❌ Top Mistakes Travellers Make - and How to Avoid Them

Traveling is one of life’s most rewarding experiences - but even the most seasoned globetrotters make mistakes that can turn a dream trip into a headache. As a travel agent, I’ve seen it all. Here's a list of the top travel mistakes and how you can avoid them with a little planning (and expert help!).

1. ✈️ Booking Flights Too Late (or Too Early)

Many travellers either wait too long hoping for a price drop, or book too early and miss better deals.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Book domestic flights 1-3 months ahead.
Book international flights 2-6 months in advance.
Use a travel agent to track fare trends and lock in the best times.

2. 🌎 Skipping Travel Insurance

From flight delays to medical emergencies abroad, things can go wrong. Yet many travellers skip insurance thinking they “won’t need it.”

✅ How to Avoid It:

Always purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers cancellations, medical care, and lost luggage.
Compare policies - not all coverage is equal!

3. 📄 Not Checking Entry Requirements

Each country has its own visa, vaccination, and passport validity rules. One oversight can mean denied entry.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Research entry and visa rules at least 2 months before your trip.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

4. 🧳 Overpacking or Under packing

Packing too much can lead to extra fees or missed connections. Too little, and you’re stuck buying overpriced essentials.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Check the weather and activities ahead of time.
Stick to versatile layers and essentials.
Use packing cubes to stay organized.

5. 🕐 Not Allowing Enough Time Between Flights

Tight layovers may seem efficient - until a small delay causes you to miss a connection.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Leave at least 1.5-2 hours between domestic connections.
3 hours or more for international layovers.
Book with one airline or alliance to increase your rebooking chances if something goes wrong.

6. 💳 Forgetting to Notify Your Bank

Banks may flag and freeze your card if they detect international charges without prior notice.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Let your bank know your travel dates and destinations.
Carry a backup credit or debit card.

7. 📱 Not Downloading Offline Maps or Translators

Losing signal in a foreign city without a backup plan can be stressful and time-consuming.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Download Google Maps offline for your destination.
Install a translation app or phrasebook for basic communication.

8. 📆 Overbooking Your Itinerary

Trying to cram too much into one trip leaves no room for spontaneity, rest, or surprise finds.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Leave buffer time between major activities.
Pick 1-2 main things per day and go with the flow.
A good itinerary balances must-sees with flexibility.

9. 💬 Not Learning Local Customs

What’s polite in one country may be rude in another. Many travellers unintentionally offend locals by not doing basic research.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Learn a few key phrases and etiquette rules.
Know cultural do’s and don’ts (e.g. tipping, dress codes, greetings).

10. 🧭 Skipping the Travel Agent

Many travellers try to do it all themselves online - and miss out on better deals, expert insight, or insider access.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Work with a travel agent who can offer personalized service, exclusive rates, and support if something goes wrong.

✨ Travel Smarter, Not Harder

Travel doesn’t have to be stressful. Avoiding these common mistakes can mean the difference between a trip that’s just okay and one that’s truly unforgettable.

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Eligibility First thing first, are you fit and well to travel. While planning your trip make sure to consider if your immigration status allows you to travel to Saudi and if you require any transit visas along the way. A Travel Document (without a visa) is no longer a valid document to enter Saudi Arabia. Also check the eligibilities and make sure to carry all relevant and necessary documents if you are opting for on arrival visa. Visa Obtain a visa directly from official site ksavisa.sa . Otherwise visit any of your local Ministry of Hajj and Umrah approved agencies should you require any assistance. Book a cheap or a convenient flight Search hundreds of flights at your convenience and secure your flight booking with flight search to make your journey is hassle-free. You can use the filter function to see availability that fit your requirements. Make sure to review your ticket before payments, airports, terminals, date and time. Book Hotels Book a hotel of your choice for Makkah and Madinah. When booking a hotel, bear in mind that some hotels are designated for a certain nationality and that it may not be suitable for your stay. Always be wary of online scammers, too cheap, don’t fall for it, check their credentials. Look out for correct number of beds you require. Also it is a common question at the immigration regarding where will you be staying, so make sure to carry your confirmed reservation details HCN. Transfers and City Tour (Ziyarah) You may wish to pre-book your transportations for your conveniences and security, or arrive at the airport where you have a choice of individuals, local taxi firms and apps such as Uber. Booking a taxi for your transfers and city tour is simple and easy but you’ve got to understand the art of haggling soon as you step out of the airport. From Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport there is also an option of Haramain High Speed Rail service. Tickets can be purchased online, at kiosk and at the ticket offices located within train station (HHR do not operate 24/7). Nusuk App for Umrah & Rawdah Download Nusuk App to book available slots for Umrah in Makkah and to visit the Holy Rawdah in Madinah Mosque. Nusuk App Links: iPhone & Android Phones Insurance Travel insurance is recommended. EVW visa does not have any medical cover, it would remain your own responsibility to pay for any medical treatments unless you take out your own medical policy in advance. Travel insurance can not be purchased after departure. Advice Planning a DIY Umrah requires careful preparation and understanding the rituals of Umrah. Ensure to secure a visa, book flights and accommodations, pack essential items like Ihram and slippers. It's also wise to familiarise yourself with the latest regulations, choose your dates and budget well in advance, and consider the best time to travel. Also remember when selecting a hotel, sometimes they do not give accurate locations on map. Consider using an approved online agent for your bookings as the saying goes: No credentials, No accountability. More Visit Umrah page to understand how to perform Umrah. And visit Umrah policy page to understand all key aspects of visiting Saudi Arabia.

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❌ Top Mistakes Travellers Make - and How to Avoid Them