by: Matt Johnson

Travel is essential for a happy existence. I know this because I travel. I can remember every trip I’ve been on like it was yesterday. Trips have become my way to keep track of the time that is rapidly passing me by. Each journey marking a new milestone, new experience and new knowledge gained. The curiosity to see what’s out there will always keep me exploring. I highly recommend taking advantage of any opportunity to search our beautiful planet.

Where your exploration may take you should be based on your interests. I am a surfer. Therefore, I travel to beach destinations as often as possible. My passion for surfing has taken me around the globe to explore little-known beaches and surf breaks. Residing on the southern New Jersey shore island of Wildwood, I have always been drawn to the ocean and beaches. It’s not all beaches and waves in my travel log though. I have driven across the US several times, soaking up all of the beauty our country has to offer. I’ve been overseas both ways and have visited our neighbors to the north and south. I plan to see as much of this planet as possible.

As a veteran traveler, I am willing to share some of the trade secrets—just some travel tips that I have acquired over my years of exploration. Travel is a learning process. Learning from your mistakes the first time is the key. Problems, delays and acts of God will most definitely happen; it’s being able to deal with the worst that will prove you an expert traveler. Take my advice and you will enjoy the world, as everyone should. Remember, travel is essential for a happy existence.

Now that you know the secret for happiness, your first decision is where your adventure will take you. Some people live their entire lives never leaving home. Home becomes too comfortable and safe, making it difficult to leave. To be an explorer, you must throw caution to the wind and pick your destination. Pick a destination that interests you. Think big! Today’s travel has become more affordable with new areas of the world more accessible then ever before. Now is the time to go explore.

Timing is important for a successful trip. The further away from home you will be traveling, the more time required. Destinations far away will usually require full days of traveling, thus opening more opportunity for delays. The unexpected should always be most expected when traveling—especially when leaving the country. Being over prepared is a good thing when it comes to travel. Airline travel can be hit or miss. Weather is a major factor when traveling long distances. Longer air travel presents a greater risk of weather related delays. Unfortunately, planning ahead for weather can be rather tricky. Flexibility with travel dates makes vacations easier and less stressful. Delays and detours are inevitable. A veteran traveler can roll with the punches when times are tough. In many ways you are at the mercy of the airline. Flexibility can save you headaches and money. Airlines often offer upgraded tickets or flight vouchers for those travelers who can take a later flight. These offers are free travel for you and should be taken whenever possible. Usually these offers are limited to two or three passengers so traveling in large groups will eliminate your chances for freebies.

Group size is also important when planning a trip. Traveling is not only a great way to find yourself but it’s a better way to get to know your friends. Travel can make or break friendships. You truly do not know someone until you have traveled together. That being said, choose your travel companions wisely. Think quality, not quantity. Large groups make for great college spring break vacations but can be hard to manage outside of that setting. It can be a challenge to get everyone on the same page and still keep everyone happy. I prefer to keep my travel companions to four or less. Even four can sometimes be pushing it though. For a true backpacking global adventure, one trustworthy travel mate is all you need. Remember, wherever you may travel, you are a representative of your home. Keep company who value your same standards.

Respect is a universal characteristic required of a successful traveler. In many areas of the world where language barriers pose insecurity, simply showing respect can ease sketchy situations. Anytime you are a guest in someone’s home you should show the respect you expect in your home. Local knowledge is gold to the weathered traveler. Who knows an area better then the natives? Getting in good with the local crowd will open new adventures that cannot be found in any guidebooks. World travelers are representatives of their home country, whether they like it or not. As an American, I do my part to give all Americans a good name.

Travel is not for everyone, however. Although some of my travels are short, others keep me away from home for long periods. Some of us are creatures of habit. Some of us find an irreplaceable comfort in what we’re used to. Unfortunately, you can’t bring your comfort zone with you every time you decide to leave town.

I have based my life around where my next trip will be. If you are not a traveler you may not want to expose yourself to the adventure drug. However, once you’ve had a taste of the treasures hidden around the world, I promise you will forever be on the lookout for you next trip. As for me, I will always be willing to do the traveling for you.