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New to travelling? Maybe travelling abroad for the first time? Here are 10 travel hacks that will make your next trip smoother and more enjoyable:
1. Pack Light
Stick to the essentials and pack only what you need. This will make navigating airports and hotels much easier and save you from lugging around heavy bags. I use this DLX 45L Rucksack Hiking Backpack pretty much for all travel for 1 week or under. Since it’s a soft shell, then I am never worried with those carry-on luggage dimensions because the soft shell bags will fit into the boxes and in turn aeroplane luggage compartment just fine. They also have a loop for water sack, which in my opinion is the best way to carry around water while travelling. Water sack are stored closest to your body, so they feel lighter (due to your centre of gravity keeping close to your body) and they keep the water cool too. And when empty, they become a sheet of plastic, which fits into the tiniest space!
2. Roll Your Clothes
Instead of folding your clothes, roll them up. This not only saves space in your suitcase but also helps prevent wrinkles.
3. Use Packing Cubes:
Packing cubes are a game-changer for keeping your suitcase organized. Use them to separate clothes by type or outfit, making it easier to find what you need.
4. Bring a Portable Charger
Don’t get caught with a dead phone or camera. Invest in a portable charger to keep your devices powered up on the go. Also, those days of heavy, bulky portable charger are gone. Look how small this portable charger is! And they are 4500 mAh which is enough to fully charge a phone. for non Apple users like me, here’s your USB-C version.
5. Download Offline Maps
Save yourself from getting lost by downloading offline maps of your destination before you leave. This way, you can navigate even without an internet connection. I suppose more important if you don’t have a working SIM card in the country you’re visiting. Since I use Airalo eSIM, I just buy a SIM package for whichever destination I’m going to, and I have instant connection! This hack is still useful if you are in the middle of nowhere, but if you are in a big city, just get your Airalo eSIM for whichever destination you’re going and you’ll be golden. Make sure you check that your phone can use eSIM though.
6. Pack a Reusable Water Bottle:
Save money and reduce waste by bringing a reusable water bottle with you. Fill it up at water fountains or ask restaurants to refill it for you. My favourite is my Zojirushi Flask which is extremely lightweight and SUPER good in keeping the temperature of whatever liquid you are drinking. I once forgot to drink a tea I’ve made and it’s still HOT three days later. I’m not joking haha. So in the winter, I can warm myself with a bottle of hot tea, and in summer I can cool myself down with iced drinks. So good.
7. Book Accommodation with a Kitchen
Save on dining expenses by booking accommodation with a kitchen. You can prepare simple meals and snacks, saving both time and money. I do this a lot especially in Scandinavian countries where it’s very expensive to eat out, but ingredients are nowhere as expensive (though it’s not the cheapest either….). It’s actually one of my hack when travelling to Scandinavian countries!
8. Use Google Flights to find cheap tickets
Using Google Flights to find cheap airline tickets is simple and effective. Start by visiting the Google Flights website and entering your departure and destination cities. You can choose specific dates or use the calendar to see a range of prices over several weeks. Google Flights displays various options from different airlines, making it easy to compare prices. Utilize the “Price Graph” and “Date Grid” features to identify the cheapest days to fly. Additionally, you can set up price alerts to receive notifications when ticket prices drop. By exploring these tools, you can quickly find the best deals for your next trip. Watch me use Google Flights to find 30% cheaper ticket to Bali!
There are other tools too out there, such as Aviasales, which works on similar way.
9. Join Loyalty Programs
Sign up for airline and hotel loyalty programs to earn points and rewards for your travels. These can add up to free flights, upgrades, and hotel stays over time. I have used points myself to fly to Finland and Germany for free, and once got upgraded by Qatar Airways to business class! So they do work.
10. Pack a Scarf or Sarong
A versatile scarf or sarong can serve multiple purposes while travelling. Use it as a blanket on chilly flights, a beach cover-up, or even a makeshift bag in a pinch. There are places where this is more useful than others. I always pack a sarong when going to Bali. Many temples in Bali will require you to wear a sarong to cover your waist and legs as a sign of respect. If you are visiting Bali, why not check 10 common mistakes travellers make in Bali, and your ultimate Bali travel guide for first timers.
With these travel hacks up your sleeve, you’ll be well-equipped to handle whatever adventures come your way on your next trip!