Though many people consider travel to be stressful and unpleasant, it doesn’t have to be that way. Getting outside of your normal daily activity can be a rewarding experience, and one that can change your life in large or small ways. Following these tips will help make the journey a positive one.

If you are planning a trip to Iceland, it is important to make sure you obtain the necessary vaccinations beforehand. When you are in the planning stages of your trip, take note of any vaccinations that are required or recommended. Failing to do so could leave you open for dangerous exotic diseases that could ruin your trip, or worse, ruin your health.

Pack your own pillow. If you have trouble sleeping away from home, try bringing your own pillow along. Some people find it difficult to sleep in a bed that isn’t their own. Having a familiar pillow under your head can make a surprisingly huge difference. It could mean the difference between sleepless nights and being well rested for another day full of activities.

If you’re going on a trip where you expect to be doing lots of walking, break in your new shoes in advance. This will prevent blisters and help keep your feet from becoming sore. Good shoes can be the difference between the most enjoyable walking tour of your life, and a torture session.

If you are traveling overnight or into the early morning, get your doctor’s permission to take a sleeping pill after you board. Eat your breakfast and then drift off to dreamland, and you’ll sleep comfortably through the whole flight. Wait until you are airborne to take your pill though, in case your flight is delayed or must return to the gate.

Remember to report lost tickets immediately. Lost tickets can be refunded, but this can take as long as six months. It might also involve a substantial replacement fee. Reporting your lost ticket as soon as possible will not make things go any faster, but you will get your money back sooner.

Armed with the knowledge from these tips, you can now go out into the world with more confidence and less stress. Take the time to enjoy your new surroundings as you travel and learn from the people you encounter along the way. You’ll return to your everyday life refreshed and with a new appreciation for the things you normally take for granted.