10 Travel Myths Most People Still Believe Are True

Travel tips

May 4

Travel myths that are not up to date anymore.

Travel advice is everywhere—but not all of it is helpful. In this article, we’re breaking down 10 common travel myths that many people still believe to be true.

We’ve heard them all on the road—well-meaning tips that actually make travel more stressful, less spontaneous, or even more costly. From visa confusion to budget misconceptions, we’re here to set the record straight with personal insights and practical tips we've learned through real-world experience. Let’s bust some myths and help you travel smarter.

1. Booking Flights Early Always Saves Money

We also used to think that 3 months prior to your holiday to find the best deals. Until our world trip started and we had no other option but to book spontaneously and realized this was a huge myth. Last-minute deals and price fluctuations can happen, especially during off-peak times. We recommend you to use fare comparison tools and see, if the prices really fluctuate.

READ | How we save hundreds on dollars on flights

2. Travel Insurance is Unnecessary

Anything can happen to you while traveling to severe food poisoning, an extreme adventure gone wrong, or a tropical exotic virus. Travel insurance covers cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and emergency situations, making it a must for any trip. The costs you would have to cover without an insurance are higher than a travel insurance.

3. Traveling is Expensive

Travel can be as affordable or expensive as you make it. There are plenty of local and budget-friendly destinations. You don’t always have to travel too far or to expensive destinations. You can save money using public transport, walking, searching cheap flights, sleep at hostels, couchsurfing, local eateries and street food.

Driving with a tuktuk can save you money.

4. You Need to Overpack for Every Scenario

Unless you are in the jungle or the moon, you will always be able to buy anything that you need. Packing light is the best option and focus on versatile clothing. We have packing lists with the essentials and a guide on how to do your laundry while traveling. Overpacking can lead to unnecessary struggles when hoping in and off of boats, buses and taxis. Remember that there are high luggage fees.

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5. You’ll Get Food Poisoning

After almost two years of full-time travel, we haven’t had any hospital stay or needed any antibiotics. We even visited countries like India, Indonesia or Thailand. We eat street food and at local food stalls BUT have our set of rules we go by and this has helped us prevent any inconvenience. Sven ignored the rules and got the food poisoning of his life in Guatemala. He hasn’t dared ever since to ignore them. If you want to know how we have survived so far, check our street food guide.

6. All You Need Is a Credit Card to Travel

Depending on where you're from, cashless payments might be the norm. Having lived in Germany, we understand what it’s like to get by without relying on a credit card. In fact, it’s nearly impossible to go out in Germany and pay solely with a credit or debit card. We always carry cash and have experienced firsthand that even in countries with electronic payment options are often not available to foreigners.

7. Book Everything in Advance

We had to become spontaneous, so have even done it a day or two before. We do not recommend you to push it to the last minute, as some good deals might be gone by then. But, sometimes you can get great last-minute deals. We have found even better and cheaper accommodations by booking like this.

READ | Learn how we get good deals on accommodation

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8. You Can’t Travel on a Tight Budget

To choose cheaper destinations, traveling off-season, staying in hostels, or using public transport can save a lot of money. Budget travel is all about smart choices and planning, not about compromising on comfort.

9. You Need a Lot of Time Off to Travel

You cannot wait for life to happen. Take the opportunity to get to know your region and country. There might be so much to explore that you might be overlooking. Go for weekend trips instead of waiting for long vacations.

10. The More You Spend, the Better Your Travel Experience

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on amazing experiences, some of the most memorable moments are at affordable and less crowded places. They offer a more authentic and personal experience getting more genuine adventures.

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