Travel Beautifully
The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Planning a Big Trip
Overpacked itineraries, late insurance, unchecked passports and six other avoidable problems.
By Jeralin Soares · April 22, 2026 · 7 min read
Too much itinerary
The most frequent mistake is volume. Four countries in ten days reads well and travels badly. Subtract one destination and add two nights.
Insurance bought too late
Certain coverages, including pre-existing condition waivers, are only available within a short window of the first trip payment. Decide about insurance the week you deposit, not the week you leave.
Documents checked too late
Passport validity rules, transit visas and entry requirements change. Verify them at booking and again sixty days out.