5 Simple Tips to Travel Like an Expert

(BPT) - Wouldn't you love to take an expert traveler with you on every trip? Someone who would know exactly what to do in every situation? Someone who could get you where you needed to be as quickly as possible? Well, you can't always choose who your travel partners are, but you can make sure you're aware of the latest travel tips and tricks. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, there's a lot of opportunity for stress. Flying, staying in hotels and navigating your destination can all be a hassle. Make jet-setting a little easier with this insider knowledge: Complete a before-you-go checklist A few days in advance, make a checklist of all the important to-do items you'll need to accomplish before you embark on your travels. This list should include locating your passport and necessary documents, confirming reservations, calling your bank and credit card companies to let them know where you'll be, and tending to your household needs. Your trip will be off to a seamless start when you ensure everything is taken care of from the get-go. Always carry-on if you can Take advantage of the ability to carry a smaller suitcase on the plane with you. Invest in a reliable, carry-on sized roller bag that will work no matter what kind of trip you're taking. This not only drives you to pack efficiently, it also saves you the hassle of ever having to check a bag. Innovate on your transportation When you finally arrive at your destination, the last thing you want to do is figure out how to get from A to B, especially at the airport. These days, smartphones make getting a ride more convenient than ever. The ridesharing app Lyft aims to eliminate traffic congestion and give people safe, easy and affordable transit alternatives for getting around. "I've used Lyft during all my layovers for the past two years," says Las Vegas flight attendant, Cheryl Ross. "It's great for airport travel as well as a safe solution to drinking and driving when you're out at night. The drivers are people from the community and they often make the best tour guides." Best of all, payment is done directly through the app, so no need to worry about carrying cash. If you're a new user, you can redeem $20 off your first ride with the code FLYLYFT20. Speak up about special occasions When staying in a hotel, make sure to mention if you're celebrating a special occasion at the front desk. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary or honeymoon, the hotel might just upgrade your accommodations. Additionally, if you're staying at a larger chain hotel, it never hurts to join their free loyalty program. If they know you're a member, you could receive extra perks like early check in and late check out. Act like a local to stay safe When you're in an unfamiliar city, it's always important to take extra safety precautions. However, one of the best ways to make sure you don't become a target is to maintain a confident attitude. It's often the times when people are unsure, lost or stressed out when they run into trouble while traveling. Remain calm, cool and collected and always walk like you know where you are, even if you don't. Follow these tips and you'll be telling stories from your adventurous travels, instead of waiting in line and calling around to find your lost luggage. For more information and travel tips, visit lyft.com/airports.