Let’s face it: everyone thinks they are a good driver. Experience behind the wheel can often be mistaken for true competence, however. As time goes on, you may be reinforcing your own bad habits, putting yourself in danger of collision or accident and relying solely on your history of “getting away with it”. Many of us have adopted unsafe and sometimes even hazardous driving habits that could be putting us and others at great risk.
The start of a new year is a great time to remind yourself of the right way – and wrong way – of doing things so that you can be mindful and take action to correct these bad habits. For most of the country, it’s also the time of the year when we are driving on ice and possibly snow, so be especially mindful of dangerous driving conditions.
Following too closely behind the car in front of you is a bad idea any time of year. In the winter, it can lead to disastrous results. It’s also incredibly irritating for both parties – the car in front is annoyed that the car behind them is so close, while the driver that is tailgating is annoyed that the driver in front of them won’t go faster. Either way, it’s a recipe for disaster. It’s always recommended that the car behind stay a car length behind for every 10 mph they are traveling, and in the winter, especially during bad conditions, that length increases. If you find yourself tailgating, slow down and wait for the right opportunity to pass.
Even though it is against the law in most states, many people still use their cell phones while driving. It might be to return a text, to make a call, or to check the weather. If you must use your cell phone, find an appropriate place to pull over to complete the task. If there are children or teens in the car, remember that you are leading by example, and when you make the right choices, they are more likely to as well.
Just because the light is green, doesn’t necessarily mean that it is safe to go through the intersection. If you don’t already, get into the habit of scanning the intersection before making your way through it. Icy conditions may cause drivers to slide right through the light when braking, and others may be trying to beat the red light.
There are several issues that can arise from driving too fast in the winter. It can cause jackknifing, loss of traction and loss of vehicle control. People often underestimate the severity of the road condition and overinflate their confidence in their ability to handle both their car and the roads. If you find yourself stepping on the gas too much, ease up. The coffee will still be hot when you get to Starbucks!
Anything can happen during the winter, and it usually does. Lake effect snow and rapidly falling temperatures can turn a sunny day of driving into a terribly hazardous situation. Accidents are usually caused by reduced visibility and reduced tire traction. Always be aware of the weather and road conditions so that you can either slow down and drive accordingly or get off the road and to somewhere safe.
This is something nearly every driver is guilty of at one time or another. In the hurried hustle-bustle of today’s world, everyone is trying to get to where they need to go – and fast. But if you don’t make the yellow light, you’re actually holding up others who do have the green light – and you could risk a collision. In the wintertime, pushing through a yellow light is sometimes unavoidable, honk your way through the intersection if you’re sliding through it when it’s almost red.
Checking tires often in the winter is crucial, as the cold air can lead to tires being underinflated. Tires that don’t have the appropriate air pressure will wear more quickly, can result in internal tire damage, and can lead to sudden tire failure – a blowout – which can cause injury or death.
You’ve read through the above-listed tips and checked them all off. You feel like you are a good – and safe – driver. But accidents can still happen. Are you properly prepared with good, cheap car insurance? Your state has a minimum requirement for car insurance, but it’s often helpful to get a little more than that, just to help you out financially if the unexpected happens.
It’s time to change those bad habits into good ones, be safer on the road, and get through the new year with less accident risk!
There’s something magical about traveling around the world. For many, it is the ultimate expression of individuality and freedom to be able to visit anywhere their heart desires. Others treat it as a deeply humbling experience, having the privilege of experiencing all the amazing things that the various cultures around the world have to offer. The reasons may vary – the excitement does not.
Bear in mind that visiting some places is next to impossible without a personal transportation system. As such, taking your bicycle with you can be a good choice when traveling to more inaccessible locations. Do remember, however, that there are some guidelines for traveling with a bike without any issues, including purchasing a quality mountain bike, getting yourself a proper bike bag, looking for long-range transportation with lower baggage fees, using zip ties when packing your bike, and buying a heavy-duty bike lock. Read on and master the art of traveling with a bike!
Even if you’re only using your bike for recreational purposes, it is vital to invest in a high-quality bike, and it is especially true if you intend to travel with it. A good-quality mountain bike will not only be able to withstand the rigors of any trip but also have better properties to help you along the way. Moreover, investing in a high-quality bike can help you avoid spending extra money on repairs and maintenance.
The truth is that investing in a good mountain bike can be expensive. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to settle for a cheap product. You should instead spend several days researching the best mountain bikes under 200 (or whatever your budget is), looking for an affordable model that ticks all the boxes for you. Go for a sturdy frame, wide tires, and disc brakes – these are some of the essential features to look for when purchasing a bicycle for traveling purposes.
This is perhaps the most important tip in this article! Most airlines will make you pay an additional fee if your luggage is shoddily packed. The same applies to bicycles. Some carriers may even refuse to transport your bike altogether, or it will get damaged during the flight with no chance for you to get compensation. To avoid such problems, consider investing in a bike bag.
Bike bags are different from regular luggage in that they are specifically designed to protect your bike during travel. They are made from padded materials and feature straps that allow you to tie the bag securely to your frame and handlebars. Many models also feature rubberized inner linings that make for excellent shock absorbers against sudden bumps and vibrations.
Although there is no standard size for bike bags, most are designed to accommodate 26”-29” bikes. The price range is also vast, depending on the manufacturer and the quality of the bag itself. We highly recommend buying one that comes with a multi-year warranty, is water-resistant, and features reflective piping on its external seams.
The annoying thing when traveling with a bike is paying enormous baggage fees because you chose to take your beloved two wheels with you. If you’re flying with an airline, you should look into their policies before buying a ticket. Some carriers may not transport bikes at all, while others may charge an additional fee for every piece of luggage you bring on board. As such, you should always check airline policies regarding the transportation of your bike before purchasing your ticket!
The same goes for traveling by train. For instance, some trains may not carry bikes at all while others may require a special seat reservation for bikes. When driving or taking the bus, you should check whether your bike will fit into the vehicle’s trunk or under the bus seats.
When it comes to packing your bike, one of the most common mistakes people make is using too much tape in order to prevent it from getting damaged during transit. However, if your bike is properly packed in a high-quality bag, there’s no need to secure it so tightly to your frame! In fact, doing so may cause damage to your frame or fork, especially if there are lots of bumps or vibrations on the way.
It’s better to invest in a good number of zip ties – preferably plastic ones – and use them around the bag straps and frame tubes. Add more zip ties than necessary just to be sure and loosen them slightly so that they don’t cut into the frame tubes too much.
Finally, don’t forget to buy a heavy-duty bicycle lock! Make sure it’s strong and of high quality. Use it whenever you leave your bike unattended. However, it goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave your bike outside overnight – surely not at airports or train stations.
Moreover, avoid using big locks (e.g. U-locks) as they tend to rub against the tires and can cause them to deflate over time.
There you have it, the ultimate guide to traveling with a bike. If you want to travel the world but worry about getting your bike along with you, this list will surely help! Hopefully, you’ll be able to visit all your favorite places soon – wherever they may be.
Taking your bike with you when you travel can be a great way to get around some of the more inaccessible locations. However, you should always do so properly and not let any mistakes ruin your trip!
Going on vacation is always a welcome opportunity to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s also a great time to show off your great sense of style! To ensure that you look fantastic in your travel photos and while you’re sightseeing, here are some fashion-forward must-haves to pack for your next trip:
It can be difficult to find clothing that will still look pristine and ready to wear once you unpack them from your luggage. A good solution is to invest in pieces that require little to no ironing such as leggings, tights, and cashmere tops. Typically, these clothing items are made of wrinkle-free fabrics, so they’re perfect for staying stylish wherever you go. Just make sure to follow the care instructions for these clothes to help them last longer.
A waterproof washbag or hygiene kit is a must-have when traveling. With a well-stocked washbag, you won’t have to rely on the hotel to provide you with shampoo, soap, conditioner, toothpaste, and other essential hygiene products. Having your own hygiene kit is also a lifesaver in case it turns out your hotel doesn’t provide any toiletries at all!
Most of all, you’ll be less likely to forget to bring any hygiene product with you to the bathroom. Having all your toiletries in one place means you’ll always have everything you need before you step into the shower or stand by the bathroom sink. In short, you’ll never have to awkwardly step out of the shower while wrapped up in a towel just to dig through your luggage in search of a specific hygiene product.
Avoid the predicament of accidentally picking up someone else’s luggage by placing some form of visual identification on your luggage. Most people go for unique ID tags that have their details printed on them, but personalized luggage covers have also been gaining popularity. Not only do these stylish covers add more character to your luggage, but it also makes spotting your stuff quite easy even from a distance.
So, make sure to get some personalized ID tags or luggage covers so that you never have to go hunting for your belongings at the airport. Having these attached to your luggage will also make it less likely that other people will pick up your belongings by mistake!
Arranging all your clothes in your luggage can be challenging. Fortunately, you don’t have to deal with messy piles or stacks if you invest in luggage organizers. These products are usually clearly labeled on the outside with the type of items that should go into them. Other luggage organizers are made of sheer material so that the contents are always visible, meaning you won’t have to open the organizers just to figure out what’s inside of them.
You can even go one step further by sorting your outfits into bundles and placing each one into its own bag or organizer for convenience. That way, you’ll just need to pull out each ensemble in one go instead of digging through your luggage for each individual piece of your outfit. Travel fashion doesn’t get any easier than that!
In addition to clothing organizers, consider getting a portable organizer specifically for your jewelry. Some small pouch organizers can hold rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces all at once without turning them into a tangled mess. Keeping your jewelry organized also means you can easily pick the most appropriate ones for your outfit of the day.
Add a dash of style to your overseas trips by investing in a stylish holder for your passport. Placing your passport in a visually distinct holder also makes it easier for you to find it among your other belongings.
There are different types and sizes available to buy, so just pick one depending on your preferences. Some passport holders look like small wallets and feature slots you can store your cards in. If you prefer, though, you can buy a longer holder if you want to safely store your plane tickets along with your passport.
If you’re one of many busy individuals who bring lots of gadgets with them during their travels, investing in a chic tech or gadget folio will be more than worth it. They’re a practical but fashionable way to keep your gadgets and wires organized. Additionally, having all your tech-related items in one place makes it much easier to pull them out from your luggage. It also makes changing travel bags or suitcases easier, as you can just grab the whole folio and drop it into whatever luggage you’ll be using for your trip.
Traveling to your dream destination can take several hours, and you’ll want a way to pass the time while you’re in transit. With wireless headphones or earphones, you can make the most of that downtime by watching a movie or two on your phone or tablet. They’re also perfect if you like to wind down each day by listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or relaxing music.
Moving around from place to place can make you sweat a lot. And if your destination has hot or warm weather, you may find yourself feeling thirsty more often. That’s why having a trusty water bottle on hand can help you stay hydrated during your vacation. It can also be a lifesaver if you’re in an area where you can’t buy a cold drink or have easy access to drinking water. Just refill your bottle wherever you can—such as at the hotel or at restaurants that provide free water—and you’ll always be good to go.
After reading our checklist of essentials for your next trip, we hope we’ve inspired you to revisit your packing list and make some changes, if necessary. That said, all the above-mentioned items are just suggestions, so feel free to tailor your list to suit your needs. With these stylish products in your travel bags, you’re sure to have a hassle-free vacation, and you’ll always keep your fashion game on point. Bon voyage!
Our pets are our friends and companions for life. Even going on a road trip, we do not want to part with them even for a second. However, you can’t just put your dog in a car and drive to your destination. As dog owners, we must help them adapt to roadtrips. We must also provide them with comfort and safety during the trip.
When traveling in another country, you can not do without renting a car, so as not to worry about transporting your pet. In this article, we will talk about how to train your dog to travel in a car and how to make the trip safe.
If you force the dog to get into the car and go on a road trip that will take several hours, then you will encounter a lot of difficulties and scare your pet. In this regard, it is necessary to gradually introduce it to the car and help it feel comfortable and safe inside the cabin. Here’s how to do it:
Do not allow the dog to walk inside the car while driving. Firstly, the dog may not interfere with your driving. Secondly, during emergency braking, if your pet is not fastened, then it can hit and injure itself and other passengers.
In this regard, think about how to organize security. If your dog is small, you can put it in a carrier. If the dog is large, then you should fasten it.
Dogs can experience stress during road trips. Make sure your pet can drink water while traveling. To do this, take a bowl of water, as well as food if it wants to have a snack.
It is worth remembering that some dogs can feel motion sickness. That’s why it’s probably best not to give a lot of food before the trip so it doesn’t throw up. You should also put a waterproof blanket on the rear seats to keep your pet cozy. If you have a car with a spacious trunk, then you can allocate this place specifically for the dog.
Our little friends occupy an important part of our lives. Many owners are not ready to part with them, even when going on a trip. To have a good time during a road trip, you should get your dog accustomed to car rides in advance. Also, make sure your pet is comfortable and safe.
Many pet owners agree that it’s difficult to go on long trips without their four-legged companions, as they often miss their pet’s comforting presence. This is why owners would much rather travel with their fur babies than leave them at home.
Indeed, taking a trip with your furry companion and exploring various outdoor activities can be a great way of sharing fun adventures and making meaningful memories with them. However, you should make the necessary preparations to ensure a safe and comfortable trip for both you and your pet. Without careful planning and preparation, you may encounter setbacks while traveling with your furry companion.
Regardless of what mode of transportation you use—be it plane or car—certain factors may cause your pet to feel agitated, stressed, and ill. Furthermore, many places have specific rules and regulations for traveling with pets. Failing to comply with them may lead to penalties, additional charges, or trip cancellations. If you want to better prepare yourself for these situations, below are four common travel problems that pet parents encounter and how you can avoid them:
Having a beloved animal companion go missing while on a trip is a pet parent’s worst nightmare. To prevent this from happening, make sure that your furry friend always wears a sturdy leash with a collar or harness whenever you’re out and about. Always keep an eye on your pet, and don’t leave them unsupervised if at all possible.
It’s also a good idea to attach a tag containing all your important contact information to your pet’s collar. This makes it easier for strangers to identify your pet and reach out to you, making it more likely for your fur baby to be safely returned to you in case they get lost.
Canine owners, in particular, may benefit from using custom dog collars made of high-quality, durable materials. These kinds of collars are sure to keep dogs from escaping their leashes while providing pups with maximum comfort during long trips.
Each airline has its own set of regulations when it comes to traveling with your pet. For instance, many will require you to use a pet carrier that’s USDA-approved. Without bringing the proper carrier, you may risk getting rejected by the airline while checking in for your flight.
Before you travel, you’ll also need to submit certain pet health documents and certifications depending on your destination. Each state or country has different laws and requirements for people traveling with pets, with some being stricter than others. If you fail to submit the proper documents on time, your pet is likely to be prohibited from entering your destination with you.
The best way to avoid these problems is to research all the necessary paperwork ahead of time. Make sure to check government and airline websites for reliable information on pet travel regulations. You should also schedule an appointment with your pet’s veterinarian at least ten days before your trip. This way, the vet can perform health screenings and ensure that your fur baby’s medical records are up to date.
If your pet is unaccustomed to riding in a moving vehicle, they might act out in dangerous ways as a response to stress and anxiety. They may even try to escape the vehicle and end up getting themselves hurt in the process.
Additionally, most airlines require pets to stay in a plane’s cargo area, separating them from their owners throughout the trip. Due to this, traveling by plane can be a stressful and uncomfortable experience for your furry companion.
Generally, it’s recommended that you place your pet in a carrier during car and plane trips to help them feel more secure. To prevent stress and anxiety, make sure to keep them in a spacious kennel lined with clean bedding. This will help them not feel so trapped or cramped within their carrier. It also helps to give your pet their favorite toy or item during the trip, as it can ease their stress by offering them a familiar source of comfort.
Lastly, do opt for direct flights if you’re traveling by plane, as it lessens the likelihood of your pet being mishandled during layovers. If you can’t book a direct flight, make sure to ask your airline about their pet safety practices during layovers. These are just some ways to ensure that your fur baby is safe and sound while on the plane.
Many pets are also prone to experiencing car sickness, especially during long road trips. To determine if your fur baby is fit for this mode of transportation, try taking them on shorter car trips first. Frequent and short trips are a great way to acclimatize a pet to their new environment. Once you notice that your furry friend has gotten more comfortable being in a moving vehicle, you can gradually extend the duration of your car rides.
When you’re ready to take your pet on a long car ride, do your best to keep them as comfortable as possible. You may also want to pet-proof your vehicle in case your fur baby vomits or drools excessively due to car sickness. And because vomiting can lead to severe dehydration and make your fur baby feel even worse, always bring drinkable water and a collapsible travel cup to help your pet stay hydrated.
If your pet frequently experiences car sickness despite your best efforts, make sure to consult a veterinarian about possible medications or treatments to alleviate it. By doing so, you’ll be well equipped to address your furry friend’s condition the next time it happens.
Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience as long as you do your research and plan ahead of time. Remember: the key to an enjoyable trip with your fur baby is to make sure that you can address all their needs and anticipate all possible scenarios. Just keep all the above tips in mind, and you and your furry friend should be just fine. Wherever you decide to go, your pet will always be happy to spend more time with their favorite person.
Travel insurance is one of those pesky items that many of us underestimate the importance of, and regret the absence of when something goes wrong during our travels. Finding the right cover, understanding the policies and meeting your budget expectations can be a tough job to complete. If you have a trip coming up and you aren’t sure where to begin with your travel insurance, use this guide to help plan your protection.
Travel insurance is like a lot of other insurance covers, there are so many providers and they all offer a little something different. There are basic covers and then there are comprehensive travel insurance credit cards. You might be looking for the best cover available, or an option that you can tweak based on the type of holiday you’re embarking on. No matter what kind of cover you are after, it pays to do your research.
Scan the market and find out what each provider offers and whether it’s right for you. If one policy covers skiing or snowboarding and you’re off on a tropical holiday, then that probably isn’t the cover for you. Make sure you check the varying levels of cover each provider offers as well, as they are all likely to have policies at different price points with different inclusions.
An effective way to ensure you're getting the best value and coverage for your specific needs is to actively compare travel insurance options using dedicated comparison websites or tools.
One of the best ways to protect yourself while you travel is by knowing exactly what activities you are going to be doing when you’re away. Take the time to plan your itinerary and think about the activities you are interested in doing. Then you can find the right protection policy that will cover you should anything go wrong. Planning your trip around the type of cover you may need may not seem like the most fun thing to do, it will potentially save you in the long run though. Knowing you’re covered means you can enjoy your holiday without the lingering fear of what might happen if something were to go wrong.
Let’s say you arrive at your destination and your luggage has gone missing, which does happen quite often. Knowing exactly what the claim process is on your travel insurance will mean you know exactly what you can and can’t do in that scenario. Policies will vary in the dollar amount and time frame required for your luggage to be lost before you can purchase new clothing items that you can claim.
An example would be if a policy states you need to wait a full 24 hours without your luggage before you can purchase and claim items. Take the time to learn your policy’s claim process, the rules it includes and how that may impact your travel. Once you understand the policy and its intricacies, you can travel reassured you know exactly what to do if something goes wrong.
It may not seem important, but the area you’re traveling to matters when it comes to travel insurance. Insurers will consider a number of determining factors before putting a policy together. Things like the healthcare system in the destination, the risk profile of the area and many other elements go into determining the price of the policy and the rules that govern it. Think carefully about your destination in these ways and you’ll be able to better plan for your travel protection.
Travel insurance is something every traveler should invest in before they go on any holiday. It doesn’t matter how big or small your trip may be, protecting yourself against unforeseen scenarios is incredibly important. It means you can relax and enjoy your holiday knowing you’ll be looked after should something go wrong. To better protect yourself on your next holiday, use this guide to plan your travel protection.
An immigration attorney may not necessarily speed up the process of getting your green card, as there is a lengthy waitlist that no attorney has the power to reduce. However, they can significantly reduce the chances of having your application delayed or denied.
A bureaucratic backlog contributes to the amount of time that you will wait to hear a decision on your application. If you are applying for immigration, you can check the status of your application online and find the current average wait times for different applications. In order to see the average wait times, you need to go to the Check Case Processing Times page. If you have already submitted your application, then you will check the Case Status Online page.
Another reason why the timeline for your green card or visa may be longer is due to annual limits that affect visa availability in certain categories. An example is if you are trying to immigrate with your family using a family-based visa but do not have an immediate relative who is a US citizen sponsoring you. In that case, you and your family would then be considered part of a “preference category,” which is subject to annual limits. There are also annual limits on employment-based green cards, which are based on the date that your I–130 Petition or labor certification was filed.
Immigration lawyers know these limits and can explain which ones apply in your specific case. Depending on what country you are trying to immigrate from, the reasons you are trying to immigrate, and who you are bringing with you (e.g., dependents or a spouse), you could be subjected to various wait times. It’s best to do your research early on so you know how long to wait.
Obtaining a green card is an important goal for many immigrants. People make some common mistakes when filing their immigration paperwork that inevitably delays their application or cause it to be completely rejected. One of the best reasons why you should hire an immigration attorney is so that you avoid these common mistakes:
A San Diego immigration lawyer represents the individual who is trying to immigrate to the United States or helps leaders of foreign businesses open their doors in the U.S.
Immigration law can be notoriously complex, which is why it helps to have an immigration lawyer speaking on your behalf, looking out for your interests and guiding you throughout all of the steps in the process.
A few years ago, drone videography was something unimaginable for travelers. But today, one in two uses an iron bird to take breathtaking footage.
However, shooting with a drone with a camera is not such an easy task – the time of the flight is limited, the wind knocks out focus, and it is often difficult to come up with an original idea. Such problems are of concern not only for beginners but also for those who have been engaged in this occupation for a long time. Today, we will look at some tips on drones, and of course, talk about how to edit the footage in a powerful video editor.
There are quite a few drone videos on the Internet, but they all differ little from each other.
How do you shoot the best drone videos in a way that makes you stand out from the crowd?
One of the most common mistakes beginners make when making drone shooting is flying too fast. To avoid jittering in the frame, give preference to slower and smoother movements of the gadget. This will make the frame especially clear. Remember that you can always speed up the video using special software, which we will talk about below.
Avoid sudden movements when flying. Don’t change the direction of the camera too quickly; it will prevent you from taking a good shot and create a feeling of chaos. Even the best camera quality won’t change the situation.
The same rule applies here as when shooting a photo: shooting one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset will give you the best result. At sunset and sunrise, shadows are clearly visible, which will help emphasize relief that is invisible during the day. Moreover, there aren’t many people filming at this time, and this will help you stand out from the crowd.
Although many quadcopters for shooting are designed to fly at wind speeds of up to 11-15 meters per second, the quality of the video will not please you. Due to strong winds, the footage will “shake” and get blurry and indistinct. Therefore, it’s better not to shoot in winds greater than 9 meters per second.
Want to get the wow effect of a real Hollywood movie? Circle the drone around your subject. You can move it in a circle to the right, keeping the object in the center, and then rotate in the opposite direction. However, it should be borne in mind that in order for such shots to look professional, you must first practice making perfect circles with the drone.
Do you want your video to be catchy and stand out from thousands of traveling videos? Then you should shoot the object from the quadcopter, using several directions of movement at once. Various combinations in flight will give your movie an interesting effect.
Moving away from the object is a rather interesting and non-trivial approach. This will help you capture more detail in trees, people passing by, hills, and buildings in the frame. However, you will have to adapt to unusual control and make sure that your iron bird won’t get stuck in some super-tall pine tree.
So, the video filming with the drone is over. Now it remains to create an edgy and engaging video from the footage. If you have planned the script ahead of time, shot clips with clear timing and high quality, you just have to merge everything out. As the majority of drones with cameras have MP4 format, you can use one of the top MP4 joiners. And don’t forget to apply a voice-over with storytelling.
If you need more video editing than just stitching clips, choose a professional video processing program that can work with high-resolution files. We will now list the best options.
Adobe Premiere Pro is almost a perfect tool for any post-production or editing process of your footage. It should be noted that this program is used by many well-known experts in the film industry.
A significant advantage of this program is its free integration with other Adobe products. Most professionals use a bundle of Premiere Pro + After Effects + Photoshop. Such a software package solves almost all problems that a professional worker or a simple video lover may face.
Many people think that the program interface is complex, but in fact, it is as convenient and as intuitive as possible. Moreover, trimming can be done with a couple of clicks, and all operations in the program can be performed using hotkeys. Premiere Pro is very stable in its work. You will almost never encounter program crashes or freezes. You can enumerate the advantages of Adobe Premiere Pro for quite a long time, but it is still better to move from "theory" to practice and evaluate Adobe in practice.
If you own at least one Apple device, you’ve probably heard of iMovie. For Mac owners, we recommend starting with this program before installing third-party free video editors.
The iMovie interface is minimalistic, and in terms of its functionality, this editor will completely satisfy novice users, as well as those who have little experience in editing in primitive linear programs. There are 2 video tracks available in iMovie, which means that you can combine two different videos in one frame using, for example, the split-screen effect, the picture-in-picture effect, or simply by overlaying one video onto another.
You will also find a selection of themed video templates, pre-configured title templates, many transitions, and effects. Working with files in iMovie is very easy since most operations are performed by a simple method of dragging and dropping objects from the library onto the timeline. For those who have never used this tool, YouTube has detailed instructions.
The pre-installed Windows tool is a pretty useful editor for photo and video materials, an assistant for creating slideshows and colorful videos using effects and filters. Even a beginner can master it. The menu contains a toolbar, a project preview window and a timeline. After choosing the necessary media file, you will be presented with a wide range of editing tools, from soundtrack addition to creating slides from your favorite photos and applying effects.
Final Cut Pro from Apple is one of the best video editing tools used by professional filmmakers. The basic interface of the program is very similar to the free iMovie app, which makes it easy for Apple users to transition from an entry-level editor to a professional one.
To get started, just drag the video onto the timeline. The clips in the program are organized into so-called Roles, which categorize videos into different categories. Editing here is quick and easy.
GoPro Studio was launched by GoPro company itself to offer an available drone editing tool. It includes many filter presets and many great features like transitions, slow-motion, speeding up, and merging.
Directly from GoPro Studio, you can upload your video to YouTube, or any video storage. One of the best things about this software is that it can be run both on Windows and Mac and can be used by GoPro users for free.
It’s not that hard to create an immersive drone video. All it takes is good equipment, practice and drone control skills. And the video editing tools will take care of the quality of the source material. Download the suitable program right now and edit your videos in a few simple clicks.
Do you know how to properly care for your caravan awnings? They don’t come cheap so it’s best if you know how to properly maintain them to ensure that you get the most out of your money and that they last for years to come. They are durable accessories that demand very minimal maintenance so you shouldn’t feel overwhelmed at all. This article is for you if you’re clueless and you want to know everything that you need to cover in maintaining your caravan awnings.
If you don’t have a repair kit yet, then consider this as the sign to get yourself one. An owner of caravan awnings must always have a repair kit. A repair kit for caravan awnings must always come with the following:
Having a repair kit is important because it will ensure that you get to enjoy your caravan awnings whenever and wherever. With one, you’d get to easily fix small damages. You should never forget to bring your repair kit with you. Remember though that repair kit solutions are temporary. You still need to come up with permanent solutions to awning damages once you get home.
You have to know the proper way to set up your caravan awning. Proper set-up will ensure that you get to avoid damages and tears. Do the following once you’ve arrived at your destination:
Exert effort in removing old pegs, stones, and other materials that may damage your awning. Ensure that the place is clean and safe for your awnings. You should be doubly careful if you’d be using a groundsheet. Ensure that no sharp objects are present.
You should always ensure that the positioning of your storm straps and guy lines is correct. Your fabric should have enough allowance for comfortable flapping to avoid tearing and damage. Don’t pitch too tightly as it will only cause excessive stress to the fabric.
Your guy lines need particular care that weather and temperature can easily affect them. To ensure that everything is a-okay, always check your guy line’s tension. Do this every time you experience a significant change in temperature and weather.
You should be fully aware of the direction where your pegs are pointing. They should always be positioned in such a way that they cannot be easily pulled from the ground. You should also ensure that your guy lines don’t slip off.
Remember to observe the following tips when cleaning your caravan awnings:
1. Never use a washing machine in cleaning your awning.
2. Always clean your awning with light hand washing.
3. Use a specialized cleaner for caravan awnings. Ordinary detergents and cleaning products won’t do as they may damage its waterproof build.
4. If you don’t have a dedicated cleaner, you could simply use warm water.
5. Always use a soft-bristled brush when removing dirt from your awning.
6. Dry your awning under direct sunlight.
7. Air dry your awning if possible.
8. Always ensure that your fabric is completely dry to avoid the growth of mold and mildew.
PRO TIP: It’s easier to clean your caravan awnings when they are fully set up. This is because you’d get to easily reach every nook and fabric.
Should you ever need to deal with mold and mildew on your awnings, do the following:
1. Contact your manufacturer and inquire if they have specific product recommendations for mold and mildew removal. You need to do this because not all awnings have the same materials. Regular awning cleaners won’t also suffice if you live in a humid area and mold and mildews are recurring problems.
2. If none is recommended, you can make a safe homemade solution of your own.
Follow this recipe:
Place the solution in a spray bottle for easy application. You should let the solution dry on the affected areas before washing it off. Wash off with water. Dry it under direct sunlight to fully remove all traces of mold and mildew.
You will need to reproof your caravan awning over time. This is to ensure that it stays waterproof and durable. To do this, you simply need to apply reproofing liquid after a thorough cleaning and drying session. Reproofing also helps in the prevention of mold and mildew growth.
When storing your caravan awnings, always remember to observe the following tips:
1. Strictly ensure that your awning is completely dry before actual storage. A moist awning will be a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Avoid this at all costs by opting to dry your awning under direct sunlight. Air drying is best.
2. Uninstall your caravan awning during winter. This is to avoid mold and mildew build-up.
3. Know the material of your poles. If they’re made of aluminum or steel, you should use silicone or wax polish to prevent them from rusting. If your poles are made of fiberglass, a damp microfiber cloth should be used to wipe them clean before storage.
Travel blogs have become incredibly popular over the years. Every month, new bloggers appear on YouTube who want to surprise users with their vision of the world.
The popularity of YouTube travel videos is because they engage viewers and completely captivate their attention. Videos take the viewer on a journey through an overwhelming experience that includes visual movement, sound, story, and personality.
According to the latest statistics, 2 out of 3 people who plan to go on vacation will watch travel videos about the country they want to visit.
In this article, we will share with you where to start, how to shoot travel videos, how to write a script, edit a video, and promote it on Youtube.
Also, it can be useful to watch other popular travel blogs to learn from their experience. If you'd like to learn even more, check out our guide - How to Create Compelling Videos.
Before you start coming up with the concept of your video, you need to use a trip planner, choose locations and draw up the timing and number of shooting days.
To stand out from other bloggers, you should either choose an exotic country that tourists do not travel to so often and unleash its full potential. Tell people about some unusual backgrounds they can see, visit and enjoy the trip.
Also, you can shoot your video about a country that tourists often travel to, but to surprise the audience, you need to think over a unique route and tell about untrodden routes.
Make a clear plan of what you will shoot at each location and how long it will take you to understand the time frame of your trip. You will be able to buy plane tickets in advance, rent a car and book accommodation.
When you have already decided where you will go and what you will be filming, it is time to pack your bags. The main rule of travelers is to take as few things as possible. You will need to go around a huge number of locations in a day, and a bag with heavy camera gear can significantly complicate your task.
Large cameras take up a lot of space and weigh down your bag. Great travel options are GoPro and other action cameras. They are compact, easy to install, and they shoot high-quality videos.
If you want to shoot a video from a bird’s-eye view and show an unforgettable view from the location, then take a drone. Before traveling, make sure you have a license and that the drone can be used in the location you want to capture.
To save space, choose a pair of versatile lenses that are suitable for a variety of video formats and locations. Moreover, you can read experts’ tips and organize your equipment.
To write a script that will impress users, you need to think about what goal you are pursuing and in what format you want to shoot a video.
Vlogs are usually long videos of your trip to a country. Most often, they are shot in selfie mode. The purpose of such a video is to build communication with your subscribers as you share a part of your life. Be natural, and you will build a strong connection with your subscribers.
The purpose of this video is to introduce your viewer to different locations. You can choose the top unknown places or the best cafes and restaurants. The main goal is to inform the audience.
Typically, the purpose of such videos is to educate your viewer. For example, you want to talk about entertainment, or you specialize in gastronomic locations. You need to decide on the niche to which you will devote the topic and captivate subscribers with your passion.
To better capture video clips and convey a complete vision, you should start shooting your video in the morning or before lunch. At this time, the frames are more saturated, and there are no shadows. Moreover, arriving early to the shooting location, you will have time to capture all the necessary shots before the tourists rush in.
It is important to show how you interact with the local population and how you pass through mesmerizing locations. This approach will allow you to convey your emotions and feelings.
First, you need to choose a program to edit your video. The most common are Adobe Premiere and Final Cut.
Next, you need to choose the musical accompaniment. Music can either spoil the impression or, on the contrary, add the desired atmosphere. Before using music, make sure that you are allowed to insert it into your video or get a license.
When shooting videos in different locations, background sounds will be heard. Somewhere they may be appropriate, but if you are leading your story, and behind the scenes, someone is shouting or talking loudly, then this can spoil the impression of your video. You can use the background noise removal app.
Add titles, where you will indicate the names of places, people with whom you are talking, and various statistics. When creating titles, use a font that does not overlap the content and is easy to read.
It’s best to upload your videos as “Personal.” This can help you set SEO optimization, where you can write the description, title, keywords, and tags.
Optimization settings can allow you to target your video. Thanks to this, more people will see your video.
When adding keywords, use words that have a high frequency. It is also better to use keywords in the headline, but it must be done in such a way that the headline still grabs attention.
In the description, also use frequent keywords, and do not forget to include links to your profiles on other social networks.
After optimizing your YouTube video, you need to start promoting your video and channel.
This YouTube travel video action plan can help you start filming your travel videos. Remember to think ahead and promote your video using the optimization and features that YouTube provides.
