There can be various reasons why people travel to other countries. Some do it because of their work, some to study, while for most people it's to explore other places, experience different cultures and meet new people. Whatever your reasons for traveling are, you should know the dos and don'ts when staying in a different country so you don't extending your stay there for the wrong reasons.

Here are important pieces of travel advice you may find handy next time you pack your bag and go on a trip to a foreign country:

Travel smart - Aside from traveling light, you should also travel smart. By this we mean making sure you have everything you need to bring with you without necessarily over-stuffing your luggage. It also means getting travel insurance. This is because you never know when disaster can strike, so it is always safe to get travel insurance. If you're uninsured, you or your family will be personally liable for whatever medical or other costs that may result from any untoward incident or accident.

Know where to go and what to do when things go wrong - This means knowing whom to contact in case of emergencies or if you get into trouble for various reasons. To avoid being caught in a mess you don't want to be part of, be sure to respect and abide by the laws of the country where you'll stay, which leads us to the next travel advice.

Be informed - As mentioned earlier, you should know what the local laws are of the foreign country you're visiting. Even if you can't find a way what these local laws are, there are certain universal no-nos wherever on earth you go like don't carry, sell, or use drugs, don't steal, and don't carry prohibited items, among others.

Stay safe - This means avoiding places that are known for its criminal elements and illegal activities. Never walk alone in deserted areas, especially at night. Be wary of strangers that offer items and services that seem suspicious. Don't bring a lot of cash with you every time you're out. Never accept invitations from people you don't know.

Be fit - Traveling can entail a lot of physical activity. Before going on a trip, make sure you feel well and fit enough to handle all the physical demands of traveling - from carrying your bags to walking around a big airport to chasing a taxicab.

Don't forget your tickets and travel documents - Don't ever leave your house without packing your visa, passport, and identification card/s. You should also produce copies of these documents and leave them with a family member and/or a friend. You can also give them a copy of their itinerary so they'd know where you are or supposed to be at certain times or dates.

Stay in touch with your family or friends - Even though your reason for traveling is to get away from it all and have time alone, there's no harm in contacting a family member or friend via a phone call, an SMS, email or even via your online social network account to let them know you're fine.

Remember all these tips to help assure your safe travel wherever you plan to go. Of course, make sure you travel with the right size and piece/s of luggage to make sure you have everything you need with you (visit Jetsettr.com.au for different types of carry-on luggage bags).