Perhaps you’ve heard that booking a flight on Tuesdays or Wednesdays will score you the lowest airfares. Or maybe you consider cruising as a sure-fire way to get sick. Well, while some of these beliefs do have merit, most of them are only widespread misconceptions. To help you sort out the fact from the myth, we’ve listed down five of the most common travelling misconceptions that you should stop believing now.

MYTH #1: The Longer You Travel, the More Stuff You Should Pack

Just because you’re travelling for a month or a year doesn’t mean that you should also bring a month or years’ worth of shampoo, toothpaste, and shirt. Not only can you buy clothing pieces and toiletries wherever you go, it can also be an interesting part of your travel experience.

Buying souvenirs? Consider sending them home early on. Going clubbing? Purchase some second-hand dress shoes from one of the thrift shops near your hotel or inn. After all, a 50 litre pack won’t be necessary on your trip.

MYTH #2: Solo Travelling Isn’t Safe for Women

While some women are not comfortable with the idea of going on a solo trip, it can actually be beneficial for you. Doing so allows you to reconnect with your inner self as you discover new things throughout your emotional and physical journey. So go ahead and don’t let your fears keep you from exploring the world on your own.

MYTH #3: Economy Class Flights are Really Uncomfortable

Although it’s true that cheap flights don’t offer first class amenities, there are still some budget-friendly airlines that offer good services amidst the not-so-fancy seats. Just check out various airline promos and compare the services offered. Remember that it’s simply finding the perfect airline that’ll meet your standard for comfort. It’d also be good idea to ask your relatives and friends for some recommendations.

MYTH #4:  Destinations Websites and Brochures Provide Great Information

Brochures and websites can provide good info, but it’s also important to remember that they’re also paid marketing. You don’t believed that the Big Mac you’ll get looks exactly as the one on the menu or commercials, do you? The same thing goes for travel destinations. Most websites use flattering and edited photos of the location to attract more travellers. If you want to get photos that’s much closer to reality, consider browsing through TripAdvisor’s contributor photos.

MYTH #5: Carrying a Cell Phone Keeps You Safe from Trouble

It’s actually the opposite, since it might get you into more trouble. Go trekking, and you’ll immediately be out of cell coverage. It can also easily get soaked, and its battery runs out quicker when it’s cold. The best plan is still to inform people with your whereabouts. Email your family and friends, or check in with a park ranger. If you got lost or sprained your ankle, no one can sound the alarm for a rescue mission if nobody knows where you are. Carry your cell phone, but plan as if you didn’t bring it with you.

While some travelling beliefs are true, it wouldn’t hurt to weed out some of the misconceptions about it too. So here’s to a more informed, safer and enjoyable trip!