If you are a frequent traveler, there are likely a number of sources where you gather trusted information when you begin to make your plans or perhaps you connect with your travel agent who will use their expertise and connections to make your journey seamless since they know all the ins and outs.

For first-time or inexperienced travelers sorting out the details can be challenging as you wonder what to pack, what happens if your flight is cancelled, you lose your passport overseas or the hotel can’t find your reservation? Traveling for business is certainly different than for vacation, so where does one begin?

We’ve put together a list of five tips and hope this helps to set your mind at ease for the next time you want to confidently venture off to a conference, business meeting or plan your bucket list dream trip.

• Before you book, be sure you check for availability. Since that may sound like a bit of jargon, let’s decode what this means. To book something means that you are making a reservation to hold a seat, a hotel room or something similar. To check availability would be to call, search online or through an app for how many spots there are for your chosen activity. So, the first thing you want to do is determine how many passengers are going, then check various reliable vendors to see if there is enough room and what the requirements are for making your reservation. Be sure to look at the fine print to determine if there are specific requirements or what their cancellation policies are so you know what to expect. Using name brand chains and going directly through their websites is safer than using a third party, as the official company can help you with cancellations or lost reservations.

• Investigate rules, regulations and documentation for your journey. This is a pretty important section especially if you are leaving the country or are spending a substantial amount of money. First, if you are traveling outside your home country, be sure to check for the list of documents you need before you leave and what is required to return to the country. It is fairly easy to leave, but it can become challenging to return without the right documentation or if you don’t follow the rules. Laws differ in other countries so you will want to examine what your travel plans include and how they may be viewed legally. If you need a passport, check with the US Department of State for specific passport information, their site includes details for the various types, the time it will take to be approved, the cost and the process, and what happens if you lose it overseas. You can find additional travel advice on this site as well. You will then want to check with the government website for the country you are visiting for entry requirements and other legalities. You will likely need to apply well in advance for a visa or visitor card, so don’t leave anything to chance and have everything sorted out before you pack your bags. Be sure to use government websites, visitors or tourist bureaus and other legitimate sources to research all the requirements so you are fully prepared.

• Remove your shoes and use one-quart bags for all three-ounce liquids. If you are flying, it is likely these points came up during your research. This was once the standard for airplane travelers who had to meet particular Transportation Security Administration (TSA) practices at airports in the United States. As of July 8th, the TSA ended the policy to remove shoes when going through their check points, but all liquids that are carried onboard must be in containers of three ounces or less and in a one-quart bag. Security screening has many additional layers to it, so it is highly recommended to check the government website prior to traveling.

• Research your destination. If you are traveling to a conference or for business, it is likely that you will be provided with a great deal of information prior to departure including host hotels, transportation and schedule, but planning a vacation may be a wide-open opportunity for exploration. There are many forums where visitors can ask questions of the locals, who are an excellent source for finding out more about the regional culture and customs as well as dos and taboos that might not be listed in any official websites, but don’t forego reviewing the destination’s official websites as they can provide you authentic and reliable information, not just social media opinion.

• Finding Green Destinations. Tourism has shifted its focus to more sustainable practices, so consider how you can support the environment when you travel. Instead of renting a car, can you take public transportation, or use less electricity in your room and limit housekeeping so there is a reduction in water use? Perhaps you want to contribute by volunteering for a conservation project or engaging with local businesses. You can embrace sustainability with the choices you make during your travels.

If you have planned well for your next adventure, you will be able to handle any challenges that you encounter. So, in summary, we suggest that you work with reliable vendors, research your destination and the legal aspects that you should follow for safe travels and find ways to connect with the environment and the locals for a memorable experience.

Happy Adventuring!

Mimi Gough and Julie Dort