Happy to Wander

26 Unconventional Travel Hacks You Need for Your Next Trip

Last Updated: March 30, 2021

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time travel life hacks

There was a time in my life when I was absolutely obsessed with travel life hacks.

Throwing your shoes in a shower cap while packing ? Oh yeahhh. Keeping jewelry untangled with straws? Talk to me, baby.

On a super vain level, I think it’s because knowing the best travel hacks makes me feel like an unstoppable smartass… even if I’m the kind of person that trips over nothing and manages to create chaos out of the simplest tasks.

That said, thanks to six years of frequent travel, I’ve picked up my fair share of travel life hacks, some that are a little weird but I promise do work.

This isn’t your regular list of hacks – nope. Sure, some are odd, but shhh, just embrace it.

time travel life hacks

Save this list of travel hacks for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

The Best Travel Hacks for Booking Flights & Accommodation

Let’s start with some of the best traveling hacks to make your life easier when you’re booking travel and accommodation. These travel life hacks have been a total lifesaver (and money saver) for me over the years, so I hope you find them helpful too.

1. Get cash back on every travel booking

Rakuten  (formerly known as Ebates) is a free cashback site that allows you to earn money back from most of your online purchases, almost like a partial instant refund.

Here’s how it works:  Rakuten is partnered with a  bunch  of popular online retailers (travel ones like Expedia, Agoda, etc. included!).

When you click through to these retailer sites via Rakuten and buy something, Rakuten earns some affiliate commission,  a portion of which they share with you as a cashback (deposited straight into your Paypal) .

In other words, you’re getting money back for shopping, which translates into instant discounts for your travel bookings.

Sign up for free here and earn cashback on your online purchases.

Canadians:   sign up for Rakuten Canada here.

Warning:  The folks at Rakuten are biiiig fans of email, so be ready for that. I like getting their emails because they advertise sales/deals, but I admit they can be a bit much. To handle it, I have my Gmail filters set up so that eBates emails go into a special folder that I browse maybe once a day. Yay to no more clutter!

Man holding credit card at computer

2. Use Honey to find coupon codes automatically

By far THE easiest way to save on all your travel bookings (and any online shopping really).

This ridiculously simple Google Chrome extension automatically searches through the Interwebs to locate relevant coupon codes and then applies them for you when you’re shopping online!

This means you no longer need to search around for deals and codes that may or may not work.

As all the reviews say, “it’s literally free money”. You can also earn Honey points that you can redeem for things like train trips in Europe.

Click here to download Honey for Google Chrome.

Screenshot of Honey, a Google chrome extension that finds coupons automatically

3. Sleuth around on discount sites like Groupon and Travelzoo

Looking for some cheap vacation hacks that can save you loads of money?

Websites like  Groupon,   Travelzoo  and  Living Social  often have crazy discounts on vacations, hotels and activities all over the world, from Germany to Indonesia.

I love these websites because they consolidate great deals in one spot, which makes finding the perfect deal pretty effortless.

Double whammy:  if you purchase buy a Groupon or LivingSocial voucher through eBates, you’ll get some  extra  cashback.

Palm tree silhouettes in front of a beautiful colourful sunset

4. Earn money while doing trip research

I’m a big fan of getting rewards for things I’d be doing anyway… so that’s why I adore websites like  Swagbucks , a free online community that rewards its members with gift cards for doing things they already do online, e.g. Googling, watching videos, etc.

Through doing certain tasks, you rack up “Swagbucks” which you can redeem for things like Amazon or PayPal gift cards which can be spent on travel gear and experiences!

I was super into this years ago, and have earned tons of free gift cards from it. It’s easy work but adds up to awesome rewards!  You can create a free account here.

Plus: Swagbucks also does cashback like eBates. While you’re compensated in Swagbucks rather than immediate cash, you can then redeem these SB for gift cards or direct Paypal deposit.

The upside of using Swagbucks for cashback (rather than eBates) is that sometimes, Swagbucks has better bonus cashback rates. For instance, at the time of publishing this article, they were doing up to 10% cashback on Priceline. Pretty rad!

Girl sitting on bed typing on her laptop

5. Use incognito/private browsing to potentially save money on flights

Incognito browsing (AKA private browsing) is a mode available on most internet browsers that allows you to browse without storing any data on your computer or tracking your history from that session.

This can be VERY helpful when booking flights because as rumour has it, many sites use a dynamic pricing system that will sometimes increase prices when they know you’ve been looking at a particular route constantly (sneaky, I know).

NOTE: While some experts claim this is false , I always do it just in case because it takes zero extra effort.

For more tips on airfare, check my full guide to finding cheap flights to Europe.

A phone on a table with the Google search page open

6. Call the hotel for a better rate by booking directly

This is a tip that most websites do not give because they rely on affiliate income from your hotel bookings… I mean, my site does too, but hey, if you’re reading this, I want to let you in on an excellent secret: literally 99% of the time, you can score some kind of perk or discount by booking with a hotel directly vs. booking through an aggregator like Booking.com.

Well, these aggregators usually take a cut of any bookings, so hotels prefer when you book directly, and will often offer incentives to do so, whether that’s in the form of a discount, a free upgrade, or a free perk like breakfast. I’ve noticed this is especially common with booking hostels in Europe.

This is one of the best travel hacks that nobody talks about, so be sure to remember it!

Vibrant hotel lobby

The Best Travel Hacks for Packing

Next up: cool travel hacks that help you pack like a pro. Want more packing tips? Be sure to read my full guide featuring 30+ suitcase packing tips & hacks.

7. Use packing cubes

Packing cubes are a wonderful packing tool that help you save space and organize your clothing.

Long story short, they’re re-usable fabric cubes that you can stack/place in your suitcase when you travel. They’re very affordable and a good set will last you for years – definitely one of the most worthwhile purchases for any frequent traveler.

In a pinch, Ziplock bags could also be used to organize your clothes in a similar way.

If you want to know which packing cubes to buy, check out my  full guide to packing cubes  or watch my video showdown  here.

Pink packing cubes in a pile

8. Roll your clothes

I’m full of funny travel tips, but whenever I suggest this to newbie travelers, I get SO many weird looks…

Trust me though, rolling your clothes instead of folding them is a great way to keep them organized and wrinkle free in your packing cubes. Try it out and I promise you won’t go back!

Rolled clothes in a packing cube

9. Bring a pillowcase

Never a pillow “just a case” if you’re looking to save space.

One of my favourite packing hacks is to bring a pillowcase instead, so if you’re ever in an emergency situation where you need a comfy pillow, just stuff some soft clothes in that case and go to town.

Likewise, you can use the pillowcase to compress clothes like a puffy jacket in order to save space in your luggage.

Pillowcase on a hotel bed

10. Pack a dryer sheet

By packing a dryer sheet o two, your clothes will smell extra nice for those long haul trips!

BONUS TIP: Keep an extra handy for your “dirty laundry” bag so that your whole suitcase doesn’t start smelling like dirty clothes. Ick.

Alternatively, just throw a bar of soap in (mini hotel ones work great).

Stock up on cheap dryer sheets here.

11. Pack a clothespin to prop up your toothbrush

One of my favourite travel packing hacks!

Whether you’re staying in an AirBNB , hostel or hotel, sometimes you want to make sure your toothbrush doesn’t touch anything… after all, sinks can be notoriously germy.

If a holding cup isn’t available, just throw a clothespin on it to prop it up. Pure germaphobe genius.

Toothbrush on a moneyclip

12. Get creative with your storage containers

I’m a big fan of re-purposing old junk, and luckily, you can repurpose a lot when it comes to packing!

Here are some ideas:

  • Using a Tic Tac case for bobby pins
  • Using a carabiner for hair ties
  • Storing Q-Tips in an old pill bottle

Q-Tips in a pill bottle

Top Travel Hacks for the Airport/Flying

Dread flying? There are lots of great travel tips and tricks to make this part of travel a lot more bearable. Here are some helpful traveling life hacks that will make your airport and flight experience a breeze.

13. Pack an empty water bottle to the airport

That way you can fill up after you pass security.

No more $4 bottles of water! Woo!

Alternatively, some experts swear by freezing their water so it’s not technically a liquid.

I guess that could work, but then you’re kind of awkwardly just waiting for your water to melt? Just bring an empty bottle, folks.

Water bottle in front of a scenic view

14. Freeze a sponge as a DIY ice pack

This is one of my favourite travel tips and tricks that I learned from a flight attendant friend.

Have snacks you want to bring on the plane and hoping to keep them cool? A frozen sponge will do the trick!

Soapy sponge shaped like a heart

15. Scope out your flight seat in advance

This is an amazing international travel hack if you have a long haul flight to book.

As most travellers know, not all plane seats are created equal!

Some have more leg room, some are absurdly close to the washrooms, etc.

Luckily, you can just enter your flight details on Seat Guru (it’s free!) and read different reviews/first hand experiences.

If you have one of those flights where you can choose your own seats during online check-in, this is a massive life saver.

Airplane seats as seen from the middle aisle

16. Reserve the aisle and window seats

If you’re travelling with a friend or partner, no need to fight to the death re: who must take the dreaded middle seat.

Just reserve both the aisle and window in hopes that nobody wants the middle seat… if they do though, just ask to switch!

Super simple travel hack that works well 🙂

Airplane seats filled with passengers

17. Mark your stuff as fragile

One of the sneakiest travel life hacks I’ve come across, but you’ll get your luggage first and the airline workers will be extraaa careful with your goods.

Package marked as fragile

18. Wear compression socks to make your flights more bearable

Compression socks = less swelling and better circulation! This is a must-know vacation hack for those that want to fly more comfortably.

View outside an airplane window at sunset

The Best Travel Life Hacks for When You’re on the Road

These hacks for traveling will make your life infinitely easier once you’re actually out and about. Here are my favourite international travel hacks you need to know:

19. Download Google Maps for use offline by typing in “OK Map”

One of my favourite new travel hacks – this is SUCH a lifesaver.

If you have sufficient space on your phone, you can easily download Google Maps to browse offline on mobile, even when you don’t have Internet connection.

All you need to do is go on the map to the area you want to save, then type “ok map” into the search and press Download.

A phone held up showing Google Maps of New York City

20. Find WiFi passwords on FourSquare

FourSquare is a website/app where people share tips, ratings and reviews on places to go near you (e.g. restaurants, cafes, bars, etc.)

The handiest part of this website is the “Tips” section where people can leave helpful recommendations for others, and it’s often here that you’ll find the WiFi password for places.

So, if you need WiFi in a pinch, you can easily hop on Foursquare and sleuth around for WiFi passwords.

Free WIfI mural painted on a wall

21. Or download an app that shows you all the WiFi passwords

There are tons of helpful travel apps out there these days.

WiFi Map is a great example. This app shows you the passwords to different WiFi networks (over 100 million of them, as they say).

The handy part is they’re organized on a map so you can easily scope out the ones closest to you. Note: some dissatisfied users say that passwords are outdated, but it’s a handy tool to have just in case.

Find it on: Google Play | iTunes 

WiFi symbol with roots painted on a wall

22. Download Google Translate for use offline

One of my favourite trip hacks! If you’re travelling abroad and don’t speak the language, it’s handy to have Google Translate loaded and ready.

That said, it normally does require Internet connection. Here’s a way around it: download the Google Translate app, then go to Settings and choose “Offline Translation”.

From there, you can download different languages.

Bonus tip: if you want to translate signs, menus, etc. quickly, tap the camera button on your Google Translate app to translate images in real time.

The first time I saw this feature in action, I realized we are (indeed) living in the future.

A closeup of a phone being charged on a laptop

23. Bring some baby powder for a quick freshen-up

Weird, I know, but baby powder is amazing for freshening up.

Especially in the summer, if you’re wearing flats or sandals, your feet (and footwear) will inevitably start smelling.

Throwing some  baby powder  on them is a quick way to deodorize and make you feel human again.

Birkenstock sandals on a rug

24. Keep a pen in every bag/pocket

Not the most unconventional, but I promise this will save your life.

You never know when you need a pen, so have one handy in all your purses/daybags, backpacks, luggage cases, etc. so you’re not scrambling when everyone else is filling out their Customs sheets.

A silver pen on a pink background

25. Make use of local grocery stores/supermarkets

One of my favourite hacks for traveling on a budget is to simply hit local supermarkets.

No, you don’t need to cook your own meals necessarily, but all the time I see budget travellers sprinting for vending machines/little kiosks when there are supermarkets literally within eyesight selling the exact same stuff for a fraction of the price.

Supermarkets are great for stocking up on snacks, water, drinks, etc.

Take advantage of them!

The fresh aisle in a supermarket with smoothies and salads on display

26. Use a TV to charge your electronics

One of the the things I forget most often is the little USB adapter that comes with my phone charger.

If you’re forgetful like that too, don’t worry – there’s several easy travel hacks to help you out of that situation.

I usually then just plug my cable into my laptop to charge, BUT if you don’t usually pack a laptop, know that most TVs have a USB port around the back and you can easily use that to charge all your electronics 😉

You’re welcome!

TV and guitar in a nice living space

Did I miss any of your favourite travel hacks?

So, it seems like you’re well on your way to becoming a travel ninja. I hope you enjoyed that article about unconventional travel life hacks. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have more to share! 

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

101 thoughts on “26 Unconventional Travel Hacks You Need for Your Next Trip”

18. leave your kids at home 😀

hahahah the ultimate life hack 😉 thanks for the laugh, Alex.

These are great tips because they are different. I especially like the pillowcase tip and marking your luggage fragile. Well done!

thanks for reading, Dorothy! <3

Really great tips! Very helpful and not weird at all!

Hahaha thank you for not thinking I’m a total weirdo <3

Charging using a TV is GENIUS!!! Wow never thought of that! Also love packing a dryer sheet. Definitely doing that next trip. I also always travel with powder in my bag. My go-to is Lush Silky Underwear Powder – it doubles as a deodorant and smells lovely!!

Woah underwear powder?! That sounds amazing. Definitely going to look into it. I used to use baby powder for everything but never realized there might be powders for special purposes hahah. Thanks for sharing, Meaghan!! <3

I’m still on the edge about compression socks. My mum has tried those and I dunno, the results aren’t great? Or maybe she got the cheaper ones? Haha! – Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

weird! I have loads of friends who swear by them. I guess it depends on the person!

Great tips! I never thought of using the tv to charge my electronics.

so genius hey?! Thanks for reading, Meera 🙂

My husband loves the aisle/window trick – esp when we flew as two adults with a lap infant. I hadnt thought about the TV charger one! Some hotels have like one outlet!

Yes! Another good tip (if you’re travelling as a big group or family) is to bring your own power strip so you can charge more than one thing in those pesky hotel rooms with limited outlets 🙂 Thanks for reading, Harmony!

I honestly didn’t even consider half of these! Great read, thank you! I’ll be sure to get some fragile stickers next time I’m out. I always seem to have some sort of issue with baggage.

so happy you found it helpful, Jessica!! <3 Thanks for reading.

OK, this list is great! There are so many ideas on here that I have never heard of. I’ll be saving this for later, thank you very much!

no problem, Michelle! Thanks so much for reading <3

These are the BEST tips! Especially love the ones about the pillow case and the tv charging. Another good one in the vein of offline google maps is that even if you don’t download a map, if you open your map while you’re on wifi before leaving a wifi area, you’ll still be able to follow the blue dot and see all the streets on the map – even without data. It even works in places that aren’t so keen on google maps like South Korea.

YES! So true. That has totally saved my butt a million times. Thanks for the awesome comment, Sarah <3

At first, I wanted to do a virtual hi-five, thinking the pillowcase is for germophobes like me who wanna feel more at ease resting our faces on pillows overseas, until I realized yours is for a different purpose, lol! Great list, Christina! I need to check out the TV USB especially 😉

ahaha well, I guess the pillowcase is multi-purpose then 😉 thanks for reading, Kristine!

Such good tips! I got into Edinburgh yesterday and the first thing I did was go to the local grocery store and stock up on ready made (healthy!) meals that were like 2 pounds instead of always having to eat out at 12-20 pounds for the same portion size! Love it girl!

<3 Thanks for reading, Kashlee!

I love the “Ok Map” function. I thought I knew everything! Thanks for the tip 😀

Hahah right? I only recently discovered it and my mind was blown! Thanks for reading 🙂

These are awesome, Christina! I’m pretty proud that I actually do a couple of them 😉 haha. The pillowcase and dryer sheet hacks are super smart! I’ll definitely be using those for my upcoming trip in November. BRB while I try and hunt down a spare pillowcase…

Hahah thanks for reading, Kay <3 I hope you get to bust some of these out on your next trip!

Love these tips – especially the clothes pin for my toothbrush! And duh that I’ve never checked the TV to use as a charger. Thanks!

No problem, Jamie! Hope these tips come in handy for you soon! 🙂

Thanks for these! Really useful tips =) An offline map called Here we go saved my trip in Kuala Lumpur just a few days ago.

Ooh I haven’t heard of that one. Will look into it. Thanks for the comment! <3

Oh man. Those are some great tips! Thanks for sharing, i’m gonna use a lot of them!

woohoo! Awesome. Thanks for reading 🙂

We seem to travel with so much electronic gear. When we went to Europe we actually to a multi plug board to plug everything into and then one adaptor rather than one for each devie we needed to charge. Laptop, cellphones and cameras.

These tips are excellent.

That’s super smart! Especially for those travelling as a family/in a big group, bringing a multi-plug can be a huge lifesaver. Thanks for reading and for the bonus tip. It’s much appreciated! <3

Being a traveler I liked all the tips and getting Wifi password is one of the best suggestion so far.

Glad you found the article helpful! 🙂

These are some azaming tips, being from Europe I always have to carry an adaptor with me wherever I go. I use to be an window seat girl but now I will take an asile anyday as I can get and go to the bathroom as many times as I like

Hahaha I always avoid aisle because I literally pass out whenever I get on a plane, so people always feel awkward waking me up.

I honestly thought I probably won’t know anything I haven’t heard before but these are great tips! Definitely learned a couple news ones! Thanks for sharing! <3

No problemo. Thanks for reading!! <3

I do most of these already but number 15 made me laugh out loud. That is me every time lol

hahaha okay honestly, same. even though I swear I keep a pen in every bag, somehow I’m always left scrambling. You’re not alone!

These are awesome! I’ve never thought of the pillowcase trick before, which is ridiculous as I’m always using clothes as a makeshift pillow and then wondering how I can keep them together rather than smushing my head into them awkwardly LOL. I always try and keep some pens handy, and oh my word, supermarkets! Apart from anything else I think it’s a good way to travel “like a local” and yet so many people shy away from them because convenience. Also with the TV charging – I’ve seen people do that at airports! Haha!

Omg at the airport? That’s genius and hilarious hahaha. Thanks for reading, Clazz! Glad I could enlighten you about the pillowcase trick haha.

Hi Christina,

These are some amazing giveaways. I wonder why I haven’t thought of charging my phone with TV before. Thanks for the tip girl.

no problem, Gloria. Thanks for reading!

Nice hacks Christina Guan… For the baby powder in the shoes, i only know the tea bag in shoe one not the baby powder… Did you come up with these yourself? Anyway Love You has XXOO

Very good suggestion is very helpful in traveling Thanks for sharing.

SeatGuru is a nifty little tool most of the travellers miss out on. Also, one must not forget to ask for seat upgrades. You won’t necessarily get it, but ASKING doesn’t cost 🙂 I have been successful in getting upgrades 30% of the time (except Singapore Airlines, they just won’t!) I have also practiced the art of carrying just 2 pair of clothes when going to a country that has cheaper clothes than the home country. Then, I buy my entire trip’s clothes from that country. Saves money and also saves weight while travelling to the destination!

I always love to be with friends and family. I used to travel around time for many problems. Your post really helped me thank you so much, sir

It is really a very helpful blog for all the budget travelers. Every point in this blog is valid and helpful. Thank you for such an information.

Such amazing tips! Thank you!

Glad you enjoyed them! Thanks for reading, Lieze 🙂

Great content! learned so much specially from #16 . I didn’t even consider cooking on site. Was really afraid to be swindled .

Just wanted to share another Life hack on getting good Air tickets ! Follow this link! : https://bit.ly/31QEOlh

Great list of travel hacks. The clothesline is new to me. Reserving the middle and aisle seats are also a very good idea.

Here are some travel hacks that have worked well for me: 1. Airlines usually assign seats from front to back. So if you reserve one of the last rows on a plane (especially the back middle row on wide body planes), you are significantly more likely to get a row to yourself

2. Some airline apps let you view the seat map even after you checked in. I often will view the seat map and ask gate agents to change me if I find an empty row.

3. Free upgrades almost never happen. It’s usually not worth asking. But sometimes you can get a very cheap upgrade to business class when you check in.

The last one often helps i remember when i was struggling to charge my laptop while i was traveling then later realized there was tv in the room and i looked for port where i can put the cable guess what, found one charged it …was such awesome feeling Then i calmly texted my mom…

haha awesome. glad to hear you’ve been using these hacks! 😀

Some great tricks & hacks…makes a change to see a few different ones! I am with you 100% when it comes to pens & I have no idea what I would do without Google & all its ‘bits’! Cheers! – Nigel

Thanks for your awesome guide on traveling. I am a passionate traveler and your guide inspired me to travel more.

Great info, good thanks .

Nice Article.These are Great Tips. Thank You

Travel hack Ideas I use: * Always carry a flashlight and put on nightstand in case you have a hotel fire/ emergency so you won’t be I n total darkness. * Buy a Passport neck case from Wilson’s Leather Outlet. $15.-small but conveniently made .You can keep everything you need in it- cash, passport, cards, packet of medicine dose- I put it under my shirt. It drops down to my waist, so I can access it at the bottom of my shirt. In known thief places, I also poke the purse in the top of my shorts, so if they find a way to cut the straps it is still with me. It has gotten us through many trips to France. * Foldable bags ( Walmart, Dollar store) for souvenirs or in case we decide to do a picnic lunch on vacation. In Europe with small rooms and no storage, I use them them as dresser drawers to find things quickly for longer stays. * Use a foldable backpack(tennis ball size) in a bag (Lewis and Clark-not meant to be durable, basically a snack bag) we call it our “Disney bag”. We add snacks, wipes, paper maps, first aid bag with OTC meds for headache, stomach, water bottle, jacket in a bag, light shoulder wrap for church visits, my old small IPAD for grandchildren. To make it work, I put urgent needs( kids’ snacks, meds) in ziploc bags. I also add a ziploc gallon bag to cover the backpack in case of rain. If we only have snacks and maps, I carry it on my back, if it has my old IPAD or SLR, my husband carries it over 1 shoulder and up under his arm so if the strap is cut, he still has it. * A colorful small coin purse to store my phone charger (and a long cord) so when cramped into a plane seat, I can find it quickly to use. * Bread ties to organize all of those crazy charging cords. You will always need a long cord when u don’t have it. They now make bendable ties for that use. * Download Dolly Parton’s “ I Will Always Love You” if you travel with small children. We have used it with my 2 year grandson for over a year. If he is tired or upset, we can play Dolly and watch him just melt and smile as he says “ My Dollwy”. When he couldn’t sleep through the night, my son set Alexa to that song (very softly) at his awake times. At 5:30 AM they started hearing him sing along with Dolly on his baby monitor .If he is really upset, I turn it very low and put it close to his ear. If using around others, you may need headphones . * Passport- after airport security, I only carry a paper passport copy on me. * NEVER email passports to anyone unless it is a dire situation when a family member must email it to you, then pray a lot.We make paper copies of our passport/ drivers license to carry with us and give a copy to a family member. * * if going overseas, join STEP, so you will be notified of terror levels plus your embassy will know where you are if there is a blackout or terror attack. * Always put liquids in a freezer ziplock bag for your checked bag. Those bags are thrown all over the place. * Plan on 2 Quart Bags for airport Security: #1 Bag-for liquids as required by airlines * #2 Bag- watch , wallet, necklace , phone at the last minute- anything that comes off at airport. Finish dressing after airport security. * I pick up hotel cards to give to cab drivers in case they can’t understand my accent. * Pack an extra pair of shoes. If it rains a lot, you will need them.

The OK Maps blew my little mind. Cool trick. Also, the pillowcase is genius! I plan to repurpose mine as a dirty laundry bag too (obviously throwing it in the wash too!) Fun article 🙂

Really great and awesome tips, these tips are really uncommon but very useful. sticking a fragile sticker is really a genius idea. So many times i have had damaged stuff because of luggage handling. Thank you very much for these and have a awesome day.

This is great tips for a traveller. If traveller follow the tips, he will pass very good tour.

Wow! Such amazing hacks for travel lovers. I am definitely going to follow all of these hacks in my upcoming adventure. Thanks a lot for sharing these surprising travel hacks.

You’re welcome! Thanks for the lovely comment 🙂

A very good and helpful suggestion. It will help travelers. Thanks for sharing. Keep Going.

thank you for the informative post, will definitely comeback for more

Thank you for the great informative post, will definitely comeback for more.

These 20 are unbelievable hacks that will definitely make my traveling easy. Hack which I liked the most is “Use incognito/private browsing to potentially save money on flights”. Thank you for this wonderful content, it was really helpful.

These 20 are unbelievable hacks that will definitely make my traveling easy. Hack which I liked the most is “Use incognito/private browsing to potentially save money on flights”. Thank you for this wonderful content.

Travelers can use these tips to make their journey more enjoyable. Thanks for your ideas and information.

It is really helpful for everyone else.

thank you for the informative post, will definitely come back for more.

Thank you for the informative post, will definitely come back for more.

Wow!!! Really great and awesome tips, these tips are really uncommon but very useful. Sticking a fragile sticker is really a genius idea. So many times I have had damaged stuff because of luggage handling. Thank you very much for these and have an awesome day. Greetings from Nepal.

An amazing list of travel life hacks. it’s really really useful info for all travelers. thank you.

Good trick. I plan to repurpose mine as a dirty laundry bag too (obviously throwing it in the wash too!) Fun post

Great tips and informative article. great tricks and hacks. Thank you so much for giving us the travelling hacks.

nice tips, helpfull

Very interesting, Please share more.

Thanks for the amazing Travel Hacks. Highly recommend all travelers follow this post. We are already sharing this post on our social media profiles so that our followers can read this AMAZING post.

A very beautifully crafted article.

thank you for the informative post, will love to come back for more.

such an incredible blog, Great tip, as always. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. keep sharing, your positivity is infectious.

its very useful article, Thank you for sharing here.

very interesting blog. Thank you for sharing.

Thank you for the great travel blog. Please write more.

Thank you so much for your information. I think it will help me for my next trip…

Thank you for your efforts and dedication to creating such a valuable resource for travelers, Really helpful content.

I appreciate the time and effort you put into creating such a valuable resource for travelers like me.

Very useful travel hacks. I definitely apply these tips. Thank you for sharing.

I super-duper loved reading your post, thank you sooo muchy-wuchy! I always love to be with my buddies and fam-bam. I used to zoom around time like a speedy snail to fix lotsa problems, whoosh!

Wow, great article and thank you for sharing.

Landed on this blog randomly and got know so many amazing tavel hacks. I am gonna use these hacks on my next travel.

Thank you for sharing a wonderful article, waiting for another article

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Lindsay Silberman

70 Travel Hacks That Will Change Your Travel Game Forever

airplane flying at sunset

With 57 countries under my belt and more than a decade of traveling regularly, I think it’s safe to say that I’m an expert in the field. I’ve made every mistake you could imagine—missed flights, lost baggage, exploding hair irons—but with each disastrous experience, I’ve grown a little bit wiser, and a LOT savvier when it comes to traveling like a seasoned pro.

These travel hacks for flying, packing, saving money, getting hotel upgrades and more are the secrets I swear by. I hope they’ll help make your next trip pleasurable, memorable, and stress-free.

70 Travel Hacks That Will Blow Your Mind

1. use my “contact lens case” hack for makeup and skincare products ..

This is one of my best space saving packing hacks. People tend to take up unnecessary room in their toiletry bags by bringing full-sized products.

Here’s the trick: put your foundation, moisturizer, eye cream , and any other liquid products into contact lens cases. Every inch counts!

2. Be strategic in your seat selection when booking a flight.  

There’s nothing worse than getting stuck in a seat that doesn’t recline, or ending up in a row next to the lavatory with people hovering over you for the entire flight. I avoid these kind of mishaps by checking SeatGuru before I choose my seat on flights.

Occasionally, I’ll even choose a flight based on the type of plane that SeatGuru tells me I’ll be flying on. The website and app shows you photos of the plane’s interior so you’ll know in advance whether you’re booking an outdated 747, or a brand spanking new plane.

Plus, it gives you warnings about seats that have potential issues, like limited recline or a misaligned window.

3. Pack your own DIY amenity kit for long-haul flights.

I loooove the amenity kits that you get when you fly First or Business, but since I don’t always have that luxury, I decided to start making my own. My “DIY kit” stays in my carry-on bag at all times, and includes a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, sheet masks, moisturizer, hand cream, eye masks , lip balm, and socks.

4. Avoid cankles by wearing compression socks.

They’re basically Spanx for your calves and feet, because feeling swollen after a long-haul flight is the WORST.

travel hacks compression socks

5. Consider choosing an “alternate destination” when you search.

If the city you’re flying in or out of isn’t a main hub, consider flying into a bigger city and connecting or finding a flight (or other mode of transportation) out of that city.

Not only will you save money, but you have the potential to earn more mileage points.

6. Download the Google Translate app to help with language barriers.

You can use it to take photos of text in another language, and it will translate the words in real time. (I have a separate blog post featuring the best travel apps for savvy jetsetters , which you should check out as well!)

7. Use packing cubes.

best packing cubes for long trips

Another space saving packing hack that I swear by? Packing cubes! I truthfully thought these were a scam until I tried them out for myself.

They not only compress your items to give you additional space, but they also help keep you organized—I use a small one for socks and underwear, a medium-sized one for tops, another medium-sized one for comfortable walking shoes and sneakers , and a large one for jeans , pants, and dresses.

8. Look out for price errors.

Often times, there will be glitches on airline or third party sites that offer a ridiculous low fare. Sign up to these sites to keep an eye on them. But know that you will have to act quick, as these companies will typically fix the fare as soon as they catch it. Here are some great resources to keep an eye on for low fare deals.

  • Scott’s Cheap Flights (or Jack’s Flight Club for UK-based people)
  • The Flight Deal
  • Secret Flying (if you’re based out of Europe)
  • Holiday Pirates
  • Airfarewatchdog.com 
  • FlyerTalk Mileage Run (discussion board)

* Bonus Tip: Fill your social media with these sleuths by following them on Instagram and Twitter!

9. Take advantage of generous credit card offers.

capital one venture card

The greatest travel hack of all time? Credit cards and points. Open up a credit card that has a sign-up bonus (assuming you can be responsible enough to pay your bills!), and transfer the points to an airline for a pricey international flight.

Check out my full step-by-step guide to using points and miles for free travel if you haven’t already!

10. Be strategic with flight cancellations.

If you book a nonrefundable ticket and your plans change or you know you won’t be traveling on that flight—do not cancel the ticket until the last possible moment.

Or…just don’t show up. Here’s why: in the rare case that there’s a flight cancellation or schedule change, your nonrefundable ticket could entitle you to a credit or refund. Had you cancelled the ticket, you wouldn’t be entitled to anything.

11. Learn how to avoid long airport security lines.

tsa precheck travel hack

TSA-precheck, Global Traveler, and Clear have been an absolute gamechanger for me, and if you travel more than a few times a year, they are absolutely something worth investing in. If you’re not familiar:

  • TSA Precheck enables you to use a separate line for domestic (US) flights, and you won’t be required to take off your shoes or take out your laptop.
  • Global Traveler is for international flights and (as far as I know) is for the US only. When you’re returning to the US, you use a machine that scans your passport rather than having to wait in line at customs.
  • Clear lets you scan your fingertips at security and then get escorted to the front of line at airports where it is offered.

12. Take a hydration multiplier for long flights.

liquid iv hydration packets

While everyone will tell you to “drink as much water as possible” and “try to stay hydrated” on a long-haul flights, the reality is that if you’re drinking a liter of water on a plane, you’re going to find yourself getting up to go to the bathroom repeatedly.

My hack for this is to use Liquid IV. It’s a “hydration multiplier” that hydrates you 2-3 times faster than water alone. You pour the little packet of powder into your water bottle, shake it up, and then drink.

It tastes pretty similar to Gatorade (the lemon/lime is my preferred flavor) and will keep you hydrated without sending you to use the restroom every 30 seconds.

13. Keep track of itinerary ideas in Google Docs.

I use Google Docs for all of my itineraries—especially when I’m planning a girls trip and there are multiple people involved. I’ll share the link with everyone I’m traveling with to make it more collaborative. It’s also where I keep a running list of recommendations from people for the destination that I’m visiting.

14. Challenge yourself not to check a bag.

Avoid lost baggage nightmares by packing carry-on only for trips under a week. In need of luggage that actually fits a lot of stuff? Here’s a list of the best carry-on bags that help save space with packing.

15. Order a “special meal” in advance of a long-haul flight.

special meal travel hacks

Most major airlines will offer the option to order a special meal when you book your flight—these include vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, kosher, vegan, low fat, and sometimes even low sodium options.

People who place orders for “special meals” will always get served first, so if you’re hoping to catch some z’s on the flight, you’ll have more time to sleep while everyone else is waiting for their food to arrive.

16. Save local currency from the country you’re visiting as a souvenir.

My husband and I started doing this many years ago, and now we have what we jokingly call a “world bank” at home. It’s a cool alternative to buying a dumb keychain or t-shirt you’ll never wear.

17. Create a framed collage of foreign currency from your trips after you get home.

foreign currency travel hack

I often find foreign currency to be incredibly beautiful. We’ve taken some of the best-looking bills from various places we’ve visited, and framed them.

18. Do the same with hotel room keys, airline tickets, and baggage tags.

You can use a place like Framebridge to arrange and frame them for you—they’ll even send you a pre-paid envelope to mail in your items.

19. Talk to taxi drivers.

Often, a simple taxi ride from the airport to your hotel will turn into an impromptu city tour if you ask the right questions.

20. Build your itinerary using Go ogle Maps Trip Planner.

google maps trip planner

This might be the greatest travel hack of all time. Did you know that there’s a FREE tool within Google Maps that you can use to create an entire itinerary for your next trip? It’s called Google Maps Trip Planner and it’s incredible.  

21. Don’t exchange money at the airport.

Wait and go to an ATM near your hotel for better exchange rates.

22. Take advantage of layovers as often as possible.

Sometimes, I’ll even choose flights with 12+ hour layovers as a way to see another city for a day.

23. Never miss another photo opp.

Take photos in “burst” mode so you don’t need to worry about missing the shot.

burst mode iphone

24. Carry a photocopy of your passport in your wallet.

Just in case.

25. Speaking of wallets… invest in a good travel wallet.

Trying to keep track of boarding passes, passport photocopies, foreign currency, and receipts can get a bit messy if you’re trying to stuff everything into your regular, everyday wallet.

The best way to stay organized while you’re heading out of town is to use an inexpensive but chic travel wallet that has additional compartments for travel-related items. 

best travel wallet

26. Use a travel agent or tour operator for special trips or multi-city itineraries.

They can often get you better rates and preferential treatment at hotels.

27. Become a points and miles pro.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—I’ve learned everything I know about points, miles, and travel hacks from my friend Brian Kelly, aka The Points Guy . Browse through his site for all the secrets.

28. Easily share photos with friends/family.

Start a shared album with your the people you’re traveling with at the beginning of a trip, so you’re able to easily exchange photos.

29. Get the experience of a luxury hotel without staying at one.

Dying to stay at a fancy hotel but can’t afford the nightly rate? Pop in to the lobby bar for drinks instead.

30. Plan your trip during “shoulder season” to take advantage of better hotel rates and less crowds.

Shoulder season = the period between high and low season, when the weather is still great but the destination is less busy. In places like Positano , Santorini , and Mykonos for example, shoulder season is generally April through the middle of June, and September through October.

le sireneuse positano

31. Avoid jetlag by getting onto the local time zone as soon as you board the plane.

If it’s technically morning in the destination you’re going to when you board the plane, do NOT go to sleep—even if it’s midnight where you’re leaving from. If you work on adjusting to the time zone while on the flight, you’ll have a better chance of battling jet lag when you arrive.

32. Hire a local guide during the first day of your trip in a foreign city.

It’ll help you get the lay of the land. Then ask your guide for non-touristy recommendations to hit up during the rest of your trip. Also: if you’re traveling with a big group, DEFINITELY hire a guide. It takes the pressure off of one person being put in charge of the itinerary.

One of the best things I’ve ever done was hire a guide for my five-day trip to Tokyo since I wanted to see as many things as I could in a short period of time.

33. Use a sheet mask on long flights to replenish the moisture back into your skin.

I love using these sheet masks on the plane. Instead of looking haggard when you land, your skin looks super glowy and fresh.

dr jart sheet mask

34. Hire a passport/visa expediting service if you’re in a pinch.

I used a company called “It’s Easy” to renew my passport when I was super tight on time, and they were able to get it to me within a few days.

35. Keep a “packing checklist” in your phone.

You can refer back to it every time you’re heading out of town. I have an example of my travel packing checklist here .

36. Always keep your boarding pass.

I usually keep mine until I see that my miles have posted on my frequent flyer account—if you end up having to claim missing miles from your airline, you’ll need to have your ticket number and confirmation number as a reference. Which leads me to my next point…

37. Create a frequent flyer account on every airline you travel with.

There’s no reason not to. If you don’t you’ll be missing out on valuable miles that could potentially be put toward your next trip. I personally have FF account with: American, Delta, JetBlue, United, Cathay Pacific/Asia Miles, British Airways/Avios.

38. Keep your iPhone photos organized.

iphone photo album

Save all of your favorite trip photos into an album in iPhoto so that you can find them quickly.

39. Turn your travel photos into cool animations using free apps.

One of my favorite ways to jazz up my photos following a trip is by using apps like KiraKira and Enlight Pixeloop. (For example, I have a little tutorial that shows you how to add falling snow to your photos in 30 seconds.)

add snow to photos

40. Use a pants hanger to ensure blinds stay closed over night.

There’s nothing worse than waking up at the crack of dawn on vacation because of a small gap in the hotel drapes. I avoid this by using a hanger with trouser clips to secure the two window shades together.

41. To find cheap flights, consider looking beyond the obvious sites like Kayak and Expedia.

If you set the tab or filter to “everywhere” or “anywhere” and are flexible with your dates and travel time, you can find really inexpensive flights and even earn extra miles if you fly an extra leg.

A few of the best “deals” sites are:

  • Sky Scanner

42. Always ask for an upgrade.

hotel room upgrade travel hack

Unless you’re on an unlimited budget or celebrating a special occasion, never book the best room at a hotel—but always ask for an upgrade. I did this on a recent trip to Maui , as well as in the Maldives and St Barths , and totally lucked out!

Make sure to join the hotel’s loyalty program before arriving (they’re free), since they usually honor those requests for members as long as a higher room category is available.

43. Sometimes, the budget airlines have even cheaper flights on their sites.

Also, if you sign up for their newsletter and loyalty clubs, you get added perks and insider info. A few that comes to mind are Norwegian, Frontier, Southwest, and Spirit.

44. Be a “country counter.”

Download the “Been” app to keep track of the countries and states you’ve visited.

been travel app to count countries

45. Get a more authentic “local” experience with your accommodation.

Using sites like Air BnB, VRBO, Booking and others gives you the opportunity to live more locally and at a significantly discounted rate. In fact, sometimes the house share experience is more personalized and luxurious.

46. Book a private room at a hostel to save money.

If hostels are an option (check HostelWorld.com), you can book private rooms for a really cheap rate. This is a great way to 1) save money 2) meet new people (perhaps people you could room with in another country on future trips.)

47. Always have a back-up power source.

Charge an external battery before you travel, and have it with you on the plane in case the seats don’t have outlets.

48. Compare flight prices using Airfare Matrix.

AirFare Matrix is something travel agents use. It is a Google tool and allows you to do some great price comparison without the third party interjection (that can sometimes cause you to pay more if you’re not searching in an incognito browser).

You can’t book directly from the site, but can use the codes as a source to get the cheapest price when you call an agent, or even the airline.

49. Try toggling to a different “home” country when searching for flights to get cheaper rates.

If you’re looking to fly a specific airline, set your country (usually in the top right hand corner or in the website’s footer) to one that has a good FX rate (of the countries available, of course).

This will allow you to view and purchase the flights in another currency, and potentially save big! It will take some time and some trial and error, but if you have the time, it’s worth it!

50. Mark your bag fragile.

It’ll be handled properly and make it to the top of the pile, ensuring your luggage comes out in the first batch!

fragile bag sticker luggage

51. Before you pay for an upgraded cabin, see if the flight is full.

If not, put yourself on the upgrade list as soon as you can. Also, offering to get bumped from a flight and wait for the next flight could give you leverage to negotiate a better seat (and maybe even money or points).

52. Use FourSquare for Wifi.

You can find wifi passwords on FourSquare for restaurants, cafes and other places (just be careful, obviously, as not all of these are secure.)

53. Turn on “Private Browser” when searching for flights. 

Prices do, in fact, fluctuate based on the cookies in your web browser and how many searches you’ve performed for a specific destination. Which is why searching for flights in a private browser (also known as “incognito mode”) is an absolute must.

If you’re using Google Chrome, you can enable Incognito mode by hitting Command + SHIFT + N.

If you’re using Firefox or IE, you can enable a private browser by hitting COMMAND + SHIFT + P.

54. Bring an oversize scarf on the plane that doubles as a blanket.

Then wear it as a chic cape during your trip.

time travel life hacks

55. Save on parking by pairing up with a local.

Garage Pointer is a website that connects you with people who own parking spaces and are willing to rent them (temporarily) to visitors. As of now Garage Pointer is only available in the U.S.

56. Rent a car…from a local.

Ready for the best car travel hack? Look into whether or not Turo is available in your destination. The app and website connects you with people who own cars and are willing to rent them out for a fee that is (usually) much less than traditional car rental.

57. Overwhelmed with what to pack? There’s an app for that.

PackPoint helps you determine what to pack based on where you are going and the length of your trip. It checks the weather in your upcoming destination and then provides a detailed packing list for you. (I would also recommend using my “what to wear” guide if you’re packing for trip to Europe in the winter .)

58. Use a service to ship your clothes ahead of your trip.

Sure, this might not be for everyone, but did you know there was a service that stores, packs, ships and cleans your clothes prior to trips? It’s a company called DUFL . While it’s definitely targeted to a very specific market, DUFL is an incredible concept.

You send them a capsule wardrobe (consisting of clothes you need for every trip, like business travel), and they’ll store the clothes in a “virtual closet,” which you can access through the app prior to your departure. They then send the clothes to your hotel ahead of your arrival, and collect them to dry clean and store when you leave.

59. Use FlightAware to track your flights.

flight aware flight tracking app

The website and app allows you to track your flight (or the flights of loved ones) in real time. It’ll also keep you up to date on important info, like whether the incoming flight is delayed, or if the flight had to be rerouted for any reason.

60. Invest in a good adapter/plug converter.

I like this one because it works in all countries, and also has USB ports.

61. Book tours and experiences through AirBnB.

Did you know that Airbnb can be a great resource for things other than accommodations? Over the past few years, the company has expanded to include incredible local experiences and tours.

62. Wear a travel outfit that looks super chic—but it secretly comfortable.

travel outfits

I have an entire blog post dedicated to this (linked above!) but in a nutshell, I’m a big fan of looking put together when I travel. However, I also wouldn’t be caught dead wearing jeans on a long flight.

There are a few little tricks I use to turn otherwise sloppy outfits into something that you’d be confident walking into a luxury hotel wearing.

The most important thing? A lightweight fringed scarf (which doubles as a blanket mid-flight) and a leather or denim jacket. 

63. Invest in a great pair of noise-cancelling headphones.

bose 700 noise cancelling headphones

We’ve all been stuck next to a screaming child or chronic sniffler on long flights, and the experience can truly get your trip started off on the wrong foot.

I truly can not tell you how much of a game-changer noise-cancelling headphones are. While everyone else around you is having a meltdown over not being able to sleep or concentrate, you’ll be in your own little zen world.

Pro tip : if you don’t want to spring for the fanciest new technology, buy older or discontinued models of Bose headphones on Amazon for a fraction of the price for latest models.

64. Leverage special occasions for perks.

Celebrating a big anniversary or planning a trip for your honeymoon ? Be sure to let the hotel know in advance. When my husband and I went to Thailand and the Maldives for our honeymoon, we mentioned it to each property that we booked, and ended up with upgrades, bottles of champagne sent to the room, and other extra special perks from hotel staff.

65. Use your h otel’s shower cap to protect your toiletries from exploding.

Nervous about your liquids exploding in your toiletry bag on the flight home? Wrap them in the shower cap provided to you in the room. And if you don’t have a shower cap: use the plastic liner that comes with your ice bucket. 

66. Download the Revolut app.

The popular European banking app recently launched in the U.S., and it allows users to exchange currencies from 55,000+ surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. 

67. Seek itinerary inspiration through social media.

Use Instagram to inspire your itinerary. Browse through hashtags and geotags to see where people took gorgeous photos—and then go to those places! Alternatively, you can google things like “ The Best Instagram Spots in NYC ” or “ The Most Instagrammable Places in London ” for fun ideas.

instagram photo inspiration

68. Use AirHelp to get compensated for flight delays or cancelled flights.

We’ve all been there: you miss a connection because of a delayed flight, or your flight get inexplicably cancelled, and you know that the airline has to owe you some kind of compensation.

The problem is that actually getting what you’re owed can be a logistical nightmare that involves long wait times, endless phone calls, and unanswered emails. AirHelp essentially plays the middleman by acting on your behalf.

They do charge a fee (which is a percentage of what you’re ultimately compensated) but as someone who has used the service successfully, I can say that it is VERY much worth saving you the headache.

Plus, Airhelp knows exactly what you’re entitled to based on their expertise, so you’ll often end up getting more than you would have received on your own.

69. Do your souvenir research ahead of a trip.

Stéphanie de Bruijn

One thing I always do before I travel is a bit of research about the most unique gifts and souvenirs to buy in the destination I’m heading to. Looking this up ahead of time might top you off to some really cool new boutiques, and it will also guarantee that you don’t end up at an airport gift shop wasting your money on a meaningless memento.

For example, this list of the best things to buy in Paris contains a ton of “hidden gems” within the city you might never have known about otherwise. There’s also something extremely satisfying about going on the hunt for a specific unique item—and then finding it! 

70. Keep a note in your phone filled with travel quotes .

For those times that you desperately want to post an Instagram photo, but you’re at a loss for a caption.

Did you find this list helpful? Are there any travel hacks you love that I didn’t include? Drop them in the comments below!

Thank you to nicole cueto aka @thecubancarrie for her contributions to this piece.

Pin this post for later:

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If you’re traveling with an infant/toddler; bookmark, screenshot AND print the rules for taking things like breastmilk/formula/snacks through security as well as the policy about early boarding for families. It helps to be prepared for any hiccups. And even if you just fly once or twice a year with a child, get TSA Precheck. Your child under 12 can go through the line with you, which makes things SO much faster.

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Lindsay Silberman

this is SUCH a good tip (and one i would never have thought of!) thanks for sharing!

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I always get a seat on the plane forward of the wings. Any turbulence the plane encounters dieting the flight is less bumpy in the front half.

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Charles Loes

these hacks help me a lot thanks for such guidance.

I always get a seat on the plane forward of the wings. Any turbulence the plane encounters during the flight is less bumpy in the front half.

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Helen Gaskin

Really a complete guide has never seen such stuff there. I am all the way from Pinterest and your pin is best to attract anyone. And guide too.

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The Perfect Skincare Routine for Beginners

60 quotes about travel that will inspire your wanderlust.

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50 Travel Tips T+L Editors Swear By

These 50 travel tips from the T+L staff will help you foray back to travel in style. 

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Ever wondered how the professionals travel? The Travel + Leisure editors collectively bank a lot of miles, and we've tried every travel hack in the book ( packing cubes and apps that let you skip the line at immigration are just the tip of the iceberg). While we've learned a lot from our jetsetting lives, we've also made our fair share of mistakes. Fortunately, we've turned all of our travel lessons into tips for you — so you can travel like a T+L editor — and avoid some of the mistakes we've made in the past . From how to make a sneaky in-flight michelada to how to rack up travel points and get status on an airline, these 50 travel tips from the T+L staff will help you foray back to international travel in style.

Before You Go: Miles, Credit Cards, and Benefits

Frequent travelers should pick an airline and stick to it . Until recently, I would obviously just go online and get whatever flight was cheapest — and that's still probably the best route for most leisure travelers. But if you're on the road a lot, especially for work or otherwise on someone else's dime, it makes sense to start building up some loyalty. Try to get status, familiarize yourself with partner airlines, and if it makes sense for you, open up a branded credit card. You'll be rewarded with perks like upgrades, free checked bags, and maybe even lounge access...not to mention miles, miles, miles. — Hannah Walhout , Associate Editor

If you're just wanting to travel somewhere but flexible on when and where, use Skyscanner.com to search for cheap flights. Put in your origin city, select "Everywhere" as your destination, and choose your dates — you can choose a whole month if you're flexible — and you'll get a list of where in the world you can travel, in order of cheapest to most expensive flights, any time of year. — Karen I. Chen , Editorial Producer

Look into airlines that offer extended stopovers in various destinations for no extra charge. Turkish Airlines offers a stopover program in Istanbul, and Icelandair offers a stopover program in Reykjavik. It's a great way to extend your trip without paying for an extra flight. — Maya Kachroo-Levine , Contributing Digital Editor

Get a Chase Sapphire Reserve or American Express Platinum credit card. The yearly fees are high, but the benefits and rewards that offset the fees are worth it. With the Chase Sapphire Reserve, you get a $300 yearly credit toward any travel expenses, plus reimbursement of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fees. With the Amex Platinum, you get a $200 hotel credit and monthly Uber credit, as well as CLEAR membership reimbursement. Best of all, each card gives you access to a global network of airport lounges, which has been one of my favorite perks of being a card member. Getting to spend a longer layover in an airport lounge with free drinks, food, and Wi-Fi — not to mention the opportunity to take a shower (I was once stuck in an airport for an entire day) — has been a game changer for international travel. — Karen I. Chen , Editorial Producer

If you're going to pay the annual fee for a travel credit card, know how to use it to get the most for your money, and don't leave perks on the table. Some of the luxury travel credit cards come with a complimentary Priority Pass, which gets you into a selection of lounges around the world — but you've got to follow through and sign up for Priority Pass. Many travel credit cards will also cover your Global Entry fee, but it's up to you to apply and get that Global Entry card. Take it from a financial editor turned travel writer — you need to research the perks of your travel card, and then make sure you take full advantage. — Maya Kachroo-Levine , Contributing Digital Editor

If you're in the airport more than a few times a year, TSA PreCheck is absolutely clutch. It's saved my behind on many occasions when I've cut my airport timing too close. (Plus, I've gotta be honest, it's nice to not have to take off your shoes.) That $100 for Global Entry actually covers PreCheck, too — but if you're in the position to open a new line of credit, I'd recommend going with one of the many travel-oriented cards that offer both for free as a membership perk. — Hannah Walhout , Associate Editor

This may sound super simple, but keep the apps of your preferred airlines in a folder on your phone. I am not someone who likes to keep unnecessary apps on their phone. But having an app that will keep your upcoming trips saved and will always allow you to have your boarding pass digitally before you arrive at the airport really makes me feel more organized. It also ensures you always have your mileage number on hand when booking a flight — and after years of missing out on miles, I like to keep my account numbers handy so I never forget to input it when booking. — Maya Kachroo-Levine , Contributing Digital Editor

If you travel abroad a fair amount, consider using T-Mobile as your cell phone carrier. Their mobile plans include unlimited international data and texting, which has been a life-saver when needing to reference Google Maps while roaming around a foreign city; call an Uber; or to look up opening hours for various attractions, restaurants, or shops. It's incredible to be able to touch down in a new location, turn on your phone, and be able to immediately start using the Internet without having to factor in contacting your mobile carrier and paying more for a global pass during your vacation. — Karen I. Chen , Editorial Producer

Global Entry is cool, but it costs $100. Instead, download the Airside Mobile Passport app for free and use it to skirt customs and immigration lines, no memberships or hassles required. — Paul Brady , Articles Editor

If you pay for Spotify, download your favorite playlists, podcasts, and albums directly to your phone so you always have at least a few things to listen to if you don't have Wi-Fi or cell service. — Tanner Saunders , Experiences Editor

Nervous about flying? Try an app that predicts turbulence so you know exactly when to expect it.

As we get comfortable traveling internationally in the COVID-era, always check the latest entry regulations for the country you're heading to . Traveling in 2021 means thinking about things like planning your COVID test before returning to the U.S. and leaving extra time at the airports for entry mishaps. If the stress of COVID-era travel is getting to you while in transit, just stay calm, practice patience, and when in doubt, double check your research.

This is a tip I learned from a co-worker early in my career at T+L: The best way to save on a hotel room is very simple, and pretty old-school. First, do your research on the property you wish to book, and know what rates are going for across the major travel booking sites for your dates. Then, call the hotel directly and ask for the "cheapest nonrefundable rate." You may be able to negotiate against the deals you found online, since hotels pay a markup of up to 30% to booking sites and would prefer you book directly. And if that doesn't work, at least you'll know you're getting the lowest possible rate. — Nina Ruggiero , Deputy Digital Editor

If I'm traveling to a new city and don't already have a hotel in mind, I always search the internet for new hotel openings. Booking a brand-new hotel can come with perks — temporarily lower rates, for some; fewer guests, AKA more personalized service for you; and sparkling, brand-new facilities. It's nice to know you're among the first to use a bed or bath tub, and generally just cool to be able to say you were among the first to check out a new property. — Nina Ruggiero , Deputy Digital Editor

When traveling with a group, consider booking a villa over a block of hotel rooms. There are a bunch of really amazing luxury villa rental sites out there — The Thinking Traveller is my go-to for Europe, and WIMCO Villas for the Caribbean — and some hotels offer villas on property as well. They may seem unattainable, but when you split the cost among your group, it may actually come out to less, and you'll enjoy having your own private space so much more. — Nina Ruggiero , Deputy Digital Editor

We all know not all hotel rooms are created equal, but even within the same price category, some can be much better than others. So whenever I end up in a room I find particularly amazing, be it for the size, layout, or especially the view, I always take note of the room number so if I ever return (or need a recommendation for a friend), I'll know exactly which room to request. — Nina Ruggiero , Deputy Digital Editor

Packing Tips and What to Bring

In my almost six years at T+L, I've tried every travel accessory under the sun — packing cubes, bizarre travel pillows, compression socks, novel suitcases, you name it. Two still come with me on every flight. The first is a Smythson travel wallet , which is just as handy and elegant as everyone says. They're on sale right now, but if you miss the markdowns, stalk them on resale sites and you can find one for a song. The second is my Trtl travel pillow , which is divisive but for those who like it, nothing else will do. — Lila Harron Battis , Senior Editor

Invest in a nice backpack if you travel a lot. It keeps your hands free at the airport. As someone who once favored a shoulder bag AND purse approach (what was I thinking?), walking through the airport without trying to juggle eight things in my hands is game-changing. If you're looking for a good travel backpack, my husband got me the Dagne Dover "Dakota" neoprene backpack — an amazing birthday gift for the traveler in your life. — Maya Kachroo-Levine , Contributing Digital Editor

Travel with a good-quality water bottle. Arrive at the airport with the water bottle empty, and fill it up after you go through security. It'll help you stay hydrated on your flight, and during your travels. — Maya Kachroo-Levine , Contributing Digital Editor

Keep a picture of prescriptions or medications you take on your phone in case of an emergency. Hopefully you never have to use them but in case of an emergency it can make getting what you need so much better and potentially save a trip that could be a borderline disaster. (Trust me, this diabetic travel editor knows!) — Tanner Saunders , Experiences Editor

Traveling with your license or ID card and passport as a backup — even when flying domestic — is a good idea, just in case. But accidents happen, and many don't know that if you do find yourself at a U.S. airport without a government-issued form of ID , you might still get on your flight. Just remain calm, look for any other item you may have with your name on it (prescription medication, credit cards, business cards, mail), and explain what happened to an airline rep. (If you're traveling with family members who share your last name, even better.) After an interview with a TSA agent to verify your identity, you could make it through. — Nina Ruggiero , Deputy Digital Editor

Whether I'm packing for a long weekend or a two-week trip, I rely on packing cubes to keep my suitcase tidy and organized. They keep everything compact, so you can really maximize your suitcase space, and you'll never have to dig around to find that missing sock again. — Elizabeth Rhodes , Associate Digital Editor

I always travel with a laundry bag so I can keep my used clothes separate from my fresh ones. It doesn't take up much space but it'll keep your clothes fresh the length of your trip. — Sean Flynn , Contributing Editor

Opt for a soft-sided weekender or duffle as your main travel bag. It'll often squish into overhead/underseat/car trunk spaces where roller bags fear to go (and you'll never get asked to gate check it on smaller regional jets that inevitably run out of overhead space). — Skye Senterfeit , Photo Editor

Bring your running shoes when traveling to a new destination. The absolute best way to see a city is to go on a morning run — it helps you kick the jetlag, too. P.S., it's totally ok if that run is actually a walk — mine often are. The most important thing is just to get up, get out there, and explore before the city wakes up. — Maya Kachroo-Levine , Contributing Digital Editor

Invest in one or two bags you know you'll love to have on your body while exploring new places so you never have to worry about what to pack. For me, it's the Dior Saddle Pouch that sits secure across my chest and holds the essentials. Or, if I need a little more space (probably to carry a snack) I switch to a basic-but-stylish Supreme crossbody. They're both small enough to not cause any issues at events or museums and are a sort of security blanket when I'm out and about. — Tanner Saunders , Experiences Editor

Never pack new shoes for a trip that involves a lot of walking. I've made this mistake countless times — I find a pair of shoes I like right before I leave for a trip, wear them while touring a new city, and end up with painful blisters on day two. Break new shoes in ahead of time, and always pack blister pads and moleskin if you're prone to blisters like me! — Elizabeth Rhodes , Associate Digital Editor

Pack slippers. Not only do they come in handy mid-flight, but they also help make any destination instantly feel like home. — Stacey Leasca , Contributing Writer

Find an amazing walking shoe that can double as a great plane shoe to cut down on the number of shoes you need to pack. In general, your plane shoes should always be multi-purpose — it just makes you a more economical packer.

For anyone carrying a camera that is not also a phone, my advice is to pack extra SD cards, camera batteries and a battery charger. It's a hard lesson to learn but if your camera battery dies and you have no idea where to buy the battery you need and you didn't pack the charger, you're missing out on capturing the special moments of your trip. Same goes for running out of memory on one SD card. Make sure your memory cards are cleared and batteries charged prior to departure so the photo taking can happen as soon as you get to your destination. — Mariah Tyler , Visuals Editor

My biggest travel tip would be to never check a bag if you can help it. Packing lighter, i.e. in a carry-on suitcase, is helpful enough on its own: when you pare down your wardrobe and essentials, for example, you'll have more room to shop and, of course, less to lug around in airports and through city streets. Plus, you'll never have to wait in the chaos of the baggage carousel or deal with lost luggage again. — Madeline Diamond , Ecommerce Writer

This is controversial: If you want to check a bag, just check the darn bag! Those of us in travel love to sing the virtues of packing light — and, sure, there are benefits! — but it's just not worth it if you're staying up until 2 a.m. the night before a flight stressed about packing. Throw it all in a bigger suitcase, stop fretting, and get some rest. Packing light is not worth losing sleep over. — Lila Harron Battis , Senior Editor

I've been lucky enough to never have a bag go missing enroute to a destination, but that hasn't stopped me from packing a change of clothes in my carry-on. Just in case your bag is lost — or even delayed for a few days — a fresh set of clothes can carry you over until you have time to buy a new wardrobe while you wait for your bag to arrive. — Sean Flynn , Contributing Editor

Designate one of your packing cubes for dirty laundry, so you can keep your already-worn clothes both organized and out of the way. And if you're looking for the perfect packing cubes, our editors have found the 13 best offerings .

Always keep your liquids in the same toiletry bag, so if a TSA agent needs you to remove them, you don't have to go digging around in your suitcase. These are our favorite, editor-selected toiletry cases.

If you're going on a long-haul trip, pack for only a week and then plan to do laundry.

Always pack a portable charger — and every charging cord you'll need with it. You may even want to use a small case to keep all your charging accessories in one place.

On the Plane

For long-haul flights I keep a pouch filled with all of my in-flight essentials: ear plugs, chapstick, ibuprofen, sanitary wipes, cell phone charger, face cream, hydrating face masks (yes, I am one of those fliers), Liquid I.V. for helping to stay hydrated, and a pen (for when you inevitably have to fill out an immigration card before arrival). As soon as I board, I tuck the pouch in the seat-back pocket so all the things I might need are within easy reach without having to fumble through my bag underneath the seat or get up and open the overhead compartment. I leave the pouch packed between trips so I can just grab and throw it in my carry-on personal item when packing for my trip. — Karen I. Chen , Editorial Producer

If you're prone to motion sickness, headaches, or other minor illnesses that are only exacerbated by travel anxieties, pack a little emergency wellness kit and stow it in your carry-on. You might never need it (and hopefully you won't), but having things like Dramamine, Pepcid, and a couple ibuprofens on hand can be the difference between the trip you've been dreaming of and one spent on the BRAT diet. — Hillary Maglin , Assistant Digital Editor

The best thing you can wear on a plane is a plain white t-shirt that's easy to dress up with a nice jacket or dress down with trendy sweats. — Tanner Saunders , Experiences Editor

My most truly unhinged airplane ritual is this: Bring a tiny travel bottle of Tajin and a packet of lemon or lime juice or citric acid in your travel bag, order a beer and a can of Bloody Mary mix on the plane, follow your heart, et voila: in-flight michelada. Fully ridiculous? Absolutely! But also kind of brilliant? I mean, if you like micheladas, then yes. — Lila Harron Battis , Senior Editor

If you're someone who tends to swell when flying, try compression socks. We've rounded up the very best ones to buy.

Tips for When You're There

Pre-download maps. You never know when Wi-Fi or cell service will go down. Make sure you have a map handy when you need it most with apps like Maps.Me . The app allows you to download any map offline and save favorite destinations, so you can always get to where you need to be. — Stacey Leasca , Contributing Writer

Whether you're planning a trip or just scrolling the internet for travel inspiration, utilize the labels in Google Maps to save the spots you want to visit. If I read about a new restaurant or a museum I'm excited to visit, I look up the location in Google Maps and flag it with the green "Want To Go" label. During the trip I reference it as a list of places to go, and if I loved it, I mark as a favorite. Long term, I'm building a map of all my favorite spots in the world and I love seeing the flags and stars when I'm in Maps. — Mariah Tyler , Visuals Editor

Most cities have free walking tours, which I often try to join shortly after I first arrive in a city. They're a great way to get your bearings in a totally new place, learn some practical tips from someone who knows the city well (they're often led by locals), as well as gain a foundation of knowledge about the city's history and culture. — Karen I. Chen , Editorial Producer

I've only recently learned this myself, but if the hotel or resort you're staying at has an on-property spa, take advantage of it! While it's tempting to hop off the plane and immediately start immersing yourself in a new, exciting location, taking the time to pause and de-stress with a massage or bath soak really sets the tone for vacation, and you'll be SO glad you did it. — Hillary Maglin , Assistant Digital Editor

Pocket-sized city maps are a great — and discreet! — way to get your bearings without wrestling the big fold out maps so many tourists seem to favor. My favorites are these hybrid city and public transport map notebooks, that make it look like you're jotting down deep thoughts while you're really trying to figure out which train gets you back to your hotel. — Skye Senterfeit , Photo Editor

If there's a country (or a continent) that you travel to often, buy a phone and computer charger made for their outlets. I travel to Europe specifically with an EU iPhone and Mac charger and it always relieves inevitable adapter stress. — Maya Kachroo-Levine , Contributing Digital Editor

​​I always try to grab a small tourist map or a subway map when I arrive in a new city. I tend to get anxious if I don't understand the geography of where I am, especially in a new place, so I like to have a physical piece of paper I can study in my hotel room to get a sense of where I am and what neighborhoods are close by. — Maya Kachroo-Levine , Contributing Digital Editor

In my estimation, most travel-related woes that affect the body or mind — grumpiness, jet lag, just feeling not-quite-right — rear their heads the most when we are either hungry or thirsty. So stay hydrated and bring a snack. — Hannah Walhout , Associate Editor

If you're looking for a great Instagram caption while traveling , look up quotes about your specific destination .

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Packing Hacks The Best Travel Hacks for Packing by JetSettingFools.com

37 Packing Hacks: The Best Travel Hacks For Packing

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Packing hacks are the best way to take your travel game to the next level. We have rounded up the top travel packing hacks designed to save you space, time and money – so you can focus your energy on enjoying your trip. Clever and inventive, packing hacks for traveling will enhance your packing skills and overall travel savviness.

37 Best Travel Packing Hacks

I used to be terrible at packing for trips; first I was an over-packer, then an under-packer. Now, as a full-time world traveler, I rely on packing hacks for travel to keep me organized and efficient on travel days. Some hacks for packing have become so ingrained in our travel routine that packing without them is unimaginable.

Our Travel Hacks For Packing

Our list of packing hacks ranges from absolute game changers to creative tricks. Some are tried-and-true traveling hacks for packing, while others are insider tips we gleaned from expert travelers. These packing hacks will work for all travelers – so whether you are seeking backpack hacks or cruise packing hacks, you will surely find a few gems on our list.

We have categorized our list into three sections: Hacks for Packing Clothes, Toiletry Hacks, Carry On Hacks and a few miscellaneous tips, too. This is a mega list of the best packing life hacks – so grab your coffee and settle in.

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Clothing Packing Hacks

Because clothing is the main component to packing, we are kicking off our list with hacks for packing clothes.

#1 Packing Cubes Hacks

Of all luggage packing hacks, packing with Packing Cubes ranks most supreme. Providing organization and structure to your suitcase or backpack, Packing Cubes are space-saving superstars. The cubes come in a variety of sizes, styles and materials – all of which need to be considered in order to attain your ultimate packing goal.

Pro Tip : We discuss the different kinds of cubes – and the best packing cube hacks – in detail in our post: Ways Packing Cubes make Travel Easier . 

#2 Cheap Packing Travel Hacks

While Packing Cubes are – hands down – one of the best packing hacks that we use, Packing Cubes are pricey! Personally, we think they are worth every single cent. However, if you are not ready to take the plunge and buy some, rather than packing using Packing Cubes, try Ziplock Bags. This is one of the top travel organization hacks that will save space in your suitcase. 

Gallon-size bags are ideal for organization and compression; however, unlike the quality Packing Cubes we use, Ziplocks have an incredibly short lifespan.

Pro Tip : I used to pack using Ziplocks (before I learned how incredible actual Packing Cubes are!). I would pack one complete outfit in each gallon bag and label it so I could easily find the outfit I was looking for. On the way home from vacation, I used the zip-top bags for my dirty laundry, too!

#3 Clothes-Rolling, Space-Saving Packing Hacks

Rolling clothes – rather than folding them – has long been one of the best suitcase packing hacks for saving space. Travelers can either roll each item individually – or, take it up a notch, and roll an entire outfit (pants, shirt, socks and underwear) together. By rolling a complete outfit, your suitcase becomes a grab-and-go destination when getting ready for the day’s adventure.

Pro Tip : For a tighter roll that stays together, use a ‘military roll’ or hair ties to secure the rolled clothing. If you use hair ties, you will also have backups if you lose or break one on your trip. (Plain rubber bands can be used, too, if you don’t use hair elastics.)

Roll vs Fold Debate

While many travelers rave about the benefits of rolling, it is not one of the packing luggage hacks that we use for our shirts and pants. We find that rolling is time consuming – and although many travelers claim that it can save even more space to pack rolled clothes in Packing Cubes, we have not found that to be true.

That said, the one item of clothing I do roll is my bikini underwear . I start by folding the underwear into thirds – folding each side in to the width of my small Packing Cube. Then, starting at the bottom, I roll up to the waistline. This is actually one of my airport hacks, as much as it is a packing hack, because this way, if my undergarment Packing Cube gets tagged for inspection, the agent rifling through my clothes will be less likely to touch the part of the panties that goes against my skin.

Pro Tip : Another clothes packing hack for underwear is to pack quick drying underwear that will be easy to wash in the sink and dry fast – if need be. A brand that fellow travelers love is Ex-Officio , but I prefer inexpensive and functional Fruit of the Loom . We talk more about clothing materials in a minute!

#4 Folding Hacks for Packing

If you are like us and decide to fold your clothes (instead of roll), then it is key to fold all of your clothing to the exact same size. After spending 10 years working in retail, I am fairly skilled at folding random sized clothing into neat stacks. However, for travelers who find it challenging, one of the packing folding hacks is to use a Folding Board , which will ensure you get a perfect fold on every piece of clothing.

Pro Tip: One of the great business travel packing hacks is to fold your delicate work clothes in dry cleaning bags as it will help eliminate wrinkles on arrival!

#5 Packing Hacks: Travel Clothing

One of the top packing clothes hacks for traveling is to only pack clothing that travels well. There are numerous clothing lines that are designed specifically for traveling, but most travelers don’t need to get that technical – and many items you already own might fit the bill.

The features of clothing that are most important when it comes to packing are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, odor-eliminating, wrinkle-resistant and washable clothing items.

That said, if you do pack clothing that wrinkles, bring travel-size Wrinkle Release Spray  to avoid having to iron on vacation.

Pro Tip : While the right clothing material is essential for travelers, it is equally important to pack clothing that you like and are comfortable wearing…because if it is not comfortable, it will likely stay folded in your suitcase. I share more tips about my packing experience for full-time travel in My Long-Term Travel Packing List: What I Pack To Travel the World .

The Best Traevel Packing Hacks by JetSettingFools.com

#6 Pack Multi-Functional Clothing

There are no better packing hacks for traveling light than packing versatile and multi-functional clothing. One of the most useful items I have in my backpack is my wrap – and it has about a million uses.

I have used it as a scarf, a beach cover up, a bath towel, a picnic blanket, a pillow cover, a bedsheet, a head cover, an ear cover, an eye cover, a curtain and a bus seat cover…just to name a few. As long as the wrap is lightweight, dark and washable, the possibilities are endless.

Convertible clothing – like this dress/skirt combo – are awesome packing hacks to save space. Other clothing that can be multi-function are yoga pants (which can double as sleepwear), leggings (which can be layered in cool weather), a casual dress (which can be a beach cover up) and bikini tops (which can be worn as a bra).

Pro Tip : A pillowcase is another good item to pack that is multi-functional. Use it to cover the pillow you sleep on in your accommodations, then fill it with dirty clothes for the trip home.

#7 Capsule Clothing Packing Travel Hacks

Packing a capsule wardrobe is one of the smart packing hacks used by travelers. 

To assemble a capsule wardrobe, first, choose a color scheme of similar shades – like black, dark blue and shades of purple – and only pack clothing that falls into the color palette. Each item – tops and bottoms – need to be able to be mixed, matched and layered with all other items. Outfits can be accessorized with colorful scarves and jewelry.

By using this trip hack, you can pack minimal pieces of clothing that can be combined to make numerous different outfits. Done right, it is one of the space saving packing hacks that allows travelers to pack carry-on luggage only. 

In addition to coordinating my entire wardrobe, one item that I always like to pack is a black skirt . It is something that is comfortable and casual for sightseeing, but can be dressed up with a nicer shirt and a scarf for going out in the evening.

Pro Tip : A life hack for packing clothes for a vacation is to use the Countdown Rule. For example, if you are taking a 5-day trip, pack 5 shirts, 4 pants (or shorts/skirts), 3 dresses, 2 pairs of shoes and 1 colorful scarf (or bold piece of jewelry). Additionally, pack one pair of underwear for every day of the trip, but only one set of pajamas.

#8 Clothes Packing Hacks for Vacation

One of the simple traveling packing hacks that is often overlooked is Destination Research. What I mean by this is that, before you start packing and choosing clothes for your trip, first check the weather forecast for your destination. Also, gain some insight to the destination’s clothing culture and have a basic understanding of what apparel is acceptable at tourist destinations, religious sites, restaurants and clubs.

Pro Tip : Use your itinerary to help decide what clothes to bring. How the Packing Hacks Travel Itinerary works is that, based on your planned activities that you select in advance of your trip, you determine which outfit to wear for each day of your trip. (To book your activities in advance, we use Viator !)

Travel Packing Hacks by JetSettingFools.com

#9 Clever Packing Hacks for Clothing

One of the life hacks for packing that we have long used – and is commonly used by fellow travelers – is to pack clothing items for a trip that you no longer want to keep. After you wear them on your trip, you can donate the clothing at your destination (or, if there is really no life left in the item, just toss it!). This is an especially good tip for families traveling with growing kids.

Pro Tip : One of the truly Travel Light hacks is to reverse this idea slightly. When you leave for vacation, only pack personal items – like undergarments and toiletries. On arrival at your destination, make your first stop a thrift shop and buy new-to-me clothes for the entire trip. On the last day of the vacation, return to the thrift shop and donate all of the clothing back to the store. We have never personally used this hack – but heard about it from a fellow traveler and love the concept!

#10 Travel Hacks for Packing Shoes

To save suitcase space, on any trip, for any length of time, only ever pack three pairs of shoes – I even follow this rule as a full-time traveler! All shoes should be comfortable to wear for long days of sightseeing and, more importantly, they need to go with all the outfits that you are packing. (This idea goes back to the capsule wardrobe method!)

For more travel shoe tips, read our blog post, The Best Shoes for Traveling .

Pro Tip : A good way to keep grimy shoes from dirtying up the inside of your luggage and one of the little genius packing hacks is to fit disposable shower caps (the kind that are free at many hotels) over the sole of the shoe before you put them in your bag. The empty space inside your shoes can also be used to store items – like deodorant and shaving cream, just put it in a resealable bag first.

Resealable bags are one of our essentials for packing. They come in handy for everything from an open bag of snacks to your wet bathing suit on a travel day. Find out more tips in our blog post, Everyday Items for Traveling . 

#11 Clothing Airport Hacks

One of the ingenious suitcase packing hacks to save space is to actually wear your bulkiest items, especially on long travel days . In fact, this is one of the top Carry On Only travel hacks. Rather than using valuable luggage space to pack your coat and boots, wear them on the plane! Tie a sweatshirt around your waist or wear layers that can easily be removed once seated on the plane.

Pro Tip : Another one of the travel packing hacks that can save space inside your luggage is tying your shoes or flip flops to the outside of your carry on bag. This also applies if you carry a water bottle…simply clip it to the exterior of your bag if possible…or better yet, travel with a collapsible water bottle .

#12 Hacks for Packing a Suitcase…Without Over-Packing

Over-packing is a downfall for many travelers – it certainly was for me when I was a novice traveler. But I have learned what an absolute drag over-packing can be. It can weigh you down (literally) when lugging your suitcase through an airport, down a cobblestone street and up the stairs of a boutique hotel.

One of the best life hacks for traveling and packing – or rather not over-packing – is to simply commit to packing in a carry on size suitcase. By limiting the amount of room you have, you will be less tempted to over pack, which is much more sensible! We discuss more specific carry on packing hacks later in the post!

Pro Tip: If you are checking luggage, invest in an affordable luggage scale to ensure you don’t go over the weight limit. You don’t want to be surprised at the beginning of your trip with an extra charge!

Everything we pack for world travel fits in a Carry On size backpack! Find out what we pack: The Ultimate Packing List .

#13 Packing Suitcase Hacks

We pack in backpacks, but one of the best suitcase hacks I ever heard was to shift your perspective of your suitcase. Rather than packing stacks of clothing horizontally into the suitcase, pack vertically, from the wheels up.

Another one of the best Packing a Suitcase hacks is to take this idea one step further. Pack vertically, but pack complete outfits and stack them in the order that you plan to wear them (according to your itinerary!). This way, when you get ready each day, all you need to do is grab the outfit from the top!

Pro Tip : Don’t let any space go unused! One of the long time travel hacks packing tips is to take advantage of small crevices in your suitcase to slip in things like a comb or other small miscellaneous items.

#14 Luggage Hacks

Day packs and purses can take up a lot of room in luggage. Minimize how many items you carry by selecting one purse that will work for all occasions. It is even better if you pack a purse or bag that can double as a day pack.

One of our favorite packing for travel hacks is to pack a lightweight  foldable shopping bag , which unfolds to a bigger bag for going to the beach or shopping during your trip.

Pro Tip : Read more about day bags in our blog post, The Best Day Packs for Traveling .

#15 Packing a Suitcase: Hacks for Fresh Clothing

One way to keep your clothes smelling fresh during your trip is to layer each clothing item with a dryer sheet. This is one of the double-dip packing travel hacks because later, if you need to do laundry while on your trip, you will have dryer sheets to use!

Pro Tip : Another way to keep clothes fresh is with Fabreeze. Pack a travel-size Fabreeze with your toiletries! And, don’t worry, we are getting to our toiletry packing hacks in a minute!

#16 Holiday Packing Hacks for Souvenirs

If you anticipate collecting breakable souvenirs during your trip, a good suitcase hack is to use bubble wrap in between your clothes or outfits. Then, use the bubble wrap to protect souvenirs that you are bringing home.

Other travel hacks for packing souvenirs (and some of the creative ways to better ensure breakables make the trip home undamaged) is to pack them inside Pringles cans or even use the free hotel slippers as cushioning. On the other hand, if you are  buying wine, actual wine protectors are the best.

Pro Tip : In many cases, the best and safest way to transport fragile souvenirs is to ship them home…rather than trying to jam them into your suitcase. 

#17 Packing hacks for Traveling: Laundry

One of the best space-saving travel hacks is simply to plan on doing laundry during your trip. By planning to do laundry while you travel, you will only need to pack one week’s worth of clothing – or less! – even if you are on a 2-week – or longer! – trip.

We recommend booking accommodations with a washer and (maybe) a dryer ( Airbnb is our go-to resource for finding the best places to stay). It is a good idea to pack a few individual packages of liquid laundry detergent , just in case they do not provide any. 

Pro Tip : If your accommodation does not have a washer, there is likely a nearby laundromat – or even laundry service. Just remember to bring a packable laundry bag so that you have something to carry your dirty clothes in.

#18 Sink Laundry: Packing Tips and Hacks

Learning how to efficiently do sink laundry is one of the packing hacks for long trips, when you will inevitably need to wash at least a few undergarments. Sink laundry is as simple as it sounds: It’s when you hand wash your clothes in the sink, bathtub or shower.

The most important thing to keep in mind when washing items in the sink is allowing enough time for clothes to dry (and, again, why it is so important to pack quick-dry clothing).

Many travelers wash clothes at night, before going to bed, to ensure they will dry. We like to take advantage of the sunshine (if possible) and wash them in the morning (but never the morning of a travel day!).

Sometimes we just use a bar of soap to clean our clothes, but Sink Laundry detergent is probably better. A sink stopper will help for scrubbing and rinsing in the sink – and a travel clothesline is ideal to hang up wet clothes. That said, draping socks over a heater or in front of a fan can help speed drying times…and a hair dryer works, too.

Pro Tip : A Scrubba Wash Bag is often touted by fellow travelers as one of the top packing hacks for backpacking, but we have yet to use one personally!

Best Packing Hacks for Travel by JetSettingFools.com

Packing Hacks For Toiletries

Our list of packing toiletries hacks is full of ideas that will help you pack better for your next trip! These travel hacks for packing toiletries will hopefully help you avoid spills in your luggage…and save you some space in your bag, too.

#19 Travel Toiletry Hacks for Shampoo and Conditioner

One way to avoid any liquid shampoo and conditioner luggage incidents is to simply not pack it! Many hotels and Airbnb apartments provide shampoo and conditioner. And, if they don’t, you can always buy some at a local store when you get there.

That said, did you know that shampoo and condition come in bars just like soap? Well, you are now in on the secret! Using shampoo and conditioner bars – rather than packing bottled liquids – is an excellent travel packing hack that will ensure you don’t have spilled shampoo in your bag on arrival at your destination.

Pro Tip : Shampoo and conditioner are just one of the solid toiletries you can use on your trip. Other packings hacks for traveling without liquids are using toothpaste tabs and solid perfumes !

#20 All-in-One Toiletry Travel and Packing Hacks

What better way to save space than to use products with multiple uses? The all-in-one Dr. Bronner’s soaps are organic and certified Fair Trade products that are designed for multiple purposes. The soap can be used on body, face, hair and teeth…and also to clean dishes, clothes, floors, windows – and even the toilet – making it one of the best travel packing hacks of all!

Pro Tip : The Castille soap collection comes in a variety of scents and is available in liquid or bars .

#21 Liquids: The Best Packing Hacks for Travel

While eliminating liquids from your luggage is one of the top packing hacks for travel, if you are bringing liquids in your bag, we have a few travel hacks and tips on how to keep liquids from spilling inside your bag.

The best travel hacks for liquids is a 3-part process that includes plastic wrap, tape and a resealable bag. First, unscrew the top off the bottle and place a piece of plastic wrap over the top, then screw the top back on (over the top of the plastic wrap). Next, take a piece of tape and tape the flip lid shut. Finally, secure the bottles in resealable bags. By using the three-step method, suitcase spillage is highly unlikely!

Pro Tip : The bottles you pack in can make all of the difference! Liquid travel containers is not where you want to skimp on quality. Therefore, one of the best travel hacks for toiletries is to use refillable GoToob bottles that are specifically engineered for travel – and promise a spill-proof journey!

#22 Save Space in your Toiletry Bag when A Little Dab Will Do

One of the phenomenal travel hacks to save space in your toiletries case is to only bring as much product as you will actually use on your trip. Rather than packing larger bottles of face creams and foundation, pour a small amount into a contact lens case. Use more than one case if you need to…but just remember to use a contact case with screw top lids.

Pro Tip : Small 10ml bottles also work great for liquids that you will only need a little dab of during your vacation. They are inexpensive and reusable, too, making them one of the best travel hacks!

#23 Travel Size Items

When it comes to transporting liquids, one of the travel packing life hacks is to use refillable travel-size bottles. In fact, we think travel-size toiletries are the way to go in general when it comes to packing and carry-on hacks.

It is amazing how many products are made in a smaller, space-saving size. Some favorites are a travel-size hairbrush , travel-size toothpaste , travel-size deodorant and travel-size shaving cream . Products we don’t use – but that other travelers do – are mini-magnifying mirrors , travel-size hair straighteners and travel towels .

Pro Tip : Want one of our top travel hacks that saves money in the long run? When your travel-size toothpaste runs out, don’t throw it away! The tube can actually be refilled from a regular-size toothpaste tube. Just securely hold the openings together and squeeze from the larger tube into the travel sized tube!

#24 Travel Tips for Shaving Cream Alternatives

Using a travel-size shaving cream is not the only way to save space in your suitcase. One of the best travel packing tips and hacks is to not bring shaving cream at all! Instead, just lather up soap or use hair conditioner in place of shaving cream.

Pro Tip : The Schick Intuition razor is another travel gem – in that the shaving cream is right on the razor!

#25 Minimal Hair Products

While we love the innovative travel-size products that are available to travelers, the fewer you bring, the lighter your luggage. It can be tempting to pack a hair dryer, curling iron and straightener, but we don’t recommend it…even if they are all travel size!

First, check to see if your accommodations provide a hair dryer. Second, choose one low-maintenance hairstyle. This way, you can limit the number of hair tools and products you bring on your trip!

Pro Tip : In the case that your accommodations don’t have a blow dryer, rather than succumbing to packing a hairdryer, one of the travel life hacks is to pack a microfiber towel that can be used to help dry your hair more quickly. 

#26 Makeup: Packing for Vacation Hacks

Many minimalist travelers recommend leaving all makeup at home when taking a trip. While I have never been a heavy makeup wearer, I still travel with makeup – but I limit it to essentials only.

I pack one powder, two small brushes, a travel eyelash curler and mascara…and that is it. At the very least, limit your makeup bag to only one eyeliner, one eyeshadow, one mascara and one lipstick (and make sure they go with your capsule wardrobe color scheme!).

Pro Tip : Using makeup samples is one of the great traveling life hacks for trips! If you have collected any sample-size makeup in the months prior to your trip, select a few to use on your vacation!

#27 The Almighty Pill Box as a First Aid Kit

While a Weekly Pill Box is excellent for its intended purpose, it is also a great space-saving travel organizer! Instead of packing bottles of Just-in-Case medications, store each of the assorted meds in a different day of the week. For example, store pain reliever in Sunday, vitamins in Monday, cold meds in Tuesday and belly meds in Wednesday. Pill boxes are also one of the fantastic travel pack hacks for storing and organizing jewelry for your trip!

Pro Tip : For something a little more flexible than a pill box, use individual travel jars  and small 2×3-inch plastic resealable baggies to pack medications…and jewelry, too! Read more about what we pack in our first aid travel kit in our post, Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling .

#28 Toiletry Life Hacks for Packing a Suitcase

One way to make packing toiletries so much easier is to invest in a Travel Toiletry Case that stays packed all the time! With a pre-packed toiletry case, all you need to do when it comes time to pack is grab the bag and go! Just starting out with traveling? This packaged toiletry case is great for beginners!

Pro Tip : Just remember to refill any used items when you return from each trip!

Top Travel Packing Hacks by JetSettingFools.com

Carry On Hacks

On travel days, we seldom check bags – we each have carry-on-size travel backpacks and a day pack. To stay organized and efficient in airports, carry on luggage hacks are essential!

#29 Carry On Travel Hacks: Airport Security

No one likes a traveler who holds up the line at security, but there are a few packing hacks for carry on luggage that will get you through checkpoints in a flash.

First, if you are carrying liquids onto the plane, make sure they are in 3.4-ounce bottles (100ml) or smaller…and that they all fit into one quart-size resealable plastic bag. Next – and a key to being quick at security – when you pack your bag, place the bag of liquids in an easy to reach spot.

Electronics – especially laptops, but sometimes larger cameras and phones, which sometimes have to be removed when going through security – should also be placed in an easy-to-access part of your carry on luggage.

Pro Tip : Shoes often need to be removed, which is why I like to wear Slip On shoes or flip flops on travel days. However, if you are bringing boots on your trip, you will need to decide whether it is better to wear them to save space in your suitcase or pack them for a swifter pass through security.

#30 Packing Hacks: Carry On Entertainment

The best way to pass time on an airplane is with on-board entertainment, which is why planning your entertainment in advance is one of the best packing hacks for flying. Headphones and portable chargers are a must! 

Once I get settled in my seat, the first thing I do is create a list of movies to watch in-flight. Headphones , however, are essential to enjoying the flicks…so I always bring two pairs (just in case one fails me or gets lost).

On flights where there is no seat-back entertainment, be sure to bring your own entertainment. Make sure your phone is fully charged…and make a few song playlists or download apps in advance. Bring your charging cord (most seats now have USB ports) and a Portable Charger . 

If you like to read on planes (or trains or buses) a Kindle can be a real space-saver and one of the top vacation packing hacks. However, if you are like me and prefer the feel of paper books, then pick up one or two at a used bookstore or free community library…and then pass them along when you’re finished.

Pro Tip : Find out more of the specifics of what should be in your carry on luggage and our other in-flight tips in our blog post, Long Haul Flight Essentials .

#31 Only Hand Luggage Hacks

If you are trying to squeeze all of your items for your entire trip into a carry on, then one way to make a bit more room is to wear a fanny pack onto the plane. What makes it one of the best carry on packing hacks is that your fanny pack shouldn’t count as an extra bag – plus it keeps you hands-free! Besides that, it is a great place to store valuable items (like your passport and wallet), as well as items you want easy access to during the flight (like an lip balm , sleep mask and earplugs).

Pro Tip : Using a backpack instead of a suitcase will also keep you hands-free on travel days! Read more of the pros and cons of each style of luggage in our blog post, Backpack vs Suitcase . 

#32 Organizational Hand Luggage Packing Hacks

There is nothing more frustrating than when the plane is ready for take off…and you realize that your headphones and kindle are stowed in the overhead compartment (which now cannot be accessed until the captain has turned off the seatbelt sign).

To avoid the inconvenience, prepare ahead and pack a small on-board tote that contains your flight essentials, which can fit under the seat in front of you. Items I make sure to have close at hand are sanitizer , wet wipes , water, snacks, phone, headphones, sleep mask, earplugs and compression socks .

Pro Tip : One of the top carry on luggage packing hacks to use if you are checking luggage is to travel on board with a complete change of clothes…just in case your luggage (and clothing) gets lost en route to your destination . I also like to pack a fresh pair of underwear (that I can change into in the airport bathroom to start my trip off feeling fresh!) – as well as a toothbrush and toothpaste to use to freshen up after a long flight.

Miscellaneous Packing Hacks

Our final travel packing tips and hacks are some tricks that we have picked up over the years that make packing so much easier!

#33 Electronic Device Cable Organization

One of our suitcase life hacks is keeping our cables organized. Some of the essential electronics that we travel with are a mini extension cord (because the outlets are not always in convenient places!), a multi-port adapter (because there are multiple things to be charged!) and a portable charger that we carry with us while we are out exploring.

A good way to keep all these cords and electronics organized is with a Grid It board that keeps everything in place and easy to find! 

Pro Tip : For travelers who make frequent trips, an even easier way to stay organized is to purchase duplicate chargers and cables for all of your devices. Secure them on the Grid It – and always keep them packed so they are ready to go when you are ready to go!

#34 Cooking on Vacation

One of the reasons we love staying in Airbnb apartments is that we have access to our own kitchen where we can cook simple meals. That said, not all kitchens come fully equipped. If you plan on cooking during your trip, consider investing in a collapsible colander , a flexible cutting board and an multi-functional knife (but only if you are checking luggage). 

Pro Tip : In our travels, we have found that it is best to pack the spices that we love! To easily pack our spices, we use small resealable bags (the 2×3-inch baggies are the best!) rather than carrying bottles.

#35 Packing Hacks for Traveling as a Couple or with Friends

One thing that we have learned as a traveling couple is to communicate about our packing list. All of the items that can be shared – from lotion to a travel umbrella to a portable Wifi device – are divvied up evenly between us so that we are not carrying duplicates. Whether traveling as couples, friends or families, find out what items might be unnecessary and determine who will carry what.

Pro Tip : Packing Lists are gold! Keep a list of all the items you pack for a trip. When you return, take a few minutes to jot down notes on what you used and what you didn’t and adjust accordingly to make packing easier for future trips!

#36 Packing Hacks for International Travel

As we spend most of our time overseas, we have quite a few international travel hacks for packing. These tips aren’t necessarily travel hacks for packing light, but rather what to pack to make international travel a little bit easier. 

First, make sure you pack your passport and other travel documents in a safe place. We use a Passport Organizer that fits inside a zippered pocket inside our under-the-seat carry on luggage. 

We also think it is important to invest in a Mobile WiFi Hotspot so that you will have an internet connection from the moment you land. We use the GlocalMe device – which can be fitted with a SIM card or you can purchase data online ahead of your trip (the better way to go in our opinion!). 

Next, make sure that you have the right travel apps. Google Translate, Uber (or whatever ride hailing app is popular in the country you are visiting), Booking.com and Google Maps are the basic essentials. 

Bring (and use) a credit card that does not charge international transaction fees (we prefer the Chase Sapphire credit card). 

Pro Tip: We share heaps of tips for traveling from the United States to Europe in this article, How To Plan a Trip To Europe . 

#37 Best Packing Hack for Travel – Make a List! 

We have already touched on making a list as one of the top packing hacks for travel – but it is truly one of the easiest and most often overlooked hacks for organizing your suitcase. 

Start by making a list of what to pack for your next trip. Then, after the trip, reanalyze the list, eliminating the things you didn’t use – and then make a Master Packing List. For future travels, use your Master Packing List as a base for all of your trips. 

However, as each trip is unique with different climates and activities, it is best to take your list one step further and make an Itinerary of Outfits. On this list, note what outfit (or outfits) you will wear on each day of your trip based on your outlined trip itinerary. This way, you can be certain that you only pack clothes you intend to actually wear – saving you from over packing! 

Pro Tip : Our T rip Planning Printables Kit includes itinerary templates and everything you need to organize your trip! 

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

More Travel Tips and Hacks

Above, we featured our top travel tips for creative and easy packing hacks – but we have so many more travel hacks to save money! 

Cheap Flights

We use a combination of tricks to find the best fares on flights – and we share them all in our article How To Find Cheap Flights .

Best Hotels

Want to find the best hotels at the best prices? Don’t we all! Get there by using our travel hacks for Booking Cheap Hotels . 

Free Packing Checklist 

With our packing hacks for travel, you will be a packing pro in no time! Get started right away with your  FREE Packing Checklist!

Start planning your next trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

We Want To Know: What are your best travel packing hacks? Give us your tips and advice in the comments below!

Click here for a Free Vacation Budget Planner Banner by JetSettingFools.com

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

Packing Hacks by JetSettingFools.com

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Misfit Wanderers

51 Practical Hacks To Make You Travel-Smart

Vipin Gaur

  • May 5, 2022
  • September 2, 2023
  • Tips & Hacks , Inspiration

Travel Hacks Cover

Have you ever forgotten to pack ‘that’ thing only to realize later? That sudden sense of deep regret as you unpack your backpacks?

We understand. Traveling smart requires a lot of mindfulness and planning. While it may seem like an extra task for ordinary travelers, savvy travelers know that the rewards are astonishing.

Travel disasters are pretty natural. However, you can avoid them after learning a few travel hacks.

So, this article covers 51 practical travel hacks to make you travel smart. They are time-tested and are super helpful while traveling — both locally and internationally.

Notice : This post may contain a few links which might earn us financial support when you buy or make any reservations through them. They in no way affect our opinion or the information presented here.

1. Email Your Documents

Whether it is local travel or an international tour, it is necessary to carry your identification papers and passports. 

Just scan and email a copy of these papers to yourself for safety. Having a backup in your email account would never hurt, and you can always feel secure during your travels. 

Alternatively, you can upload your document on your Google Drive, OneDrive or iCloud for easier access.

2. Use Google Maps Without the Internet

Use Google Maps Without the Internet — Travel Hacks for Smarter Travel

Google Maps have been one of our few favorite travel hacks. If you have enough space on your phone, download Google maps and browse the location you need to visit. Tab “…” on the top of the screen to download the offline map of that particular area.

See Google’s instructions for doing the same .

This hack can be pretty efficient if you plan to visit a place with a poor internet connection.

3. Download an Offline Translation App

If you are traveling to a region where language might be a barrier, you should download a translation application on your mobile device. 

Most translation apps work with the Internet, but you should download those supporting offline translation. 

We suggest you go with Google Translate — free, supports offline translation, and is relatively reliable.

You can also translate the sign and menus by capturing the image through the camera in your Google Translate.

4. Carry a Baby Powder

This hack is essential when compared to the other makeup items. While traveling, you walk a lot on foot. Despite wearing socks, your feet might smell. 

So, applying baby powder to your socks and a little bit on your feet can reduce the effect and make them pleasant. You can find varieties of baby powder on Amazon and other e-commerce stores.

5. Empty Your Bottles

Carrying a filled water bottle is a strict no before passing airport security. So instead, bring it out as an empty water bottle and fill it up after security checks in the airport. 

This simple hack saves a lot of money! 

6. Go in Private

51 Practical Hacks To Make You Travel-Smart 1

While searching for flights, choose the incognito or private mode in the browser. 

Experts say that most travel sites use your search history and cookies to understand your requirements and raise the price simply since you have searched for their flights before. 

This travel hack will protect you from spending unnecessary money on flight booking. 

7. Roll Up Your Clothes

This idea is a general hack but can be pretty essential. Rather than folding your clothes, roll them into a circular tube to preserve space and prevent creases or wrinkles. 

8. Use Vacuum Bags For Wrinkle-Free Clothes

The vacuum bags are also a general hack used to protect your clothes from wrinkles and pack more within a small space. 

These vacuum bags are commonly available in most online stores, and you can purchase them for a low price. Here is a list of many vacuum bags on Amazon . 

Place your clothes within the bags and vacuum the air out of them to protect the fabric and maintain it wrinkle-free. Since it sucks the air out, you will also have more space for packing. 

9. Use Smart TVs to Get Charged

If you have forgotten your charger or adapter, do not worry. Like the laptop’s USB port, today’s television sets have a USB port. You can charge your mobile phone and cameras through this port during emergencies. 

10. Mark Your Bags as Fragile

Mark Your Bags as Fragile - Travel Hacks

If you are a frequent traveler, you might understand the damages caused to your suitcase, especially with the handles and the wheels. 

Marking your suitcases and bags as fragile goods would ensure that your bags are handled correctly and placed on the top of the compartment. 

11. Runoff Your Jet Lag 

Jet lag can be an issue when going on an International Tour. It can make you feel under the cloud for at least two days. 

You can reduce your jet lag effects by going on a run or by engaging in light exercises. Try not to fall asleep during flight hours to lower your impact of jet lag. 

12. Use Rechargeable Batteries

Having rechargeable batteries as a backup can be pretty efficient. But when your rechargeable batteries keep running out of charge, the best solution is to place them in the freezer for an hour to maintain the battery level above 90%. 

Most new batteries work just fine. But when your rechargeable battery is old, you can use this technique.

Although this travel hack might not seem practical in a few years, it’s useful if you’re using a gadget that runs on replaceable charging batteries such as trimmers.

13. Plastic Bags For All The Wets

Sealed pouches and plastic bags can be pretty efficient on a trip. These bags do not occupy huge space, and they are efficient while packing wet clothes or dirty clothes. 

It practically separates your fresh clothes and prevents them from the disgusting scent. You can also pack used swimsuits within these bags since they carry the chlorine scent despite being dry. 

Check out plastic bags for clothes on Amazon .

14. Purchase Tickets in Advance

Purchase Tickets in Advance - Travel Hacks

If you plan a trip, then book all your tickets in advance. It’s not just the flight and train tickets, but also book other activity tickets like museum visits and others to avoid the queues and make a visit. 

This idea saves time, and you can prevent vast crowds. 

15. Avoid Add-ons

Plan to reduce the price and save unnecessary rush rather than booking your add-ons like the extra baggage and food items separately. 

You can complete all your baggage booking, food, insurance, and seat reservations during booking with planning. Including add-ons during the later stage will only increase your budget. 

16. Smart with Small Bottles

The excess baggage might be pretty heavy to carry around when you travel. The essentials and makeup products are hard to distinguish among your clothes and accessories. 

Instead of taking the whole shampoo bottle and face wash, you can transfer them to small bottles for packing. This technique might reduce a lot of weight from your baggage. 

If you have small bottles at home, you can use them, or next time you go on a trip, take the bottles they offer you in the hotels. Moreover, there are various travel bottles available on Amazon which you can purchase if you don’t have it at home.

17. Buy Shoe Covers

While traveling around, you need to carry at least two to three sets of footwear to keep your fashion sense alive. But instead of taking them simply in a bag, cover them within a zip lock pouch or a dedicated shoe cover . 

This hack will protect your shoes from getting dirty. 

Since shoe covers cover the base portion of your shoe, you can use them while traveling in a muddy area.

18. Rental Vehicles to Save $$

Rental Vehicles to Save $$ - Travel Hacks

Even though this concept was not quite common a decade ago, you can now find it in multiple cities. 

Renting a car or two-wheeler will save you a lot of money and allow you to enjoy the freedom of going anywhere. 

Try to purchase a universal license if you are a frequent international traveler. The rental vehicle is a cost-effective technique when compared to taxis.  

19. Rent a Home When With Family

Did you know that renting a home is much cheaper than staying in a hotel? If you travel with your family, rent a house or room through Airbnb. 

If you are traveling alone, then rent a single room. The old bed-and-breakfast concept is much more exciting and comfortable than a hotel. 

20. Carry a Pen

This hack might seem like a simple trick, but it can be handy when you try to exchange foreign money or fill out a customs form. 

Instead of asking other people for the pain, you can fill out the form and save time with the pen. 

Even most rentals in international countries subject you to multiple form-related procedures. 

21. Use Local ATMs

If you have an international credit or debit card, then use them in the local ATMs instead of opting for the money exchanger in airports with a particular cost. 

These ATMs charge less and allow you to get money from anywhere.

22. Unpack Necessities, Leave The Rest

Unpack Necessities, Leave The Rest - travel hacks

Even if it is a long trip, avoid complete unpacking. Instead, opt to remove only necessities from your luggage when you come back from a trip.

To avoid hectic last-minute packing, you can wash or pack your used clothes in a separate bag. It also increases your chance of missing out on something in the hotel room. 

23. Smell Nice with Pocket Deodorants

If you are packing for a long holiday, do not miss out on the pocket deodorants available for your clothes. 

Whether a hotel or a home, it is always safe to keep your suitcases closed. But your clothes might smell when you try to place used clothes within them. 

The pocket deodorant provides a pleasant smell and keeps your cloth fresh for your upcoming use. 

24. Get Souvenirs To Buy on a List, Seriously

Everyone expects you to purchase something for them during their foreign trips. So, create a list of souvenirs and items you must buy before departure for easy access. 

It might feel like you are striking things off your bucket list, but it saves time and money. It also allows you to remember things and avoid feeling guilty. 

25. Savor Yourself on The Local Cuisine

Try to consume local foods and avoid common fast-food joints like McDonald’s, Dominos Pizza, or Starbucks. This hack will allow you to taste the local cuisine while saving you a lot of money. 

Local cuisines are cheap, fresh, and the best. Besides, you can have fast food anywhere.  

26. Compression Socks For Swollen Feet

51 Practical Hacks To Make You Travel-Smart 2

Compression socks are a boon to millennial travelers and allow you to avoid swollen feet after a long flight.

They act like spanks for your feet and calves. These socks are especially suitable for women and old age people. Further, compression socks are easily available on Amazon and other e-commerce stores.

27. Find Alternate Destination

If the city you are flying to is not the primary flight hub, consider flying into the central city hub and find an alternative flight to small towns. 

You can also choose other modes of transportation like metro and taxi to save money and develop your mileage points.

28. Packing Your Cubes

The packing cubes have proved efficient for space-saving packing. 

Compress your items and store them within the packing cubes before placing them within the primary suitcase and save everything separately. 

For example, you can use the small-sized packing cube for the socks while using the medium-size cube for your tops. 

Similarly, you can use large-sized packing cubes for your shoes and sneakers. 

If you are a makeup lover, you can also store your accessories and cosmetic products in separate cubes for easy access. It saves space and time. 

Find suitable packing cubes on Amazon for your travel needs.

29. The Credit Card Hack

The best way to save your money is by using your credit card points. Whether it is a domestic flight or an international flight, they offer multiple price reductions when you use a credit card. 

A credit card with the sign-up bonus and points can reduce your flight price, especially international flights. It offers you an efficient way to reduce your flight charges using points and miles for free travel.

30. Get a Refund From a Non-refundable Flight

Refund From a Non-refundable Flight - Travel Hacks

When you book a non-refundable flight ticket, and suddenly your plans change, do not cancel the flight until the last minute. 

As most domestic flights alter their flight timings in the last five days, you can cancel the flights and receive immediate refunds during such situations. 

This hack is beneficial since you can always receive a refund for a non-refundable flight booking.

31. Hydration Multiplier

One thing that commonly irritates you the most is finding a restroom while traveling. 

The requirement to go to the bathroom repeatedly, especially in areas with poor maintenance, can be pretty irritating for a regular traveler. 

During such situations, you can use the hydration multiplier . All you need to do is mix this powder into your water and consume it. It can keep your hydration for a longer time and reduces your frequent visits to the bathroom since you’ll have less water.

32. Google Docs Your Itinerary

Writing your itinerary on a sheet of paper might not be handy since you need to save them for a long time. 

Instead, you can save your itinerary in a google docs file and share it with your fellow travelers or friends to make it more collaborative. 

It also allows you to receive multiple recommendations from the people for the destination you are visiting.

33. Avoid Baggage Checking

Avoid lost baggage nightmares by packing a carry-on bag for your over-a-week trip. Most flights allow you to carry at least seven kilograms, sufficient for brief trips. 

There are multiple small and comfortable carry-on bags available for online e-commerce websites for your comfort. 

34. Save Local Currencies

Save Local Currencies - Travel Hacks

Instead of buying a keychain or a T-shirt, you can save the local currencies as a souvenir. 

This travel hack allows you to hold a piece of memory to yourself, and if you are a frequent traveler, you can display your currencies in a large photo frame. 

You can’t show a key chain or a T-shirt, but this allows you to frame it in a potential corner of your home for constant remembrance. 

35. Use Your Layovers

When booking a flight with a layover for over 12 hours, use it wisely to look at another city. When it is an international trip, most flights have a layover for a minimum of 12 hours. 

Ensure that your layover time falls during the morning phase so that you can explore the city you land in. 

36. Burst Mode If You Don’t Wanna Miss

Never miss an opportunity to take a photo. Always keep your camera in burst mode to never miss a shot. This hack is efficient in group travels, especially when you snap a photo amid a heavy crowd.

37. Don’t Mess With Your Wallet

A wallet can be efficient in your day-to-day life. Still, while traveling, it can get messy by stuffing everything like foreign currency, recipients, and passport copies into your regular everyday wallet. 

So, to stay organized, buy an inexpensive but perfect travel wallet with multiple compartments to collect your travel-related items.

38. Travel Agents Aren’t So Bad

51 Practical Hacks To Make You Travel-Smart 3

Most people avoid travel agents to prevent a dent in their budget. But for traveling multiple cities, a travel agent can be helpful to receive special rates and preferential treatment in hotels. 

Try it with a travel agent for comfort and a homogenized itinerary if this is your first time traveling. 

39. Share Photos via Google Drive

You can purchase a shared album while going on group trips to exchange photos during your trip. It also allows you to share the album with your family. 

If you are not interested in making a payment, you can always use Google Drive to upload your photos and share them with your family members. It also preserves your data for a long time.

40. Shoulder Season Travel

The shoulder season is the space between the high and low seasons when the weather is better with less crowd. The hotel will have a decent rate, and the tourist spots will be less busy, allowing you to enjoy your free time. 

The general shoulder season is from April to June and September to October. It might vary for some countries, and you can always Google it out.

41. Go With a Local Guide

While visiting a foreign city, hire a local guide on the first day of the trip. This idea will allow you to get a lay of the land and understand non-touristy spaces where you can visit during your free time. 

When you travel in groups, always hire a tourist guide since it takes the pressure off your shoulder with a hectic itinerary. It also allows you to look at multiple things within a short period.

42. Expediting Service

Whether it is a simple passport renewal or buying a visa within a short period, you must hire expediting service when you are super tight on time.

43. Book a Hostel

Book a Hostel - Travel Hacks

If hostels are an option for you, you can always book a private room or a bunk bed for a minimal price instead of a hotel. 

This travel hack allows you to save money and meet people from other countries during your trips. You will bond with other people and enjoy new relationships for a short time.

Furthermore, you can also try Couchsurfing to stay with a local. We tried it and had super fun meeting new peoples via Couchsurfing .

44. Country Toggling

If you are looking forward to flying with a specific airline, set your country with a decent exchange rate. This idea will allow you to purchase the flight tickets for a low price but your international credit card and save big. 

This travel hack takes time, and you have to be patient with the trial-and-error method but it is worth it.

45. Oversized Scarf 

Always carry an oversized scarf on the flight and use it as an alternative blanket when required. You can also take a coat or jacket in your carry-on baggage to protect yourself from the flight chillness. 

46. DIY Pack

While traveling in business class, you always get a DIY pack filled with the accessories like cream, eye mask, tissues, and earbuds. 

But most domestic flights and the general class will not have such facilities. During such situations, you can pack your DIY pack with essentials. 

47. Pack Smart and Save

Rather than packing the things you love, always take the essential things. Each country has its own set of requirements. Packing according to them and save your time, space, and money. 

For example, you can avoid packing your basic amenities like toothbrushes and bottles if the flight you are traveling offers you one. 

Also, discard the unnecessary items within your suitcase through rational planning. 

48. Check the Adapter

Check the Adapter - Travel Hacks

Each country has its own set of adapters and block points that might differ from yours. 

So invest in a good plug converter with USB ports for universal traveling. You can buy these universal travel adapters from Amazon .

Trust us, this hack saves a lot of time and money.

49. Be Chic and Comfortable

The present trend forces you to wear a chic airport costume. But always select your outfit based on current fashion with comfort for the long run. 

With international flights, especially those that exceed long hours, you need to be chic and comfortable. 

50. Research and Plan Well

Before going on a trip, research all the outlets and shopping areas to purchase cheap and best products. 

Instead of buying in any shop, you plan to open yourself with the possibility to visit the top boutiques that offer you the latest products. 

51. Replace Your Camera

51 Practical Hacks To Make You Travel-Smart 4

While visiting a foreign country, you may pay a selective charge for your cameras at each tourist location. The price for foreigners will be higher. 

Instead, you can choose to carry your phone with a higher megapixel to avoid such charges and capture your memories. 

Final Thoughts

So this was a list of 51 travel hacks to make you travel smart. Use these hacks to make your travels safer, enjoyable, and regret-free. 

In no way, this is an exhaustive list and there are plenty of other travel hacks out there. Do you know some? Please share and help your fellow travelers of the world.

#Vasudhaiva_Kutumbakam

An appeal: Please do not throw litter around. Use a dustbin and if you can’t find one, take the trash with you and throw it when you find one. Your small steps like this one can make the world clean and green.

Vipin Gaur

Vipin is a techie, traveler, and entrepreneur. He has done engineering in computer science and is an Apple Fan Boy. He is behind all the tech and content management of this website. Often, he shares his entrepreneurial learnings and thoughts on his Twitter .

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well those are some helpful tips, keep up the good work.

Thank you. Glad you liked it 🙂

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50 Travel Hacks That Will Save You Time, Space And Money

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: May 22, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

50 travel hacks

Recently, travel hacks have become quite popular for hiking and backpacking enthusiasts as well as general travelers.

Not only do traveling hacks save you a lot of money but they can reduce the amount of stress you may experience on a nationwide or international tour.

The best travel hacks help with packing correctly, creating a surplus of on-board entertainment, help you book a cheaper flight and plan your trip .

In effect, travel hacks will make your next trip the finest adventure of your life.

Table of Contents

Travel Hacks:

1. create more space by rolling clothes.

Create More Space By Rolling Clothes

Chutima Chaochaiya / Shutterstock

It always seems like there’s never enough room in your luggage when packing for a great journey.

However, one of the top travel hacks for packing is to roll your clothes instead of folding them.

Simply roll each item into a small tube and you will save an amazing amount of space. Furthermore, rolling your clothes will prevent wrinkling and ugly creases.

2. Pack Just Half Your Toiletries

travel toiletries

akvarelmed / Shutterstock

Your lightweight backpacking list should not contain cumbersome bottles of grooming products and toiletries. Instead, pack just enough for an overnight stay.

Most likely you will have plenty of “beauty” products. If you run out, buy a miniature sized bottle of conditioner or shampoo.

3. Avoid Packing Bulky Clothes

Bulky Clothes

minianne / Shutterstock

This is one of the most important travel hacks by far. If you’re not planning on traveling to Siberia or climbing Mount McKinley then leave the bulky coat at home.

Instead, try layers of clothes and “smart” apparel choices like flannel, lightweight cardigans and waterproof jackets.

4. Pack A Small Bottle Of Hand Washing Detergent

Small Hand Washing Detergent

mdbildes / Shutterstock

When traveling, you never know when you’ll have the opportunity to wash your dirty clothes.

Sometimes it is necessary to hand wash your underwear and socks in order to stay clean and refreshed.

Remember to pack small bottle of hand washing detergent for such occasions.

5. Transfer Fragrance Into Small Spray Bottle

small spray bottle

Lamyai / Shutterstock

Instead of carrying large-sized bottles of perfume or aftershave, try downsizing to a small plastic spray bottle. Not only will it save you space but it will eliminate breakage.

Merely pour your perfume or aftershave into a durable plastic bottle the size of an antiseptic spray.

6. Stuff Your Shoes And Wrap Them

socks inside shoe

Alexandr Googe / Shutterstock

You can save a little bit of packing space by stuffing your shoes with your socks. Likewise, wrap your shoes in a shower cap or plastic bag to help protect your clothes.

7. Use A Pill Box For Tiny Items

pill box

iamnoonmai / Shutterstock

Pill boxes are fabulous traveling kits, you can stuff them with all sorts of small items that you need.

For instance, it will hold jewelry, safety pins, bobby pins, tiny batteries, paper clips, thumbtacks and other objects.

8. Place A Dryer Sheet Into Your Bag

dryer sheets

malgosia janicka / Shutterstock

Generally your clothes start to smell like dirty socks after a few days of traveling.

On the other hand, the best travel hack is to place a dryer sheet into your bag to get rid of bad odors.

In fact, a dryer sheet will keep your clothes smelling fresh throughout your trip. There are also more natural selections on the market if you’re not fond of dryer sheets.

As well, you can make your own with some cotton balls and essential oils like orange, lemon, lavender or geranium and a touch of white vinegar.

9. Purchase A Portable Power Bank

Portable Power Bank

FotoHelin / Shutterstock

There is nothing worse than having your phone go dead while traveling.

And to top it off, a dead phone means that you have no way to make important reservations or call home to let everyone know you arrived safely.

A power bank is actually one of the ultimate travel hacks for saving you a lot of stress. The device acts as an external battery that charges solely with the use of a USB connector.

10. Book All Your Flights While On The Go

Skyscanner Flights app

amirraizat / Shutterstock

One of the best apps around for last minute flight deals is SkyScanner . It is a very useful app that will compare every airline for you.

However, do not book the cheapest flight that you see available.

These flights will direct you to a third party like Travelocity or Expedia, which will have a higher price tag due to commission.

Instead, go directly to the site itself and book your flight.

11. Get Cheaper Airline Flights With Private Browsing

private browser

Oftentimes, travel sites and airlines will record your browsing history by installing cookies on your browser.

These companies know how often you visit their site and will typically raise the price because of your frequent visits.

In truth, the increasing price is used to trick you into what is called impulse buying.

On the other hand, you can trick the system by using privacy mode or “private browsing” or “incognito mode”.

To use private browsing, just disable your browsing history and clear the web cache.

This will allow you to browse the web without storing local data that can be retrieved at a later date such as with a travel site and airline.

12. Download Your Own Personal Arrival And Departure Board

flight board app

ImYanis / Shutterstock

Oftentimes, in order to see the departure board you have to do a few yoga positions to view it.

On the other hand, you may be relaxing in the airport bar and need to leave in order to find the board that shows your departure time.

Then again, instead of the constant inconvenience you can download FlightBoard onto your phone. The app allows you to view the departure and arrival time of every airline.

13. Preventing Jet Lag

couple jogging by the beach

Rawpixel.com / Shutterstock

Today, evidence suggests that exercise increases arousal levels in people suffering from jet lag or desynchronosis.

Although there is no indication as to which type of exercise is best for jet lag, most experts agree that light to moderate exercise like jogging or yoga can do wonders.

In addition, according to the Washington Post, exercise can also help with travel fatigue.

14. Mark Your Baggage As Fragile

baggage with fragile sticker

Efired / Shutterstock

Oftentimes your baggage is either lost or it comes back damaged. To avoid lost luggage simply mark your luggage as fragile.

In truth, your luggage will be treated with extra care or at least handled properly. In fact, your luggage will probably be on the top of the pile in the planes storage compartment.

Not only will your luggage avoid being trampled and smashed by being on the top but you will most likely receive your luggage first.

15. Safeguard Your Razors To Prevent Injury

Razor With Binder Clip

Kris Black / Shutterstock

One of the worst types of cuts is from a razor. To makes matters worse, having a razor cut while traveling can be messy and embarrassing.

As well, razor cuts can cause profuse bleeding and damage everything within arm’s reach like your airline seat or the carpet.

However, a great life safer that safeguards your razors and prevents injury is a binder clip. A binder clip or banker’s clip can be utilized to easily cover most razors.

16. Only Pack What You Absolutely Need

overflowing luggage bag

Aleksandra Suzi / Shutterstock

If your backpacking adventures include various destinations, then you probably won’t be in one place to long.

To save room and packing time, take only what you will be wearing in each hostel or destination.

This travel hack is very handy, especially when you are running late for the bus or your next flight.

17. Never Buy Airport Water Again

man filling drinking water

Bubbers BB / Shutterstock

As time goes by, airport restrictions seem to drastically increase. Oftentimes, it feels like you have no choice but to purchase airport water at a ghastly price.

However, you can save a lot of money by bringing in an empty bottle to the airport then refilling it after it has passed through security.

18. Charge Electronic Devices Through A TV

tv usb port

Sunshine Studio / Shutterstock

One of the most innovative travel hacks is to charge your electronic devices through a TV. This is extremely helpful if you forgot or lost your wall plug for your charger.

The back of most TVs will have a USB connector. Sometime the USB port is located on the side. Basically, plug your device into the USB connector until it is fully charged.

19. Email A Scan Of Your Passport To Yourself

Blue American Passport

mcjeff / Shutterstock

Having proof of who you are is vital when traveling international flights. This is especially true if you are a victim of burglary or loss.

Just take a screenshot of your passport so it is available on one of your devices. Remember, a screenshot is visual with or without internet access.

This means that you do not have to have an internet connection to view the screenshot of your passport.

Actually, this is one of the most important travel hacks for travelers and hikers as well as the general public. You never know when something may go wrong.

20. Book Your Lodgings With Hostelworld

Hostelworld is renowned for their spectacular international accommodations. Their trendy and budget lodgings are focused on travelers who want the best in a hostel.

They host a variety of epic events plus connect you with outstanding hostels through the world.

In addition, Hostelworld has a new mobile app that makes booking simple. It includes online savings and an in-built map.

21. Make Sure You Have Skype, WhatsApp And Viber

Girl with smartphone

Alex Ruhl / Shutterstock

Skype, WhatsApp and Viber are lifesaving apps that you should definitely have while traveling.

Skype provides video chat and voice calls between various devices. WhatsApp offers instant messaging and Viber lets you make your calls for free.

22. LifeStraw For Safe Water

LifeStraw

LifeStraw / Facebook

When traveling, you can never be too careful when it comes to drinking water.

Actually trusting tap water in many countries is an easy way to acquire stomach issues. Bottled water is a good alternative but it can be weighty and expensive.

The best solution is to pack a portable water purifier such as LifeStraw , Steripen Ultra or other quality compact water purifiers.

23. Line Your Backpack With A Plastic Bag

It may sound odd, but lining your backpack with a plastic garbage bag may extend the life of your gear. The plastic bag protects your backpack from any spillage or leakage.

For example, exploding pens and bottle caps not tightened often play havoc on the pack. Likewise, the plastic bag can be used for dirty laundry at the end of the trip.

24. Try Beeswax To Waterproof Your Things

https://youtu.be/Cb-FmQGTq0A

Beeswax is a great way to waterproof many of your things such as your backpack, thin jacket, Converse shoes and other items.

Simply purchase a stick of bees wax. Whatever cloth you want to waterproof needs to be laid flat and turned inside out.

Next, rub the material with the piece of beeswax. Look for some a uniform graying to occur. Your material is now water-resistant.

25. Use Tic-Tac Containers And Straws To Transport Spices

Tic Tac

monticello / Shutterstock

When traveling, you don’t have to eat just plain food. You can easily stock your spices and herbs into a tic-tac container or a straw.

For a straw, heat on end with a lighter, fill with spices then repeat process on the other end to seal.

You may also want to bring some tin foil to place on the tip after it is opened. For tic-tac containers, makes sure you wash the mint taste out.

26. Create Your Own Airline TV

Young man using his tablet on a plane

Angyalosi Beata / Shutterstock

The bad thing about airline TV is that their selections may not be the best. Instead of relying of the airlines selection of shows you can create your own TV line-up.

First off, you will need to free up some storage on your device, TV shows and movies take up a lot of space (several hundreds of megabytes per show).

Next, download your favorites via iTunes, Amazon Prime, Netflix, YouTubeRed or other digital stores.

One of the greatest advantages of downloading to your device is that you can watch your favorites even when you are offline.

Also, use your earphone out of respect and courtesy of others.

27. Buy A “Fake” Wallet To Fool Pickpockets

Thief stealing wallet

Jacob Lund / Shutterstock

Get a dummy or fake wallet to fool those that are dishonest. That way, if the wallet is stolen, nothing will be lost.

Also, make sure that you hide your real wallet somewhere clever and close to you.

Good places to hide your wallet are within a security belt, hidden pockets within a coat or a scarf with a hidden pocket.

28. Bring An Extension Cable Or Power Strip

Multiple socket with connected plugs

navee sangvitoon / Shutterstock

If you are planning to stay in hostels, plugins may be minimal. Instead of taking turns to use a plug-in, just bring an extension cable or power strip.

And since there are numerous outlets to share, you will quickly become everyone’s pal.

29. Bulldog Clips Can Protect Your Earphones

A bulldog clip or alligator clip can be used to help extend the life of your earphones.

Basically, use the bulldog clip to wrap the cables for easy storage. As well, the alligator clip can help attach your earphones to a pocket, shirt or backpack.

30. Protect Your Cables With Pen Springs

If your cable connections keep breaking when you travel then try wrapping them in springs from a ballpoint pen.

Remove the spring from the pen. Fit the extended end of the spring to one of the cable ends (the end that meets the plug). Gently wind the spring around the cable.

Fasten the other spring end with pliers so that it does not move up or down. When ready to use the cable, just remove the spring.

31. Hack Into The Best WiFi Available

smartphone with list of WiFi network

Oleksiy Mark / Shutterstock

Being without a good Internet connection while traveling can be rather daunting. Instead of being overwhelmed, locate the First Class Lounge while you are at the airport.

Take a seat and then connect to high speed Internet for free. Likewise, if you are on the boulevard or downtown, mosey on up to a classy restaurant and sign in.

32. Use Google Maps Offline

Girl using google maps

Naritsorn Hirunon / Shutterstock

When exploring an area it is not realistic to stay by an establishment just to get a WiFi connection.

Prior to your journey you can download the lifesaving Google navigation map onto your phone or tablet then view it later without having to rely on a WiFi signal.

In fact, the Google Maps 8 will display distance, travel time, ETA, lane guidance and even public transport.

33. Use ATMs & Cash Machines To Exchange Local Currency

woman using ATM in Prague

franz12 / Shutterstock

Instead of trying to locate the national currency office or a kiosk try using an ATM or cash machine.

An ATM has by far a lot cheaper rates than the currency exchange bureau or any kiosk “conveniently” located near the airport luggage carousel.

In actuality, most money converters have outrageous fees and exchange rates. Actually, your banks fee will so much cheaper than other venues that offer currency exchange.

34. Place Your Rechargeable Batteries In The Fridge

rechargeable batteries

Photo Intrigue / Shutterstock

Placing your batteries in the fridge will keep them fresher and greatly extend the shelf life.

In fact, most rechargeable batteries retain 90% of their full charge if they are kept in cold temperatures . This means that you do not have to charge them as often.

35. Get Numerous Free Things Just For Traveling

happy caucasian woman

Cookie Studio / Shutterstock

Today, there are numerous companies that are searching for people to try out their products, test their employees and provide feedback.

In exchange, you can get a variety of products like free films, movies, drinks and other amazing items.

Moreover, being a market researcher in the country you are traveling requires minimal work and can actually be a lot of fun.

36. Make Real Travel Friends Via Your Phone

2 female travel buddies

While exploring, it is great to meet fellow travelers. However, while visiting unfamiliar territory, it can be intimidating and daunting when meeting new people.

Instead, you can make some wonderful friends out on the road by using various apps online.

Backpackr and Travel Buddies can assist you with finding nearby travelers and checking their itinerary.

37. Bring A Box Of Crayons Instead Of Candles

When traveling, you never know when an emergency will strike such as the electricity going out.

Since candles are bulky and take up too much room, you may want to consider bringing a box of candles instead.

In fact, one crayon will burn up to 30 minutes of bright light.

Place the crayon in a small holder or on a lid. With the point end up, light the paper around the crayon using a lighter. Enjoy!

38. Create An Instant Lantern From A Water Bottle

This useful travel hack will light up the entire room! To create a lantern out of a clean water bottle or a milk jug, simply fill the jug with water.

Put your headlamp strap around the jug pointing the light into the side of the jug.

The light will actually disperse through the water to create the ideal amount of glow for lighting up a room.

39. Create Your Own Mobile Phone Speaker

An easy and Eco friendly way to make your own phone speaker is with a used toilet roll or empty paper cup.

Just cut a slit on the side of the used roll of toilet paper and then insert your phone. You now have an instant speaker.

Even better, place your phone into an empty cup and the speaker will transform faint and distant sounds into a clear vocal language.

40. Use Your Phone To Meet Locals

locals and tourists

Maarten Zeehandelaar / Shutterstock

A fabulous way to get to know a country or to discover the secret getaways is to get to know the locals.

Finding the perfect places to go can also be organized on an app such as Party with a Local .

This app can guide you the local nightlife, favorite local coffee shop, finest restaurants and more.

41. Get Your Own Personal Tour Guide

Group Of Tourist

Ammit Jack / Shutterstock

Good tour guides can be hard to find and very expensive. However, you can try to look for an individual local to be your personal guide.

This is definitely cheaper than attending organised tours.

42. Give Up Your Seat For Upgrades And Free Extras

flight overbooked

Viktor Konya / Shutterstock

Many airlines often get overbooked. As well, they often offer numerous benefits if you give up your seat.

Some of these benefits include nearby accommodation, free food and drink and an upgrade on your next flight at no extra charge.

43. Shadow The Pub Crawl Path

people drinking in pub

Master1305 / Shutterstock

You may want to join the pub crawl path but not pay the high price. Instead, you can research and find the pub crawl route in the chosen city then head on over to the start of the fun.

If you feel uncomfortable following the crowd, you can always take the pub crawl path on your own time. You are sure to meet other fellow travelers along the way.

44. Predict The Sunset Like A Pro

sunset

IMG Stock Studio / Shutterstock

When hiking in international lands, it can be a challenge to figure out when the sun will be going down.

This old survivalist trick is a winner when hiking the great outback.

Basically, each finger represents 15 minutes. To know the time, count the finger-width between the sun and the horizon.

45. Don’t Forget About Selfies

couple taking selfie

DavideAngelini / Shutterstock

When traveling abroad, taking a selfie is not for memories sake but for identity, especially when you start a new SD card on your camera.

The selfie will actually prove that the camera is yours if it ever gets lost or stolen.

46. Learn Annoying Pop Songs

group of friends playing guitar

Solis Images / Shutterstock

If you really want to save money, learn how to play a few annoying pop songs. Most pop songs are just three chords.

With these three chords you can play many songs and impress several people. Maybe you song will get you a few free meals or some beer.

47. Learn To Cook Traditional Dishes From Each Country

Tom Yum Kung

suriya yapin / Shutterstock

Learning to cook traditional dishes from each country you have visited is a wonderful travel hack for making friends.

Purchase some inexpensive local ingredients and then make a regional classic meal. Most likely you will have a nice feast and a few good laughs and beers.

48. Save Up Frequent Flyer Miles

KLM card in wallet

Nada Sertic / Shutterstock

If you travel often, it is definitely worth your while to join a frequent flyer program. It really does not take long to accumulate the points and miles.

In fact, over time the miles really add up and will contribute to upgrades and discounted flights.

49. Forget The Car And Rent A Bicycle

couple walking with bicycle

MRProduction / Shutterstock

The greatest sights are seen when traveling on foot. The second finest option is to take the back roads on a bicycle.

Riding a bicycle will keep you fit plus help you discover the amazing local hangouts and the culture. In truth, many bicycle tours lead you to the roads less traveled.

These places are hidden from the tourist and general spectators. Riding a bicycle is a wonderful opportunity to get to know the locals and their customs.

50. Give Your Spare Change To The Homeless

homeless man with dog

Alisa24 / Shutterstock

For paying homage, show your appreciation to the country you visited by giving your change to the homeless.

You will be setting the stage for future travelers and doing a great deed.

Hope you find these travel hacks helpful! Remember to share these hacks with your friends!

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99 Travel Hacks To Make Your Next Trip A Little Easier

Henah - Headshot

I’ve never cared about brand-name purses or clothing, much less cars or makeup. Instead, I spend whatever leftover money I can on travel. Traveling has exceptional “memory dividends” long after the money’s gone and is the best way to experience all the world has to offer (at least, in my humble opinion).

I’ve now been to 30+ countries and hundreds of cities—from rural northern Thailand to Moorea in French Polynesia to most of the United States—so I’ve picked up quite a few hacks here and there to make traveling the best experience it can be. Below, I’m sharing 99 of my best tips so you can spend less time planning and questioning and more time experiencing and enjoying. Got more? Share them in the comments; we don’t gate-keep here!

Wherever you’re heading—whether by plane, train, or bus—safe travels and happy exploring! 🌍

1. To save time, only pack a carry-on ; no more waiting at baggage claim! 

2. If you decide to check a bag in, throw an Airtag into your suitcase, so you can always track where it is and ensure it’s reached your destination.

3. For the best possible travel deals, be flexible on your destination and dates. I’ve scored deals to multiple European cities for under $200 by leveraging that flexibility.

4. Perhaps the most important tip of all: Always buy travel insurance . Always.

5. Allocate all your spending on a credit card that racks up points which can later be redeemed for travel—my preferred option is Chase Sapphire Reserve or the AmEx Gold.

6. Sign up for credit card bonuses that offer up to 150,000 points once you hit a minimum spending bonus—I like to check Nerdwallet’s top credit card offers (updated monthly) to see the best bonuses.

7. Search for flights leaving at off-peak times (for example, mid-week, red eyes, or with a layover) if you’re trying to save money.

Prioritize early morning flights; they’re the least likely to be delayed or canceled.

8. If convenience is more important than money, prioritize early morning flights; they’re the least likely to be delayed or canceled.

9. Use Google Incognito or a VPN to search for flights. Searching on the same browser and internet connection tells the airline that you’re looking to book and allows them to hike the price up. 

10. Once you find a flight you like—if you’re not ready to book—set up an alert to be notified if the price changes. If it drops, great! If not, you’ll know to book soon or keep an eye on it in case it comes back down.

11. Not sure when to go? Check out apps like Skyscanner or Hopper to find the best prices and times of year to head to your destination.

12. Sign up for loyalty programs with every airline you can; you never know when you’ll need to use them, and you can rack up miles for later use.

13. If you’re used to one specific airline, see if they have an airline-specific credit card for additional bonuses and perks. For example, United Airlines has major hubs in both our hometowns and our current cities so we have the United MileagePlus cards, which offer early boarding, free baggage, and 60,000 points each.

14. Keep an eye out for points sales , like Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals, 30% off transfer premiums, and more. (This is always a good option to keep in mind if you just need a few more points for a mostly-free flight!)

15. Look into mistake fares (deeply discounted fares mistakenly shared by an airline). They can sometimes be canceled or refunded, but many times, airlines will honor them anyway. One time, I was able to travel to Milan, Prague, and Amsterdam for $197 one-way from New York.

16. Subscribe to real-time alerts from The Points Guy , The Flight Deal on Twitter, and more.

17. If you have a few bucks to spare, sign up for flight deals from Going (previously known as Scott’s Cheap Flights). You’ll share your departure airports of choice, and you’ll receive deals right in your inbox.

18. Sign up for TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry to expedite the security process.

19. Once you’re past security but before you get to the gate, check out the Priority Pass, which will give you access to hundreds of lounges around the world. Both Chase and AmEx offer cards with Priority Pass access, and once you get to a lounge, you can stock up on free food, drinks, WiFi, and more.

20. Heading abroad? Use a third-party encrypted program like WhatsApp, Viber, or Signal for international texts and calls—you can avoid extra data and call charges!

Alert your credit and debit card companies about your travel so you don’t get flagged for fraud.

21. If you need access to international calls, buy a SIM card locally—you can usually find kiosks in the airport after arrival, or sometimes your carrier will offer a global SIM card for temporary use.

22. Alert your credit and debit card companies about your travel so you don’t get flagged for fraud.

23. Get a no-fee ATM for international destinations; my favorite is the Charles Schwab.

24. Only ask for ATM withdrawals in the local currency, not your native one.

25. Same for credit card charges; if you’re in Italy, pay with your card in Euros, not USD (for example). Then you’ll avoid fees and often score better conversation rates.

26. Download the airline app before you fly for easy access to your boarding pass, checking in, and seat or meal selection.

27. While you’re at it, you can check out the seat map on most flights to see what’s open and change seats accordingly.

28. You may even find an open seat in First or Business Class—consider politely asking for an upgrade. You never know if they’ll say yes!

29. If your travel plans are flexible, volunteer for a later flight when they’re offering compensation to offset the cost of the airfare.

30. If you decide to volunteer, try and wait to see if they’ll increase the compensation before you agree. Sometimes, you can get thousands of dollars in flight vouchers if you hold out long enough.

31. Buffer in extra time for delays—always.

32. Have a connecting flight? Aim for at least a 90-minute layover in between to avoid missing your flight in case of delays, security issues, etc.

33. Travel during shoulder season (i.e., not quite peak time yet). For example, if June-August is the best time of year to visit Greece, consider going in May or September for lower prices but still preferable conditions.

34. Don’t cut costs over convenience either, though—if you know you suffer from insomnia and back pain, taking a red eye in economy to save $100 may not be worthwhile. Similarly, don’t go for the cheapest hotel without thorough vetting; you don’t want to be stuck three miles from the beach without a bike because you didn’t know how far it was!

35. Check out alternative modes of transport besides the typical plane or car: Trains, bikes, public transportation, buses…the list goes on. These are often cheaper, better for the environment, and more accessible.

Create a default packing list for yourself that you can copy and tailor for each trip.

36. Create a default packing list for yourself that you can copy and tailor for each trip. This way, you’ll know you’ve included all the necessities most important to you, like specific medications, chargers, and toiletries.

37. Wear layers while in transit—it’s easier to pack your luggage, and you can stay warm (or cool) as needed.

38. If you suffer from swollen ankles or potential blood clots when sitting in one place for hours, get a pair of compression socks. There’s a reason many travel pros swear by them!

39. Another must? A reusable water bottle. Perfect for refilling inside the airport after security, carrying with you on tours, and having in case of emergency.

40. Heading to a place without clean, potable water? Don’t forget to bring a water filter or purifier for when you’re on the go.

41. Easily organize your suitcase (and save space!) with packing cubes .

42. If you’re really in need of space, consider vacuum bags to compress all your clothes.

43. If you know you’ll want to shop or bring back many souvenirs, get a secondhand suitcase at your local thrift store for cheap and fill ‘er up.

44. Don’t bring too many valuables. Many women travel pros will wear fake wedding rings to avoid burglaries or attacks.

45. Always tell someone at home what your itinerary is and where you’ll be. Even better if you can tell someone you trust locally in case of an emergency. #safety

46. Turn on location services and sharing, too, for good measure.

Print out extra copies of your passports and travel docs; keep digital copies in your email as well.

47. Print out extra copies of your passports and travel docs; keep digital copies in your email as well. Losing your passport is all too easy! 48. Need to drive worldwide? Don’t forget to pick up an International Driver’s Permit , which are readily available at most AAA locations.

49. Want to save money or avoid excess noise? Stay slightly away from downtown city centers and tourist spots—usually going even two or three blocks away can make all the difference.

50. Another way to cut costs is to consider house-sitting or couch surfing, depending on your level of comfort. 

51. Hostels are another great budget-friendly accommodation option; it’s also a wonderful place to meet like-minded people and organize local tours.

52. Weigh the cost of laundry versus the cost of a checked bag. Sometimes packing light and doing laundry will be far cheaper than paying for an extra suitcase.

53. Pack a capsule wardrobe for easy mix ‘n matching for your daily #lewks.

54. Think about items you may need at a destination that you’ll end up paying a premium for later and see if you can get them beforehand. For example, sunblock at a tropical destination will be far more expensive than getting it in the off-season in the Midwest.

55. Pack an essentials kit in case you need certain toiletries or accessories while in transit—for example, a small bag with spare underwear, ear plugs, eye mask, tampons, and charging wires.

56. Carry a purse or travel bag that you can keep close on your body, closed with zippers rather than buttons or flaps. This will help stop pickpockets!

57. Pack extra snacks. Just trust me on this one! You never know when you may need sustenance and can’t find anything worthwhile.

If you can, take the day off after you get home so you can ease back into everyday life.

58. If you can, take the day off after you get home so you can ease back into everyday life. Then you can finish up any chores or errands like laundry, grocery shopping, and more without worrying about rushing back into the office.

59. In your carry-on backpack or purse, keep an extra set of clothes, a toothbrush, and undies in case your luggage gets lost. (Which is another reason why you always want travel insurance!)

60. If you’re not using data and/or are heading to a remote area, download offline versions of Google Maps and take screenshots of any information you need.

61. If you’re heading to a foreign country and the local language isn’t one you speak, download the Google Translate app. You can then converse with locals, take photos of written text to translate, and more. (This was an invaluable tool when I was stranded in northern Thailand during a downpour once!)

62. Download media a day or two before you leave, so you can access it while traveling—think audiobooks, ebooks, Netflix, etc.

63. Get the best portable charger you can afford if you know you’ll be relying on your phone throughout the trip. You’ll never regret it.

64. Pack a universal adapter so you can use your electronic devices around the globe.

Pack a universal adapter so you can use your electronic devices around the globe.

65. Don’t forget a converter too, if your electronics’ voltage doesn’t match up to the outlets abroad.

66. Getting a rental? Book the reservation on a credit card like Chase or AmEx, which offers auto insurance and collision insurance for rentals.

67. If that’s not an option, it’s well worth getting auto insurance from the rental company. 

68. Take photos of everything important: The condition of your rental when you pick it up/drop it off, receipts if you’re going to be reimbursed or splitting costs, WiFi passwords, and so on.

69. Make sure you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations and shots , which vary by country. (And don’t wait until the last minute to book your appointment!)

70. Read. The. Reviews. Make sure you look for any bots or planted reviews, and keep an eye out for any red flags, whether you’re searching for accommodations, a tour, or restaurants.

71. Similarly, seek out vetted tour groups if you’re traveling alone. A few of my favorites for women include El Camino Travel , Stellavision Travel , and G Adventures .

72. Sometimes DIYing a trip can be helpful, but other times, a good travel agent is the most valuable. They’ll get access to exclusive discounts, tours, or accommodations that you couldn’t leverage otherwise.

73. If you’re considering traveling with a friend or partner, ensure your travel priorities are aligned before leaving. Nothing will be more frustrating than having a companion sleep in when you’re a morning person or dealing with a racket first thing in the morning if you’re a night owl.

74. In the same vein, learn many of your destinations’ cultural nuances and customs—it’s important to be considerate and mindful of the communities you’re visiting.

75. Heading to a faraway destination? Try pairing nearby cities together on this trip so you knock out two at once.

76. Stay hydrated, especially when traveling. We’re already adjusting to new environments, time zones, etc., and hydration is key for our bodies to adapt.

Get sunlight as early as possible when you’re in a new time zone to help reset your circadian rhythm. 

77. Get sunlight as early as possible when you’re in a new time zone to help reset your circadian rhythm. 

78. Napping to adjust a timezone is okay, but try staying awake the whole day and sleeping at night to beat jet lag once and for all.

79. Chew gum while taking off or landing if your ears pop while in flight.

80. Invest in a quality skin mask or moisturizer, lip balm, and lotion during and post-flight when our skin is driest.

81. Luggage scales can be clutch—if your baggage is overweight and you can’t rid yourself of any items, you’ll be on the hook for hefty excess fees.

82. Traveling with kiddos? Bring a “busy bag” to keep them entertained throughout the day, stocked with coloring books, toys, a tablet, snacks, and whatever else your little one prefers.

83. If you’re dealing with long-haul travel, you’ll want a quality neck pillow—this is mine and I’m obsessed.

84. If you can , opt for a backpack over a suitcase or duffel. There’s a good chance transportation carriers won’t bother to weigh your backpack!

Whatever you’re budgeting for your trip, add another 10-20% in case of emergency.

85. Whenever you get samples like shampoo, moisturizers, or sunscreen, throw them in your travel toiletry bag. That way, you don’t need to bring the bulk items or worry about the liquid limit.

86. Throw a lavender satchel or a dryer sheet in your bag to keep things smelling…fresh. 🙂

87. Pack at least two extra large plastic or ziplock bags for shoes, dirty clothes, etc.

88. Opt for a bright-colored suitcase so it’s easy to spot at baggage claim or while in transit.

89. If you’re flying with another person and can book your seats in advance, one of you can take the window and the other can take the aisle. That way, the middle seat will likely be left open for you both to enjoy.

90. Always keep a spare pen on you, especially if you know you’ll have to fill out customs forms or write down directions.

91. Take a picture of your car or write down where it is in your notes app so you don’t forget where you’ve parked, whether at an airport parking lot or a new hotel.

92. Bring extra wipes or a sanitizer spray for when there’s no washroom or when things need some tidying…like your tray table.

93. Whatever you’re budgeting for your trip, add another 10-20% in case of emergency.

94. Check out local walking tours in big cities; they’re often free or pay-what-you-can and are a great way to see the most important sights and get acquainted.

95. Some businesses offer deals if you book with a partner company—for example, United MileagePlus members earn savings if you book a car rental through Avis or Budget.

Travel is one of the most valuable experiences there is in life. Enjoy every moment, be mindful and respectful, and explore as much as you can.

96. Don’t forget to check if you’ll need a visa for specific countries! Or, prioritize countries where you won’t need one for ease of access and to save money.

97. Eat street food (as long as it’s cooked in front of you and looks safe!). It’s often one of the best ways to enjoy a local culture.

98. Make lunch your biggest meal—it’s usually cheaper than dinner while being just as filling.

99. Most importantly, remember: Travel is one of the most valuable experiences there is in life. Enjoy every moment, be mindful and respectful, and explore as much as you can.

Henah Velez   (she/her) is the Senior Editor at  Money with Katie  at  Morning Brew , as well as a writer at The Good Trade. She holds a Master’s in Social Entrepreneurship and is a proud Rutgers grad. Originally from NJ, Henah’s now in the Bay Area where she loves shopping small, hanging with her pets, or traveling. Say hi on  Instagram !

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50 travel hacks that will change the way you travel forever

Travel Travel Inspiration Travel Tips & Hacks 50 Ultimate Travel Hacks

Travelling like a seasoned pro is not an overnight miracle. It comes with definite hardships and the trickiest of situations. Want an easy way out? Simple. To save the day from many likely travel disasters, you will need this list of handy travel hacks. That's right, there exists a bunch of secret tips and tricks that will change the way you travel forever! Whether it be never missing a flight again, or hacks to pack better or saving a few extra bucks, these 50 pro-tips and travel hacks will make the journey less stressful and your vacation a whole lot peaceful.

Below are the tips and hacks you're here for. Read on and thank me later!

#1 Email yourself a scan of your passport

Travel Hacks and tips

Carrying a hardcopy of your passport is important, but forgetfulness or theft and loss can always hit you at the wrong time. By emailing yourself a scan of your passport, you ensure that in case of an unfortunate event, your passport is only a click away. This also goes for any other type of journey confirmations (tickets, etc.), either scan or screenshot the same and save yourself a buttload of trouble in the future.

#2 Roll your clothes for more space

Packing smart does not take too much effort. One of the easiest and most effective travel hacks related to packing is to roll your clothes rather than fold. Not only does this method save you a lot of space, it also keeps your clothes wrinkle-free. Plus, little rolled tubes means you can easily see what you have packed.

#3 Sign up for last-minute deals on Headout

Planned a spontaneous trip and are looking for killer last-minute deals? Sign up on Headout and land great discounts on the top experiences in the city. Remember that great deals don't last too long, and by signing up on Headout you can make sure to grab a few before they disappear.

#4 If you’re jetlagged, run it off

Barcelona Travel Tips - First Timers

Jet lag can be a real killjoy but there is a way to combat its depressing effects - exercise! It is advised to head out for a run or engage in light exercises like yoga or resistance band training to help ward off jet lag. It is also best not to fall asleep after boarding a flight or after reaching the destination.

#5 Make friends on the road using Travel Buddies and Backpackr

Finding real people to connect with on your trips or making new friends won't have to be a worry anymore. There are apps specifically for that. Download Backpackr or Travel Buddies and you won't ever have to experience the anxiety of approaching groups in person. The app instead will hook you up with travellers nearby based on a personality match. You can also check out each other's itineraries and sync up hangouts.

#6 Put your rechargeable batteries in the fridge

Running out of juice on your rechargeable batteries quicker than you thought can be a real bummer. Well, there is a pretty cool travel hack to help keep your batteries fresher and full of charge for longer - just stash them in the fridge! As strange as it may sound, most rechargeable batteries retain 90% of their full charge when kept in cold temperatures.

#7 Follow a pub crawl party for the best nightlife in town

Barcelona Travel Tips - First Timers

To experience the nightlife of any destination you don't need to pay extra bucks and sign up for a pub crawl package. Instead, try this foolproof travel hack and locate the most popular pub crawl routes. Here, you are bound to find several fellow tourists and travellers or even one of the organised groups. You then just have to tag along, for free!

#8 Be strategic with flight cancellations

Booking a nonrefundable ticket can be a gamble but there is a silver lining. In the off chance that you change plans or don't travel on that flight, keep this pro tip in mind - do not cancel the ticket or just don't show up. Do this because in the rare case of the flight's cancellation or schedule change, you could be entitled to a credit or refund. Had you cancelled the ticket, you wouldn’t be entitled to anything.

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17 Golden Hacks To Snagging Cheap Flight Tickets

#9 carry a handy extension cable, especially if you’re staying in hostels.

Your electronic devices are your BFFs throughout your travelling journey and they need to be looked after, which means constant recharges. Therefore, the biggest travel hacks of them all is to make sure you have an extension cable or a power strip for the same, especially if you're living in a hostel where everyone fights for plug time. An extension cable will also make you the star of the room, without doubt!

#10 Download Google Maps offline

Using an actual map today is obsolete but many think Google Maps without an internet connection is just as useless. But you must know that no access to WiFi, patchy network or throwing away money on data shouldn't be a reason to lose your way because you can go off grid and still use Google Maps! Just download Google Maps - go on the map to the area you want to save, type ‘ok map’ into the search option and then press ‘download’ - you can now use it even when on airplane mode.

#11 Google Translate is god sent in a foreign country. Download it.

A language barrier can put a damper on the best of spirits, so if you know the international country you're traveling to uses a foreign language to communicate, do yourself a favour and download Google Translate . It lets you take photos of text in a different language and translate what it means in real time. Just like Google Maps, Google Translate works in airplane mode too.

#12 WiFi access is a right, not a privilege. Steal away!

Barcelona Travel Tips - First Timers

WiFi at this point is everybody's birthright and so you deserve access to it, no matter where you are. Like at the airports, find the first class lounge, sign in to the free WiFi and browse to your heart's content. Similarly, if you're on the streets, backup to a fancy restaurant and log into their WiFi without a thought. Some places may use password protection, in that case, you can find wifi passwords on FourSquare for restaurants, cafes and other places.

#13 Purchase skip-the-line tickets beforehand to avoid spending your holiday in queues

Waiting in long lines is a real bummer and you don't want to be that tourist that spends more time queuing than exploring. This can be totally avoided by pre-purchasing skip-the-line-tickets for tours and other activities. Headout has a great selection of skip-the-line tickets and tours in 50+ cities across the world.

#14 Add-ons are cheaper when purchased while booking the flight

A great way to save more than just a few bucks would be to figure out the add-ons you may require - like extra luggage, priority boarding, airport lounges, seat reservation or travel insurance - and customise your package to suit your needs and comfort while booking your flight tickets and not after. Adding add-ons later only means a higher, easily avoidable cost.

#15 Don’t EVER exchange money for local currency at the airport

When ATMs and cash machines exist, you don't have to ever exchange money at the airport or the local currency exchange. Not only do these money converters charge a fee of their own, they also rip-off exchange rates, usually amounts that are highly inflated, worse than your regular bank.

#16 Opt for long layovers to explore a city

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Picking a flight with long layovers simply means buying youry more time to explore another city. Best to take advantage of this, most even choose flights with 12+ hour layovers to enjoy a whole day in a new city.

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#17 invest in a good travel wallet.

A good wallet is a lifesaver when travelling. It helps keep you organised - for once you will find all your bills, receipts, boarding passes, passport photocopies and foreign currency in one place. Investing in a good wallet doesn't necessarily mean expensive, there are several budget options of chic travel wallets that come with additional compartments for travel-related items.

#18 Mark your bag fragile (even if nothing’s fragile in there)

By doing this you ensure that your belongings are given the VIP treatment and you won't have to wait for long to collect your luggage - anything marked fragile gets to the top of the pile in storage and sent out in the first batch! To process this, just request for a ‘fragile’ sticker at the counter without paying a penny more.

#19 Shoulder season travel > everything else

Timing is everything when planning a trip and one sure shot way of saving money is to travel during 'shoulder season' aka the period between high and low travel season. The weather is still great but the destination is less crowded this time, plus hotels offer better rates too. In many destinations the shoulder seasons are September-November and March-May. Absolutely avoid picking peak periods like school breaks and holidays.

#20 Make a frequent flyer account on every airline you travel with

This is the wisest thing to do if not you will miss out on valuable miles that could potentially be put toward your next trip, thereby saving you money! Also, always keep your boarding pass until you see that your miles have been posted on your frequent flier account.

#21 Private rooms at hostels are a steal deal

Travel hacks and tips

#22 Toggle to a different “home” country when searching for flights to get cheaper rates

One of the more smart travel hacks, whenever looking to fly a specific airline, pick a country that offers a good foreign exchange rate as compared to other countries. This way you can view and purchase your tickets in another currency, and save big bucks! This is an extra, potentially time-consuming step but for what it's worth, you must give it a go.

#23 Invest in travel insurance

Most people do not purchase travel insurance because their credit card perks cover most of it, but it's always wiser to have insurance than not. This is even more important if you're travelling with valuables or changing your plans on-the-go most days.

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#24 use a shower cap to protect your toiletries from exploding during flights.

Yes, shower caps have more than one use. They will keep the toiletry liquids from exploding and spilling all over your bag on the flight back home. Make sure to wrap the bottles well. In case of no shower cap, you can also use the plastic liner that comes in an ice bucket.

#25 Seek itinerary inspiration through social media

Travel hacks and tips

#26 Book overnight flights and buses to save on lodging

The best way to kill two birds with one stone - you get to sleep for free and stay on the move to your destination while sleeping! Essentially booking an overnight flight or bus is a night of free lodging. Make sure to make yourself comfortable with a cosy sweatshirt, good earplugs and an eye mask.

#27 Earn money in exchange for trip research/beta tests

Don't expect big money, but you can earn a little bit of pocket money by taking travel surveys online and testing new products and keeping all the freebies (free meals, films, drinks and more). Make sure to find legit websites that will pay. This travel hack of signing up to be a market researcher hardly takes a lot of time and effort, plus it helps you make a few bucks on the go.

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#28 make sure to have a card that gives you airport lounge access.

By signing up for at least one travel credit card that includes a 'priority pass' or 'lounge access' you can cut your airport bill in half. The free food and drinks save you so much money and bad food! Additionally, you make your wait more enjoyable and get to relax in an airport lounge.

#29 Tweet your travel troubles. It gets solved quicker

Travel hacks and tips

#30 Visit destinations that don’t have a large tourism board. They tend to be cheaper

Locations that do not have a promotional budget or large tourism board tend to be cheaper and as a result less crowded. This means as a traveller you get to explore so much more without going broke. You also get to gloat about going to a lesser known country!

#31 Call the hotel for a better rate and do away with online taxes

Do not waste time browsing a million sites or call multiple reservation numbers. Just call the hotel directly instead, not only will they offer you a better rate devoid of online taxes, they also hold the power to an upgrade! If you're a regular traveller, it’s best to keep cordial relationships with the hotel staff and increase your perks.

#32 Pack a universal adapter that works across nations

If you do not want to end up at a spot with plug points that aren't compatible with your electronic devices, invest in a good universal adapter or plug converter with USB ports that works in all countries.

#33 Inform your credit card company before traveling abroad, so they don’t lock down your account due to suspicious activity

Together with informing your friends, family and employers about your trip, get on a call with your credit card company too. It is important to notify them about when you are leaving, where you are going, and when you plan on arriving home. This ensures they don't freeze your cards while you are traveling due to suspicious activity.

#34 Avoid the city center for staying. It’s always expensive

Travelling is already an expensive affair and where you stay determines where most of your money is spent. Picking prime locations like hotels in the city center is always expensive. It is best to find smaller hotels around or close to the city center, these are comparatively cheaper and not too further away from the hub either. This is also the wise thing to do if you won't be staying in one place for too long.

#35 Opt for hotels with free meals

This travel hack is a no-brainer. It helps save you loads of money. Complimentary breakfast is a common hotel perk, but always call ahead to check so you at least have one meal covered. Some hotels do offer free meals for more than just one meal, so dig deeper!

#36 To keep the money coming while you travel, go on a workation

Workation is the newest way of travelling, especially after spending forever working from home during the pandemic. Portable working or workation allows you to enjoy a whole new destination while you work and make yourself money! This way you get an opportunity to experience travel in a way most others won’t and you won’t have to worry about spending your savings.

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#37 grab a city travel card for the best bundled deals.

Travel hacks and tips

#38 Buy a transport pass (tube, train, metro, bus) and use unlimited public transport to get around the city

This travel hack allows you to travel seamlessly across all modes of transport (tube, train, metro, bus) using the same ticket/pass. A travel pass also means you won't have to wait in long lines to buy a ticket. Sightseeing on a local transport has a different charm, especially when it comes cheap!

#39 Read up about the free museum and tourist-attraction days

It's always best to look up if the destination you are visiting has free museums to visit, this will give you something to look forward to without having to spend a time. Also read up on tourist attraction days and best times to visit, this way you can steer clear of crowds and enjoy a peaceful day exploring.

#40 Try getting yourself open jaw flight tickets

One travel hack that nobody wants to let you in on is the open-jaw tickets frenzy. Open-jaw tickets are flexible and in most cases an inexpensive way of flying. They are priced as round-trip fares, and almost always less expensive than purchasing two one-way flights between the destinations visited. Basically, you book with one airline, into a city and out of another. This hack also allows you to travel in between two amazing cities and still get home/to the main destination!

#41 The right credit card makes or breaks your holiday budget. Choose it wisely

Travel hacks and tips

#42 Dinner during happy hours = drinks + cheaper food

Dinners on vacation can set you back a few hundreds of dollars. Thank god for happy hours though! You can take advantage of all the specials on the happy hour menus (most at half the price) plus enjoy drinks. Make sure you head to dinner early and land a win-win, all around including a discounted cheque!

#43 Anti-theft purse/backpack is a clever investment

Whoever decided that money belts are the best to carry cash as a tourist was wrong. It makes you stick out like a sore thumb and susceptible to attack and robbery. Your best bet is to use an anti-theft purse or backpack. These look like normal bags and help you blend with the crowd, thereby keeping you safe from pickpockets. These anti-theft purses not only look cute but also has cool features like like waterproof lining and RFID blocking material protects that IDs and credit cards from hacker scanning

#44 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival countries are a good bet for quick getaways

Visa processes (never-ending paperwork and long queues) are time and most importantly, money consuming. This is where countries that offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel snoop in as saviours. There are over 50 countries that offer visa-on-arrival and so many that don't even need a travel visa. Now you can always make impromptu plans and quick getaways whenever the travel bug bites.

#45 Sustainable travel is the way to go (if you still want to travel 10 years down the line)

The world is moving towards sustainable practices in all spheres and travel is joining the bandwagon because if not, you may never get to travel a few years down the line. Sustainable travel takes into account current and future environmental, social and economic impact and imbibes practices that help reduce carbon footprint. So things like bike or walking tours, sailing instead of riding an engine boat, carsharing, public transport or indulging in activities that combine the travel experience and environmental benefits like beach clean-ups.

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#46 reserve the aisle and window seats.

Nothing eases a flight journey like strategically reserving a seat based on your preference. If you are one to use the restroom a lot, reserve the aisle seats for easy access. Aisle seats also offer extra legroom (exit row seats room) and are the first to exit. Similarly, if a view and a fuselage to sleep against is what makes it for you, reserve the window seats. Be strategic in your seat selection when booking a flight.

#47 Book with websites that offer cashbacks

If, like us all, money-saving on international trips comes first, make sure to book on websites like Headout, Book It or Make My Trip to find all-inclusive bundles to destinations all over the world or to land exclusive cashbacks. There are quite a few websites like this, make sure to check the one best suited to you before booking anything because you never know what deals you’ll find!

#48 Sign up for airline mailing lists to learn of flight deals

Even before you plan your next trip or start looking for flights make sure you've signed up for a few newsletters. Airlines mailing lists give you access to the absolute best deals when you need it most. Always keep tabs on your email and check these newsletters right away so you don't miss an opportunity. Additionally, airline mailing lists usually offer frequent flier bonuses. If you’re a travel hacker, those points and miles can add up to free flights and awesome upgrades.

#49 Pay the extra amount for refundable bookings

Cancellations can hit at any moment, so to take the pain out of cancelling any ticket, especially a high-priced one, is to pay the extra amount for a refund when first booking. This way all is not lost and you will be able to save your money in case of flight cancellations after 24-hours of booking.

#50 Hide cash in empty lip balm tubes

When travelling, a simple and easy way to hide a stash of emergency cash is in empty lip balm tubes. It's weather-resistant and nondescript, so nobody will know or try to steal it. All you need to do is just roll your cash so that it could fit inside the narrow container.

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Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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20+ Traveling Hacks to Save Money, Time & Space for a Happy Travel

Travelling Hacks You Need for Your Next Trip

I had a period in my life when I was completely fascinated by travel hacks.

Putting your shoes in a shower cap and packing them? Oh, yes. How can you keep your valuable jewellery from becoming caught in straws? Infant, talk to me.

On a ridiculously vain level, I believe it’s because knowing the finest travel hacks makes me look like an invincible smartass… especially if I’m the type of person who travels for no reason and enjoys wreaking havoc on the most mundane jobs.

That said, after three years of continuous travel, I’ve accumulated a fair number of travel life hacks, some of which are a little weird but which I promise work.

This isn’t your typical list of hacks— there’s no other method. Particularly, some are strange, but shhh, just accept it.

My Favourite Travelling Hacks

This is one of my favourite brand-new travelling hacks, it’s a lifesaver.

If you have enough space on your phone, you can easily download and install Google Maps to surf offline on your phone, even if you don’t have access to the Internet.

All you have to do is drag the map to the spot you want to save, then type “okay map” into the search box and also press Download and install and set up.

Ebates is a free cashback website that allows you to earn money back on the majority of your online purchases (virtually like a partial flash repayment).

The following is a breakdown of how it works: Ebates has worked with a variety of reputable online retailers, including Expedia, Agoda, and others.

When you use Ebates to go to these merchant websites and buy something, Ebates earns a commission, which they share with you as a payback (moved directly into your Paypal).

To put it another way, you’re getting money back for buying, which translates into quick discounts on your vacation reservations.

travelling hacks

Travelling Hacks Before You Leave

Following are some options you should consider for a better travelling experience.

These travelling hacks will help you a lot if you have any inconvenience like losing your passport, suffering an accident or any other adverse circumstance.

Check Accommodation Options

Instead of staying in a hotel, consider renting a home if you’re traveling with a family or a solitary spot if you’re travelling alone.

Sites like Airbnb can provide houses as well as private areas from house owners who are renting them out, usually at a lower cost than hotels.

Visit places where there isn’t a large tourism board. They are usually less expensive.

Locations without a large tourism board or a promotional budget are typically less expensive and, as a result, less populated.

As a result, as a traveller, you will be able to see a lot more without going broke. You can also brag about visiting a lesser-known country!

To save space, roll your garments.

Packing efficiently does not necessitate a lot of work. Rolling your clothes rather than folding them is one of the simplest and most practical travel hacks.

This strategy not only saves you space but also maintains your garments wrinkle-free. Plus, the little rolled tubes make it easy to see what you’ve packed.

Email yourself a scan of your passport

Examine your passport and identification card, then make a strategy to email them to yourself.

This ensures that each item has a backup copy in the event of theft or loss.

When I email documents to myself on my iPhone, I usually open the e-mail on my iPhone and save them to iBooks.

This provides me with a backup record.

Before flying abroad, notify your credit card company.

It’s critical to remember to call your credit card or debit card company before you depart to ensure that your card is authorized for your foreign destination.

As a result, they are less likely to believe a questionable task.

Mark your belongings as fragile.

This is a concept I learned about a while back from a friend who found it to be a fantastic technique to ensure that your luggage is properly managed.

As a result, your luggage is kept at the top of the heap, making it one of the first to be released.

If you’re staying at a hostel, bring an extension cable with you.

Throughout your voyage, your electronic devices will be your best friends, and they will need to be cared for, which includes frequent recharges.

As a result, one of the most important travel hacks is to make sure you have an extension cable or a power strip on hand, especially if you’re staying in a hostel where everyone is competing for plug time.

Without a doubt, an extension cable will make you the centre of attention!

Use social media to get ideas for your itinerary.

With the help of Instagram, you may create a magnificent itinerary.

Start searching popular hashtags and geotags to see where people took beautiful photos and bookmark those locations.

To find more hidden treasures, Google ‘Best Instagram spots in XYZ city or ‘The most Instagrammable places in XYZ.’

Download Google Translate

In a foreign country, Google Translate is a godsend. It is available for download.

If you know the international country you’ll be visiting employs a foreign language for communication, do yourself a favour and download Google Translate.

It allows you to capture images of text in another language and have it translated in real-time. Google Translate, like Google Maps, operates in airplane mode.

Purchase skip-the-line tickets

To avoid spending your vacation waiting in lines, purchase skip-the-line tickets ahead of time.

Long lines are inconvenient, and you don’t want to be the visitor that spends more time queuing than exploring.

By obtaining skip-the-line tickets for tours and other events in advance, this can be completely avoided.

Headout offers a wide range of skip-the-line ticketing excursions in more than 50 locations around the world.

Avoid City Centre Accommodation

If you’re looking for a place to stay, stay away from the city centre. It is always costly.

Travelling is already costly, and where you stay dictates where you spend the majority of your money.

Choosing ideal locations, such as hotels in the city centre, is always costly.

Smaller hotels near or in the city centre are the best bet because they are less expensive and not too far from the hub.

Choose hotels that provide complimentary meals.

This is a no-brainer travel tip . It can help you save a lot of money.

Complimentary breakfast is a frequent hotel bonus, so call ahead to double-check so you’re covered for at least one meal.

Some hotels will provide free meals for more than one meal, so look into it!

Get a City Travel Card

For the best-combined deals, get a city travel card.

Travel cards are like gold mines.

They provide you unrestricted access to local transportation and savings on everything from train tickets to museum admissions and more.

Some companies even provide optional add-ons like sightseeing buses and airport transfers.

Get Transport Passes

Purchase a transport pass (tube, train, metro, bus) to have unrestricted access to public transportation in the city.

Using the same ticket/pass, you can travel easily across all means of transportation (tube, train, metro, bus).

You won’t have to stand in huge queues to buy a ticket if you have a travel pass.

Sightseeing by local transportation has a unique appeal, especially when it is inexpensive!

Get information on the free museum and tourist attraction days.

It’s usually a good idea to check if the destination you’re visiting has any free museums; this will give you something to look forward to without having to pay any money.

Also, research tourist attraction days and optimum times to visit so you can avoid crowds and have a relaxing day exploring.

Consider purchasing open-jaw airline tickets.

The open-jaw ticket mania is a travel hack that no one wants to tell you about.

Open-jaw tickets are adaptable and, in most situations, cost-effective.

They are usually less expensive than purchasing two one-way flights between the destinations visited because they are billed at round-trip rates.

Basically, you book a flight into one place and out of another using one airline.

This travelling hack also allows you to travel between two incredible cities while still getting home/to your primary destination!

The Right Credit Card

When choosing a credit card for travel, look for one with a lot of benefits.

We’re talking about a credit card with a sign-up bonus, bonus points and miles for free travel, access to a lounge, or discounted ticket costs.

The ideal travel credit card also includes rental car insurance and bonuses that cover travel insurance!

If you travel frequently, seek credit cards that don’t charge international transaction fees so you don’t have to pay an extra cost every time you make a purchase outside of the United States.

Cashback websites are the best places to book.

If you, like us, prioritize saving money on international travel, use websites like Headout,

Book It, or Make My Trip to locate all-inclusive packages to places across the world or to earn unique cashback.

There are other websites like this; make sure to check the one that is best for you before making any reservations because you never know what deals you’ll find!

A purse or backpack with anti-theft features is a wise purchase.

Money belts aren’t the best way to carry cash as a tourist, according to whoever made that decision.

It makes you stand out like a sore thumb, making you vulnerable to robbery and attack.

Using an anti-theft purse or backpack is your best bet.

These bags appear to be ordinary bags, allowing you to blend in with the throng and avoid pickpockets.

These anti-theft handbags are not only adorable, but they also have useful features like waterproof lining and RFID blocking material, which protect IDs and credit cards from hacker scanning.

Seats in the aisle and near the window should be reserved.

There’s nothing like deliberately reserving a seat based on your preferences to make a flight journey go more smoothly.

If you need the restroom frequently, choose aisle seats for convenient access.

Aisle seats have more legroom (than exit row seats) and are the first to disembark. When booking a flight, choose your seat carefully.

For quick travels, visa-free or visa-on-arrival countries are an excellent bet.

Visa procedures (endless paperwork and long lines) take time and, more significantly, money.

Countries that offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel swoop in as saviours in this situation.

Over 50 countries offer visa-on-arrival, while many more do not require a travel visa at all.

When the travel bug strikes, you may now arrange last-minute plans and quick escapes.

To learn about flight deals, sign up for airline mailing lists.

Make sure you’ve signed up for a few emails before you start planning your next trip or looking for flights.

Airlines’ mailing lists provide you with early access to the best prices when you need them the most.

Keep an eye on your inbox and check these newsletters as soon as possible so you don’t miss out. In addition, frequent flier bonuses are frequently offered on airline mailing lists.

Those points and miles can add up to free flights and great upgrades if you’re a travel hacker.

When ordered at the same time as the flight, add-ons are less expensive.

Finding out what extras you might need, such as extra luggage, priority boarding, airport lounges, seat reservations, or travel insurance, and customizing your package to suit your needs and comfort while booking your flight tickets, rather than after, is a great way to save more than just a few dollars.

Adding on extras later will simply result in a larger, avoidable cost.

Pay the additional fee for refundable reservations.

Cancellations can happen at any time, so pay the extra amount for a refund when booking to avoid the anguish of cancelling any ticket, especially a high-priced one.

All will not be lost, and you will be able to save money in the event of a flight cancellation within 24 hours of booking.

When it comes to flight cancellations, be strategic.

Booking a nonrefundable ticket is a risk, but there is a bright side.

Keep this pro advice in mind if you change your plans or don’t go on that particular flight: don’t cancel the ticket or simply show up there.

Do this because you may be eligible for a credit or refund if the flight is cancelled or the itinerary is changed in the unlikely event that it is cancelled or changed.

You would not be entitled to anything if you had cancelled the ticket.

Purchase a nice travel wallet.

When travelling, a good wallet can be a lifesaver. It keeps you organized because all of your bills, receipts, airline passes, passport photocopies, and foreign currency are all in one spot.

Investing in a decent wallet doesn’t have to be costly; there are various affordable options for fashionable travel wallets with extra pockets for travel-related stuff.

Shoulder season travel takes precedence over everything else.

When it comes to arranging a trip, timing is crucial, and one sure-fire approach to save money is to travel during shoulder season,’ or the time between peak and low travel seasons.

The weather is still pleasant, but the location is less popular this time of year, and accommodation costs are also lower.

September-November and March-May are the shoulder seasons in several destinations.

Picking busy seasons like school breaks and holidays is a no-no.

Purchase travel insurance.

Most individuals don’t buy travel insurance because their credit card benefits cover the majority of their expenses, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

This is especially critical if you’re carrying valuables or altering your plans on a daily basis.

Find more about travel insurance

To save money on lodging, book overnight flights and buses.

The finest way to kill two birds with one stone: you receive a free night’s sleep while still being on your way to your destination!

Booking an overnight flight or bus is effectively a free night’s stay.

Make yourself as comfortable as possible by wearing a warm sweatshirt, decent earplugs, and an eye mask.

Make sure you have a card that grants you access to airport lounges.

You may decrease your airport charge in half by signing up for at least one travel credit card that offers a ‘priority pass’ or ‘lounge access.’

The free food and drinks save you a lot of money and help you avoid eating poor cuisine!

Travel Vacation Travelling - Free photo on Pixabay

Travel Hacks For the Departure

The following travelling hacks are related to the departure.

Never underestimate the value of a fanny pack

Never undervalue the importance of a fanny pack.

Yes, they can be cumbersome and appear to be from the mid-to-late 1980s, but you can count on me: every time I travel, both domestically and internationally, it ensures that my belongings are safe and expedites safety and security inspections.

Splurge on Web service

If your flight is longer than six and a half hours, spend the extra money on Web service.

You’ll thank me later when you realize that an interesting conversation with your seatmate is more difficult than pulling teeth.

You can also finish the job one more time before heading to your destination.

Don´t Leave without a Pen

Before leaving the house, make sure you have a pen so you can fill out personalized papers.

Fill out the forms as soon as you receive them, and make sure that your family members do the same.

People will be clamouring for your pen, which flight attendants rarely have.

Cash can be hidden in empty lip balm containers.

Empty lip balm tubes are a cheap and easy way to conceal a cache of emergency cash when travelling.

It’s weatherproof and unremarkable, so no one will notice it or try to take it.

All you have to do is roll your money such that it fits inside the small container.

Prior to Arrival, Visit Washroom

Sprint to the restroom 20 minutes before landing.

When the seatbelt signal turns on, I’ve discovered that you still have 15 minutes of flexibility before you have to be seated.

Use this opportunity to get rid of yourself so you don’t have to struggle for restrooms when you arrive.

Airplane seating | Passengers boarding an airplane from insi… | Flickr

Travel Hacks When You Arrive

This is important to save money and time when you travel.

Here are some travelling hacks when you arrive to your destination.

At the airport, NEVER exchange money for local currency.

You don’t need to exchange money at the airport or at the local currency exchange when ATMs and cash machines are available.

These money converters not only demand a fee, but they also rip off exchange rates, which are frequently significantly inflated, making them worse than your ordinary bank.

Make a beeline for the luggage case.

The number of people who appear to lollygag after a touchdown is astounding.

Save that for somewhere else to save yourself time and avoid any arguments with your trip buddies.

Get cash from ATMs in your vicinity.

Using money converters at the airport frequently comes with its own set of fees, and the exchange rates are a rip-off.

Of course, ATM machines constantly dispense local currency, so use your debit or bank card to get your cash there.

Make sure you’ve downloaded and installed Yelp for residential travel in the United States.

This is a wonderful city overview for both visitors and residents, and it is an excellent way to discover the most amazing places to eat and explore.

When you arrive, look for grocery stores.

You don’t have to buy a banquet, but buying necessities like water and a few snacks in the neighbourhood rather than at the hotel might save you a lot of money.

Remove only the essentials from your luggage once you’ve arrived at your room.

Attempting to make yourself at home by gathering every pair of shoes and all of your amenities will only make repacking a nightmare, and it will increase your chances of forgetting something when it’s time to leave.

traveling hacks

Travelling Hacks on Destination

When you get to your destination, these are excellent travelling hacks for you to count on.

Make friends on the road using Travel Buddies and Backpackr

Making new acquaintances or connecting with genuine people on your excursions will no longer be a problem.

There are apps dedicated to this purpose.

If you use Backpackr or Travel Buddies, you’ll never have to worry about contacting groups in person. Instead, the app will pair you up with travellers in your area based on a personality match.

You may also see each other’s schedules and schedule hangouts.

Keep your rechargeable batteries cool.

It can be a great pain to run out of energy on your rechargeable batteries sooner than expected.

Well, there is a clever travel hack for keeping your batteries fresh and fully charged for longer: put them in the fridge!

When kept in freezing conditions, most rechargeable batteries keep 90% of their full charge, which may seem weird.

For the greatest nightlife in town, join a pub crawl party.

You don’t need to spend extra money on a pub crawl tour to enjoy the nightlife of any destination.

Rather, use this guaranteed travel tip to find the most popular pub crawl itineraries.

You’re sure to run into a few other visitors and travelers, or maybe one of the organized groups, here.

Then all you have to do is tag along for free!

Take advantage of long layovers to get a feel for a location.

Choosing a flight with a long layover just means you’ll have more time to see another city.

Most people take advantage of this by booking flights with 12+ hour layovers, allowing them to spend a whole day in a different city.

Access to WiFi is a right, not a privilege. Take what you want!

WiFi is now considered a human right, and you are entitled to it regardless of where you are.

Find the first-class lounge, sign in to the free WiFi, and browse to your heart’s pleasure, just like at the airport.

Similarly, if you’re out on the streets, find a nice restaurant and use their WiFi without thinking.

Some establishments may require a password; in this instance, you can get wifi passwords for restaurants, cafes, and other establishments on FourSquare.

Dinner during happy hour means more beverages and less expensive meals.

Dinners on vacation might go into the thousands of dollars. But thank God for wonderful hours!

You may take advantage of all of the happy hour offers (most of which are half-price), as well as consume drinks.

Make sure you get there early for supper and you’ll have a win-win situation all around, including a cheap check!

When looking for flights, switch to a different “home” nation to receive better deals.

When searching to fly a specific airline, one of the more clever travel hacks is to choose a country with a favourable foreign currency rate compared to other countries.

This way, you can browse and buy your tickets in a different currency and save a lot of money!

This is an optional, somewhat time-consuming step, but you should try it for what it’s worth.

Travelling Hacks for Returning Home

These are some travelling hacks to keep in mind when coming back home.

Keep your Bag Packed

If you’re a frequent traveller, stick to your toiletry bag and keep it packed.

This will make the packing process a little easier and will save you from having to buy expensive toiletries if you forget something.

Sharing Photos

2. When sharing photos from a trip, use IFTTT to make the process go smoothly and quickly.

“Dishes” like sharing quickly to Dropbox or Evernote will ensure that you have a copy of your priceless images at all times.

Unpack the Box

As soon as you walk in the door, unpack the box. You may feel exhausted, but you’ll be glad you did it first thing in the morning.

In addition, it prevents your luggage from smelling like soiled laundry.

Bonus: 9 Travel Hacks When You’re Bougie On A Budget

Is your wanderlust bigger than your budget? Here are nine luxury travelling hacks to help you live your best life!

1.   Plan Around Off-Peak Travel Times

If you're trying to jet set over a major holiday or during certain months, I have bad news...so is everyone else. Prices surge when demand is at its highest, which means that white sand vacay is going to cost you a pretty penny.

Getty Images / Via  gettyimages.com

If you ‘re trying to moneyed class over a significant holiday or throughout particular months, I have negative information … so is everybody else.

Costs rise when demand is at its highest, which suggests that white sand vacay is mosting likely to cost you a pretty penny.

2.   Take Advantage of Travel Bonuses

Credit cards that let you rack up points to redeem towards free travel are the bomb.com if you can swing it. Just remember, use them responsibly. If you go into debt trying to save on your next vacation, it defeats the purpose.

Credit Suite / Via  creditsuite.com

Credit history cards that let you acquire points to redeem in the direction of free traveling are the bomb.com if you can swing it.

Simply keep in mind, use them sensibly. If you go right into financial obligation attempting to minimize your next holiday, it beats the objective.

3.   Fly on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday

Why put yourself through the stress of an overcrowded airport when you can save money by flying during the week?

Why put on your own via the stress of a jammed flight terminal when you can conserve money by flying throughout the week?

4.   Mix and Match Airlines

When you're booking a round-trip flight, you can spare your wallet by flying with different airlines - possibly even different airports.

When you ‘re booking a round-trip trip, you can save your pocketbook by flying with various airlines – potentially also various airport terminals.

5. Traveling hacks – Book in Advance

Flights and hotels tend to get much pricier the closer you get to your trip, so book in advance to avoid over-paying.

Flights and hotels tend to get much pricier the closer you get to your trip, so book in advance to avoid over-paying.

6.   Be Flexible

Websites like CheapOAir allow you to see how much flights cost on different days up to six months out. Give yourself enough lead time to score the best deal.

Web sites like CheapOAir permit you to see just how much flights price on different days up to six months out.

Offer on your own sufficient lead time to score the very best deal.

7.   Consider All-Inclusive

Unlimited food and drinks? You don't have to ask me twice! Take a little time to cost out whether or not bundling your flight, hotel, car, food, etc. would end up saving you money. I've been able to live it up several times because all-inclusive was actually the cheapest option.

Gadling / Via  gadling.com

Unlimited food and drinks? You don’t have to ask me twice!

Take a little time to cost out whether or not bundling your flight, hotel, car, food, etc. would end up saving you money. I’ve been able to live it up several times because all-inclusive was actually the cheapest option.

8.   Call the Hotel Directly

Often hotels will run exclusive discounts or rates, so it's worth it to call before booking to make sure you're not missing out.

Often hotels will run exclusive discounts or rates, so it’s worth it to call before booking to make sure you’re not missing out.

9.   Make Money Moves

If you've got a blog or decent social media following, reach out to a hotel's marketing team to request the media rate in exchange for some press. Live your best boss life, honey!

If you’ve got a blog or decent social media following, reach out to a hotel’s marketing team to request the media rate in exchange for some press. Live your best boss life, honey!

Video: Travelling Hacks

The travelling hacks listed above helped me during my active travel year this year, and I’m sure they’ll do the same for you.

Let us know which travel trick was your favourite in the comments section below.

Also, do let us know if there are any other travel hacks that have worked for you that we haven’t covered yet.

Travelling Hacks FAQ

What are the easy travel hacks.

Insanely Easy Travel Hacks for Your Next Trip Memorize One Credit Card Number. Send a Photo of Your Passport to Yourself Via Email. Use Google's OK Maps Offline Mapping Option. Fill Any Spaces in Your Luggage with Stuff. Pick a Travel Jacket with Lots of Zip-Shut Pockets. Wear a Plastic Belt. Pack an Empty Water Bottle in Your Carry-On.

How do you pack a suitcase in life hacks?

Packing Hacks That Will Change Your Life Roll, don't fold clothes. ... Stack your bras. ... Cover your footwear with shoe bags or shower caps. ... Pack two tops for every bottom. ... Pack your clothes inside out. ... Pack the heaviest items closest to the wheels. ... Stick dryer sheets in your suitcase. ... Put your toiletries in a transparent bag.

How can I travel cheap?

Is it better to roll or fold clothes in a suitcase? Folding clothes is the quickest way to pack and is preferred over rolling for items that easily wrinkle such as a cotton button-down shirt or linen. Fold items along their existing creases. For example, follow the creases of jeans or pants.

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23 Digital Nomad Travel Hacks to Save Time and Money

digital nomad travel hacks

Last Updated on 4 March 2024 by Brittany

If there’s one thing digital nomads are always on the lookout for, it’s travel hacks. Living a life of full-time travel and working remotely from your computer requires you to be savvy with money, time management , and research skills. 

You work hard for the money you earn with your digital nomad job. You don’t want it to go to waste overpaying for travel expenses. When you follow these digital nomad travel hacks, you could actually save money on your overall lifestyle compared to if you were location-dependent, especially while living in a cheap destination .

You’ve probably heard of travel hacks for vacationers and backpackers, so how are digital nomad travel hacks any different? Well, since you’re living a lifestyle and not just spending a week or two traveling, there are certain habits to adopt that will save you money as you live and travel abroad.

In this article, I’m sharing some of my favorite digital nomad travel hacks that won’t only save you money, but also your valuable time. Plus, you’ll learn essential hacks for staying safe while traveling and experiencing your destination to the fullest.

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Saving Money Overall

Before we get into the really specific digital nomad travel hacks, I want to go over the major tricks to save money on your overall lifestyle. 

Let’s face it, the most expensive parts of the digital nomad lifestyle are dining out, booking flights, and accommodations. The rest is pretty affordable, depending on your destination of course. 

Below are three travel hacks that can save you a ton of money and even get you free travel perks and experiences. 

Sign Up for a Travel Credit Card

Did you know you can earn free flights and hotel stays just by spending money on everyday items? With a travel credit card, you can! 

With every dollar you spend, you can earn points to redeem for travel expenses and purchases. Plus, travel credit cards also usually come with no foreign transaction fees, which can save you on average 3% when using your card abroad, and other travel perks like insurance. 

Without changing your spending habits or anything, you can earn enough points to get a free flight, free hotel stays, or a free car rental. All you have to do is put your purchases on your travel credit card, pay it off, and earn the points. It doesn’t get easier than that! 

We recently wrote a blog about the best travel credit cards with no annual fee , which essentially means you’re earning free flights and more free of charge! So, if you’re in the market for a travel credit card, be sure to give it a look. 

Use an International or Local SIM Card

If you’ve ever traveled abroad and bought an international plan from your home mobile provider, you probably paid an arm and a leg just to have a few gigs of spotty data while overseas. 

This isn’t feasible as a digital nomad who spends months, even years, traveling abroad. To save on plans that can cost $10 a day, consider getting an international SIM card or a local SIM card. 

This is the absolute cheapest option to have cell phone service while traveling. In most countries, you can go to a mobile provider and get an affordable data plan without signing any hefty contracts like in the United States. 

Or you can use an international SIM card like DrimSIM . This pay-as-you-go SIM card works in 190 countries and you can opt for an eSIM, which is a virtual card connected to your phone. 

Become a Pro at Eating on a Budget 

When you visit a new destination you want to experience the culture, which is often done by eating the local cuisine. However, eating out at restaurants, especially those top-rated on Yelp, can get quite expensive.

It’s important to learn how to eat well while traveling on a budget. One way to do this is to take advantage of street food, which is often some of the best food you’ll eat for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant meal. 

You can also try local cuisine without eating a hole in your wallet by going to local grocery stores. Usually, you’ll find prepared meals and ingredients from that region that you can taste and try to cook with at home if you have a kitchen. 

When I traveled through Thailand, I preferred getting meals like pad thai from street vendors rather than going to a sit-down restaurant. It often tasted better and was a quarter of the price! 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Booking Flights and Transportation

Now we’re getting to the really juicy stuff – digital nomad travel hacks for when you’re actually booking your travel. 

You’ve all heard of someone getting an incredibly cheap plane ticket to an awesome destination, but how did they do it? Whenever you search for a ticket it’s always just a bit too much. 

In this section, I’m sharing my best tips to save money when booking tickets to your next destination. 

Buy Plane Tickets Six Weeks in Advance (on a Tuesday)

The airline industry is truly the wild west in terms of travel. Some days you can find awesome flight deals for what feels like pennies while other times you’re giving up a kidney for a one-way ticket. 

Fortunately, there are some ways to ensure you’re getting a great price. 

The first trick is to book your flight at least six weeks before you plan to travel and to purchase tickets on a Tuesday. For some reason, this is when prices are statistically at their lowest. 

Another way to ensure you’re getting a great deal is to keep your flying dates flexible. Search for the cheapest month to travel to your destination and book your flight for a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. 

Compare Different Routes and Transportation Methods

As a digital nomad, you probably enjoy slow travel and seeing as much of the world as possible. If you’re flexible in your travels, there’s no better way to save money on flights and transportation than comparing different routes and methods. 

For example, sometimes the cheapest option to get to your final destination is to slow travel taking buses and trains and staying in different cities to get there. Of course, this is only for those who aren’t on a time crunch. 

Another way to compare routes and prices is through third-party websites. For comparing flights I like to use the following:

  • Google Flights

To find the best method of transportation, I’ll use:

While this method may not always save you time, it could save you a ton of money while also helping you see places you may never have considered. 

One example I like to use from my past travels is when I had to get to Split, Croatia from the Greek island Tinos. Direct flights from Greece to Croatia were a bit out of my budget. 

So, I spent a week flying from Athens, Greece to Bologna, Italy, spent two days in Venice during Carnivale, and took a 13-hour bus from Venice to Split with a stop in Zagreb. The total transportation cost about $150. 

I also got to experience the beauty of Carnivale in Venice, which is a magical destination everyone should see at least once. 

Opt for a Bus or Train

Flying can be pretty pricey, even with budget airlines. They charge for every little thing and paying to check a bag could cost more than the actual ticket sometimes!

I’ll also let you in on a secret – I absolutely hate flying. So, when I can take a train or bus to my destination within a reasonable amount of time and price, this is what I go with. 

If you’re traveling in Europe, then the train and bus system is excellent. It’s easy to find a route that makes sense for you and grab a cheap ticket. 

In Mexico and South America, buses are also the main means of travel other than flying as well. 

I use the following apps to find bus and train tickets for my travels:

  • Busbud  
  • 12go (Southeast Asia)
  • RailEurope (Europe)

Again, you can use Omio or Rio2Rome for finding the best route option and tickets too. 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Finding a Digital Nomad Accommodation

One of the most important decisions you’ll make as a digital nomad is where you’ll stay while traveling abroad. There are a few things a digital nomad accommodation must have, including reliable wifi and to fit in your budget.

Of course, there are travel hacks to find the best digital nomad accommodation for your needs. Plus, I’m sharing some super cheap options you can take advantage of too. 

Keep Your Dates Flexible

Just like when you’re searching for a cheap flight, it’s important to keep your dates flexible when booking your accommodation. 

Try to travel in the shoulder seasons to get great deals on your stay while also having the opportunity to fully enjoy your destination. 

While it may be tempting to book your stay during the low season because of a great price, it isn’t always a good idea. Take it from me. 

I booked a month-long stay on a Greek island in January. I got the apartment for a quarter of the original price, which was great. However, the weather wasn’t the absolute best and 75% of the restaurants and stores were closed. 

So, my wallet definitely won in this situation, but there wasn’t much to do while living there in the winter. 

Keep your dates of stay flexible, but be cautious of when you plan to travel to your destination. 

If you’re considering going to Croatia, you’ll find our blog post about the best time to travel to Croatia helpful.

Stay for Free as a House Sitter

What if I told you that you could stay in your destination for free? The only strings attached is that you would have to look after someone else’s house and possibly pets. 

The concept of house sitting has really taken off in the last couple of years. When you become a house sitter, you can stay in people’s places while they are traveling. It’s a win-win for both parties because you get a free stay and the owners of the house get someone to take care of their pets and home. 

Of course, it’s a bit more complicated than just reaching out to someone who is going on vacation and asking to stay at their place. You must be verified and have recommendations and sometimes a criminal background check. 

There will often be an interview as well to ensure you’re trustworthy. The work to become an established house sitter is worth it, though! 

You can learn more about how to become a house sitter here .

Stay in Hostels

Hostels are an excellent way to save money while traveling and meet people from all over the world. 

Now, you may be picturing a run-down building in a foreign country with uncomfortable bunk beds and zero privacy when in a hostel. I promise you, they have gotten much better and more luxurious over the years!

You can even book private rooms with private bathrooms in hostels nowadays. So, you can feel like you have some privacy while also taking advantage of meeting people.

Most hostels have communal areas for working, socializing, and cooking meals. You can even find some with free breakfast included each morning. 

The best place to find a hostel that has everything you want in a digital nomad accommodation is on Hostelworld . With 36,000 properties available, there’s something for everyone. 

Book Long-Term Stays

If you’re searching for accommodations on Airbnb or Vrbo , you can get a lot more bang for your buck if you book long-term stays. Most hosts offer a significant discount if you stay for a month in their property. 

If you find a property that you really like, you can also message the host and ask if you can work out a discount. Explain that you plan to stay there for a long period of time, so they don’t have quick guest turnover, making it easier for them to manage. 

Look in Local Facebook Groups

There are hundreds of digital nomad Facebook groups in specific destinations that offer local tips and even housing options. 

All you have to do is join the group and ask if there are any apartments available or where you can find an affordable one in the area. Most people are willing to help and you may find an excellent deal. 

When I stayed in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, I found a gorgeous apartment where I stayed for a month for much less than what was listed on Airbnb at the time. 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Light Packing

What does packing lightly have to do with saving time and money? Well, the digital nomad travel hacks I’m about to share with you won’t only save you money on baggage fees, but it help you be more comfortable while you travel. 

You don’t want to carry around multiple suitcases or backpacks with you traveling from city to city. Especially if you’re traveling through South America or Southeast Asia, getting around with a ton of luggage can be difficult. 

So, if you can travel the world and live out of a suitcase the size of a carry-on, you’ll find that you can save a ton of money when you fly or store your bags for a few hours. 

Create a Capsule Wardrobe

This tip isn’t just for the female digital nomads! Everyone should create a capsule wardrobe when they plan to become full-time travelers. 

Having just a few items of clothing that all match can create hundreds of different outfits for all occasions. This is essential when living the digital nomad lifestyle as you never know what situations you may find yourself in. 

There are # basic concepts to creating a capsule wardrobe:

  • Choose a color scheme
  • Embrace your style
  • Consider your lifestyle

It’s important to consider the types of climate you’ll be traveling in as well. Some destinations may require sweaters while others require shorts and tank tops. 

Creating a capsule wardrobe will keep your luggage light and your outfit options endless.

Check Luggage Restrictions

If you plan to fly on budget airlines, then it’s important that you check their baggage restrictions. You may be surprised to learn that the luggage measurements for a carry-on bag on Ryanair (Europe’s main budget airline) are smaller than the restrictions for a carry-on bag on Spirit or Frontier (the US’s main budget airlines). 

Also, consider the space you’ll have while riding on trains or taking buses as well. To avoid overpaying to check baggage all the time or trying to find a way to make your luggage fit, plan for these luggage restrictions ahead of time. 

Get Organized

It’s absolutely incredible how much you can fit in just a small carry-on suitcase and a backpack. Some people live for months out of these two pieces of luggage. 

What’s their secret?

Staying organized. 

The savviest digital nomads who pack lightly are skilled in organizing their luggage, folding clothing properly, and making everything fit perfectly. 

The two items I never pack without are vacuum seal bags and packing cubes . These life-saving organizers create so much space in my luggage and help me fit everything I need. 

Download a Digital Nomad Packing List

Not sure where to start with packing your suitcase before embarking on a digital nomad lifestyle or feel like you might be forgetting something?

Then you need to download a digital nomad packing list ! 

You’ll probably find our recent article of 51 items you should add to your digital nomad packing list helpful too. 

Sometimes having everything written out can be super helpful and remind you to pack only the essentials. 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks for Staying Safe

Taking precautions to stay safe while traveling abroad can save you a ton of money in the long run. Getting out of sticky situations can often cause lots of unexpected expenses.

But if you follow these digital nomad travel hacks to stay safe, you’ll decrease your chances of these situations from happening. 

A virtual personal network, or VPN, is absolutely essential for all digital nomads who connect to public wifi networks. Whether you’re working from a cafe or checking your email in the airport before boarding a flight, you must use a VPN. 

A VPN hides your personal information and much more to protect you from prying eyes and hackers trying to steal your data. To prevent this dangerous situation from happening, make sure to always use a VPN when connecting to wifi in public. 

You can get awesome deals on VPN services. You can save 81% on a SurfShark subscription (my preferred service) and pay just a couple of dollars a month to protect yourself while abroad. 

Get Digital Nomad Health Insurance

I know what you’re thinking – how often do you really go to the doctor in a year when you’re living at home? Probably not often. So, why would you get digital nomad health insurance while traveling the world?

Well, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health. 

Digital nomad health insurance is quite different from travel insurance, which we’ll mention next. With this insurance, you can have regular doctor appointments, such as a routine physical, annual OBGYN appointment, or dental cleaning wherever you are in the world. 

Just like you would see a doctor at home for an ear infection or sore throat, you can see a doctor while abroad with your digital nomad health insurance. 

Some popular insurance companies amongst digital nomads include:

  • PassportCard Nomads

If you’re searching for an insurance policy, be sure to check out our article about what to consider before purchasing digital nomad health insurance . 

Get Travel Insurance

Okay, so what’s the difference between digital nomad health insurance and travel insurance? Well, above we spoke about getting routine medical treatment while traveling abroad with digital nomad health insurance. Travel insurance is protection for trip disruption and delays, lost baggage, emergency medical situations, and other travel-related situations. 

It’s a good idea to have both of these types of insurance as a digital nomad. Sometimes you can even get travel insurance included in your travel credit card so save you even more money. 

Some popular travel insurance companies amongst digital nomads include:

  • World Nomads
  • True Traveller

You can take your protection even further and purchase insurance to protect your digital nomad gear like your computer and phone with Protect Your Bubble as well.

Back Up Your Computer

In the event that your computer is stolen, broken, or stops working completely, you don’t want to lose all of your files, photos, and video. Make a habit of backing up your computer every week onto an external hard drive to ensure you never lose important items. 

digital nomad travel hacks

Travel Hacks to Experience Your Destination

Going to museums and on tours can get a bit expensive when you’re experiencing your destinations. Living the digital nomad lifestyle requires a balance of exploring foreign cities while also keeping some sense of normalcy and routine. 

Now, I’m definitely not going to tell you not to go on tours and to museums. You’re traveling the world for goodness sake! However, I am going to give you some tips for how to experience it while saving money. 

Go on Excursions and Tours

Sometimes it’s necessary to splurge a bit on a group tour or excursion, especially if it’s a difficult site to reach on your own. With an organized tour, you can really enjoy your experience without the worry of planning everything. 

You’ll also have the opportunity to meet other travelers and get insightful knowledge you may have missed if you went to the site alone. You can also find some great deals on tours, especially ones that include meals. Just be on the lookout for them.

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Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours

If you stay in hostels, you’ll find there are often free walking tours offered daily. This is an excellent way to get some exercise while seeing some of the most important parts of the city where you’re staying. 

Sometimes the tour guides do ask for a donation, so do be prepared to give a few dollars for their time. However, the information and experience you get is definitely worth it. 

If you aren’t staying in hostels, you can simply search for free walking tours online. Or you can do your own audio tour right from your phone with WeGo Trip . 

Use Student Discounts

If you’re a university student and have your student ID on you, try to use it whenever you purchase tickets to a museum or cultural attraction. Many places have discounted tickets for those with a student ID.

It may not always work due to certain restrictions and requirements, but it never hurts to ask. 

I was able to save $20 on my tour to Machu Picchu in Peru right after I graduated from my university because I had my student ID with me at the time. 

Search for Free Admission Days

Some museums have free or discounted admission days throughout the year. Some even do it once a month. If you’re lucky enough to be in a certain city when a museum has this offer, make sure to take advantage of it!

For example, the Louvre in Paris has free admission to everyone on July 14. Do remember that you should still reserve tickets, especially on free admission days. 

Interact with Local Residents

One of the absolute best (and free) ways to experience your destination is to interact with local residents. Whether you strike up a conversation in a cafe or bar or end up talking to someone on the street, making a friend with someone from the area gives you awesome insight.

You can ask about the culture and how things are done in the city. You can share your own stories and experiences as well. Plus, you’ll learn new viewpoints, perspectives, and facts about where you’re staying. 

Get More Digital Nomad Travel Hacks and Advice Every Week

If you enjoyed these digital nomad travel hacks on how to save money, stay safe, and get the most out of your destination then you should sign up for the Nomads Embassy newsletter. 

We send weekly emails with travel hacks, digital nomad news, and advice to help aspiring and experienced digital nomads live a successful remote lifestyle. 

Sign up for the Nomads Embassy newsletter

Frequently Asked Questions

How do digital nomads handle taxes and financial management while traveling in different countries.

Digital nomads should understand the tax regulations of their home country and any country they work in. Many countries offer tax treaties to avoid double taxation. Consulting a tax professional familiar with international laws is advisable. Using online banking and financial management tools can help track expenses and income across currencies.

Some digital nomads even choose a digital nomad visa with no tax liability to decrease their owed taxes for a couple of years.

What are some strategies for maintaining strong mental health and managing loneliness as a digital nomad?

Building a routine, staying connected with friends and family online, joining local or online communities of digital nomads , and making time for self-care is crucial for mental health. Exploring mindfulness or meditation apps can also support emotional well-being.

Can you recommend specific tools or apps that digital nomads use for work and productivity while on the move?

Digital nomads often use project management tools like Trello or Asana, communication platforms like Slack, and cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox. VPNs are essential for secure internet access, and time management apps can help maintain productivity.

What legal considerations should digital nomads be aware of when working from different countries, such as visas and work permits beyond tourist visas?

It’s important to research visa requirements and work permits for each destination. Some countries offer specific digital nomad visas that allow for longer stays and legal work. Always comply with local laws to avoid penalties.

How do digital nomads choose the next destination, especially considering factors like internet reliability, cost of living, and digital nomad community presence?

Internet reliability, cost of living, and the presence of a digital nomad community are key factors. Websites and forums can provide insights into these aspects. Personal interests, climate preferences, and political stability should also be considered when deciding on a new location.

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When I’m not writing and teaching people how to achieve a location-independent lifestyle, you can find me globetrotting, experiencing new cultures, and working on my amateur photography skills.

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Fifty travel hacks: Conor Pope’s tips for saving time, money and effort when planning your next adventure

When it comes to going on holidays, smart planning can save you a fortune and make your holiday infinitely more pleasurable.

Travel icons. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

While the cost of summertime jollies is skyrocketing, there are still ways to shave a few bob off the price. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

Conor Pope's face

We’re all going on our summer holidays – or at least we might be in the not too distant future if we’re lucky. While the cost of summertime jollies is skyrocketing, there are still ways to shave a few bob off the price. Here are just 50 of them, so please fasten your seat belts, ensure your tray is in the upright position and turn your phones to aeroplane mode.

1. Take a photo of your passport

As soon as you finish this article – but definitely not before – find your passport and take a photograph of it. Immediately email the picture to yourself. It might be a wasted two minutes but if your passport is ever lost or stolen, having the picture will save you time and maybe even cash because it makes getting emergency travel documents easier.

2. Sort your European Health Insurance Card

Sign up for a European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) today too – but again, only when you’re done with this article. Remember it must be renewed every five years so, if you last signed up pre-Covid, it’s probably due for renewal. It allows you to be treated like a citizen of whatever EU country you’re in if you need medical attention. It’s free, although some sites that appear prominently on search engines try to attach a fee to the application. Only apply through ehic.ie .

3. Create a special travel folder

Email all hotel and flight booking details and travel insurance documents to yourself as well. Create a special travel folder and put everything in that folder so you can handily access it from anywhere in the world.

Easter break: Over 60 family-friendly things to do, places to go and restaurants to visit

Easter break: Over 60 family-friendly things to do, places to go and restaurants to visit

The Easter Quiz: 50 questions on sport, celebrity, geography and more

The Easter Quiz: 50 questions on sport, celebrity, geography and more

‘My colleague has said she’s having marital difficulties. Worryingly, it includes physical abuse’

‘My colleague has said she’s having marital difficulties. Worryingly, it includes physical abuse’

4. Don’t delay with travel insurance

You haven’t sorted your travel insurance yet? What are you waiting for? It doesn’t get cheaper closer to your holiday and, without wanting to be a downer, almost half the claims we make are filed before travel, with illness and death the most likely reasons for cancellations.

5. Airfares

When is the best time to get the best value on flights is an age-old question, with no resolution in sight. Generally speaking, prices depend on supply and demand and the more flights from different airlines there are to a particular airport, the lower the cost. Aside from that, the commonly accepted wisdom is that airfares climb incrementally as the date of departure comes close and booking a flight six to eight weeks before departure is the sweet spot.

6. Try out money-saving theories

There are other money-saving theories, mind you. There’s very specific speculation in the virtual world that airlines’ automated systems dump unsold seats on Wednesdays between midnight and 1am in the time zone of their home city. So if you’re flying to Thailand, say, start looking at 5pm Irish time on Tuesday evenings. We’ve no proof this is the case but it might be worth a look and you don’t have to stay up until ridiculous o’clock to check it out. Then there is the Cookie Monster theory, which suggests airlines track visits to their sites looking for flights to particular destinations. Using pesky computer cookies they gauge our interest, and jack up their prices if we seem overly keen. We’ve put this theory to airlines. who rubbish it, but if you’re unconvinced, you could clear your cookies and search for flights in incognito mode. It won’t do any harm.

7. Sign up for alerts

Sign up for alerts with flight aggregators such as Momondo or Sky Scanner if you have a destination in mind but no set dates. When flights fall to a certain level be ready to pounce.

8. Use fare finder tools

Ryanair has a handy fare finder tool if you’re agnostic about where to go. Click on the “plan” link on the top right of the home page and you’ll be brought to a page containing a link to its fare finder. Set the departure city – in our case Dublin – and the maximum you have to spend on a flight – in our case €20. It will throw up all the matches. When we tried it last week we were offered one-way flights to Girona, Carcassone, Ibiza, Mallorca and a whole lot more for less than that. It’s a wonder we’re still here to be honest.

9. Shop around

You’re not forced to fly with the same airline to and from your destination and it might be cheaper to go out with Aer Lingus and come home with Ryanair or vice versa.

Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

When is the best time to get the best value on flights is an age-old question, with no resolution in sight. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

10. Try different airports

If you’re flying long-haul don’t confine your search to Irish and British airports. Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt and Helsinki often offer better value and are within striking distance of here.

11. Pay for extras early

Pay for extras when making the original booking. Adding other bits can come at a premium when done after the fact.

12. The day matters

The day of travel matters. We’re conditioned to fly at weekends for leisure and Mondays and Fridays for work. But the cheapest flights can be found on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

13. Midweek packages

Package holidays starting in the middle of the week cost less too, according to Which? Travel. If you can swing it, always go from a Wednesday or Thursday to Wednesday or Thursday.

14. Late-night flights

Now, this might not suit everyone but if you book outward flights for dawn and homeward flights last thing at night, you effectively get two more holiday days. It’s essential to do your homework – having easy access to summer clothes and swimming stuff and finding a place to store the bags is crucial if you don’t want to be in the heat of a European summer dressed for an Irish spring while squabbling over who minds the cases.

15. Avoid school holidays

Unless it is unavoidable, don’t travel during school holidays. A trip booked for May or September can cost 30 per cent less than the same one booked for high season in family-friendly locations.

16. And don’t forget school breaks abroad

Bear in mind children in other countries have holidays too, so don’t book when the young folk from elsewhere are off. English children have a half term starting on May 27th this year so expect a spike in prices that week. Their summer holidays don’t start until July 25th so Irish families should really look to get away before then. Germans have a 10-day break from May 21st with their summer holidays also starting on July 25th.

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17. Don’t be a slave to the savings mind

Put in the legwork and get prices from travel agents, booking platforms and hotels directly before handing over cash. It takes time but if you can save yourself even 10 per cent it amounts to hundreds of euro. Don’t be a slave to the savings mind. A package holiday booked through a bonded travel agency might cost a bit more (although that is not a given) but being able to pick up the phone and speak to a human being if things go wrong can be invaluable.

18. Consider all-inclusive

Upfront it’s dearer but in an era of spiralling inflation, booking and paying for an all-in deal in March could save you a few bob in September. And when it comes to all-inclusive, make sure there’s more than one restaurant and bar on the site, read the Tripadvisor reviews and look at dedicated all-inclusive rather than ones that mix and match as they’re better equipped.

Seriously. If you’ve kids from six months to 18, carry on camping. We’re not talking about an in-tents experience but something with air conditioning, dish washers and decks. The campsites of Europe are a joy for families and because you’re living your best outdoor life, self-catering is fun – and much cheaper.

20. Keep it local

Whether booking online or in-store or all-inclusive or camping, try to keep it local. Not only is supporting Irish businesses good for the local economy, you have more – and more easily enforceable – rights that way.

Travel icons. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

Whether booking online or in-store or all-inclusive or camping, try to keep it local. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

21. Next up is the car

If you’re going to hire one, hire it early and ask yourself if you need one. Car hire can be a habit but if you’re not going to use it much, maybe don’t bother. There is wikivoyage.com to tell you what you need to know about your destination’s transport options. Apps make ordering cabs anywhere in Europe pretty painless. Even if you spend €30 a day on them, it still works out cheaper than car hire. Not hiring a car could easily save you a grand over a two-week holiday.

22. Only drive when you need to

If you decide you need a car, do you need it for the whole trip? Consider renting one for only a portion of your break.

23. Airport car hire comes at a premium

And consider where you do the hiring. Obviously, we can see the appeal of getting a car at the airport, loading it up with your luggage and heading off. But airport car hire comes at a premium and if you can hire one away from the airport you might see the cost fall by about 20 per cent.

24. T&Cs

Take care with the T&Cs, and tot up how much extras – booster seats, additional drivers and the like – will cost and always Google the car hire companies you are considering to see how they rate when it comes to customer service. Two minutes research could save you endless heartache if it allows you to avoid a company with an appalling record.

25. Avoid full-to-empty fuel policies

Never go for companies with full-to-empty fuel policies. They’ll almost always charge more for fuel than garages and you won’t use the fuel you pay for. And don’t fill up on the last forecourt before the airport. They’re not mugs and you’ll pay a premium for not being more organised.

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26. Inform your bank

It seems ridiculous, but telling your bank you’re going away might stop them cancelling or putting a hold on your card if you have the temerity to use it in Torremolinos.

27. Pack less

Saving money on luggage starts before you pack a flip-flop. Always pack less than you think you’ll need and the old cliche about laying everything on the bed before taking only half of it works.

28. Roll those clothes

Whatever about the amount, you need to be a packing ninja. Rolling rather than folding clothes saves space. Start with the jeans and dresses and then T-shirts and tops. Squeeze underwear into the spaces and socks – if you can be bothered with them – go into shoes.

29. Cut back on the liquids

Carry as few liquids as possible and decant them into smaller plastic bottles. Contact lens cases are excellent liquid and cream holders and hold a surprising amount. If you don’t have contact lens cases, an optician will sell them for buttons (or give them to you for free).

30. Shop abroad

Buy bulkier, heavier items – towels, shower gels, sun creams – overseas. They’ll be cheaper than home too, saving you space and money.

31. Never go over your baggage allowance

Even a kilo more can cost you dearly. Excess baggage charges vary, but expect to pay more than €10 for each kilo over you go. Don’t waste money on special scales, just stand on a regular scales with and without the case and do the maths. If you’re a couple of kilos over, move the heaviest – non liquid – items into carry-on bags. If you have a neck pillow, consider abandoning its comforts and stuffing it with some of the contents of your suitcase. Unless you overstuff it, you should get it past the flight attendants. If you do stuff clothes into your pockets pay close attention to where your passport is. You don’t want to have a stress-induced turn trying to find it under the scowls of boarding crews as your knickers cascade all around you.

32. Pool allowances

Weight allowances are not always about individual suitcases. Ryanair passengers, for instance, can often pool or share baggage allowances. So if a reservation has two checked bags of 20kg, one of the bags could weigh 15kg and the other 25kg.

33. Know all the rules before you leave home

If you want to bring a 10kg bag on a short-haul Aer Lingus flight, you must book a “carry-on bag with priority boarding” at a cost of €9.99. But 10kg bags can be checked in for free. If you show up at the boarding gate with your bag without paying in advance, it will cost you €35 per person. Priority boarding with Ryanair plus two in-cabin bags costs between €6-€36 while checking it in can cost between €11.99-€29.99 per flight depending on the time and distance travelled. A 20kg bag with the same airline costs between €18.99-€59.99. Again, if you show up without having paid the fees, you will pay dearly for it.

34. Airport parking

If you’re driving to the airport – and you might be better off taking a cab – make sure you pay for your parking well in advance. It will make a massive difference to the final cost and you might find there are no spaces if you don’t.

Suitcases. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

Whatever about the amount, you need to be a packing ninja. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

35. ‘Fragile’ luggage

When checking in bags, ask to have them marked “fragile” even if they are not particularly fragile. The label goes some way to ensuring your bags are treated with a bit of tenderness, and fragile bags tend to be first on to the carousel.

36. Fast-track lanes and lounge access

Use fast-track lanes at airports at home and abroad and investigate lounge access. The former can take much of the stress out of the airport journey for less than €10 per person while the latter can make the experience beyond security nicer.

37. Currency exchange

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, never change money at an airport: you will be ripped off.

38. A bored traveller is the spendiest one

Airports are expert at parting you from your cash. We’re in good form and have a few bob. and we are bored and ripe for the picking. So before you buy that cologne, those sunglasses, the ridiculous shorts, the gizmo or the vodka, ask yourself if you need it and if it’s good value. The answer is almost always no. Bring reading material and download movies and television programmes and invest in things to keep you and yours entertained.

39. Time is money

The second you get off the plane in your destination start power walking. Time is money and every person you pass on the way to passport control knocks 30 seconds off your queue, more if they’re British (thank you Brexit). If you’re travelling as part of a family, once you’re through security designate one adult to get the bags and the other to race to the car hire place. You could add hours to your holiday – and to your life – by following this advice. You’re welcome.

40. Car insurance

When collecting your car you’ll be asked if you want extra insurance. It might suit but super collision damage waiver insurance can cost up to €30 a day. Instead, take out an annual policy at home with an Irish insurance company. Make sure you have enough on your credit card to stand a hefty deposit.

[  40 travel hacks to help you get the best and cheapest holidays  ]

41. Check any car you hire

Ask about breakdown procedures and put the emergency number into your phone. Check the clutch by putting the car into fourth gear and depressing, slowly releasing the clutch while stepping on the accelerator. If it releases fully without the vehicle stalling, there is a problem. Make sure it doesn’t become your problem by asking for a different car.

42. Save that data

Download Google maps covering wherever you are so you don’t have to use your data or even have an internet connection when navigating. Just click on the map covering the place you are going, type “okay map” into the search bar, press download and you are good to go.

43. Google Translate

Remember, Google Translate is your friend. We love how it allows you to photograph text in a different language so it can translate it. It might stop you ordering callos à la plancha in a Spanish restaurant.

44. Tickets for attractions

Buy tickets for the attractions you plan to see ahead of time. It may save you money but it will definitely save you time as you won’t have to queue. It is worth looking at the online prices even if you are in a queue, they are frequently cheaper.

time travel life hacks

A lovely lunch in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower might sound enticing but the food will be terrible and expensive. Photograph: Christian Kruemmel/iStock

45. Be careful where you eat

Don’t eat too close to the most famous tourist spots and never eat in a place with pictures of the food instead of words on the menu. A lovely lunch in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower or on La Rambla or beside the Spanish Steps might sound enticing but the food will be terrible and expensive. Have a drink maybe but save your big spending for places off the beaten track. Use your phone to find “places to eat near me” to make the best calls.

46. Plan in advance

Many cities offer free access to museums on certain days and after certain times. Don’t leave it to chance, and do your homework before you make your visiting plans.

47. Consider a local sim card

If you’re going abroad for a decent stretch and travelling outside of the EU, consider investing in a local sim card to save yourself the pain of roaming charges. And make sure to turn off your data and look for wifi hotspots instead.

48. Adaptors

If you are anything like this writer, you have a million or so adaptors at home. You only need one if you bring a multi-socket plug.

[  Tips for a stress-free family holiday: Write packing lists and don’t be afraid to do things separately  ]

49. Travel overnight

Overnight trains across Europe are a wonderfully exotic way to travel and it saves you the cost of a night’s accommodation. Overnight flights do the same thing although they don’t seem quite so exotic. Invest in things to make your trip more comfortable, including a decent set of ear plugs and an eye mask.

50. Returning the rental car

Return the car when the rental company is open and have it inspected carefully. If you do have to return the car outside working hours, be sure to take pictures and a video of it when it has been parked in the designated area. Mail the pictures to yourself. And remember to keep an eye on your credit card to ensure that no sneaky charges are added in the days and weeks after you get home. Then start saving for next year.

IN THIS SECTION

10 things to do in malta: from marvellous megalithic temples to the baroque splendour of valletta, take a hike: 10 of the best walking and outdoor festivals around ireland in 2024, escaping to the heartlands of france for charms of the past, ten years of the wild atlantic way: ‘it felt like we were part of something bigger’, mayo crash: community in ‘state of shock and sadness’ as tributes paid to mother and daughters killed on n17, ul president takes sick leave as governing authority met to discuss report on €5.2m housing overpayment, britain’s narrow stereotype of the irish could not make sense of leo varadkar, mayo crash: further tributes paid to ‘multitalented’ family with ‘beautiful big smiles’, grizzled ‘republican family’ veterans turn out for ira bomber rose dugdale’s funeral, latest stories.

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Our Woven Journey

14 Travel “Hacks” That Are Actually Just Plain Old Good Advice

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You’ve been on the internet before; you know as well as anyone that it’s riddled with “hacks” that aren’t anything special. We don’t blame you if you’re suspicious of anything with that word in the title. But that’s precisely why we’re rounding up a list of hacks that are worthy of that name. Check out these 14 travel hacks that’ll make you feel like you’ve broken into life’s secret code.

1. Bring Extra Clothes in Your Carry On

Even some seasoned travelers have had the displeasure of losing their bags. Anyone who has can tell you that being stuck in a strange place with nothing but the clothes you’re wearing is hugely stressful. Ease that stress by ensuring extra clothes and other essentials like deodorant and your toothbrush come with you on the carry-on.

Extra Clothes -DP

You may think you’ll never need them, but a fresh pair of socks and undies can make the difference between feeling like a disgruntled backpacker and a resourceful James Bond on a secret mission. Always remember: in the game of travel roulette, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed.

2. Download an Offline Map of Your Destination

GPS -DP

There’s no guarantee you’ll have good service where you’re going. Save yourself the anxiety and pre-download a map you can easily access so you don’t get lost. Think of it as your modern version of a pirate’s treasure map – you may not be searching for a chest of gold, but finding that vegan café in an unfamiliar city can feel just as rewarding!

3. Invest in a Universal Adapter

Adapter -DP (1)

So you’ve prepped your phone with all your navigation needs, but oh no – European outlets are staring at you with a smug, “Not in my house” expression. Nab one of these universal adapters to ensure your journey doesn’t run out of juice just when you’ve spotted the world’s biggest ball of twine. Remember, the world is round, but not all plugs are. Keep your tech alive, and your sanity intact!

4. Keep Clothes Fresh with a Dryer Sheet

Clean Clothes -DP

When you’re out conquering the world, your wardrobe inevitably picks up that all-too-familiar eau de “on the road again.” Give laundry-day smells the old heave-ho by sneaking a dryer sheet into your suitcase. It’s like a breath mint for your socks – and let’s be honest, your underwear will thank you, too.

5. Use Incognito Mode to Get Better Prices

Private Browsing -DP

Ever feel like the airlines have your internet history on speed dial? Each click could be hiking up the cost of your trip. Sidestep their sly scheme by going undercover with incognito mode. You’ll get more honest prices, and let’s be real, it’s fun to play the role of a savvy, web-surfing sleuth. Search “incognito mode” to bypass this. Bonus points for this one, making you feel like a real hacker.

6. Fight Off Jet Lag with Yoga

Yoga Mat

Jet lag can be a buzzkill, turning your trip into a groggy drag. Fear not, weary traveler! A bit of yoga or light jogging can help kick jet lag to the curb. Get your warrior pose on, and reclaim your vacation mojo!

7. Travel With a Water Purifier

Water Filter -DP

Fresh water may be hard to come by, depending on where you’re headed. Don’t take any chances: tote along a portable water purifier, and you’ll be sipping safe and sound wherever the journey takes you.

8. Pack a Few Crayons (Seriously!)

Crayons -DP

Hear me out because this tip might seem silly, but it could end up saving you in an emergency. Candles can be incredibly bulky and difficult to travel with, but crayons are compact and also made of wax. So they’re excellent in a pinch if you need some light. And if you don’t, feel free to unleash the inner artist!

9. Take Advantage of Credit Card Bonuses

Photo of an attractive, happy young blonde woman on a Hawaiian beach, wearing a large floppy beach hat, holding a blank green credit card (or gift, reward, incentive, etc.).

Financial flexibility is fantastic for any traveler. Sign up for credit cards with point bonuses for travelers and make the most out of your trip. And if you already have cards like these handy, don’t forget to cash in before you start booking things.

10. Email Essential Documents to Yourself

Email -DP

We hate to say it, but even if you’ve planned a dream vacation, you might not go anywhere without your passport. But if you’re worried you’ll accidentally forget or lose yours, you can scan any important documents and email them to yourself for fast access. Theoretical crisis averted!

11. Keep Bits and Bobs Organized with Pill Containers

Pills -DP

Small items like jewelry can be a hassle to pack. But storing them in pill boxes is a secure way to keep them organized and in one place, rather than strewn about the rest of your clothes.

13. Fill Your Neck Pillow With Clothes

Nap on plane -DP

Go with us here: we mentioned earlier that you want to pack your carry-on with clothing, but what if we took it one step further and stuffed some extra clothes in your pillow? It works like a charm and frees up more space on your carry-on!

14. Use ATMs to Exchange Currency

ATM -DP

If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll see currency exchanges to help facilitate switching over to the local currency. It sounds convenient, but the catch is that using this service can cost money. And while banks will still charge you a small fee at the ATM, it’s significantly less expensive and more traveler-friendly since you’re likely to find more of them than a currency exchange.

10 Travel Hacks That Will Save You a Ton of Money

Woman traveler thinking of idea

It’s no secret that any traveler is always open to spending the least money possible whenever an adventure presents itself. Fortunately, plenty of tips and hacks ensure money can be saved during any trip! Recently, experienced travelers from all over the globe met in an online discussion to reveal their favorite money-saving travel hacks.

Jet Lag Be Gone! Expert Hacks for Time Travel Troubles

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Jet lag can turn even the best travel experience into a tiring ordeal. However, ComfyNorth’s founder Alex Savy is here to help. Leveraging his extensive experience in overcoming jet lag, Savy shares his tried and tested strategies that ensure an invigorating travel experience.

10 Life Hacks Everyone Else Is Already Doing (But You’re Not): Stay Informed or Stay Behind

man in blue jacket pink background

Ever get the nagging feeling that everyone else has a cheat sheet for life that you missed out on? Like you’re always one step behind, playing catch up? Enough is enough. Prepare to level the playing field with these ten life-changing hacks that everyone else already knows. Get ready to join the club of insiders turning everyday tasks into perfect opportunities for growth, learning, and fun.

Not for Amateurs: 10 Expert-Level Hacks Only the Travel-Savvy Do

Man going on vacation with fragile suitcases.

Travel can certainly be stressful, but there are many ways that you can at least make it easier on yourself. Don’t worry; you don’t have to scour the internet for travel tips and tricks because they are all right here for you. According to a popular internet forum, here are the ten best hacks for jet setters to consider before they board the plane.

This article was produced by Our Woven Journey. Featured Image Credit: Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock

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Karee Blunt

Karee Blunt is a nationally syndicated travel journalist, focused on discovering destinations and experiences that captivate and inspire others through her writing. She is also the founder of Our Woven Journey, a travel site focused on inspiring others to create memory-making adventures with their loved ones. Karee is passionate about encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone and live the life they dream of. She is the mother of six kids, including four through adoption, and lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about Karee on her about me page.

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25 time-saving hacks that will add hours back to your week

Image: Roasting Pumpkins in the Oven

As our lives become more and more hectic, it can seem nearly impossible (read: incredibly overwhelming) to check off everything on the to-do list, let alone find time to reconnect with ourselves or those we love , both of which have been proven helpful when it comes to one’s happiness and health (there are even studies that say too much stress can make one physically ill ).

Luckily, there are ways to shave time off your daily to-dos by working smarter, not harder. We tasked experts who’ve been in your shoes (and, for many, have dedicated a career to developing products and services to help simplify and improve the lives of others) to share their once-best-kept secrets for getting out of the weeds.

From creative ways to cut back on cleaning time to working more efficiently at the office to getting out the door fast, read on as experts from various industries share small adjustments you can make that can help shave time off of your weekly schedule. You’ll be left with more precious time to invest in the people and activities you enjoy most.

Morning routine

The hack: set a strict start time.

How it works: A tip Annie Tevelin , makeup artist and founder of SkinOwl, has found hugely helpful when it comes to staying on time and remaining productive is waking up at the same time every day. “By doing this, I am able to create an efficient routine, be it making breakfast , walking my dog, and sitting down at my computer at the same time ready to take on the day. It has changed the game and my day flows with minimal stress and unpredictability,” she says.

Approximate time saved per week: 2 hours

The hack: pre-stock every one of your bags with essentials.

How it works: If you tend to accessorize with different bags for various occasions, save time spent on swapping your essentials by having them pre-stocked with things like lip balm, hand sanitizer, a pair of headphones and mints. “Then, you just have to worry about the main things like your keys and wallet. It also doesn’t hurt to include a shoe duster for when you're swapping your shoes,” advises Kimmie Smith , a celebrity fashion stylist and co-founder and style director of Athleisure Mag. She personally loves Dagne Dover’s Parker Air Mesh Pouch ($25 and up) for toting around small items, which Tevelin advises should also include face wipes, a hydrating mist, SPF , dry shampoo, and any multitasking makeup needs for minimizing time spent having to stop at a drugstore or home should you need to freshen up.

Approximate time saved per week: 30 minutes

The hack: create a cereal or coffee bar in the kitchen.

How it works: For easier mornings, Jeanie Engelbach, president and founder of apartmentjeanie , suggests creating a coffee bar by putting everything you need — such as a coffee maker, mugs, spoons and condiments — on one tray. “If you wish to keep the mugs in a cabinet, try to have the coffee set up directly underneath. Keep only the necessities and frequently-used coffee beans and pods on the tray and the extra becomes backstock in the cabinet above,” she says. You can take the same approach to a cereal bar with bowls and spoons, and your favorite cereal contained in clear cereal-specific containers — just add milk !

Approximate time saved per week: 35-56 minutes (based on 5-8 minutes saved each morning)

time travel life hacks

Do it better These 3 productivity hacks helped me boost my income 65 percent

At the office, the hack: do a handwritten brain dump every monday morning.

How it works: To help clear your mind and get ahead of tasks for the upcoming week, Engelbach recommends getting everything out on (preferably lined) paper. “Once you’re done with the initial list, you can begin to edit and prioritize. I like to color-code by days of the week and enter tasks into my digital calendar so I have additional backup. Not only will streamlining allow you to structure (and save) your time, but you’ll feel prepared at the start of the week, which is invaluable,” she advises.

Approximate time saved per week: 1 hour+

The hack: schedule your day in 50/10 time blocks.

How it works: If you often find yourself distracted by social media, texts or chatting with co-workers, this one is for you. To help balance work and rest, try structuring your day so that you’re working in intervals of 50 minutes of work and 10 minutes of rest, suggests Lauren Zoeller , a CTA-certified life balance coach. “During your 50-minute time block, make sure that you are in a comfortable work environment with zero distractions (that means no cell phones). Work diligently on your task for 50 minutes and then, once the timer goes off, enjoy 10 minutes for checking your phone, taking a brisk walk around the office, stretching and so on,” she explains. “If done correctly, you will increase the amount of work you can accomplish while also taking care of yourself in the process.”

Approx. time saved per week: 5 hours a week (based on 60 minutes saved each day during a 40-hour work week).

The hack: set up an email auto-reply during certain hours.

How it works: As a business owner, Tevelin says she’s had great success with setting up an auto-reply outlining the times she’ll be on email. “For example, I let people know that I will be responding to emails at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., which helps manage expectations and create boundaries for how often I check in. This helps me save time because I’m not constantly scanning my inbox when I don’t need to be or interrupting other work for one-off responses,” she explains.

Approximate time saved per week: 1 hour

The hack: try task-grouping.

How it works: Multitasking might not always be easy (or possible) but, when and where it makes sense, Susie Coelho , TV personality and founder/creative director of House of Sussex , says it can make a big difference when it comes to being productive. “A simple example might be paying or approving multiple timesheets, invoices or bills at once, which can often save you the time of having to reference documents and log in and out of systems. Another might be scanning and printing multiple documents in one session, which can save you trips back and forth to the printer,” Coelho explains. Alexis Korman, co-founder of Big Easy Bucha, says she’s also experienced success with batching bigger projects that require the same skill sets and programs, saving people from having to switch gears all day long. “Our marketing team has dedicated photography days that are strictly devoted to building content without distractions, our sales team will schedule meetings and pitches on specific days to maximize computer time, and so on.”

Approximate time saved per week: 5+ hours

The hack: streamline meetings by creating a strict agenda.

How it works: Meetings can be a great opportunity to brainstorm, hash out important details and keep projects moving. Unfortunately, they can also be a huge time suck, especially if held unnecessarily and unfocused, points out Susie Carder , a business and profit coach and founder of SC Consulting. "In order to streamline, try to keep meetings as concise and small as possible, choosing only those who truly need to be involved and a date and time that everyone can attend. Have a stringent start time, as well as an agenda to give others the opportunity to prepare ahead of time and keep everyone on task during, and make sure you yourself are prepared with any necessary documents for reference," Carder explains. She also suggests assigning tasks, such as taking notes and next steps, to help keep people engaged and concluding with a clear plan of action.

Approximate time saved per week: 10 hours (based on cutting 20 hours of meetings in half)

The hack: make a delegation to-do list.

How it works: This one is for the managers out there. Katie Sandler , an impact coach and founder of The Impact Retreat, firmly believes that one of the most effective ways to save time in the office is to learn when you should be taking on a task versus when you should be delegating it to someone on your team. “Start by getting to know each person one-on-one so you can hone in on their individual strengths and capabilities. Then, make daily to-do lists with items that need to be achieved and include specific tasks for each individual. If, for some reason, a task falls in your jurisdiction, then that’s when you really have to structure your time effectively,” explains Sandler, who points out that it’s important to have a strong relationship with those you are delegating to so they feel appreciated and stay motivated. You can also cut back on some of the day-to-day delegation and create a sense of autonomy by establishing general roles and responsibilities early on. (We’re thinking this also could be a smart tip to implement at home with your spouse and kids, too).

Approximate time saved per week: Varies

Running errands, the hack: let an app do it for you.

How it works: From managing your banking to important bills and documents, mobile apps have changed the way we interact with the world around us, so James Lambert, public relations professional and founder of James Lambert Consulting , suggests putting these tools to use as much as possible. “For example, check to see if your bank has an app to keep track of transactions and see if there’s a mobile check deposit feature. Don’t have time to stop at an office or photo center? Download a scanner or photo app to export important forms or order prints. By finding what apps best fit in with my lifestyle, I’ve lessened the load from my schedule and been able to focus more on work,” he explains.

Approximate time saved per week: 1.5 hours (based on typical time spent commuting to various institutions)

The hack: set up auto-delivery.

How it works: Have a history of under or over-buying groceries? Save time spent running to the store by ordering your staples on auto-delivery. “By inputting my grocery list into Instacart and having the same items delivered every Monday, I not only save money (because I'm not at the store, distracted by items that I may or may not cook), but I save time and always have a fridge and cupboard full of what I know I’ll eat,” says Tevelin. You might also want to look into auto-delivery options for other items (such as toiletries or grooming products) you tend to purchase regularly.

The hack: Hire a virtual assistant

How it works: For Amber Alexandria , a celebrity stylist, hiring a virtual assistant (in her case through Overdrive ) has been a total game-changer when it comes to managing mundane tasks and accomplishing more throughout the day. “By delegating simple tasks I don’t enjoy doing, such as sending emails, booking appointments, managing travel, coordinating my calendar and schedule, data entry and document creation, I save a ton of time for those I do enjoy,” she explains. While Alexandria typically invests about $400/month on what some may consider an additional employee, there are also free services (such as Hound ) that can assist with everyday tasks such as researching hotels or checking your flight status in a pinch.

Approximate time saved per week: 15 hours

time travel life hacks

Clean it up Quick DIY cleaning hacks that'll make your life easier

Cleaning the house, the hack: use the dishwasher to clean more than just dishes.

How it works: If you’re only using your dishwasher to clean dishes, you aren't using it to its full potential, says Leanne Stapf, chief operating officer at The Cleaning Authority . “Some other things you can wash safely in the dishwasher (and therefore save some time on hand-cleaning) include rubber flip-flops, canvas sneakers and baseball caps, makeup brushes, non-electrical plastic and rubber kids’ toys, contacts cases, mouth guards, hair brushes and combs, shower heads , refrigerator shelves and plastic and metal garden tools. You can wash these items together, but I wouldn't recommend combining them with dishes to reduce the chance of any lingering food bits getting stuck in the items. Simply rinse the items off and run them through the normal cycle to clean quickly and efficiently,” she explains.

The hack: Vacuum sections at a time

How it works: If vacuuming the whole house in one go seems overwhelming, try tackling it in batches . “By dedicating 5-10 minutes each day of the week to 1-2 rooms at a time, you will have the entire house cleaned progressively and have more time on the weekends to do the things you want to do,” advises Richard Ciresi, owner of Aire Serv in Louisville, Kentucky.

The hack: Throw in a rainbow load of wash

How it works: If you’re short on time, but need a ‘rainbow’ of garments cleaned (whites, darks and colors), wash them together with the help of a color-grabbing sheet (such as this one from Carbona ), advises Melissa Maker, a cleaning expert and founder of Clean My Space. “It will absorb the dyes that would otherwise be absorbed by the clothing.”

Approximate time saved per week: 1 hour+ (depending on how many individual color loads of laundry you’d have to do instead)

The hack: use the drop-cloth method for high chairs.

How it works: Have a baby or small child at home? Maker suggests placing a drop-cloth (a towel or old sheet will do) under a high chair or toddler’s seat to help capture spills and stray food and save you time on cleaning up. “Collect the corners of the sheet after meals and toss food bits into the compost or sink. Wash the sheet once or twice per week,” she says. This is also a great trick to employ when you have messy kids (or adults) at the dinner table. Just opt for a large drop-cloth like a plastic tablecloth or old sheet.

Beauty Routine

The hack: skip the heat tools on your hair.

How it works: If you’re someone who typically relies on heat tools to style your hair, Andrew Fitzsimons , a celebrity hair stylist, recommends air-drying to save time. “Not only is it more efficient, but it’s better for your hair. I encourage my clients to air-dry at least once a week to help reduce the damage heat tools can cause. If you’re new to air-dry styles, practice on a weekend or day off when you have some time. Once you’re comfortable with this technique, you’ll be able to shave hours off the time you spend in the bathroom each week!” Fitzsimons explains.To keep flyaways at bay, he recommends working a small amount of smoothing oil, such as NatureLab. TOKYO Smooth Hair Oil ($16) or, for those with a lot of frizz, Moroccanoil’s Smoothing Lotion ($32), from mid-length to the ends of hair while still damp. “For those with curly hair, I recommend applying a hydrating cream like Carol’s Daughter’s Pracaxi Nectar Curl Twisting Custard ($14) to towel-dried hair and tying it up in a loose high pony. The tension and weight of the ponytail will pull on the spirals to elongate their shape. Let it down when hair is slightly dry and you're good to go!"

Approximate time saved per week: 20-60+ minutes (depending on your typical style routine)

The hack: rough-dry your hair prior to round-brushing.

How it works: If you can’t avoid heat tools completely, remove excess moisture from your hair prior to round-brushing by rough-drying, which Savannah Fincher , a licensed hairstylist and corporate educator at Blo Blow Dry Bar, says will cut the time spent on your blowout and help prevent over-exposure to concentrated heat. “Use your hands to shake the excess water from the hair, then use a brush made for wet hair that is vented and heat-safe (such as this Wet Brush , $15) to brush the hair in all directions while haphazardly blow-drying all throughout the head to confuse unruly growth patterns. For coarse, curly or frizz-prone hair, you can use the concentration attachment that comes with your blow dryer to help control flyaways. For fine or thin hair that lacks volume, you can flip your head upside down to achieve more lift at the root,” she advises. For curlier hair, she recommends rough-drying no more than 50 percent prior to round-brushing. For straighter hair, she recommends rough-drying up to 70-80 percent of the way prior to round-brushing.

Approximate time saved per week: 1 hour (based on 10-20 minutes per blowout)

The hack: choose products that work double duty.

How it works: The fewer products you have to deal with when getting ready, the faster you’ll be able to move on from the task, as pointed out by Meredith Baraf , a celebrity makeup artist. “It may seem insignificant, but searching for, opening, closing and putting away items adds up, so it’s helpful to opt for brands and products that offer multitasking, double-ended, or on-the-go fixes. Surratt Beauty’s La Baton Rouge Lip Duo ($38) and Charlotte Tilbury’s Instant Look in a Palette ($75) are among some of my go-tos,” she advises. Baraf also recommends making your existing products work harder by using your bronzer as an eye shadow, a chubby lip pencil as both a lip liner and lipstick, and so on.

Approximate time saved per week: 20 minutes

The hack: apply dry shampoo within 12-24 hours of washing your hair.

How it works: Contrary to popular belief, dry shampoo is intended to work as more of a preventative measure, rather than as a replacement for traditional shampoo, says Fincher. “When you apply dry shampoo within 12-24 hours of washing your hair (or immediately after blow drying), the dry shampoo is able to absorb the excess natural oils as you produce them, which keeps your hair cleaner longer," she explains.

Approximate time saved per week: 3 hours (depending on how often one typically washes and blow dries hair)

Getting dressed, the hack: color-block your core wardrobe items.

How it works: When getting dressed, Smith points out that people typically look for certain styles or colors to complete a look. “Organizing your closet and drawers by style, as well as color, allows you to find items more quickly and with less hassle, getting you out the door faster and in a good mood,” she explains.

Approximate time saved per week: 30-45 minutes (based on 10-15 minutes saved looking for clothing at least three times a week)

The hack: create a mix-and-match wardrobe.

How it works: As another way to help prep clothing for the week , Smith suggests setting aside a day over the weekend to select 14 pieces (for example, three dresses, four bottoms, four tops, two jackets and one jumpsuit) that can be worn together. “This allows you to create a combination of a minimum of 10 looks that you can swap, layer, etc. In addition, you can pre-steam/iron the pieces and pull out accessories that generally work for each of the looks.” Engelbach says this also allows you to notice any snags — like stains or loose buttons — ahead of time and save you the hassle of dealing with it last minute.

Approximate time saved per week: 3.5 hours (based on an average of 30 minutes saved per day)

time travel life hacks

Ask an RD Convenience foods nutritionists use to save time in the kitchen

The hack: whip up a weekly supply of breakfast smoothies.

How it works: As another morning trick, Engelbach likes to create a large batch of one type of smoothie and separate it into serving-size freezer bags. “Place one bag into the refrigerator before bed and your breakfast is basically ready to go the next morning,” she advises. If you crave more variety, you can also gather a week’s worth of fruits and vegetables for your smoothie and separate them into serving-size freezer bags. “When it’s time to make your morning smoothie, grab a frozen pack and toss the contents into the blender.”

Approximate time saved per week: 90-120 minutes (based on an additional 15-20 minutes spent gathering ingredients, preparing and cleaning each additional morning)

The hack: batch-cook grains and veggies.

How it works: To save time and hassle prepping, preparing and cleaning on weeknights, Samantha Cassetty , MS, RD, a nutrition and weight loss expert, recommends batch-cooking up a single grain (such as quinoa or brown rice), along with a sheet pan of veggies (like broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts) on Sunday nights. “With this strategy, you can create a number of meals and season as you go. For example, toss the veggies in a store-bought pesto sauce on night one and serve with quinoa and sautéed shrimp (also tossed in the pesto). On night two, have a nourishing bowl with a base of veggies, a scoop of quinoa, some hummus, canned, rinsed chickpeas and olives. On night three, you might serve the quinoa and veggies along with some rotisserie chicken,” she explains.

Approximate time saved per week: 2 ½ hours

The hack: opt for frozen produce.

How it works: Don’t have time to hit the supermarket? Keep your freezer well-stocked so you can amplify meals with produce on the fly. “Frozen produce is always fresh, and often pre-prepped, saving you additional time when it comes to chopping and so on. Plus, it steams up in minutes in the microwave, which also shaves significant cooking time. I love tossing steamed veggies into pesto sauce for an easy side dish,” suggests Cassetty, who also recommends keeping frozen grains handy.

Approximate time saved per week: 3 hours (considering the typical time spent traveling to the grocery store and preparing fresh produce items)

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Frequent Flyers Share Their 10 Best Airport Hacks

Posted: March 28, 2024 | Last updated: March 28, 2024

<p><span>People share a lot of travel hacks on an online platform. Air travel needs tips and hacks to avoid problems and have a smart experience.</span></p>

People share a lot of travel hacks on an online platform. Air travel needs tips and hacks to avoid problems and have a smart experience.

<p>There are many things that are technically legal, yet many believe they should be banned.</p>

1. Free Wi-Fi

Without the internet, it is impossible to proceed to an airport. All the flight details and timings are available online. Thus, people have proper internet packages before leaving for an airport. But some people forget that free Wi-Fi is available in almost all airports. So if one does not have the internet on his phone, he can easily use the free Wi-Fi at the airport.

<p><span>Vacuum-sealed compression bags are like the Houdini of luggage! They work wonders by sucking out all that excess air from your clothes. Don’t forget to pack some reusable shopping bags or stylish totes in your arsenal in these compressed bags. Need a laundry separator? Check. Forgot your eco-friendly tote? No problem. What is the issue with keeping your skincare products safe? Voila! These bags are an all-in-one option for travelers. </span></p>

2. Strong Bags

While traveling in the air, luggage is handed over to the airport workers and cabin crew. They arrange the bags of all passengers in luggage chambers. And while transportation and checking these bags pass through many stages. In all these, some bags get damaged, while others damage others. A hack to save your bag is to purchase a hard bag that can not be destroyed easily.

<p>Listen to this unwavering advocate who passionately argues that journals should remain off-limits to their partner, no matter how amazing their relationship is. They open up about their partner faithfully penning down their thoughts and reflections in a journal every night, completely unaware of its contents. To this person, their partner's journal is a sacred sanctuary for personal musings and emotions, meant to be shared only by choice. Similarly, they maintain their own journal and firmly believe that their partner shouldn't gain access to it unless a conscious decision to share has been made.</p>

3. Do a Little Homework

Doing some homework and research before having a flight ticket is necessary. Some airports are large. And they have a bus system to go to other terminals from one terminal. The one who is flying for the time will waste all his time by understanding the terminal locations. In this, he may lose his flight. This homework is compulsory in having connecting flights.

<p><span>A parking hack shared by a traveler says to take a picture of your parking car. If one is going on a long trip and has parked his car in airport parking, he may forget the location because hundreds of cars are parked at a time. He can use pictures to find the location to save time and avoid ambiguity.</span></p>

4. Take a Picture of Parking

A parking hack shared by a traveler says to take a picture of your parking car. If one is going on a long trip and has parked his car in airport parking, he may forget the location because hundreds of cars are parked at a time. He can use pictures to find the location to save time and avoid ambiguity.

<p><span>Before arriving at the airport, try to know what its layout is. It’ll save time in finding your gate or amenities. It’ll save time, and you can avoid feeling lost and locate your passage at the airport. So, familiarize yourself with the airport layout to make the whole process less time-consuming. This way, you’d know where you have to go if you have to bring something or in case of any emergency,</span></p>

5. Dress to Egress

A woman shared her traveling hack. She said wearing an easy and formal dress is preferable at the airport. A girl with tight boots will find ease in any emergency case or evacuation. But a girl with high heels will get stuck. Similarly, in the case of fire, the synthetic cloths will melt to the skin. On the other hand, non-synthetic clothes will save the body.

<p>“You mean I can't walk through TSA security checks, without a ticket for that day, stop a plane from taking off by talking to the customer service agent, rush onto the plane without a ticket because ‘the woman I love is leaving forever'? One guy quipped.</p>

6. Headphone Volume Low

One commentator shared that people use headphones to kill time at the airport. They enjoy the music at a loud volume. And then they miss the announcements of flights. Thus the wise act is to keep one ear free or keep the volume low so that that announcement is audible to the passenger.

<p><span>Do you need internet connectivity to get lost in a new city? Fear not; a savvy traveler has a solution. Downloading the entire city map on Google Maps for offline use is the way to go. This way, you'll always have access to the map, even without an internet connection. Plus, it can save you data charges, especially when traveling internationally. With an offline map, you can easily search for restaurants, tourist attractions, and other places of interest without an internet connection.</span></p>

7. Lost Chargers

The airport is a place of hustle and bustle. In a hurry, people forget or lose their things. And the charger of mobile phone is a common thing to lose. The passenger who has lost his charger can go to the lost and found section and ask them. The lost things remain there for 90 days. If not found, they must have a spare charger for you.

<p>People had a remarkable skill before smartphones: retaining telephone numbers. Without the aid of digital address books, we dialed contacts that were stored in our minds. With contact lists conveniently stored in smartphones, which free up our memory for other crucial tasks, this ability has almost disappeared.</p>

8. Helpline On-Phone Call

There is a department of helpline at the airport. If any passengers have questions about the flights, routes, and terminals or complain about staff, information, or facilities, they can contact this department. But the waiting line is very long. There are approximately 400 to 600 people. A wise hack is to call the online helpline. They provide the same services but faster.

<p><span>Airport chapels are places that are religious and spiritual. But they do not have any religious symbols. These places are made to have comfort and to relax. Almost all big airports have airport chapels. But new passengers do not know about it. They can go there to pass the time till their flight announcement.</span></p>

9. Airport Chapels

Airport chapels are places that are religious and spiritual. But they do not have any religious symbols. These places are made to have comfort and to relax. Almost all big airports have airport chapels. But new passengers do not know about it. They can go there to pass the time till their flight announcement.

<p><span>Somebody shared an account of Germanwings Flight 9525, where the co-pilot locked himself in the cockpit and deliberately set the plane on a course into the French Alps. Despite the frantic efforts of the crew, the cockpit door was reinforced and impenetrable, leaving passengers to witness their terrifying fate as the mountains grew larger in their windows.</span></p>

10. Keep Essentials With You

The most important tip for the passengers at the airport is here. Sometimes the luggage gets lost or gets late for about 2 to 4 days. Thus one should keep his essentials in his hand-carry bag, such as mobile phones, chargers, precious materials, and cash. 

<p><span>In the realm of celebrities, certain individuals’ attractiveness transcends the screen, captivating the hearts and minds of fans worldwide. These stars possess a magnetic presence, leaving a lasting impression with their striking looks and undeniable charm. Recently, people shared such celebrities on an online platform whose sheer attractiveness is nothing short of distracting. </span></p><ul> <li><a href="https://maxmymoney.org/10-celebrities-that-are-distractingly-attractive/">10 Celebrities That Are Distractingly Attractive</a></li> </ul>

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In the realm of celebrities, certain individuals’ attractiveness transcends the screen, captivating the hearts and minds of fans worldwide. These stars possess a magnetic presence, leaving a lasting impression with their striking looks and undeniable charm. Recently, people shared such celebrities on an online platform whose sheer attractiveness is nothing short of distracting. 

<p>An enlightened soul expresses the joy of confidently saying “no” and setting boundaries without feeling guilty. Age brings a stronger feeling of self and the ability to assert oneself without hesitation. They no longer feel obligated to please others at their own expense and can prioritize their own well-being. Saying “no” becomes empowering and liberating, allowing them to choose that aligns with their own desires and needs.</p>

  • “No Boomer – We Don’t Want You Here” These 10 States Are Not For Boomers Nor Retirees

If you’re thinking about making a big move in retirement, it’s important to consider what characteristics you want in your new home and which ones to avoid at all costs. Here is a list of the top 10 worst states to retire in.

<p><span>Dogs are man's best friend, but only some are comfortable getting up close and personal with their furry companions. A canine critic, in particular, finds kissing dogs on their mouths revolting. Dogs are known to eat unsavory things like cat poop, making the thought of mouth-to-mouth contact enough to make this individual feel nauseous. While others may find it endearing, this person prefers to show affection for their dog in other ways.</span></p>

“Businesses Are Desperate” 12 Jobs Employers Can’t Fill No Matter How High The Pay

Nowadays, in the job market, opportunities are increasing. Because many industries continuously advance and expand their business, it creates many job vacancies. Same time a need for suitable candidates. Let us discuss a few job vacancies that often remain empty.

  • 12 Jobs Employers Can’t Fill No Matter How High The Pay

<p>Looks will only get you so far. What really makes a man attractive besides his outward appearance?</p><ul> <li><a href="https://maxmymoney.org/if-he-does-that-hes-hot-10-traits-that-make-women-go-crazy-for-a-guy/">“If He Does That He’s Hot” 10 Traits That Make Women Go Crazy For A Guy</a></li> </ul>

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<p>One user says, “I don't want to be in that kind of relationship. It would be so annoying, embarrassing, and would lead to such a toxic relationship.”</p> <p>Another user asked, “If the partner says something, the other will be hurt but better in social or public settings, and embarrassment will be saved. On the other hand, it's a lack of humility to assume your ways are better than others, so in principle, there are no grounds for “correcting” Karen behavior, right?”</p>

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20 Genius Time-Saving Hacks

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« the real secret to a successful day an epic night time routine.

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Multiple bestselling author, #1 podcast host and TEDx speaker. 

time travel life hacks

Get all the benefits of 1 hour's meditation in just 11 minutes.

Time is the most precious resource we have. You can never make more of it — once you’ve spent your precious minutes or hours on something, they’re gone for good. So it’s important to get conscious about how you’re spending your time, and to not waste even a second that could be better spent doing something else.

Getting conscious of my time has been a HUGE focus of mine over the past few years. People often ask how I get so much done and fit so much into my life, and the answer is always that I’m incredibly intentional with my time.

If you’d like to start getting more intentional with YOUR time, try these 20 time-saving hacks I swear by — they help me squeeze the juice out of my days, and they can help you make the most of your precious time too. Check them out… 

  • Decide where you keep your keys and wallet, and only ever put those items in that one place. It should be somewhere that’s within easy reach of your front door, so you aren’t tempted to leave them in the wrong spot simply because it’s more convenient. This one step can make sure you never spend another moment of your life hunting for your car keys… cheers to that! (For bonus brownies points, get your kids and partner on board too — get them to pick a designated space for their school bag or wallet, and watch how much easier it is every time you need to leave the house.)
  • Lay out your workout gear the night before. That way, you won’t waste valuable time (or squander your self-discipline) rummaging around for your favourite yoga pants in the dark in the morning. You will also not waste time procrastinating about whether or not you are going to work out or not — your clothes are out, so you’ll just get going. 
  • Do all your food shopping and meal prep on the weekends, so your midweek isn’t chaotic. You can write up a meal plan so you don’t waste time trying to think of what to cook each day (or worse, get take out, or decide on a meal, then realise you don’t have everything you need, then have to jump in the car to pick up what you should have got on the weekend.) Your future self will thank you loads for stocking the fridge with healthy food and being organised!
  • Always make a double batch at dinner so you’ve got enough for the next day’s lunch.
  • Alternatively, prep or make dinner at lunch. If you’re already cutting up veggies, making brownies or whipping up a hummus, why not take a few steps towards dinner so it’s halfway (or all) done. Always think one meal ahead.
  • Get your food delivered. (And no, I don’t mean UberEats). There are loads of organic fruit and veg box delivery services. I mix it up and sometime go to the organic farmers’ market on the weekend, but if we’ve got something else on, or if we have been travelling and missed the markets, or we’ve got an extra full week planned, we organise a produce delivery (and high five ourselves when dinner time rocks around and we’ve got loads of fresh produce to play with).
  • Automate regular purchases. Know you’ll need a box of recycled toilet paper each month? Or a big bag of dog biscuits for Rufus? Set up an automatic subscription that will deliver direct to your door. Bonus points for choosing an eco-friendly company. (We don’t have pets, but for loo paper, we love Who Gives A Crap which is 100% recycled toilet paper and 50% of profits go towards building toilets in the developing world. Good for your tush, and even better for the environment and the people who need help the most.)
  • Get a digital calendar that your whole family and your team can access. That way, everyone knows what’s going on and when, so there’s no back and forth with emails, phone calls or texts trying to book something in. If my team needs to book a meeting, podcast interview or anything at all, they don’t have to call or email me to ask if I’m available, they can go straight into my calendar and see for themselves.
  • Plan your week on Sunday. On Sunday, Nick and I always have a chat about the week ahead to see if there’s anything we need to book, talk about, move or organise. We see who’s doing which school pick-ups and drop-offs on which days. We put in when we are working out, when we have meetings, work, interviews, self care time, lover’s time, catch-ups with friends… everything goes into our calendar.
  • Prep the day before. The last thing I do before I shut down my computer for the day is to look at my calendar for the following day and make sure everything’s in place for it to run smoothly.
  • Touch it once. Don’t put things off for a later date, or get half way through something to then have to touch it again later. Take care of things on the first touch if you can and if time permits. This is great for things like emails and social media: instead of opening the email or message and thinking ‘I’ll respond later’, just do it then and there. Don’t open your emails, messages or DM’s if you don’t have the space then and there to respond. Nowadays people can see when you have opened and read it and if you don’t respond they may think something is wrong. So leave it unread until you have the space to respond. 
  • Do it once and do it well. You can either do something once and do it well… or you can do a shitty job the first time, and then eventually have to go back and fix it anyway (likely wasting more time and maybe even more money). So just do it once and do it well the first time. Simple.
  • Simplify your options. Streamlining your choices is an easy way to cut down the amount of time you spend making decisions. You can do this in so many life areas. Easy ones are your wardrobe and food choices. Dress à la Steve Jobs by having a ‘uniform’ you wear every day. And consider eating variations of the same thing for breakfast each day to avoid fussing, time-wasting and decision fatigue. 
  • Remove your phone. If you are working on a project or task, keep your phone on silent (or airplane mode) in the drawer so you don’t get distracted by it. Whilst writing this post, my phone is on airplane mode in the drawer out of sight. This post would have taken double the amount of time to write if I was constantly getting pulled out of the moment with dings and pings every few seconds. 
  • Never go empty handed. We have a rule in our house that whenever you walk up the stairs, you must take something back to your room, or if you are going outside you have to take rubbish etc. 
  • Block the sites you procrastinate on. SelfControl is an amazing free app that lets you do this.
  • Say ‘no thank you’ to invites and events that you don’t actually want to attend. I have a policy that if it’s not a full body ‘hell yeah’, then it’s a ‘no thank’, end of story.  
  • Learn on the go. Listening to podcasts or audiobooks while you’re driving, walking, cleaning the house or hanging washing is a great way to time hack. (If you’re a super speedy listener, you can even change the settings to listen at 1.5 or double time.)
  • Every time you get up from your computer to use the bathroom, fill up your water bottle so you constantly have clean water beside your desk. 
  • Schedule procrastination time. Your brain needs some rest, and sometimes that new episode of Suits can do wonders for replenishing your mental reserves.

There you have it, my friend — 20 genius time saving hacks that allow me to do and achieve more in my life, and avoid wasting precious minutes of time.

Have you got any tips to add? Please add your top time saving hack below so we can create a long list together. 

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Such an informative blog post. Keep up the good work

So glad you loved it Tas. Do you have any tips to add?

I love all these tips Melissa. I have to tell you how motivating you are to me. A little over a year ago a close friend of mine encouraged me to listen to your podcast, most importantly the podcast you had with Dana James, I had been struggling for years with my weight, time and time again nothing seemed to work. Until I heard THAT podcast and I got Dana’s book, it all clicked. My friend had found you to be so motivating and once I listened to that first podcast I was hooked as well. That podcast with Dana James and her book The Architype Diet changed my life. Actually finding you, listening to you has changed my life (and other various guests you’ve had on your show too, another we continually listen to is Dr Stephen Cabral, thank you for pointing us in his direction), and I want you to know finding you (and your podcast) this past year has been incredibly life changing for me. Last year at this time I was in a very difficult time of my life. My husband (who was the love of my life) had become quite ill and I was having a hard time of it. But listening to you, and all the motivating guests you have had on your show helped me tremendously, as I was leading up to what I had to go through this past September, saying good bye to my husband. I live on the East coast of New Hampshire in the US and if you’re ever in NH, I’d love to meet you. Looking forward to your new books. And I hope you’re feeling better!

Carole, thank you SO MUCH for your kind words, AND for sharing all that with me. I’m sending you so much love and I truly hope to one day get to hug you in real life. I spend a bit of time in LA so maybe we can meet there. Keep looking forward angel and know you are on the right path. All my love. xx

Great tips Melissa. I’m a big procrastinator, something I really need to work on. The click and collect option is such a great time saver too for groceries, saves buying unnecessary items as well.

Exactly honey. I’m so glad you loved this post. xx

Thank you!! Time management ideas are like gold for me and for my elementary school students as well. To help my students focus on a daunting task, I help them by setting a timer for just a few minutes and set a goal for the amount of pages they will read or writing they will accomplish. Then when the timer goes off- they are most often easily able to work on another segment of the project. Sometimes we will use the timer again while sometimes it is not needed. I suggest to parents they try this at home with homework too and I’ve gotten great feedback on this suggestion!! Thanks again Melissa!! You are such a wise, soulful, and delightfully uplifting voice. Ox

Such a great idea Tracy. I believe we need to teach our children young to set them up for success. You’re doing an awesome job at that sister. Keep it up. xx

Love this Melissa! Touch it once and laying out clothes is so key and something I want to strengthen right now, Thank You. For me waking up at least two hours before everyone else allows me to get my personal practice in and hyper focus on work. I try to do an important thing that I need to get done that is done best while being uninterrupted.

Me too honey. I do ALL my MIT’s (Most Important Tasks) first! It works well for me. Keep up your awesome work angel. xx

Thank you for this post Melissa. Very interesting! I already do a lot of the points you mentioned but definitely learned new ones which I will put in place. Will try the self control app and introduce to my teenage son as well

It’s great for kids too. Enjoy! xx

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Hi Gorgeous, I'm Melissa.

Multiple bestselling author, #1 podcast host and tedx speaker..

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The game-changing iPhone life hack to use when you're flying

  • Flying is stressful enough . Why not make it just a bit easier if you can?
  • A viral life hack gives you up-to-date flight info by simply texting yourself your flight number.
  • Here's how it works.

Insider Today

If you've ever flown before, you know it can be a bit stressful sometimes. From last-minute gate changes that have you hustling across the terminal to delays and cancellations , there's a lot to keep track of.

Fortunately, there's a super-easy life hack that'll help you stay on top of everything you need to know for your flight.

Darby Maloney, who said she used to be an airline employee, posted about the pro tip earlier this month in a now-viral TikTok .

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First, you text yourself your flight number; be sure it includes the airline code at the start that denotes your carrier. For American Airlines , for example, that code is AA, as Maloney notes.

Here's an example:

Your text should then appear as a link you can tap; from there, you'll want to tap "Preview Flight."

Doing this should bring up a live card showing important information about your flight. It includes your flight's status, terminal and gate information, departure and arrival times, duration, and baggage claim.

If you have a connecting flight , you can send yourself the number for that flight as well.

The life hack isn't just useful for you. If someone is picking you up at the airport , they can use this tip as well to make sure they're on time if your flight is early or delayed, Maloney suggested.

Just shoot them a quick text.

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If you are into RVs, you love their freedom and adventure. If you have entirely fallen in love with the idea, you might be looking to live in your RV full time.

This will limit your adventures and allow you to go to more places than you had imagined. Without the restrictions that come with living in one place, you can travel more and explore more of the world without inhibitions. However, you will also need to upgrade your RV to make it livable and more self-sufficient.

A sustainable plan involves making some changes to the structure of the RV to allow you to live comfortably and travel for longer distances without the need to refuel or stock up on supplies.

Thankfully, most upgrades do not require expensive materials and can be used with the supplies you typically find at a hardware store.

RV Storage Hacks/Tips

You will need a lot of storage for full-time living in your RV. The storage will enable you to have everything you need, and as such, you will have fewer stops along the way.

Additionally, having plenty of room to store your equipment and other items makes it easier for you to travel far and wide and even live in your RV for many days. When you have everything that you need readily available, you will not need to stop many times on the way.

1. Shower space as additional Storage

The shower is one of the places that you can turn into additional storage space for your clothes. By hanging a suspension rod, you will have created an extra closet which is important as it not only gets you the space to store your clothes but also enables you to travel with more clothes to change into.

Another thing to note about storage in the RV is that things tend to move about a lot.

2. Make use of Bungee and tension rods

Keeping them in place is important, and bungee cords and tension rods will be quite useful for this. Ensure that cabinets and other semi-loose items in your kitchen or bathroom are safely secured. This is important for your safety and keeping you comfortable while moving about.

3. Use Command Hooks

There will be less noise which means that you will be able to drive in peace. Another hack that you can make use of regarding storage is command hooks.

These will ensure that you can easily hang everything that needs to stay out of the way when it is not in use. You do not need to drill into your RV to install them, and you will have achieved more convenient storage.

4. Use File folder boxes for storage

Boxes are also important for your kitchen supplies and ensure you do not run out of food while on your camping trail. They also enable easy access to your supplies so that you have everything within reach when preparing meals.

File folder boxes can be hung, meaning they will be convenient for you, and storage will no longer be a problem in the kitchen. Another useful trick is to have a toothbrush holder with a suction cup.

Your toothbrush should be secure as you travel, and with the suction cup , it will be safe and germ-free as you are traveling. Nesting your spoons and bowls is also important, and as a storage mechanism, it allows you to keep yourself more organized. They also take up less space, giving you the necessary convenience.

5. Use Oven as storage when not in Use

In case you still have more things that need to be stored in your kitchen, the oven is one place most people tend to forget. It is safe for your items, and it can hold a significant amount of utensils. Just remember to have the oven turned off and cool before stashing any items into it.

Temperature Control Tips For RV Living

Dealing with the heat and cold is another challenge when you are living in your RV full time, and as such, you must give yourself some privacy and a comfortable temperature.

1. Use Styrofoam to cover windows

Styrofoam can be used to cover your windows, and it gets you the privacy that you need. Whenever your oven is not working properly, a ceramic tile placed at the center will be a way to distribute heat evenly and ensure that you can cook meals as you like them.

2. Vent cushion to keep it cooler

Temperature is usually harder to regulate inside RVs since they are not insulated the way houses are. With a vent cushion, you will have made an investment that will take you a long way.

You can find these cushions at your hardware store, and they are quite useful for keeping the temperature of your RV regulated and under wraps.

Lighting Hacks in RV

The lighting is usually a challenge for most RV lovers during the night. However, there are several hacks to work around this, and you will find the site more comfortable when there is sufficient light at night.

1. Bright glow with bucket

For instance, you can use a bucket with a cheap light inside to create a bright glow around your campsite. This will provide the light you need at night and is not a costly investment.

2. Use LED lights

LED lights can also add to the ambiance of your interior, and the RV will be more comfortable and appealing with these lights. The soft glow from the LEDs will enable you to chill at night and feel right at home inside your RV.

The lighting can even be taken further by installing push lights in corners and dimly lit cabinets.

The additional glow that they add to the RV is just what you need, and whenever you are working on chores late into the night, they will enable you to see clearly.

Lighting can also be used to improve your safety at night. For instance, when you are getting in and out of the RV at night, strips of glowing tape on your stairs will ensure that you have the right direction and can safely get off and onto the RV.

RV Full time living Decoration Tips

To make your RV feel like home, a bit of decoration will go a long way. You can give your RV a makeover without going deep in your pockets by utilizing the items that you have available.

1. Use Crib sheets.

For instance, the cushions can be covered with crib sheets to make them look more appealing and comfortable for you. They will also upgrade the entire look of the RV, thus ensuring that you have the look you need.

2. Use Adhesive window film

Additionally, you can also include a matching tablecloth to enhance the atmosphere inside the RV. Adhesive window film can also be used for your windows as it adds to the aesthetics and gives you that added touch of privacy.

3. Use matching colors

It improves and customizes the space, making it possible for you to get the look and feel you want for your RV. The colors and style you choose should match your personal preferences, making it more conducive and comfortable for you.

4. Put a digital frame

A digital photo frame is another addition that can be made to the RV, as it will give you a place to show all your pictures without the need for multiple frames.

It also adds a lively feel to your RV and makes it more comfortable and just like home for you. With the RV decorated, you will not feel cramped up inside, and as such, you will easily be able to stay inside for as long as you need.

Also, the space inside should be airy, which is where the additional storage comes in. with the storage, you will have managed to get the clutter out of the way in addition to giving your RV that organized look, which makes it feel more like home.

5. Try different styles, colors and arrangements

Getting some interior design tips from the internet can also assist with your decoration and help you get the upgrade that you need for your RV.

Color choices and other decoration aspects can be, at times, difficult to choose, which means that you will be able to make the place feel more like home when you have colors that match your personality. Take your time with the colors and spruce up the RV to match your tastes and preferences.

Colors that you are comfortable with will make it possible for you to live longer in your RV, and you will always be comfortable knowing that you have the decoration that is needed for your new home.

Take the time to carefully select the colors that you are more comfortable with since the interior will be what you will be seeing most of the time.

When you are not driving, you will be inside reading, snacking, or doing some other activity that is of interest to you.

As such, you will barely have time for anything else.

With a comfortable, conducive, and relaxing environment, you will be able to get more done, and you will not get sick or tired from living in such a place. Your RV can be turned into a home.

Just remember to use the decorations and colors that you love, as this is an important step to falling in love with your new home and embracing it as the movable home that will take you places and adventures of all kinds.

Additional Tips

In terms of parks and campgrounds, community centers are the ideal choice for you. When you intend to make the RV your home, you should also be in a matching neighborhood.

The community center feels just like home and gives you a familiar environment to in.

With the open space, you will be able to get the additional amenities that are not available with your RV, in addition to that extra comfort and peace of mind knowing that you are at a safe campground.

1. Plan your campgrounds in advance, even when you intend to travel to a new place, as this will enable you to decide on where to stop and rest or even refresh your RV with new supplies.

At the community center, you will also have access to WiFi which means that occasionally, you will be able to catch up with the rest of the world and update them with a blog post or a couple of social media posts.

These amenities are privileges when you are camping, and they enable you to stay ahead of everyone else in terms of new information.

Safety is also important, and when you intend to make the RV your home, you must keep this in mind.

2. Do not camp on grounds that you are not familiar with, and always plan your route in advance.

It pays to be well prepared, and whenever you have planned the route properly ahead of any move, you will be able to select spots that are known for their safety.

You can also stay in the different campgrounds for a while to enable you to rest as well as save on fuel. Additionally, the use of outdoor lights will make your nights more comfortable as they clearly mark your campground while you are resting for the night.

3. Boondock careful

Boondocking is a great way to save money and experience the nature but it must be done with great care. Be aware of the area you are visiting, make sure you have proper access of things for emergency.

4. Make use of Apps

With popularity of RVing, here have been many apps and online businesses that provide discounts on various things like campgrounds, RV accessories. Take advantage of those apps and make most of it.

5. Use Solar

Generator, Battery or propane are reliable power sources but can be costly overall when you are full time RVing. Solar is a great alternative and using it in addition to other power sources can be a great choice, its green energy too.

An RV is a convenient means of moving around the country and seeing new places. They are meant for fun-lovers and campers with a spirit for adventure. Some people fall in love with them and convert them into their homes.

Full-time living in an RV requires plenty of preparation, and you have to be ready to make a number of changes.

With the hacks, tips, and ideas provided in this post, you will be able to easily make your RV the home that you have always wanted.

A few simple upgrades are all that you need, while the rest is best left to your fun-loving spirit. If you intend to live full-time in your RV, be sure to make the necessary changes and upgrades in order to make it feel more like home. When you are living comfortably, you will not be worried about where you are, which allows for more adventure and exploration.

Hopefully, you will find one or two tips in this article that will prove useful for you. Remember, your RV has to be comfortable and livable for the long term. The upgrades you make are important and will determine how you live in the RV for the rest of the season.

time travel life hacks

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  • 27 March 2024

The real time-travel paradox was the friends we made along the way

  • Rodrigo Culagovski 0

Rodrigo is a Chilean architect, designer and web developer. He currently heads a web development agency and is a researcher and professor at Universidad Católica in Chile. He has published in Dark Matter Presents: Monstrous Futures , Solarpunk Magazine and Future Science Fiction Digest . On Mastodon as @[email protected] . He misses his Commodore 64. Pronouns he/him/él.

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Illustration: Jacey

You have full access to this article via your institution.

She was taller than me. Prettier and with better muscle tone. Shinier hair and perfect skin and teeth. Which was odd because she claimed she was me — from the future.

“Mmmmf!” I said.

“Sorry about the gag. Let me loosen it.”

“What the hell!? You’re here to kill me — won’t that kill you, too?”

She rolled her eyes. “No, it didn’t. I’m here, aren’t I?”

I scoffed. “I might not be a time-travelling assassin supermodel —”

“Yet,” she interjected with a smile.

“— but even I know that’s impossible. It’s a time whatchamacallit … a paradox!”

time travel life hacks

Read more science fiction from Nature Futures

She leant forward with a gleam in her eyes like I was 101 puppies, and she was in the market for a winter coat. “Yes, exactly! I need a paradox, a large one. Killing myself is the biggest event I can put into motion at such short notice.”

I struggled against the plastic straps that bound my hands behind my kitchen-table chair. “That doesn’t make any sense!”

“Sorry, I don’t have the time to explain the general theory of paradoxity or walk you through my calculations.”

“Calculations about what?” I asked — as long as I kept her talking, she wasn’t murdering me.

“About how much energy the death will release. Don’t worry — it will have been enough.”

“Energy for what?”

She let out an exasperated sigh. “Let me make it simple: what’s the biggest paradox you’ve heard of?”

“I don’t know — everything I say is a lie? ”

“No, that just means you don’t understand set theory. The greatest one is existence itself: why is there something instead of nothing ? It gave rise to everything, and — together with other, smaller paradoxes — keeps everything going.

“Uh huh,” I said, humouring my future self.

“But those bastards from the CCCCCC — the Chronological Continuum Consistency Coordinated Consortium Confederacy — are obsessed with timescape integrity . They’ve pushed my team back everywhen, undoing our efforts to make the timeline a better place to live in. They will even make sure World War Three — which we’d managed to avoid, you’re welcome — will begin right on time next Tuesday. I need to finish them once and for all. They’re out of control. They’ll go too far back; undo the Paradox of Life itself —”

“Life’s a paradox?”

“Duh!” — I hadn’t realized how obnoxious it is when I do that — “Why else would dumb, entropic matter organize itself into something that can laugh, love and fart?”

I looked around and saw an old family picture. “Why kill me? Wouldn’t killing somebody like … not mum or dad, um … would grandma Georgina work? We never liked her.”

“No, we didn’t. Remember the haircut incident in third grade?” She chuckled softly. “But no, sorry, it must be me, or it won’t have enough juice. A tight timeloop like this should release ten-to-the-twelfth-power chronojoules. The CCCCCC bastards will never see it coming!”

I grasped for something, anything to distract her. “Aren’t you supposed to be older? Why do you look better than me?”

She looked down at her body. “It’s a back-echo of the energy release. It rearranges nearby systems into their optimal state. And this,” she waved at herself, “is more optimal than, well, that.” She pointed at me.

“Thanks so much for taking the time to insult me before killing me.”

“No problem.” She looked at some glowing numbers on her wrist. “This will have been fun but time has run out of time — we have to do this now.”

She pulled out a knife and slipped behind me.

“Stop!” I said, but she didn’t. I felt something shift and fell forward. There was a flash of something much brighter than ordinary light could ever be.

My hands weren’t tied behind me any more. I leapt up, trying to remember the three weeks of taekwondo I’d taken back in high school — and hoping she didn’t. I turned and saw a hotter version of myself lying on the floor with a gash on the side of her throat. Blood was spreading out on the white carpet my ex-boyfriend had picked out. Good, I never liked it, or him — wait, why was I still breathing?

I looked down — my body had changed. I looked like her now. I felt the energy and knowledge move through me. I knew what I had to do — fight those bastards from the CCCCCC and win.

There was just one thing I didn’t understand. I knelt beside her. “This doesn’t make any sense. I thought you had to kill me?”

She looked up with a small, weak smile. I leant in to hear her say, “If it made sense, it wouldn’t be a paradox, would it?”

The story behind the story

Rodrigo Culagovski reveals the inspiration behind The real time-travel paradox was the friends we made along the way .

My offspring and I love to watch superhero team TV series. They usually feature some — or a lot — of time travel, and are full of plot holes and paradoxes, to the point where we joke that time-travel paradoxes are their real super power.

I’m also a member of Codex, an SFF writers community. We hold flash-fiction contests twice a year. Last year, one of the prompts was “Road trip! Where are you going and who are you bringing with?” I didn’t use it as is, but it got me thinking of my favourite snowclone, “The Real X Was the Friends We Made Along the Way”.

This story is the love child of these two ideas.

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00897-w

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Life's Hard Enough, So Here Are 19 Little Hacks And Tricks That Seem Made Up, But Have Actually Helped People Out

I will forever be pointing and yelling at my straightener, "You're unplugged!" before I leave the house so I don't panic about it later.

Hannah Dobrogosz

BuzzFeed Staff

I recently stumbled upon this useful Reddit thread that asked users, "What life hack seems to be fake, but it's a true lifesaver?" I know variations of this question are asked all the time, and some of the same tips appear time and time again. Well, this thread introduced me to some tips that actually surprised me! Here's what people shared:

1. "put your hard drive in the freezer to get it to spin up one more time. i swear to god i thought it was bs until i was out of options and tried it. the damn thing came back on a few more times, and i got the data off of it that i needed.".

— u/knightcrusader

"I'm not sure there is a better answer for this question. It is such a goofy solution that shouldn't realistically work. The number of times I've successfully extracted data from a dying drive using this technique is ridiculous. When a good friend of mine gave me this advice over the phone, I remember being genuinely annoyed that he wasn't offering any real guidance. He had 20+ years in IT at that point, and he was my go-to in times of crisis. I was absolutely gobsmacked when it worked. Over the years, I perfected the method by first freezing the drive in a Ziploc bag, then placing it (with all cables connected) into a cooler of ice and water. Occasionally I found lightly tapping on the top right corner of the drive with a hammer allowed me to get over that last hump of extraction."

— u/MJSlayer

2. "When you don't know what to gift someone, look through who they follow on Instagram, such as artists, bands, etc. to buy something from them!"

— u/Chloe_Clementine

Three stacked gifts wrapped in blue and purple patterned paper

3. "Sniffing rubbing alcohol gets rid of nausea."

— u/Saifyre-Lion

"I thought there was a mention that you shouldn't sniff it straight from the bottle since that can be dangerous."

— u/OreoPumpkinSpice

"Yeah, I use the 1"x1" squares for this, and they work beautifully in a pinch!"

— u/Chemical_Egg_2761

"A nurse told me this when I was in the hospital once, and now it is my go-to trick."

— u/actuallyamber

4. "Try raising one foot a little off the ground to test how long you can stay awake in class or during a meeting if you're experiencing problems staying awake."

— u/EngagingAgar

Students in a classroom, one yawning with eyes closed, others studying and taking notes

5. "If you're still in an office and are just walking around, always carry a piece of paper and walk briskly. Look at it when a superior is approaching. They'll assume you're on your way to discuss something, the copier, etc."

— u/CTnaturist

6. "How to get rid of cold callers at your door or on the phone quickly without being rude. I discovered this by accident. Someone knocked on my door selling a service I already had, and they asked if I'd like to talk about their service. I said, 'Oh, I'm already a customer. I'd love to talk about it.' I was being genuine, too. They could not get away quickly enough, which I thought was odd. Then, it occurred to me that by saying I was a happy customer already, they knew there was zero chance of a sale, so any further time talking to me cost them potential sales."

— u/Lloytron

Person in a suit knocking on a closed door

7. "Many years ago, I had the fans go out on my Macbook, which rendered it nearly unusable. I was pretty strapped at the time and wasn't looking forward to a pricy Apple store repair job, so I went to YouTube to see if there were any fixes. I found a video where some guy said to just punch it a few times above the number key row where the fans were packed in beneath. This felt like a complete troll, but I figured that even if it did further damage, I was going to have to shell out for the repair anyway, so I might as well give it shot. I gave it a few love taps, and sure enough, the fans whirred back to life, and I was back in business. Apparently, what happens is that over time, you get dust, crumbs, and other tiny pieces of debris into the gears of the fans, and they stop spinning. Apparently, bashing them a few times moved the shrapnel out of the way and allowed them to work again. Never had another issue with it the entire rest of the time I owned that computer."

— u/Plantayne

8. "If you have a door that’s sagging because the hinges are screwed into a wood doorframe and screws won’t stay tight, take the screws out of the doorframe, break toothpicks in half, and jam both halves into each hole, then screw the hinge back in. The wood from the toothpick in the compressed space should hold on and keep it from moving again."

— u/Lord_of_Allusions

"I did this for our loose doorknob. The whole thing wouldn't stay in the wood of the door anymore because it was so old and worn. I removed it completely, pushed a few halved toothpicks in, screwed it back on, and ta-da, it never ripped off again."

— u/-whodat

Container of toothpicks on a wooden table

9. "Warheads Extreme Sour Candy for when you're panicking. It doesn't solve all your problems, but it does snap you out of the panic for a minute."

— u/itstheskinofakiller

10. "If you’re drunk and go to bed and the room is spinning, put one foot out of the bed and on the floor, and it immediately stops the spins."

— u/VastTraffic8870

Man sleeping peacefully with one arm extended, lying on a bed with pillows

11. "If you live alone, you should buy an anti-choking device. Some brands are DeChoker, LifeVac, etc. Do some shopping research and pick whatever you see fit. Thousands of people die every year due to choking because of food, liquids, small swallowed objects, etc. People that live by themselves are at a higher risk since usually there is nobody around to assist them. With this apparatus at home, you've got a chance."

— u/Separate_Mango_666

12. "Yell at your vacuum cleaner to get your dogs to stop barking at it. Apparently, it helps your dogs realize that you are dominant over the vacuum, so they stop trying to protect you from it. Sounds like BS, but I literally did it once, and it was never a problem again."

— u/IAmNotScottBakula

"This works! I felt ridiculous telling my vacuum to sit and stay, and saying 'bad boy' in front of my dog. After that, the dog didn't care about the vacuum."

— u/silver_ells

"The opposite works, too. My dogs were scared of a balloon, and I spoke sweetly to it while petting it and saying, 'Good balloon!' They were totally fine with it afterwards."

— u/GoHernando

Corgi dog beside a vacuum cleaner in a living room, appearing curious or startled

13. "I like the 'two-minute rule.' If it takes less than two minutes, just do it right now. It greatly helps for people like myself who are prone to procrastinating. Whether it's folding a few shirts, making a phone call, putting away groceries, putting something in the kitchen away, cleaning something, etc. — if you put off trivial, small things, over time, they stack up and all become too overwhelming to do. If you follow the two-minute rule, you will find that you're more organized and there are less annoyances that get in the way of the real things to do."

— u/musecorn

14. "When calculating how much you're getting paid for your job, include the potential costs you saved from using insurance, transit passes, etc. You might, for example, find a job that pays a bit more in the future, but you could be actually taking a massive reduction if the benefits don't line up."

— u/Sabre_One

"When I started at my current job, I took a pretty massive pay cut and still came out further ahead because my current company pays 100% of my benefits for my entire family. The match on the 401k is about the same, but the profit-sharing they put in there when it's a good year puts it massively ahead."

— u/monstertots509

Person calculating finances with pen, calculator, and laptop on desk. Glasses and documents present

15. "White vinegar is great for washing clothes."

— u/theartilleryshow

"And removing odors. I used white vinegar on pet bedding and blankets to get rid of the smell."

— u/SnotandMisery

"Dilute it by half and put it into a spray bottle. Lightly spray the material, let it sit for 90 seconds, then use a cloth or paper towel to give it a rub. The vinegar smell dissipates quickly."

— u/urkgurghily

16. "If you hold your car key fob up to your throat, the signal goes farther."

— u/Routine_Trick_6775

Car key with integrated remote buttons and a keychain shaped like a car

17. "If you have an iPhone, hold down the space bar and you can move the curser all over the screen."

— u/0kNowWhat

18. "If you are one of the types that gets anxious about leaving the iron on or similar stuff, do this: Remove the plug from the socket, point at it, and say out loud, 'Iron is off.' You WILL remember that you did, in fact, turn it off."

"I used to do this, but the repetitive 'iron off' would become a blur since I did it every day, so it stopped working after a short amount of time. Now, I make funny faces in the mirror every time I turn off my straightening iron. Works like a charm."

— u/The-HotMess-Express

"My coworker takes a picture of his stove or door when he leaves for a trip to give himself the reassurance that the things are off, locked, etc."

— u/tekchic

An iron left face down on an ironing board, creating a potential fire hazard

19. And: "Baking soda is a miracle cleaner and unpleasant odor remover. You can clean ovens, clear up slightly clogged bathroom and kitchen drains, remove grease, remove stinks from furniture and clothing like shoes, etc."

— u/TheBassMeister

What are some handy tips or tricks that have made your life easier/better? Tell us in the comments!

Note: Submissions have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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Use This 1-Step iPhone Hack Next Time You Travel (You'll Thank Us Later)

If you're part of the iPhone squad, then you know there are a ton of  neat tricks  to make life a little bit easier. A great example is this travel hack that's going viral on TikTok, and trust us, the next time you're heading to your flight, you're going to want to try it out. Essentially, it allows you to easily track your flight information, so you can see at a glance if you're on time or delayed—and what terminal you should be heading to—all with a simple text message.

Here's How It Works:

Copy your flight number. You can find this unique six-digit code in your email or app once you book your flight.

Send flight number through iMessage. Paste the code to your friends and family members.

Click on the flight number. The code will automatically be underlined (like a link). Once they can click on it, a pop-up will offer two options: preview flight or copy flight code.

Discover flight tracking information. After clicking preview flight, you can see a map of the flight, current status, departing/arriving terminal, departing/arriving time, duration and even baggage claim.

A Few Things You Should Know

Good news! If you have an Android phone, you can still try out this hack. As one commenter said, "I'm pretty sure it does this with any phone. I've sent my mom my flight number and it was underlined and she doesn't have an iPhone."

Also, this hack might not work for every airline. So far, it works best for Delta, Alaska, Spirit, American Airlines, Southwest, Frontier and JetBlue. Oh, and it can only work on the actual day of the flight—I tried looking up my own flight happening in a couple of weeks and it didn't work.

Other than that, have fun trying out this super helpful hack yourself. It's good to know there's a quick way to find flight information and keep others updated on your trip.

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