If you are planning on traveling this year, here are 5 travel tips that are sure to make your travel experience more enjoyable.

1. Get yourself a passport.  The vast majority of Americans do not have a passport.  In order to travel overseas you need a passport.  Passports are relatively easy to apply for and very affordable, usually less than $75.  Having a passport will make it easier for you to decide to travel to far away locations once you have it in your possession.
2. For the best travel savings check online first.  Online travel agencies such as Orbitz, Expedia and Travelocity usually can offer you great fares, much lower than most travel agents.  Use these resources first before contacting your travel agent.
3. Low cost airlines are usually high quality.  Don’t let the label of low cost fool you.  Most low cost airlines strive to make their passengers happy.  Jet Blue offers satellite TV and leather seats on their flights, giving more perks to their passenger than most other regular airlines.
4. If you are traveling to Europe, look into staying at hostels or pensions to save money.  For student travelers, you can save a boat load on accommodations.  Hostel accommodations usually start at about $10 per night; pensions are a little more expensive.
5. Get out of your bubble when traveling.  Try out new foods, explore the culture and try to meet the locals.  Traveling usually broadens your mind and is extremely exciting, try to get as much out of the experience as possible.

If you are planning on traveling in the near future, take a look at the above tips.