Marveling at the Great Pyramids or strolling the Champs-Élysées creates memories you’ll treasure forever. However, without solid planning, things can go sideways. Here is how to ensure your dream trip doesn't turn into a nightmare.

Resist the temptation to overpack.

No one in Europe is going to be horrified if you wear the same shirt twice! Pack a few pieces that mix and match well and then wear different combinations each day. The same goes for shoes.

Pack your already broken-in shoes

Speaking of shoes, a trip to Prague is not the time to break in new ones. Pack your already broken-in shoes or buy new shoes couple of months before your vacation so you have time to make them comfier.

Short layovers during flights can spell big trouble

You may have to go through customs before getting on your next flight, and you'll want to have plenty of time for that, too. If you’ve just come off a long transatlantic flight, it might be nice to have a few hours to stretch your legs and get a bite to eat before boarding your next flight.

Buy travel insurance

After dropping a chunk of change on the trip itself, buying travel insurance may seem like an unnecessary expense. Realistically, it’s a small price to pay for

peace of mind should anything go wrong during your trip.

Explore side streets

Imagine that you've just toured the Colosseum in Rome and you’re now starving. Rather than popping into a trattoria right across the street, consider taking a turn or two down random side streets. You’ll likely discover a gem of a place that’s not overrun by tourists, and if you’re really lucky, nonna’s in the kitchen cooking up her family’s specialties. As always, practice caution when you're in an unfamiliar place.

Research the visas you’ll need, and apply for them well in advance.

Visa requirements sometimes change and if you're not careful, you could be refused entry into your dream destination. When you get the documents, carefully check that your name and other information are correct.

Curb your spending

Instead of splurging for Michelin meals every night, mix in some more affordable dinners here and there. Pick up a couple of affordable Christmas tree ornaments as souvenirs, instead of cases of wine. In many countries, figuring out the public transit system will allow for some financial relief.