44 Travel Hacks to Make Travelling Easier Pt. II

"Hacks" is often a term used to describe unique tips to help you do something easier and more affordably. Here are 44 travel hacks

You also might see me add a few of my own. You might also see me add some info to each one if I have done it or seen it. My takes on each item will be listed after "Pro tip" because I have done that item and it works for me.

Save space by avoiding overpacking

-Overpacking is something we've all done at least once in our lives or it's something we know is done by someone we know. To avoid overpacking, leave out bulky items and consider where you are going, what you'll be doing and what the weather is like. This will ensure you don't overpack and risk those pesky overweight bag fees

-My stepdad does this EVERY TIME we go on vacation. I only overpacked once and it was when me and my family went on vacation to the Dominican Republic. I had never been there, and was unsure what the climate was like. I packed one too many shirts and there were a couple I didn't even wear

21. Mix and match clothing

-When packing, pack clothes that are of neutral colors that can be worn with multiple items. This will not only make it easier to choose clothing, you can also be stylish

22. Limit the amount of jewelry you wear

-Choose a few pieces of jewelry that goes with your outfits. Wear the larger items during travel to save space in your carry on

-Pro tip: if you bring a lot of jewelry on vacation, this just means more you have to put into a hotel room safe. And if the safe is not working, invest in a luggage lock that only you have the key to. Put your valuables into the suitcase and lock it. Sometimes maids will take items from tourists because they think tourists are rich. Hide anything you don't want stolen by the maids

23. Pack reusable travel bottles / tumblers

-Don't pack full size bottles. Instead opt for reusable bottles or tumblers. You can fill these bottles with your favorite drink. They not only save space but they also comply with airport security liquid rules. If you need to wash clothes where you are going, bring a small container of laundry detergent

-Pro tip: taking a reusable bottle or tumbler with you, especially if you are going to a tropical destination with a bar, will be easy for you. You can take your tumbler or bottle to the bar and ask them to fill it with the drink of your choice, even if it's juice or water. The steel tumbler will keep it cold for hours. When going through security, just get the tumbler or tumblers (if you plan on taking more) out of your carry on and put them in the bin you put your other items in. Security will see that there are just metal tumblers and nothing suspicious. And if they do ask about why they are in the bin, inform them that you are making their job easier by showing them that they are just metal tumblers, nothing more or less. They appreciate people making their job easier

24. Leave room for souvenirs

-Save some space in your luggage for souvenirs. Compression bags can shrink down clothes and save more space

-Pro tip: if you don't want your souvenirs broken, my suggestion would be to put them in your carry on. I've seen the way airport staff handle luggage. They don't care. Their mindset is "not my luggage, not my problem." They certainly wouldn't like it if someone did that to THEIR luggage. So they carelessly throw luggage into the airplane, not taking a second to consider that someone has souvenirs they don't want broken. Keep your souvenirs in your carry on. Prior to going through security, get the souvenirs out so that security knows they are souvenirs and not suspicious items. Also, if you buy something that is made of organic material, such as wood, you might get stopped by security only so they can examine the item. This is to check for any sort of invasive species of insect that might be hitching a ride into the country you're returning to. These invasive species of insects can mix with other insects and do massive damage to the local agriculture

25. Make a list before you pack

-This is the most important thing you can do. This ensures that you have everything you need. This prevents overpacking. Make a list of everything you will need for the destination you are traveling to. This includes clothing, sunblock, sunglasses, whatever you'll need for the trip. Triple check prior to your trip to ensure you have everything you need in case you need to make any last minute trips to the store for necessary supplies

-Pro tip: Start making a list at least 1-2 months ahead of time. Start getting items out and mark it off the list each time you collect an item. Triple check each item to confirm you have it so that if you are missing something, you'll have time to get that item before your trip. Once you have said item, put it in the correct bag or spot in your luggage. It's always good to have peace of mind knowing you have everything you are going to need. In the case of my parents, who take medication, my mother, who is probably the most organized person in the world, brings a list of medications for both her and my stepdad. She does this so that security knows the reason why they are bringing so many medications with them. They can look at the list and know they are legitimately needed

26. Use the "Last In, First Out" Method

-Put the items you'll use last at the bottom of your suitcase while the items you'll use first go up top. This will keep you from rummaging through your suitcase and making it look like security has already gone through it

27. Make your entertainment digital

-Instead of packing bulky books or magazines, go digital. Download your favorite movies, magazines or books on to a tablet. This is not only a space saver, but will keep you entertained once you are able to turn these devices on

-Pro tip: ensure any digital device is in Airplane Mode. This safety mode will not affect the electronic measurements on the airplane. Only turn on your devices when told it's safe to do so

28. Limit gadgets

-Bring only the gadgets you know you will use. Put cables and chargers in clear plastic bags to keep them together

Get the best deals for travel

-It always pays off, no pun intended, to get the most for your money. Look for discounts anywhere you can. If you are a retired person, and are eligible for AARP (American Association for Retired People), see if they have travel discounts. Seniors do get a lot of discounts on things. Look for any travel discount you can utilize.

29. Enable price alerts for flights

-Prices for flight and travel can change in a heartbeat. By setting up price alerts on the travel sites out there, you can know when a price gets to what you want and can afford. You'll know when the time is right to go. Google Flights or Skyscanner can help you with good, quick price alerts

30. Travel during the off-season

-It's always good to travel during the off-season. This ensures you beat major crowds and it's often cheaper to fly during the off seasons. There will be deep discounts on everything, from flights to accommodations and even local shops might offer you some savings. Local shops offer deep discounts when tourist numbers are low. September-November seems to be the off season for a lot of places, as there is not a lot of people traveling unless they are on vacation. Kids won't be travelling with them, as they will be in school, unless they are homeschooled. This time period tends to be incredibly affordable on flights, accommodations and more.

Pro tip: Do not travel around the holidays. Christmas, Thanksgiving, Memorial Day tend to be the busier holidays, according to most travel companies. Airports can be busy. The roads will be backed up with traffic if people are driving. Also, do some research into local holidays where you are going. If you are going somewhere and there happens to be a local major holiday, you might run into a lot of people. But that's not a bad thing; it's interesting to see how the locals celebrate holidays. It's more of a "put it on your radar" type thing so you know. Also, travel during the summer tends to be busy because a lot of kids are on summer vacation, so you'll see a lot of kids at the airport. Just be patient when around kids. They are just as excited as you are to travel and it's always incredibly rewarding to see just how excited kids can get when they know they are going somewhere they've never been to. And they're cute as ever when they are excited about travel

31. Use the incognito mode for booking

-What you may not know is that sometimes prices can fluctuate based on your search history. To keep prices from changing, put yourself into Incognito Mode. Use this when booking hotels or flights. This keeps the search history relatively clean and prices reasonable. This ensures that online activity does not have an impact on the costs you're seeing

32. Join a frequent flyer program

-These programs offer great discounts to those who travel a lot. Airlines offer frequent flyer programs that can offer the chance to earn miles and points to use towards international travel or other benefits. When on the airplane, staff aboard will tell you about frequent flyer programs that you can join if you plan to travel frequently. They will hand out applications to those interested

33. Get accommodations with built in kitchen facilities

-Some people prefer to get accommodations with built in kitchens. Others do not. It's all down to what you personally prefer. The idea behind accommodations with built in kitchens is that it will save on food costs. It will allow you to prepare and cook your own food rather than eat at a restaurant every day

Pro tip: I did this when I went on vacation with my mother, stepfather, his sister Jeananne and her son Noah when we went to Florida one year. They all rented a condo with a kitchen that was right there on the beach. It, for us at least, was more trouble than it was worth. It was not much of a vacation when we had to hit up the local grocery store, Publix, and get food. Every night, we prepared food and had to clean the dishes that were available for use in the cabinet. All the stuff you can do at home with the expense of a vacation rental right on the beach.

-It didn't work for me. That's not to say everyone will feel the same way. It might work for some and that is fine. It simply didn't work for me. Not only that, that vacation was boring. All we did was hang by the pool and walk on the beach. I had to be extremely careful because back then, I burned incredibly easily (luckily my skin is a lot tougher now; I don't burn anywhere near as easily as I used to). We didn't go to any of the major theme parks like Busch Gardens in Tampa (we were in Tampa Bay, by the way), Universal Studios Orlando or Walt Disney World in Orlando. The only major thing we did was go mini golfing at a course two miles up the road in an area called Indian Rocks Beach. I was glad to go home.

34. Explore Local Tourist Passes

-There is such a thing as local tourist passes. These allow tourists to visit destinations at a deeply discounted price. They also offer savings on public transportation, which helps you get around

35. Eat like the locals

-Instead of hitting up the touristy spots, go to the local market or local restaurants. Eat and drink amongst the locals. Not only will this help immerse you in the local culinary scene, but you can also save money too. An added perk is that you might get the chance to talk to some of the locals and meet interesting people and you can heighten your travel experience

-This is what I plan to do if I get the chance to visit London. Nothing would fascinate me more than eating amongst the local residents. Getting to know their interesting stories. Seeing all of the unique architecture. And if I see locations from various films I've seen, I will have to exercise extreme self control from getting excited at seeing something in real life from a film I saw. For example, if I see the building that was used as the MI-6 headquarters in the film Skyfall, I will definitely be taking a picture

36. Use public transportation

-Learn the local public transportation. They are far more affordable than taxis or rideshare services. It's a great way to travel around like the locals do. You can find some great things that taxis or rideshare services might miss. You can save money by using public transportation and use that money elsewhere. Not only that, you might meet some interesting locals while using public transportation

Maintain health and safety and various other needs

-It's strongly important to make sure you are prepared. "Hope for the best, prepare for the worst" is usually a good phrase to live by. When traveling, there might be unexpected situations that pop up. It's always good to be prepared

37. Make photocopies of important documents

-Make copies of your most important travel documents. This includes your photo ID, passport, travel itinerary. Keep these copies separate from the originals. This is with the idea that if the originals get lost or stolen, you'll still have all of your crucial information

38. Learn some basic phrases

-It's always important to learn basic phrases in the local language prior to traveling to that destination. It's not only respectful, but it will help you in the long run. Learn some vital words such as "help", "emergency", "doctor", "hospital", "allergy". Also, learn some basic greetings, like "Hello", "How are you?", "thank you", "you're welcome". If you need police / emergency assistance, learn what the local number is. In England, it's 999 for emergency services

-Pro tip: get a travel book. There are plenty out there. My suggestions would be Fodor's Travel, Rick Steves', Lonely Planet. They have everything broken down by price. 1 $ means affordable. 2 $$ means moderately priced. 3 $$$ means expensive. I have quite a few books by these companies and people at home about travel. I have one on England, one on London, one on Japan, one on New York, one on Australia and one on Hawaii. They're informative, helpful and offer helpful tips and hints about what to do, what to see, where to eat, where to stay, all based on your budget.

-Sadly, I've made a list of everything I would love to do / see when visiting these destinations. And it doesn't help when a British friend of mine from college told me about Alton Towers, a theme park in Stoke-on-Trent, England and how much fun he had there. He said if I got the chance to go there, I should. One ride he recommended was Oblivion because not only was it fun, but the concrete area around it was designed to look like a supervillain lair. It was designed by a production designer who worked on at least five of the James Bond films. I told him that now I have to go there and see it for myself. Of course, he sent back a bunch of laughing face emojis because we were chatting on Facebook

39. Check your travel insurance

-Verify that your travel insurance is up to date. Check that it covers your destination of choice. It should include coverage for accidents, illness, loss / theft. It will provide peace of mind as you enjoy your trip

40. Notify your bank prior to travel

-This will bring you peace of mind as well as that of your local bank. Notify your local bank about your intention to travel. Let them know when you are leaving, when you are coming back, where you are going. They will red flag any suspicious activity on your card and will even block / freeze your card from use in case of foreign transactions

-Pro tip: carry cash and / or cards. Depending on where you are going, if you plan on taking your card, do the above-mentioned advice. Not only will you have peace of mind, your bank will too. My mother worked in credit card fraud for a local bank for 10 years. She would block / unblock cards for the account holders for their protection. And, of course, they would always call and yell at her for this. She would kindly explain to them that she did this for their protection and explain that they should have notified the bank prior to travel

-A great example. A lot of former New York / New Jersey residents live in the Cincinnati, Ohio region. A woman who was from New York, but living in the Cincinnati, Ohio area had called in to complain that her card was blocked. She had planned a three week trip to the Far East, seeing places like China, Vietnam and Japan. My mom had blocked her card and this woman had called in, very angry, demanding to know why her card was not working. My mom had to educate her about the high risk of identity theft and credit card fraud that was prevalent in the Far East. That she should have notified the bank prior to travel. When my mom finished, the woman was deeply apologetic and appreciated what my mom had done. My mom had explained that it was her job to block cards from suspicious activity that is not normal for the account holder. My mom asked that, to prevent this from happening again, the woman needs to contact Card Services at the bank and let them know when she is leaving / coming back and where she is going. The person will put a travel advisory with this information on her account so that people will know that it's the card holder making those charges

41. Pack a doorstop

-For additional security, bring a doorstop. It sounds strange, but bringing a doorstop to use in your hotel room will keep unwanted guests from coming in

42. Check for Free Wi-Fi

-See if the hotel you're staying at offers Wi-Fi for free. It will help you stay connected and saves on expensive international data roaming charges

43. Carry reusable shopping bag

-Have a reusable shopping bag in your luggage. This will offer a convenient way of carrying items, such as souvenirs and it's eco-friendly

44. Research local customs and etiquette

-It's incredibly important to do research on what local customs and etiquette is. This will avoid not only cultural mistakes, but it will heighten your travel experience when you do what the locals do. Like the old saying "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." This phrase translates into "when in a city or country, do as the locals do." They will respect you when they see you are making a genuine effort to respect their laws and customs

Travel smarter, not harder

-These tips are designed to make packing for a trip a breeze. Use these tips to make your trip go more smoothly, not more stressful. Following these tips will heighten your travel experience and garner you respect from the locals

44 Travel Hacks to Make Travelling Easier Pt. I

"Hacks" is often a term used to describe unique tips to help you do something easier and more affordably. According to an Microsoft article by someone calling themselves Nomad Veronica LLC, here are 44 travel hacks to make travelling easier.

You also might see me add a few of my own. You might also see me add some info to each one if I have done it or seen it. My takes on each item will be listed after "Pro tip" because I have done that item and it works for me.

Hacks for packing

-We've all either been there or known someone who has been there. The person who has travelled all over the world and knows every little hack in the book. Here are some simple ways to make packing easier.

1. Roll your clothes

-This is a time tested and proven method of conserving space in your luggage. Not only does it save space, but it also is a nice way of folding your clothes to avoid wrinkles

-Pro tip: I do this and it works wonderfully. My clothes are not wrinkled, my suitcase has plenty of room. It works beautifully

2. Use packing cubes / crates

-These are a game changer. If rolling your clothes is not something you prefer, instead use packing cubes to put your clothing in. You can fold your items inside these cubes and it will keep them nice and tidy without looking like security already went through your belongings

-Pro tip: I also use packing cubes. I put my bulkier items in there, like jean shorts, t-shirts, camisoles, etc.

3. Pack a multi-use scarf or cover up

-Use a multi use scarf, cover up or sarong as a makeshift blanket, towel or accessory to outfit. Sometimes people bring blankets with them, but it would be wise to check with the airline or airport before doing this

4. Stuff small items into shoes

-Utilize the maximum amount of space in your luggage and also avoid losing small items by stuffing them inside your shoes. It not only keeps you from losing said small items, it helps you use every inch. Or you can put them into a plastic bag to keep them in one place

5. Put dryer sheets in between layers of clothes

-To reduce static cling and keep your clothes smelling laundry fresh, slip a few dryer sheets in between your clothes

6. Use plastic wrap under caps

-To keep hats from getting unnecessary spills on them, utilize plastic wrap on plastic bottles. Put a piece of plastic wrap on bottles and then put on the lids. For extra protection, use tape around the lid

7. Carry an emergency kit

-Always be prepared for the worst. Have an emergency kit on hand. This should be easily ready and accessible from your carry on. This emergency kit should include all necessary first aid supplies, medications and other items deemed important

8. Follow the 1-2-3 rule for shoes

-There is a rule for shoes in luggage. This helps people choose shoes. It's called the 1-2-3 rule. One pair of dress shoes, two pairs of casual shoes, 3 pairs of socks per pair of shoes. It also comes down to where you are going and what you'll be doing that determines the type of footwear you'll be wearing / bringing

9. Seal / separate toiletry bag

-Keep this bag separated from other items in your luggage and keep it sealed tightly. Use clear plastic bags to make getting through security easy peasy (they'll appreciate you making it easy for them)

-Pro tip: most travel sections at stores have clear bags for toiletry items that are safe for security. They have clear fronts so security knows there are toiletry items inside

10. Use the bundle packing method

-If rolling clothes doesn't work for you and the packing cubes don't suit you, try this time-tested method. Using a bundle pack method. This involves wrapping clothes around a central core, the wrinkle-prone items on the outside, the tougher stuff on the inside. The idea is that it will save space and reduce folding lines

Airport / flight hacks

-Now that you're at the airport, it's now time to get through security, sometimes called TSA. These people make sure you're not taking anything suspicious out of the country. Follow some simple rules designed to streamline your process through security and get you through faster and easier

11. Download boarding passes

-Make sure that you have all of your necessary travel documents in one place prior to leaving for the airport. Because if you leave for the airport and realize, when you get there, that you have forgotten something, you won't have time to go back and get that item without the risk of missing your flight. It's always good to triple check you have everything before you leave. If you are the kind of person who likes to take things digital, consider downloading your boarding pass on to your phone. It avoids the hassle of printing and making the boarding process easier. But if you like to keep the boarding pass as a memento, put the boarding pass inside the same folder as you keep your passport and then put your passport inside your carry on.

-Pro tip: Invest in a passport holder. Not only will this keep your passport secure, you can also keep other important documents in there as well, including boarding pass, flight information, a pen for filling out international forms and more.

12. Wear extra layers

-To save space in your luggage and ensure a comfortable trip, consider wearing extra layers. You can use these clothes for extra warmth

-Pro tip: look at the weather forecast for the area you are currently living in. Even if it's summer time when you're traveling, it'll be different temperatures up in the friendly skies. You'll want to wear long pants and bring a hooded sweatshirt to wear because once you're up in the skies, it can get mighty cold

13. Charge devices prior to travel

-Make sure all of the devices you plan on bringing are fully charged. Outlets at airports might be tricky to find or everyone is using them to charge their devices last minute. Making sure that your devices are fully charged will ensure that you keep informed and entertained

-Pro tip: invest in a universal adapter. These handy little devices allow you to charge things overseas. Just use the right adapter for the country you're in and you can charge your devices. These handy little devices will have the appropriate electrical prong setup for whatever country you're in because voltage differences can vary from country to country. These nifty little devices will run you no more than $10-$20 at most stores and will be found in the travel department

14. Carry portable charger

-This nifty little item is a game changer. Carry a portable charger with you to charge your devices. Keep it with you, along with a universal adapter, to keep you charged up on all of your devices

15. Bring your own snacks

-Airports can be expensive. The stores are counting on travelers being hungry. Bring your own snacks with you to keep hunger at bay. It means saving massive amounts of money at the airport and healthier options, especially if you have dietary restrictions

16. Stay hydrated

-Staying hydrated is key to fighting off and preventing jet lag. You can bring a reusable water bottle to fill up after getting through security to ensure you stay well watered throughout the flight, since flying dehydrates you

17. Choose an aisle seat for long flights

-Long flights can be tedious, especially if you are in the window or middle seat. Choose an aisle seat so you can stretch out without disturbing others. The aisle seat allows easier access to your carry on.

-Pro tip: store your carry on underneath the seat in front of you. Not only will you avoid disturbing others by incessantly getting up to go to the overhead bin, but you'll have all the important items you need closer

18. Wear slip on shoes

-While wearing flip flops to the airport might get you through security faster, they are not always the right choice of footwear, especially in the case of an emergency or once you get up in the air. Wear slip on shoes or gym shoes to the airport. Slip on shoes make it faster to get through security and also maximize comfort on the airplane. Not only that, but they keep your feet warmer too once up in the air

19. Keep a pen with you

-When travelling internationally, you will need to fill out entrance forms or other forms. Keep a pen at the ready to fill these out so you can enter the country. It will save boatloads of time to have a pen at the ready rather than wait for airplane staff to hand out pens. Keep a pen inside your passport holder

-Pro tip: invest in a passport holder. These can include slots for important papers, pens, your passport and more. When looking for a passport holder, invest in one that has a loop for a pen, storage for papers and your passport. This will keep you not only organized but ready with a pen and all your important documents together in one place

20. Book early morning flights

-To reduce delays and enjoy a quieter travel experience, book early morning flights. Statistics show that early morning flights are more enjoyable and a lot less likely to be delayed than flights later on

Top Tourist Scams to Watch Out For

Whenever someone goes on vacation, they risk falling victim to a scam by a local. It's because these locals think that the tourists don't know about the local customs. But, if you do your research right, you can avoid falling for these tourist scams.

The important thing to do is research, be vigilant and protect yourself. Do research on the local culture to find out if there are scams to avoid. So that when you sense one is coming or see it, you can dodge it

Tuk-Tuk Scam

-Don't fall for this sinister scam

-This miniature vehicles are commonly seen in Asia, particularly Bangkok, Thailand, India and other parts of Asia. They are sort of motorcycles with a covering for passengers. These drivers think tourists are loaded and they will offer to drive tourists to places where they will shell out money for fake jewelry and more. Here's how to avoid those scam artist tuk tuk drivers.

• Download a map of the city and follow the directions on your mobile phone. This will help you navigate with ease and also avoid running up large taxicab fares.
• This particular scam runs around the touristy parts of the city, like Khao San Road in Bangkok
• Have a list of destinations that you do want to see. Insist strongly upon being taken there. If the driver starts getting pushy or veers away from the destination you insisted upon, find a different driver or get to that destination on your own
• There is also what is known as the Grand Palace Scam. This scam is paired closely with the tuk tuk con job. The driver will tell you the Grand Palace has been closed for days and offers to show you some other tourist destinations. Simply verify on the official website whether the Grand Palace is actually closed. Then you'll have the upper hand over the driver

Pickpocketing

-Keep extra sharp eyes for these little thieves

-In major cities, pickpocketing is a common occurrence. Locals know tourists from all over the world will come to see the sights. And in turn, will bring a lot of currency with them. Some locations are more prevalent to these little thieves, like the Trevi Fountain in Rome, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Las Ramblas in Barcelona. These are popular tourist destinations and as such, are subject to thieves. These pickpockets take advantage of the fact that there are so many people, and so many people awed by the beauty of the location. Here are some ways to avoid falling victim to these thieves.

• Cancel all of your bank cards while out and about. That way, even if the thief takes your card, you'll have peace of mind that they won't get one red cent
• This scam is almost anywhere that is popular with tourists. Pickpockets count on the fact that tourists like to travel and will be so awed by the beauty of a foreign destination that they won't be paying attention. Keep sharp eyes out to have the upper hand
• DO NOT KEEP YOUR PURSE UNZIPPED OR YOUR WALLET IN YOUR BACK POCKET!! This makes it easy to get robbed!!
• To baffle and frustrate the pickpockets more, to not only your advantage but also amusement, separate the cards and cash so that, if worst comes to worst, you will still have access to money

Credit Card Fraud

-Avoid those mysterious charges when you're out of the country

-First and foremost, it's important to know that some countries have higher rates of credit card fraud and identity theft than others. India is said to be one of the higher risk countries for identity theft, along with Russia, China and some parts of Europe and the Far East. But, in terms of credit card fraud, popular destinations like Ireland or the United Kingdom are notorious for it. The reason being so many people from all over the world come to see the sights. There are plenty of horror stories out there about people getting mysterious charges on their credit card they don't remember making. There is always a fear that a scammer has somehow accessed your bank account and will wipe you clean of all your hard-earned funds. This can put a major downer on the nice vacation you were planning for months or even years. Despite happening in major places like Ireland and the United Kingdom, it can happen anywhere. Here's some ways to protect you and your hard earned funds from these sticky-fingered thieves

• This can be found anywhere in our massive world. Ireland and the United Kingdom, sadly, are especially known for it
• Check transaction receipts to ensure that you did get charged correctly. Keep a close eye on your bank balance
• Let your bank know when and where you're travelling so that they can red flag any transactions that they know were not made by you. Let someone at your bank know where you're going, when you are leaving and then coming back. Tell them that you might be using your card in this location from this date to that date. So that they can red flag anything that can be suspicious. If your card doesn't work overseas, that means the card is blocked. Someone has blocked the card from use. Don't call the company and get mad at that person; they are doing what they are trained to do. Be grateful for the fact that they are doing their job and protecting you.
• (I know about this type of situation because my mother worked in credit card fraud for a local bank for 10 years. She would get yelled at by cardholders who tried to use their card overseas and she had to block them. A great example includes a woman from New Jersey who was living in Ohio who went on vacation to Hong Kong one year. She tried to use her card and my mother blocked it. The woman called up and argued and my mother stressed to her that China was a high-risk identity theft country and that her card was blocked for her safety)

Fake Gladiator

-Rome is the top destination for all things gladiator-related, since the Colosseum is right there. Keep your eyes peeled for the "fake gladiators" running around

-People from all over the world come to see the famous Colosseum and learn all about its rich, but sometimes gruesome history. Tourists can get swept up in the awe-inspiring beauty of it. But there are those who have to put a damper on it by dressing as gladiators to take money from tourists innocent to this scheme. These scam artists will dress as gladiators and charge ridiculous amounts, up to 500 euros to pose for pictures. Here's how to avoid this

• This can be found in Rome, right outside the famed Colosseum
• First and foremost: DON'T TAKE PICTURES WITH THE GLADIATORS!!!
• Travel with a trusted tour company. This tour company will still take you to all of the wonderful sights Italy has to offer and you will run a lot less risk than you would going sightseeing on your own

The Taxi Price Hike

-Be cautious about taxi drivers raising the rate high

-There is a common thing among some taxi drivers. They will "claim" that their taxi fare meter is broken. The "broken taxi meter" is a likely excuse to bilk extra money from unwitting tourists. Don't fall for this otherwise you'll be paying a big bill for a short ride, which is exactly what these con artists want

-These drivers are counting on the fact that tourists to their country don't know the area well and that they don't understand the currency conversion rate. Luckily for you, there are some ways to baffle and even beat these drivers at their own game

• This scam can be found almost anywhere. But it's mostly relegated to airports
• Insist strongly that the taxi driver use a meter. If the cab doesn't have one or the driver puts off getting it fixed, simply get out and get another cab or another ride
• Download any sort of rideshare app that is operating in that country. Services like Uber or Lyft do have operational routes in other countries, but it might be a bit pricier. Do some research into this to have a backup plan. Use the airport-sanctioned taxis as well. They are very trustworthy
• Get a local-based SIM card to use in your phone. This will be handy when there is no Wi-Fi connection or you need to make a call to request a ride. And you'll also be able to look at your phone to kill time waiting for your ride

The "Oops, I spilled something on you" scan

-When a stranger spills something on you in a place crowded with people, be vigilant. It probably was not an accident

-Years ago, the site Reddit was alight with stories of people getting things spilled on them after bumping into you and expecting to be paid. For something you didn't do but instead they did. But, it seems this trick has been picked up overseas and modified just a bit. If you're going overseas, be extremely vigilant.

-If a klutzy stranger bumps into you and spills something on you, they will apologize profusely. They will help you wipe it away. At the same time, they will pickpocket you, taking your wallet and other valuables. Here are some ways to help overcome those klutzy locals

• Larger cities tend to have this scam perfected to a tee
• If a stranger bumps into you and spills something on you, insist on cleaning it yourself. Accept the apology and insist on cleaning it yourself. It could be an honest mistake, you don't always know
• Keep your valuables secure. Keep them in zipped pockets or securely closed bags. That way, if someone does try to relieve you of your hard earned valuables, and they can't get them, you win, they lose

The Street Performer

-Every city has them. Some you need to be on the watch for

-Street performers and buskers mean no harm. They enjoy performing for audiences to throw a little sunshine into someone's day. Unfortunately, some people have perverted the idea of sweet, charming street performances into a grimmer state. One to gain money in an unfair advantage with grim ideas in their head

-In countries like Germany, it's incredibly important to be extra vigilant. Street performers are counting on people being distracted while someone working close with them steals your wallet or other valuables. While's it's nice to enjoy the show, keep your eyes peeled for suspicious activity

• Most major cities have this scam, particularly many parts of Europe that have large cities and large amounts of tourists coming in
• Keep your eyes peeled for any suspicious activity. Even when enjoying a good local street performance, stay vigilant. Imagine you're a police officer keeping your eyes peeled for suspicious activity at a large event
• Keep your valuables in the hotel safe for extra precaution. And if the hotel safe is broken, keep your valuables in your suitcase with an extra strong lock that only you have the key for
• Remember. Not all street performers are criminals. There is only a small percentage who pervert the charming idea of a street performer to a bad end. Most street performers are innocent individuals who bring light and sunshine to a person's day. Tip them to show your gratitude

12 of the Scariest Places in the US According to Those Living in the US

While the US is not as old as countries like China, Japan, England or others, there are some places in the US that just give you the "get out while you can" or just overall dangerous vibes. According to the site Have Clothes, Will Travel, here are 12 locations in the US where you get just those vibes.

Sorry about all of the creepy and paranormal stuff. I find it fascinating to read about haunted locations. I enjoy learning about haunted locations and learning the interesting history behind them

1. East St. Louis, Illinois

-A city shrouded in fear

-One person recounts the feeling of constant dread. Even though they walked around with relative ease, they didn't understand until much later on, the incredibly high risks they had undertaken. Staying in a cheap motel, they bore witness to multiple assaults in the parking lot, running into the injured victims. At a nearby Burger King restaurant, there was a robbery and murder and in the motel parking lot was a van that acted as a rolling drug lab. The person was even held at gunpoint during a robbery at a nearby gas station. East St. Louis is the textbook definition of the darker side of urban life

2. Camden, New Jersey

-A city on the brink of danger

-This city has earned its reputation as a dangerous place to be. One observer stated they truly fear this place. The city is a city on the brink of total ruin. The local police force's strike due to low pay resulted in a massive power shift, leaving criminals to run the city. Visitors are strongly advised to leave the area before sunset, further emphasizing this is not a place to be when the sun goes down

3. Utah and their alcohol laws

-The alcohol laws are a sobering reality check

-A formerly Australian citizen now turned US citizen living in Utah states their point of view on the strict alcohol laws in Utah. Comparing it with their native homeland, the person states that the rules and regulations regarding alcohol in Utah would frighten or shock their friends and relatives in their native homeland. "I know a lot of my mates back home would be absolutely terrified if they knew about the alcohol laws here." These laws are radically different than what those who are from Australia are used to. This helps contribute to a strong sense of fear and unfamiliarity for those not used to strict regulations

-The reason for the incredibly strict alcohol laws is that the majority of the population of Utah belongs to the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. They have strongly held beliefs about alcohol consumption. In a way, the Church of Latter Day Saints rules Utah with an iron fist

4. Colorado City, Arizona

-A major polygamist hub

-This Arizona city is home to the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, which is known for polygamy, or multiple wives. This town was, in fact, founded by the Fundamentalist Latter Day Saints Church. A person traveling through this town recalls feeling uneasy, witnessing women and children retreating back into their homes while the men gave unsettling stares. This reclusive city and the unsettling feeling over it creates a totally disturbing feeling for those travelling through it

5. Oakland, California

-A city gone to seed

-This once booming industrial town boasted an MLB team called the Oakland A's, an NFL team called the Oakland Raiders and is even the home base for successful punk band Green Day. Now that both of those teams have gone to other cities, this particular city is becoming a bad place to go. One person remarked that during a road trip, they found themselves traveling through Oakland. This area is known for a terrifyingly high crime rate. There was a chilling scene where the streets were all but abandoned save for a few ruined cars going down the wrong side of the street. Police cars rushed past without even going after the reckless drivers. Gunshots were a daily sound, leaving a feeling of unease. Multiple police cars with flashing lights passing by, the person suddenly found themselves in a high-end luxury neighborhood, which only adds to the confusion

6. Gloucester City, New Jersey

-Not a safe place for those who are black

-Located near Camden, New Jersey, Gloucester City is is one of the most unsettling areas for those who are black. This scary feeling is attributed to a strong combination of both racism and the mostly Irish-American Catholic population. These characteristics have helped create a hostile feeling, making those who are from the black communities feel unwanted and unwelcome. This deadly shadow of discrimination has cast an ugly light on the city

7. Oniontown, New York

-A city wrapped in mystery

-Located in New York, this city with a strange name is about as mysterious as it's possible to be. There is only a small percentage of information available about this town. An individual who happened to pass through compares the residents to that of vampires, creating an uneasy feeling and a sense of dread about the place. The strong lack of information about this town leaves those who visit thirsting for more information about what the town is hiding

-The actual information about this small town in New York is that it is just that: a small town. Unfortunately, it's incredibly impoverished. As many as 10 people could be living in a house at one time. Illiteracy is rampant. Nosy teens have come here and antagonized the locals, who fight back and protect what they have. The locals prefer to just be left alone. But there is now a stigma over this town, stating that inbred people live here, which is simply not true

8. Centralia, Pennsylvania

-A town abandoned almost overnight

-This town in Colombia County, Pennsylvania is and was known for its coal mining industry. There are massive coal seams running underneath the city. What put this city on the radar of people's knowledge is an underground fire that started in the coal seams. This fire has been burning since 1962, and since then the town has been all but abandoned. Those who went to get gas at the local gas stations report that the gas was over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. There would be sinkholes opening in the ground that would be deadly if someone fell in. There are vents all over town letting out the hot air. Once you open the lid to one of these vents, steam comes out and it's well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The fire has been releasing poisonous sulfur and carbon monoxide fumes, making it unsafe for people to live there.

-The exact cause of the fire is from people intentionally burning trash in an abandoned strip mining pit turned landfill. The fire started in an unsealed opening in the trash pit, igniting the carbon-based coal mines underneath. This is most likely due to not having a barrier to prevent spreading. The deadly carbon monoxide and sulfur fumes caused residents to evacuate as soon as possible. Since then, the fires have been burning bright for well over 50 years and it's still going to burn for at least another 250 years until the coal seems fueling the fire run out

9. Galveston, Texas

-The haunted isle

-The terrible hurricane of 1900 took many lives and left death and destruction behind on the island. Many buildings there are associated with the local stories of ghosts and hauntings. Those who visit Galveston remark that there is a spooky feeling throughout the island, resulting in feelings of fear and dread. Beyond the local ghost lore, one person stated "And to top it all off, it has a Biosafety level 4 research center on the island. It houses things like the bubonic plague and other super contagious diseases. Did I mention hurricanes are frequent here?"

10. Stockton, California

-A city wrestling with demons

-This city has earned a bad reputation. One person said that there was strong language used to describe their frustration with the city. This leads to the suspicion that there are major challenges and issues in this city. Some of the demons contributing to the dangerous atmosphere include a terrifyingly high crime rate. There is severely high gang activity here, an estimated 140 gangs. There is easy access to firearms. The socioeconomic factors of poverty, access to education and job opportunities are limited. The nightlife in the city is tied with gang activity. Local police are trying to reduce the crime rate through programs like Neighborhood Watch and Crime Stoppers

11. Opa-Locka Florida

-Beware of the high crime rates

-This city in the Sunshine State is said to have one of the highest crime rates in the country. This is resulting from high drug use on the streets, prostitution being clearly visible on the streets, poverty levels are significant. One visitor stated "The train stop at Opa-Locka almost looks post-apocalyptic." Another visitor remarked "You had to drive through there to get to the old Marlins stadium and it was pretty terrifying."

12. Any Walmart in the country

-Sometimes a sight to behold

-Walmarts don't sound like a scary or dangerous place. If anything, it's more weird and odd than dangerous to life. The things one would see there would blow the mind. There are even calendars devoted to "Walmart People." One store guest reported "Can confirm source. Have seen many things in Walmarts that can't be unseen." While another stated "My 3 year old walked into Walmart the other day and asked me if we were at the zoo. Basically."

-This chain of supermarkets are a more affordable option than some other major supermarket chains. There are nice locations to go to. As a resident of Cincinnati, OH, I know for a fact that the Walmart locations I prefer are located in either the Ohio neighborhood of Fairfax, which is on the east side of Cincinnati or the Northern Kentucky city of Alexandria

-There are some Walmart locations that are, in fact, genuinely dangerous to visit. One of the more dangerous locations to visit is the Walmart on Ferguson Rd in the Ohio city of Western Hills, a suburb of Cincinnati. This Walmart location is known for the extremely high rate of shoplifting, despite being located near a District 2 Cincinnati Police Department. In fact, standing in the parking lot of the Walmart, you can look straight up the parking lot to see the back of the new District 2 Cincinnati Police Department. They patrol here very regularly. There have also been shootings there over the years. In fact, one year right around the Christmas holidays, a man was robbed at gunpoint and then shot as he was coming out of the store from doing his Christmas shopping for his family. Sadly, the man died on the scene. It's unclear whether the assailant was caught

-As a side note, Cincinnati, Ohio, while a somewhat good city, does have a pretty noticeable crime rate. Many people in the city make a running bet to see how far into the new year the city can make it without the local news outlets running stories about someone getting killed. It sounds macabre, I know. But, it's a sad fact that the city can barely make it into the new year without someone dying from some pointless cause. It's usually either someone shooting someone dead. Someone dying in a car crash from a reckless driver. Someone killing another individual for a pointless cause. It's just sad that petty crime and violent crime has to happen

12 of the Creepiest Destinations in the World

It's no surprise that there are haunted or creepy destinations all over this world of ours. Some are haunted because of a tragic history. Others are haunted not because of this, but because of people's everyday comings and goings. According to the site Have Clothes, Will Travel, here are 12 of the creepiest destinations in the world.

This is the old Moonville Train Tunnel in Ohio. Once carrying residents to the town of Moonville, it closed, cutting off trains to the town. Visitors report seeing spectral lights in the tunnel

Sorry about all of the creepy and paranormal stuff. I find it fascinating to read about haunted locations. I enjoy learning about haunted locations and learning the interesting history behind them

1. Paris Catacombs

-This iconic landmark beneath the City of Lights is as creepy as it is beautiful. The idea came from the lack of grave space for people dying during the 18th century. The remains were brought underground. This location is open for tours. One visitor remarked "So many skulls stacked in mounds staring at you. Thousands of them. They were all people once. It was creepy." While it might be creepy, others believe that it is beautiful, in a haunting sort of way. It gives dignity back to those whose remains exist there, making them a form of art

2. Auschwitz Concentration Camp, Oswiecim, Poland

-It's no surprise that this former German-run concentration camp will be haunted. Now a museum dedicated to showcasing the history of what happened here, there is a dark and heavy feeling of sadness looming over this location. During WWII, the Nazi Party carried out mass executions of those they deemed "unfit for life". Most of these people were of the Jewish faith and descent. They were killed during a time that is known now as The Holocaust. It was not just Jews put to death in this camp. Gypsies, political prisoners, homosexuals, cripples, anyone deemed "unfit for life" were sent to this camp. The Auschwitz camp was, by far, the largest of the extermination centers. It was part of an operation Adolf Hitler called "The Final Solution". One visitor remarked "You know the numbers. But when you're there it's so much more real. You become overwhelmed and then a bit numb. And then you cry. Maybe only a little bit, but there's always something that will affect you. The kids shoes. The tons of hair. The ruthless efficiency of sorting out the artificial limbs."

3. Port Arthur, Tasmania

-In 1996, this location saw a lone gunman massacre kill 35 people. This 1800s-era prison saw convicts being held there for a wide array of crimes. The vibe oozing from here is enough to creep out anyone. One visitor stated "It was a creepy convict settlement at the end of the earth in the 1800s. Freaky enough on its own but it's also the site of a long gunman massacre in 1996 where 35 people were gunned down and killed. The vibe of the place will creep anyone out."

4. Saqqara, Egypt

-Considered to be one of the oldest burial sites in Egypt, there is an overwhelming feeling of mystery about this place. You're almost in awe of the people buried within these pyramids. One visitor said "I got carried away and went all the way to the back while my tour group was taking their time. It hits you when you realize you're alone, staring at the depiction of a door to the afterlife. Gaps in the walls, too dark to see the stonework behind them."

5. The Killing Fields, Cambodia

-With a name as macabre as this, you know there is going to be an equally macabre history behind it. During a civil war in the 1970s, the Khmer Rouge regime came to power and carried out a mass genocide, resulting in the mass murder of more than 1 million innocent people. One visitor states "I was there in 2018, and there were still bones and clothing coming up out of the ground after the latest rain. I don't need ghosts to scare me. History does a just-fine job."

6. Puerto Alvira, Colombia

-Colombia is world famous as being the number one producer of a certain type of white powdery narcotic. Three of the biggest cities that produce it are located here: Cartagena, Bogota and Medellin (pronounced meda-yeen). At the height of the drug violence in the country, a paramilitary group killed or injured many of the residents. Now this town is nothing more than a dusty ghost town. Any of the residents who were still alive and living there avoided eye contact or simply stared off into space

7. Natchez, Mississippi

-This southern US city was one of the wealthiest in the nation. Mostly because of slave markets and the booming cotton industry along with other major crops. One visitor said "It used to be one of the wealthiest cities in the country based on slave labor and was the site of one of the busiest slave markets. There was a heaviness in the air that creeped me out and I couldn't wait to leave."

8. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

-This location is a must-see for all of those who are fascinated by history of the American Civil War. The location of the famous Battle at Gettysburg, this was one of the bloodiest battles in the American Civil War. Over 50,000 people lost their lives here. One visitor to the park recalls "There was no one near me while I was standing next to the battlefield, but I had a definite sense I was not alone."

9. Chernobyl, Ukraine

-Located in the region known as Pripyat, this now closed nuclear power plant was the site of one of the worst nuclear disasters in history. In 1986, a nuclear reactor exploded, spewing dangerous radiation for miles around. The radiation went as far as Russia and Belarus. To this day, there are still high levels of radiation in the area, some marked off as Exclusion Zones due to the high radiation levels. Since there is no way to remove the radiation, visitors are not allowed to visit. It's under the watchful gaze of Russian military

10. Fortaleza el Coyotepe, Nicaragua

-This was once an underground prison. Open to tours, one visitor recalls "Catacombs with zero light, thousands of bats swarming every time you'd enter a room. There there were the horrible things carved into stone walls of windowless cells like "There is no God here" and "Please Jesus let me die", in Spanish

11. Capuchin Catacombs, Sicily

-This series of underground catacombs in Sicily was made for friars who have passed away. Friars who were part of the Capuchin order. It became a symbol of status to be interred here

-There was a quote from a visitor, but I don't feel comfortable adding it only because they went into explicit detail of what they saw. It was a bit gruesome for most people's tastes. I would add a picture, but many of them were simply too gruesome. I normally am not squeamish by any stretch of the imagination, but even the photos on the internet were beginning to turn my stomach. Many of the photos on Google were blurred digitally due to explicit content. I am fine with that

12. Gary, Indiana

-Nothing about the name of this city evokes fear or even suggests anything sinister or macabre took place. It doesn't always have to be something tragic, sinister or macabre to have creepy feelings or paranormal activity present. It can even be something as simple as a ghost town. One visitor had to go through Gary to because they had accidentally missed their highway exit. "Drove through once because we missed an exit and had to circle through Gary to get back...it was so unsettling. Every window in every building is either shot through, broken or boarded up. Houses falling apart like they were purposely built for the set of a horror movie...but it's all of them. My kids were in the backseat and my son asked if this place was real and then begged us to get out of there as fast as we could."

12 Creepy Locations in the US to Avoid

Sorry about all of the creepy and paranormal stuff. I find it fascinating to read about haunted locations. I enjoy learning about haunted locations and learning the interesting history behind them

The US has some seriously creepy places lurking around and people can make road trips out of going to see them. According to MSN.com, here are 12 creepy locations in the US to avoid at all costs, unless you're into that type of thing

1. Villisca Axe Murder House, Villisca, Iowa

-Sleep in the house where a family was bludgeoned to death by axe

-This house was the site of a grisly, gruesome murder. The Moore family and two guests were brutally bludgeoned to death in 1912 by an unknown assailant. Now this house is open as a bed and breakfast. Visitors report hearing voices and sensing paranormal activity

2. Stull Cemetery, Stull, Kansas

-Look into the rumored "Gateway to the Underworld"

-There are said to be Seven Gateways to the Underworld on the planet and this cemetery in Stull, Kansas is said to be one of them. Satanic rituals occur here on a terrifyingly frequent basis. The church on site is said to feature an opening to the Underworld, specifically a staircase that is only visible on Halloween. The Dark Lord himself, the Devil, is said to traverse this cemetery on two nights a year-Halloween and the spring equinox. The reason being to pay his respects to his dearly departed child. A quote from the local University Daily Kansas reports "This graveyard is one of two places where the devil appears in person twice a year." Those who trespass state they report unsettling occurrences and unexplainable events, despite the cemetery being closed officially

3. The Devil's Tree, Basking Ridge, New Jersey

-A tree that looks demonic

-This mighty oak, scarred by years of axe marks from people trying to chop it down, is said to be the site of frequent KKK meetings and a common site for suicide by hanging. The gnarled appearance only adds to the spooky and sinister vibes oozing from it. Locals warn those who go to visit it that it is cursed and that damaging it in any way will incur a supernatural wrath and vengeance beyond their wildest nightmares

4. Dawson Cemetery, Cimarron, New Mexico

-Learn about the tragic past and see the spirits of miners who met a dark end

-This once thriving mining community now holds a cemetery where the miners who died in events in 1913 and 1923 are buried. Spectral lights are seen, shadow figures are seen, said to be the spirits of the miners who died

5. Elgin, Kansas

-This city is said to be like a city trapped in time. Time here seems to have stopped. Visitors to this spooky ghost town report seeing a woman pushing a baby carriage containing a baby doll, despite the fact this town has been abandoned for years. It's overall unsettling

6. Tonopah, Nevada

-The Clown Motel, home to all things clown-related, sits nearby

-There is an eerie charm to Tonopah. Most notably, the Clown Motel, where over 5,000 figures of clowns exists. Nearby is the Old Tonopah Cemetery. Here, people who visit this location report hearing children's laughter, spooky footsteps, in addition to other paranormal activity

7. Shreveport, Louisiana

-This city is said to be haunted. There are many locations in the city rumored to have paranormal activity. Sights of ghosts suggests there is a history here not to be forgotten. Despite efforts to get the city back up and running, there is an overall uneasy feeling lurking over the city

8. Salton Sea, California

-This location was featured on the TV program Mysteries of the Abandoned

-This once popular vacation destination now stands ruined and abandoned due to environmental issues stemming from pesticides and fertilizer runoff leaking into the water from the nearby farming areas. The city is a literal ghost town. Abandoned houses, structures makes visitors feel as those they entered a post-apocalyptic city. There is an overwhelming sense of unease and isolation, which is further aggravated by the decaying buildings

9. Barstow, California

-This eerie desert town is more than meets the eye

-This city is surrounded by highways, specifically the famed Route 66. The locals seem to be hitchhikers who appear almost out of thin air. The isolation and strange locals make this a town to pass through as quickly as possible

10. Rulo, Nebraska

-This haunted town was once the site of an infamous cult

-The eerie silence and abandoned buildings give it a ghost town feel. A murderous Christian once called this place home, adding to the sinister vibes. The lingering influence of this cult still makes Rulo a place ruled by fear and mystery

11. Many, Louisiana

-This city is oozing with paranormal activity. From haunted houses to unexplored swamps, it is haunted. The isolated location and potential danger are best to be avoided at all costs unless you are one for a strong adventure

12. Samoa, California

-There is an overwhelming feeling of evil or malevolence lurking over this California city. One person described it as a fever dream directed by horror filmmakers. The eerie feeling and unsettling surroundings make one feel as though they stepped into a living nightmare