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These little tips and tricks will make your next trip a breeze.
From packing and organizing before you leave. To enjoying a relaxing and stress-free journey. Tips for getting the most out of your time once you arrive on location. As well as, creating meaningful memories and mementos that last a lifetime. I have got you covered! Here are my all time favourite travel hacks:
Packing Hacks/ Before you Go
Roll your clothes so they stay wrinkle free.
Screw overpriced and flimsy packing cubes, pack clothes in Ziploc bags. You can literally squish all of the air out of the bag and vacuum seal your clothes. Bonus points for waterproofing too. If you reinforce the seams with duct tape they will last a long time.
Pack your shoes in shower caps to keep mud and dirt off of your other items.
Water socks can be used in the pool or worn as lightweight shoes.
Sarongs are the best travel multi-purpose accessory: wear as a scarf, a dress, a light blanket or a beach towel.. super light-weight, stylish, versatile, and quick drying.
Keep dryer sheets in your luggage to keep clothes smelling fresh.
Money belts or fanny packs are a great way to carry your belongings hands-free and concealed.
Pack a cooling pillowcase to help sleep if its hot at night.
Aloe vera always goes with me when travelling, its great for sunburns, windburns, dry skin, and can be used as a lightweight hair gel.
Use a binder clip over-top of your razor to prevent it from snapping or accidently cutting yourself.
Take back up pictures/screenshots of everything and store in the cloud in case of emergency.
Have a paper photocopy of your passport to give to hotels or rental shops.
Bring a pen (or three)
Bring some snacks from home to share with new friends (or just enjoy a taste of home if you get homesick).
Learn a few words/phrases in the local language. Hello, please, and thank you are a good place to start.
On Your Way There
Book 12+ hour layovers to get a taste a new city for no extra charge.
Adjust your sleep schedule to local time zone during your flight to avoid jetlag.
Mark baggage as fragile so it’s handled gently.
Use zip ties instead of TSA locks on your luggage (just make sure you have a pair of scissors, or nail clippers accessible to clip them and access your bag on arrival).
Using your sunglasses as an impromptu phone holder.
Bring some duty-free snacks/treats for flight attendants.
They are overworked and underappreciated. Not saying it will guarantee an upgrade or special treatment, but it’s a nice way to show thanks.
Wear compression socks to help reduce swelling in feet and legs.
Noise cancelling headphones can be a lifesaver on a long plane ride.
Use sheet masks to keep skin hydrated on the plane (and make the best of a long flight by turning it into spa time).
Once You Have Arrived
Hit up grocery stores for snacks, and a free look into local life.
Charge your phone from an external charger so local voltages don’t fry your electronics.
Hire a local guide (especially useful to have someone to help lift wheelchair if need be). This is the best way to find local hidden gems and get an authentic experience.
Use google maps and search ” your destination + free things to do” to find nearby local activities.
Learn how to say “cheers’ in the local language to make some new friends.
Creating Meaningful Memories and Mementos
Buy local spices as souvenir’s to take home (bonus if you take a cooking class to learn about traditional ingredients and local cuisine).
Mail yourself a postcard from each place you travel, with sights, sounds, memories and impressions.. These can be made into a nice memento from your adventures.
I hope you have a few more tips and tricks in your arsenal before your next vacation!
