What are your tips for travelling, especially alone?
Ask a Biologist Monday-8/9/21
My advice is to pack meals for yourself. You’ll save a ton of money and time, and you’ll have more options and control over what you’re eating. A small cooler works great for this and you should be able to get fresh ice along the way as needed.
Answers from Biologists:
Don’t drive if you are tired.
Take breaks.
Take early flights. You’ll avoid traffic, sleep on the plane, and have time to settle in.
Never act lost.
Always have an escape route.
Relish new friendships! They last a a lifetime.
Have podcasts and a good music playlist for driving.
Lollipops are a necessity to help stay awake.
Download your maps and playlist before leaving so you are ready to be offline.
Sleeping in your car? Alarm it and text a friend your location. Sketch motel? Put a chair or something else in front of the door or just off to the side to trip someone up.
Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back or reach your destination.
Have a check-in time and person. If you don’t check in, tell them who to call (such as your PI or safety officer).
Location sharing on Google with someone you trust. It might not work everywhere but it can be a lifesaver!
Plan fun stops along the way.
Use the adventure to check birds off on your list.
Meet up with other Biologists in towns you pass through.
Always pack a towel and extra socks.
Prepack food, plan stops, and get to campsites by dark to have some down time.
If you’re flying and have to check a bag, make sure to pack extra clothes in your carry-on.
Let people know where you are and when you’ll arrive.
Don’t post on social media where you are until you leave.
Use apps like Life365, especially if you’re alone.
Have a fully charged power bank with you.
A portable jump-start battery has saved me many times.
Find podcasts and music you love to help time go by.
