the stuff at the last moment, you can still be organized and avoid packing unnecessary stuff.

Many stores charge too much for these types of products. Instead, try different, space efficient folding techniques for packing clothes. These minimizing tricks will allow you to pack more in a smaller space.

You should buy a National Park season pass if you visit them often. Each pass costs $50. They are good all year and can be used at any national park.

Write your contact information including name, telephone number and home address on a label visible inside your luggage when traveling. Should your luggage get lost and handle tags have been removed, your luggage hopefully will find you. If you allow your luggage to stray from your field of vision, you may never see it again.

As previously discussed, due to an ailing economy, you may feel as if you simply cannot afford this year’s vacation. Make use of the information in the above article and you’ll get more vacation for less money.