Travel opens the door to new places, fresh experiences, and lasting memories. But let’s be real: it doesn’t always go smoothly. From canceled flights to missing luggage and surprise illnesses, things can get bumpy fast. That’s why I always come back to the voice of reason in my life—Dad.
This one’s for the Dads (and Dad-types) who taught us how to prep, plan, and pivot like pros. Here are the tried-and-true travel tips I learned from my father that still hold up today, plus a few modern-day upgrades (looking at you, travel insurance) to make any journey smoother.
1. Be ready for anything
Dad’s golden rule? Expect the unexpected. Whether it was a flat tire or a storm rolling in, he always had a backup plan. And when you’re traveling, that mindset pays off.
Here’s how to travel like Dad:
- Pack a travel emergency kit: Think chargers, pain relievers, snacks, bandaids, and a travel pillow. Check out this emergency travel kit to build your own or get inspired. Toss it in your carry-on and thank yourself later.
- Organize your travel docs: Store your flight info, insurance policy, medical records, and reservation details in one place. The Faye app makes this easy—everything lives in your pocket.
It’s not about overpreparing. It’s about knowing you can handle what comes your way.
2. Travel insurance: your modern-day safety net
Dad had duct tape. You have travel insurance. When things go wrong on the road, the last thing you want is to feel alone or out of options. Travel insurance is how you can make sure you’re protected.
Real story: One Faye traveler, David, shared on Trustpilot: “I am glad I had the insurance even though I didn’t need to use it. It gave me peace of mind and I didn’t worry about things that could go wrong. I will always travel with Faye from now on.”
That’s the thing about insurance. Even when it doesn’t come into play, knowing it’s there changes the way you travel.
3. Pack lighter than you think you need
Dad always said, “You don’t need five pairs of shoes.” And now I say it, too.
Packing light is underrated. It means fewer things to lug around, fewer things to lose, and more headspace to enjoy your trip.
Tips for light travel:
- Pack outfits that mix and match
- Limit yourself to one pair of versatile shoes
- Skip the “just in case” pile—you can always buy something if you really need it
- Keep your essentials in your carry-on in case your checked bag takes a detour
4. Take photos—but don’t miss the moment
Dad was the designated family photographer on every trip. But he also reminded us to put the camera down and just look around. The real memories aren’t always the ones you frame. They’re the ones that stick with you because you felt them.
So take a few photos. But also:
- Watch the sunset with your phone in your pocket
- Eat the street food without pausing for a photo first
- Laugh with your travel buddy instead of posing for the gram
You’ll be glad you did.
5. Ask for directions. And sometimes? Don’t.
Dad believed in maps, but he also believed in getting a little lost. Some of the best travel moments come when you step off the itinerary.
Here’s what he taught me:
- Ask locals: They know the best places, hands down
- Wander a little: Let your curiosity guide you—whether it leads to a tucked-away bakery or a side street full of character
- Trust your gut: Exploration is where memories are made
And if you do need help? The Faye team is just a tap away with in-app support, ready to give advice, guidance, or even help rebook things if plans go sideways.
6. Always have a back-up plan (or two)
Dad never left anything to chance. If we had a hotel booked, he had two more starred on the map. If we missed the ferry, he had a scenic driving route ready to go.
Apply it today:
- Download an app like HotelTonight for last-minute stays.
- Know your airline’s rebooking policy in case your flight is delayed or canceled.
- Keep your travel insurance details handy in case you need to file a claim on the go.
Backup plans aren’t pessimistic. They’re practical. And they keep you moving.
7. Don’t forget the playlist
No family road trip was complete without Dad’s mix of Springsteen, Fleetwood Mac, and the occasional power ballad.
The right playlist changes everything. It keeps your energy up, marks the moments, and turns any journey into a vibe.
Pro tip: Build a playlist before your trip with songs that match your destination’s vibe. And add a few nostalgic picks just for fun. You’ll remember this trip every time you hear them again.
The TL;DR from Dad: Be prepared. Enjoy the ride.
At the end of the day, all of Dad’s travel advice boiled down to two things:
- Be prepared.
- Have fun.
And that’s exactly what travel insurance helps you do. It’s the modern version of carrying a paper map, a fully stocked glovebox, and an emergency contact list. Faye gives you backup, peace of mind, and support when you need it most.
Ready to travel like a pro? Pack your bag, prep your playlist—and protect your trip with Faye.
