11 Travel Resolutions to Make in 2017

If there's one thing that can threaten your travel plans, it's money — or, more accurately, a lack thereof. And, sure, maybe you don't have the funds to splurge on a big vacation at any given time. But by setting aside a small amount of money each month, you'll spread out the financial obligation — and come up with the money without feeling the effects of a major hit to your wallet.

While some (cough cough, grandparents) may still prefer the piggy bank method, it's 2017 — so we suggest taking things digital. By setting up an automatic transfer through your online banking platform, you won't be able to forget to contribute, use the excuse of not having cash, or easily dip into the jar for some petty cash — that is, until trip-planning time, when you'll be pleasantly reminded that even the smallest monthly contributions can add up to the trip of a lifetime.

While we definitely think there should be some room for globetrotting in 2017, it's also a time to make sure you're not ignoring the attractions in your own backyard. Live in LA and haven't made it to the Getty Center? San Francisco and haven't taken a tour of Alcatraz? New York and haven't been to the top of the Empire State Building? Make this the year you finally discover what makes top local attractions so popular — no fanny pack required.

Yes, it's tempting to use a vacation day here or there — after all, nobody can argue with some extra long weekends, midweek breaks, or quick getaways. But if there's a big trip you're hoping to take, these one-off vacation days aren't as harmless as they seem; in fact, taking frivolous days off can easily threaten your ability to take the time off you need — and give you a tried-and-true excuse to ditch the trip altogether.

But in the long run, what will you remember more — your perfectly planned dream vacation to a far-off destination, or a last-minute Friday off to lie in bed? Remind yourself of your answer the next time you feel like dipping into the PTO bank.

Quit lugging around large checked bags, and start packing more efficiently and effectively. Besides being more convenient and mobile, carry-ons are less likely to be lost and allow for less time to be spent in the airport. Brush up on travel hacks, pare down your selections to the necessities, and even invest in a new piece of luggage if you need to — whatever it takes to travel lighter and pack smarter.

Frequent flyer miles are spread out across multiple loyalty programs with various airlines? We feel you. Make 2017 the year you get organized — and finally put those miles to use, instead of letting them expire in your inbox.

Start by figuring out which airline programs you've signed up for and how many miles you've banked in each — as well as how each operates in terms of earning, using, and transferring points. First learning about these programs — and the ways users can earn points by online shopping, consolidate with other airlines, and even donate miles to charitable organizations — is the first step to organizing, focusing, and (most importantly) getting some free flights.

On that note, consider earning more miles and rewards points by applying for a travel-related credit card — after doing some research on which offers the most custom-tailored benefits, of course. For example, travelers who frequent certain airlines or hotel chains may benefit from a partnership card, such as the American Express Starwood Card or the Virgin America Visa; travelers who frequent a wider variety of brands may prefer a broader points card, such as the Barclaycard Arrival World MasterCard or Chase Sapphire Preferred. Many of these offer benefits including double or triple points on travel purchases, 10 percent back when redeeming points for travel expenses, and no foreign transaction fees — making using these cards an easy way to travel both more often and with greater ease.

With so much going on around the world right now, it's more important than ever to use travel as a way to explore unfamiliar territories, learn about cultures different from your own, and challenge your own limits. For some, this might mean visiting a continent or country you've never been to, taking a trip alone, or taking a service-oriented vacation; for others, this might simply mean trying a new local food, breaking a bad travel habit, or trying out a different type of accommodation (glamping, anyone?). Whatever your own personal travel comfort zone is, make 2017 the year to step outside your own limits.

For frequent travelers, few things are as useful as knowing — or at least being somewhat familiar with — foreign languages. On a utility level, this allows for more fluid interactions and a lowered chance of getting lost; further, learning a country's foreign language is a sign of appreciation for the local culture and a way of more fully immersing yourself in the travel experience.

While some may choose to go full Rosetta Stone leading up to a trip to a foreign-language-speaking destination, even just basic phrases can go a long way while traveling; be sure to at least know how to say hello/goodbye, seek assistance, and locate the nearest bar before leaving home.

From brushing up on interpersonal skills to learning more about yourself and other cultures, the benefits of solo travel are limitless — and powerful. In addition to allowing you the freedom to follow your own schedule and itinerary, taking a trip alone can be an empowering, eye-opening, and perspective-shifting experience (in all the best ways).

If you're feeling unsure about traveling alone, start small — take a weekend getaway or domestic vacation to feel out the process of planning and executing a solo trip, and then graduate onto larger adventures.

For frequent fliers, TSA precheck is a major key to improving the worst part of the travel experience: the airport. Specifically, airport security — seriously, is there anything worse than a long security line? TSA precheck costs just $85 for a five-year membership and pays it back in a separate designated security line and permission not to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. For those who travel abroad frequently, Global Entry — a thorough border-patrol program — expedites the reentry customs process; check if you're eligible for Global Entry here.

The need for culturally sensitive travel is stronger than ever, and 2017 offers an opportunity to commit yourself to traveling with a new consciousness — and using your own experiences to give back while exploring foreign destinations. Whether you choose to volunteer through a local organization, bring materials from home, or help protect natural resources, giving back also allows for an opportunity to discover the pulse of a country often buried beneath the top layer of tourism. Thus, this type of tourism offers the chance to both support local communities and enrich your own experience.