True or False: 4 Travel Myths Revealed

Who comes up with this stuff?

Here's the scoop on 4 common travel myths to get you traveling smarter.

Myth 1: Travel is really, really dangerous!
Verdict: FALSE. BootsnAll calls this “perhaps the dumbest myth of them all,” and I’m going to have to agree. We’re ambushed on a daily basis with terrifying media sensationalism that makes the rest of the world look like a complete war zone.

In reality, traveling is generally pretty safe, even for single women travelers. It’s important to keep things in perspective and remember that there’s crime everywhere you go, including - surprise! - your home country.

For anywhere you go there is a wide range between safe and sketchy as far as the area goes. That’s why you should do some research beforehand. Ask around about your destination and while you’re there use your head and follow your instincts.

Myth 2: A crazy passenger can open the jet doors and suck everyone out!
Verdict: FALSE. For one reason or another there’s recently been a stream of “unruly fliers” who mid-flight tried to pop open the aircraft doors.

All were unsuccessful because, as aviation experts have pointed out, the cabin pressure of a commercial jet essentially seals the aircraft doors shut. Not to mention the “plug-type” design of the doors and the fact that these fruitcakes were effectively tackled by their fellow passengers.

Myth 3: Kiss Your Checked Luggage Goodbye.
Verdict: FALSE. Mostly. About 1 to 2 percent of checked luggage doesn’t end up with its owner at the destination. However, most of these bags are delayed, not lost, and 99% are eventually reunited.

Luggage delays happen usually during connecting flights, when the passenger checks-in late, or doesn’t clearly label his or her luggage. (Or just from an airport mistake.) Make sure your contact info is labeled inside and outside of the bag, and keep valuables and fragile items with you as carry-on.

Myth 4: It’s better to change your money at home.
Verdict: FALSE. I don’t know who came up with this (cough banks) but save yourself the hassle and change your money at your destination. Sure bringing along a few bills in the local dollar might come in handy, but don’t fret if you don’t have ‘em.

The truth is that the exchange rate in the U.S. is definitely not more favorable than it is abroad. In most places nowadays you can use your ATM or Credit Card to withdraw money and either pay the ATM a small fee to exchange it on the spot, or locate a money changer. No problema.

Here’s some more info on currency exchange.