Use packing cubes, not just rolling your clothes.
The Tetris Masters of Your Suitcase.
I was a proud clothes-roller. I thought I had mastered the art of packing, cramming everything into my suitcase. The problem was, when I arrived, I had to explode the entire bag just to find one pair of socks, creating instant chaos. Then I tried packing cubes. It was a revelation. I organized my clothes by category—one cube for shirts, one for pants, one for underwear. Not only did I fit more into my suitcase, but it was like having a portable set of drawers. I could pull out exactly what I needed without disturbing anything else.
Stop checking a bag for short trips. Do learn to pack in a carry-on instead.
The Freedom of an Empty Baggage Carousel.
I used to overpack for every trip, checking a huge bag out of habit. I would waste 30 minutes of my vacation anxiously watching every bag go by at the baggage carousel. On one trip, the airline lost my bag. I was stuck with only the clothes on my back. After that, I mastered the art of carry-on only. The first time I walked off a plane, breezed past the baggage claim, and went straight to my taxi was a feeling of pure, unadulterated freedom. It’s not a restriction; it’s a liberation from travel’s most stressful part.
Stop buying expensive luggage. Do invest in a durable and lightweight carry-on instead.
The Workhorse, Not the Show Pony.
I fell for a flashy, expensive designer suitcase. It looked beautiful, but after one trip, it was covered in scuffs and a wheel was already wobbly. I had paid for a name, not for quality. I replaced it with a moderately priced but highly-rated carry-on known for its durable wheels and lightweight construction. It has since survived dozens of trips without a single issue. The best luggage isn’t the most expensive; it’s the reliable, lightweight workhorse that can withstand the brutal reality of travel. Your money is better spent on the trip itself.
The #1 secret for a comfortable flight is a good travel pillow, not just a window seat.
The In-Flight Oasis for Your Neck.
I always fought for the window seat, thinking it was the key to sleeping on a flight. I would scrunch up a jacket and try to lean against the wall, but I always woke up with a painful crick in my neck. I finally invested in a good quality, memory foam travel pillow that actually supported my chin. The first time I used it, I slept for hours, even in a dreaded middle seat. The world around me disappeared. A window seat gives you a hard, vibrating wall; a good pillow creates a comfortable oasis anywhere.
I’m just going to say it: A neck pillow is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
The Pillow That Needs to Fit You.
I bought the standard, U-shaped inflatable neck pillow everyone has. It was awful. It pushed my head forward and offered no support. I thought all travel pillows were a gimmick. Then I realized they come in all shapes and sizes because we all have different neck lengths and sleeping styles. I tried a few and found a high-sided memory foam one that cradled my specific head shape. I slept like a baby. The perfect travel pillow exists, but you have to find the one that’s perfect for you, not just the one at the airport checkout.
The reason you’re always jet-lagged is because you’re not adjusting to the new time zone before you leave.
Trick Your Brain, Beat the Lag.
I used to fly to Europe and lose the first two days of my trip to a zombie-like jet lag fog. I thought it was an unavoidable part of travel. The secret is to start tricking your brain before you even leave. A few days before my flight, I begin shifting my sleep schedule, going to bed an hour earlier or later each night to get closer to my destination’s time zone. As soon as I get on the plane, I set my watch to the new time and act accordingly. By the time I land, my body is already halfway there.
If you’re still using a regular backpack for your travels, you’re losing the organization of a travel backpack.
The Black Hole vs. The Clamshell.
I used to travel with my old school backpack. It was a deep, top-loading black hole. To get anything from the bottom, I had to pull everything else out. It was a constant, messy struggle. I invested in a proper travel backpack that opens like a suitcase—a “clamshell” design. The difference was astounding. I could see and access all my belongings at once, and the built-in compartments kept everything organized. It has the comfort of a backpack with the brilliant organization of a suitcase.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about “all-inclusive” resorts is that they are a good value.
The Golden Handcuffs.
I was so excited about my first “all-inclusive” trip. I thought it was a great deal. The reality was mediocre buffet food, watered-down drinks, and a feeling that I was trapped. I felt guilty leaving the resort to explore the local culture and eat authentic food because I had already paid for everything. It was a pair of golden handcuffs. I learned that for often less money, I can stay in a local hotel, eat at incredible, authentic restaurants, and have a much richer and more memorable travel experience.
I wish I knew about the magic of a portable luggage scale to avoid overweight baggage fees.
The $10 Gadget That Saves You $100.
I was at the check-in counter, beaming with pride at my perfectly packed suitcase. Then the agent put it on the scale. “It’s two pounds overweight. That’ll be an extra $100.” The feeling of panic and frustration was awful. I had to frantically open my suitcase on the floor and start shuffling things around. A friend later showed me his portable luggage scale. This simple, $10 hook that you use at home before you leave completely eliminates that stressful gamble. Now, I always know my exact weight and never have to fear the check-in scale again.
99% of travelers make this one mistake when booking a flight: not clearing their cookies.
The Website That Remembers You (and Raises the Price).
I was searching for a flight, and I found a great price. I decided to wait a few hours to book it. When I came back to the same website, the price had jumped up by $50. I thought I had just gotten unlucky. The reality is that many airline and travel websites use browser cookies to track your searches. They see you are interested in a specific flight, and they raise the price to create a sense of urgency. By searching in an incognito window or clearing your cookies, you can often find the original, lower price again.
This one small action of packing a change of clothes in your carry-on will save you if your checked bag gets lost.
The Insurance Policy in Your Backpack.
I used to pack everything in my checked bag. On a trip to a wedding, the airline lost my luggage. I had to attend the wedding in jeans and a t-shirt I bought at a tourist shop. It was a nightmare. Now, I never travel without an insurance policy in my carry-on: one full change of clothes, including underwear and socks. It’s a small amount of space that provides immense peace of mind. If my checked bag takes a detour, I know I can still arrive at my destination feeling fresh and human.
Use a universal travel adapter, not a separate adapter for each country.
The One Plug to Rule Them All.
On my first backpacking trip through Europe, I had a bag full of different, clunky adapters—one for the UK, one for France, one for Italy. It was a confusing mess. I discovered the universal travel adapter. This single, brilliant cube has sliders and levers that can be configured to fit into almost any outlet in the world. It also has multiple USB ports, so I can charge my phone and my camera at the same time. It’s the one, simple gadget that replaced an entire bag of useless plastic.
Stop bringing full-size toiletries. Do use travel-size containers instead.
The Liquid Space-Hogs.
My toiletry bag used to be one of the heaviest things in my suitcase. I was lugging around huge, half-empty bottles of shampoo and conditioner. I finally invested in a set of high-quality, reusable, travel-size containers. It was a revelation. I could bring just the right amount of my favorite products without the weight and bulk. It freed up so much space in my luggage and made getting through airport security a breeze. You never need a full-size bottle, even on a long trip.
Stop buying bottled water at the airport. Do bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it up after security.
The $5 Water You Can Get for Free.
I used to get to the airport and immediately buy a $5 bottle of water. It was a habit, and it was ridiculously expensive. Then I realized how simple the alternative is. I now bring my empty, reusable water bottle with me. I get through security, and then I just fill it up at one of the water fountains or bottle-filling stations that are now in every airport. I’m saving money, I’m reducing plastic waste, and I’m staying just as hydrated. It’s one of the easiest travel hacks in the book.
The #1 hack for getting a better hotel room is to ask for a corner room.
The Accidental Upgrade.
I used to just accept whatever room the hotel clerk gave me. Then I learned a simple trick. I started politely asking, “Do you have any corner rooms available?” Corner rooms are often slightly larger, have more windows (and therefore more natural light), and because they are at the end of the hallway, they are usually much quieter. It’s a simple question that costs nothing to ask, and it has often resulted in a subtle but significant upgrade to a much more pleasant room, all for the same price.
I’m just going to say it: The free breakfast at your hotel is probably not worth it.
The Sad Scrambled Eggs and Stale Pastries.
I used to be so excited by the promise of a “free” hotel breakfast. The reality was almost always a sad buffet of watery scrambled eggs, stale pastries, and bad coffee. It’s a convenient, but often low-quality, way to start your day. For the price of a coffee and a pastry at a local cafe, you can have a much more delicious and authentic breakfast experience. I’ve learned to skip the “free” offering and use my morning meal as an opportunity to explore the local flavor of the city I’m in.
The reason you’re always losing things when you travel is because you don’t have a designated place for everything.
The Panic of the Missing Passport.
I used to be a mess when I traveled. My passport, my wallet, and my keys would end up in a different pocket or a different part of my bag every day. It led to constant, heart-stopping moments of panic when I couldn’t find something. I finally implemented a simple system: my passport always lives in the inside zippered pocket of my jacket. My wallet is always in my front right pocket. By having a designated “home” for every essential item, I eliminated the panic. I don’t have to think; I just know where it is.
If you’re still using a money belt, you’re making yourself a target for thieves.
The “Steal From Me” Sign Around Your Waist.
I used to think a money belt worn under my clothes was the ultimate anti-theft tool. The problem is, professional thieves know all about them. They see you awkwardly reaching under your shirt to pay for something, and they’ve just identified you as a tourist with all their valuables in one, predictable spot. A much better strategy is to blend in. Keep a small amount of cash in your pocket for daily use, and keep the rest of your cards and cash in a regular wallet, just like you would at home.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about the need for a travel agent.
The Expert You’ve Replaced With the Internet.
I used to think that planning a big trip required the secret knowledge of a travel agent. The reality is that in the age of the internet, you have access to all the same information and booking tools they do. With a little bit of research on flight websites, hotel booking sites, and travel blogs, you can plan and book the exact same trip yourself, often for less money, and with the complete freedom to customize it to your exact preferences. For most standard trips, a travel agent is an unnecessary middleman.
I wish I knew that a simple sarong can be used as a towel, a blanket, a dress, and more.
The Swiss Army Knife of Fabric.
I used to pack a bulky beach towel, a jacket, and a separate cover-up for beach vacations. It took up so much space. I discovered the magic of the sarong. This simple, lightweight piece of fabric is the most versatile travel item I own. It’s a quick-drying towel, a light blanket on a chilly airplane, a stylish dress or skirt, a privacy screen in a hostel, and a scarf or a head covering when needed. It’s a true multi-tasker that can replace half a dozen other items in your suitcase.
99% of travelers make this one mistake when it comes to their currency: exchanging it at the airport.
The Worst Exchange Rate in the World.
I landed in a new country and immediately went to the currency exchange counter in the airport. It seemed so convenient. I was horrified when I later realized how much money I had lost. Airport exchange counters offer some of the worst exchange rates and highest fees you will find anywhere. The best way to get local currency is to simply use your debit card at an ATM when you arrive. You’ll get a much better exchange rate and avoid the exorbitant fees of the airport currency traps.
This one small habit of learning a few basic phrases in the local language will make your trip more enjoyable.
The Words That Open Doors.
I used to travel to foreign countries and just expect everyone to speak English. I was missing out. I started taking the time to learn just five simple phrases in the local language: “Hello,” “Goodbye,” “Please,” “Thank you,” and “Excuse me.” The reaction was incredible. People’s faces would light up when I made the effort, however clumsy, to speak their language. It was a simple sign of respect that opened doors to more positive interactions and a much more authentic and welcoming travel experience.
Use a portable Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected on the go, not just relying on public Wi-Fi.
Your Own Secure Bubble of Internet.
I used to spend my trips hunting for cafes with free Wi-Fi. It was often slow, unreliable, and worst of all, insecure. I was exposing my personal data on these open networks. I invested in a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. It’s a small, pocket-sized device that gives me my own private, secure Wi-Fi connection wherever I go. I can use it on a train, in a park, or in my hotel room. It provides a reliable connection for all my devices and the peace of mind that my data is safe.
Stop overpacking your shoes. Do bring a versatile pair that can be dressed up or down.
The Three-Shoe Rule.
My suitcase used to be half-full of shoes. I had a pair for every possible occasion, and I would only wear half of them. I finally learned the “three-shoe rule.” All you really need is one comfortable pair for walking, one slightly dressier pair (that is still comfortable), and one pair of flip-flops or sandals. The key is to choose shoes that are versatile. A pair of stylish but comfortable sneakers, for example, can work for a day of sightseeing and a casual dinner out.
Stop bringing a different outfit for every day. Do pack clothes that can be mixed and matched.
The Capsule Wardrobe for the Road.
I used to lay out a completely different outfit for every single day of my trip. It resulted in a massive, overstuffed suitcase. The solution is to pack a “capsule wardrobe.” I choose a simple color palette and pack items that can all be mixed and matched with each other. A few neutral t-shirts, a couple of pairs of pants, and one or two layering pieces can create a surprising number of different outfits. It’s about packing smarter, not packing more.
The #1 secret for a stress-free travel day is to arrive at the airport early.
The Gift of Time.
I used to be one of those people who would race to the airport, arriving just in time to board. It was a stressful, frantic rush every single time. I made a simple change: I started leaving for the airport ridiculously early. That buffer of extra time is the greatest gift you can give your travel-day self. If there’s traffic, no problem. If the security line is long, who cares? I can now stroll through the airport, grab a coffee, and relax at my gate. The stress is completely gone.
I’m just going to say it: You don’t need to see every tourist attraction in a city to have a good trip.
The Check-List That Kills the Joy.
I used to travel with a rigid checklist of every “must-see” tourist attraction. I would rush from one crowded monument to the next, just to say I had been there. It was exhausting, and I never really experienced the city. I learned to ditch the checklist. Now, I pick one or two things that I’m genuinely interested in, and I spend the rest of my time just wandering, sitting at a cafe, and soaking in the local atmosphere. The best travel memories are rarely from the crowded tourist traps.
The reason you’re always tired when you travel is because you’re trying to do too much.
The Vacation You Need a Vacation From.
I would come home from my vacations more tired than when I left. I had packed every single day from dawn until dusk with activities and sightseeing. I was trying to “make the most” of my trip, but I was just burning myself out. The best trips I’ve taken are the ones where I built in downtime. I now plan for an afternoon nap or a lazy morning at a cafe. A vacation is supposed to be a break. If you’re not building in time for rest, you’re just relocating your exhaustion.
If you’re still using a regular wallet when you travel, you’re not protecting your credit cards from RFID skimming.
The Invisible Thief.
I never thought about the security of my credit cards. Then I learned about RFID skimming, where thieves can use a simple electronic device to steal your credit card information right through your pocket or your bag. I invested in a simple, inexpensive RFID-blocking wallet. It has a special lining that blocks these signals, creating a protective shield around my cards. It looks and functions just like a regular wallet, but it provides a crucial layer of invisible security and peace of mind.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about the safety of your hotel room safe.
The “Safe” That Has a Master Key.
I used to put all my valuables in the hotel room safe, thinking it was an impenetrable fortress. The truth is, these safes are not that secure. Hotel staff have a master key or a master code to open them in case a guest forgets their combination. They are fine for deterring an opportunistic thief, but a determined employee can easily get inside. A more secure option is to use a travel-safe that can be tethered to a permanent fixture in the room, or to just keep your most valuable items with you.
I wish I knew that a simple portable charger can be a lifesaver when my phone dies.
The Power in Your Pocket.
My phone is my camera, my map, and my lifeline when I travel. I’ve had that heart-stopping moment in a foreign city where my phone dies, and I’m suddenly lost and disconnected. A small, lightweight portable charger, or power bank, is now the most essential piece of tech I carry. The peace of mind of knowing I can recharge my phone anywhere, at any time, is priceless. It has saved me from a huge amount of stress and has ensured that I can always find my way back to my hotel.
99% of travelers make this one mistake when it comes to their travel insurance: not reading the fine print.
The “Coverage” That Doesn’t Cover You.
I bought travel insurance for a big trip, thinking I was completely covered. Then I had to cancel for a reason that seemed perfectly valid, and the insurance company denied my claim. I had never read the fine print. I learned that travel insurance policies are full of exclusions and specific definitions. You need to know exactly what is and isn’t covered before you buy. That “cancel for any reason” policy often only reimburses a percentage of your costs. Reading the fine print is a boring but crucial step that can save you a lot of money and heartbreak.
This one small action of taking a photo of your passport and other important documents will save you in case they are lost or stolen.
The Digital Copy That’s a Lifesaver.
I used to just carry my passport and hope for the best. The thought of losing it in a foreign country was terrifying. Now, before every trip, I take a photo of my passport, my driver’s license, and my credit cards with my phone. I also email a copy to myself. If my documents are ever lost or stolen, having a digital copy makes the process of reporting them and getting replacements at an embassy a thousand times easier. It’s a two-minute action that is an essential part of any travel preparation.
Use a travel-size laundry detergent to wash your clothes on the go, not just wearing dirty clothes.
The Hotel Sink Laundry.
When I was traveling for more than a week, I used to just re-wear dirty clothes or pack a massive suitcase. I discovered the simple joy of doing a quick “sink laundry.” I bring a small, travel-size bottle of laundry detergent or a few laundry sheets. In the hotel sink, I can quickly wash a few pairs of underwear, socks, and a t-shirt. It allows me to pack so much lighter, and it’s a great feeling to have fresh, clean clothes in the middle of a long trip.
Stop bringing a heavy guidebook. Do use travel apps and blogs for information instead.
The Outdated Book vs. The Up-to-the-Minute App.
I used to lug around a heavy, thick guidebook for every city I visited. They were often slightly out of date, and everyone else had the same book, so we were all going to the same places. Now, I use a combination of travel blogs and apps on my phone. The information is more current, the recommendations are often more unique and off the beaten path, and it weighs nothing. I can download offline maps and articles, so I don’t even need a data connection.
Stop eating at tourist trap restaurants. Do ask a local for a recommendation instead.
The Picture Menu Is a Red Flag.
I used to fall for the restaurants in the main tourist square, the ones with the big, glossy menus in six different languages. The food was almost always overpriced and mediocre. I learned the best way to find a great meal is to simply ask a local—the person working at my hotel, a shopkeeper, or even just someone on the street. “Where do you like to eat?” This simple question has led me to some of the most delicious, authentic, and affordable meals of my life, far away from the tourist crowds.
The #1 hack for a more authentic travel experience is to get lost.
The Wrong Turn That Leads to the Right Place.
I used to travel with a rigid, minute-by-minute itinerary. I was so focused on my map that I never looked up. The best travel experiences I’ve ever had have been the result of a happy accident. I took a wrong turn down a small alley and discovered a hidden courtyard with a beautiful cafe. I got on the wrong bus and ended up in a charming, non-touristy neighborhood. The magic of travel happens when you put away the map, allow yourself to get a little lost, and embrace the unexpected.
I’m just going to say it: A selfie stick is an obnoxious travel accessory.
The Metal Wand That Puts You in a Bubble.
I’ve seen so many beautiful viewpoints ruined by a forest of selfie sticks. People are so focused on getting the perfect, wide-angle shot of themselves that they are completely disconnected from the experience and oblivious to the people around them. A selfie stick puts you in a self-absorbed bubble. A much better alternative is to simply ask a fellow traveler to take a photo for you. It’s a great way to have a brief, positive human interaction, and you’ll often get a much better picture.
The reason you’re not enjoying your trip is because you’re constantly on your phone.
The Vacation You’re Experiencing Through a Screen.
I was on a beautiful beach, but I was spending all my time scrolling through social media and answering emails. I was physically in paradise, but my mind was somewhere else. I was documenting the trip for my online followers, but I wasn’t actually experiencing it myself. I finally made a rule: no phone until the evening. It was a game-changer. I was present, I was observant, and I was able to truly connect with the place and the people I was with.
If you’re still using a regular camera bag, you’re advertising that you’re a tourist.
The Bag That Screams “Steal Me.”
I used to carry a bulky camera bag that had the brand name emblazoned on the front. It screamed, “I’m a tourist with expensive camera gear!” I was making myself an obvious target for thieves. I switched to using a nondescript, regular backpack with a padded camera insert. It provides all the protection my gear needs, but it doesn’t advertise what’s inside. It helps me to blend in and look less like a vulnerable tourist.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about the need for a “round-the-world” ticket.
The Spontaneous Trip Is Cheaper.
A “round-the-world” ticket sounds so glamorous and convenient. The reality is that they are often restrictive and more expensive than booking your flights as you go. You have to lock in your entire route and schedule months in advance, leaving no room for spontaneity. With the rise of budget airlines, it is almost always cheaper and more flexible to book one-way flights as you travel. It allows you to change your plans, stay longer in a place you love, and follow the path of adventure.
I wish I knew that a simple sleep mask and earplugs can make a huge difference on a long flight.
Your Personal Blackout Curtain and Cone of Silence.
I used to think I just couldn’t sleep on planes. The cabin lights were always on, and the noise from the engines and other passengers was constant. A simple, inexpensive sleep mask and a pair of foam earplugs completely changed my travel experience. They create a private, dark, and quiet environment, no matter where you’re sitting. It’s a tiny kit that allows you to block out the world and get the crucial rest you need to arrive at your destination feeling human.
99% of travelers make this one mistake when it comes to their health: not getting the recommended vaccinations.
The Souvenir You Don’t Want to Bring Home.
I was so focused on packing my bags for a trip to Southeast Asia that I completely forgot about the most important preparation: my health. I thought I would be fine. A friend urged me to visit a travel clinic. I was shocked to learn about the recommended vaccinations for diseases like Typhoid and Hepatitis A. Getting sick in a foreign country is a nightmare that can be easily avoided. Checking with a travel doctor a few months before your trip is a crucial, and often overlooked, step in responsible travel.
This one small habit of packing a small first-aid kit will prepare you for minor injuries and illnesses.
The Pouch That Saves the Day.
On a trip, I got a terrible blister and a splitting headache. The local pharmacy was closed. I was miserable and unprepared. Now, I never travel without a small, personalized first-aid kit. It has the basics: band-aids, blister pads, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. It’s a simple, small pouch that has saved the day on numerous occasions, for both myself and fellow travelers. It gives you the peace of mind to handle minor issues without derailing your trip.
Use a travel journal to document your memories, not just posting photos on social media.
The Story Behind the Picture.
I used to just post my travel photos on social media. Looking back, I could see where I was, but I couldn’t always remember how I felt. I started carrying a small travel journal. At the end of each day, I take a few minutes to jot down not just what I did, but the funny conversations, the strange smells, and the feelings I had. The journal captures the story behind the photo. It has become my most treasured souvenir, a rich and personal record of my travels that a photo caption could never capture.
Stop bringing a laptop on vacation.
The Work That Follows You.
I used to bring my laptop on every vacation, “just in case” I needed to check a few emails. That “just in case” would always turn into hours of work. The laptop was a tether to my office, and it prevented me from ever truly disconnecting and relaxing. I finally made the decision to leave it at home. It was liberating. For the first time, I was able to be fully present on my vacation. Your vacation is a sacred time for rest. Let it be a true escape.
Stop buying souvenirs that will just collect dust. Do buy something that you will actually use or enjoy.
The Clutter You Carry Home.
My shelves used to be a graveyard of cheap, dusty souvenirs—a tiny Eiffel Tower, a plastic snow globe. They were meaningless clutter that I had bought out of a sense of obligation. I changed my souvenir philosophy. Now, I only buy things that are either consumable (like local spices or a bottle of wine) or functional (like a beautiful scarf or a handmade ceramic mug). These souvenirs don’t collect dust; they become a part of my daily life, reminding me of my travels in a much more meaningful way.
The #1 secret for a great travel photo is good lighting, not a fancy camera.
The Magic of the Golden Hour.
I used to think I needed a big, expensive camera to take good travel photos. My pictures were always a bit flat and boring. A photographer friend gave me the best advice: “It’s all about the light.” I started taking my photos during the “golden hour”—the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. The light during this time is soft, warm, and magical. My photos improved dramatically, even with just my phone’s camera. A fancy camera can’t save a photo taken in harsh, midday light.
I’m just going to say it: You don’t need to stay in a five-star hotel to have a luxurious trip.
The Luxury of Authenticity.
I used to equate a luxurious trip with a five-star hotel. The reality was often a generic, sterile experience that could have been anywhere in the world. I’ve since found that true luxury is in the unique, authentic experiences. Staying in a beautifully restored historic building, a charming family-run guesthouse, or a unique Airbnb with a stunning view can be a far more luxurious and memorable experience than a standard, cookie-cutter hotel room. Luxury is about the quality of the experience, not the number of stars.
The reason you’re always getting sick when you travel is because you’re not washing your hands often enough.
The Germs of the Journey.
I used to get a cold on almost every trip. I blamed the airplane air. The real culprit was my hands. I was touching handrails, door handles, and ticket machines, and then touching my face. I started being obsessive about hand hygiene. I wash my hands frequently with soap and water, and I always carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer for when that’s not possible. It’s a simple, basic act of hygiene, but it has dramatically reduced the number of times I get sick while traveling.
If you’re still using a regular towel when you travel, you’re losing the quick-drying and lightweight benefits of a travel towel.
The Towel That’s Dry by Morning.
I used to pack my regular, cotton bath towel. It was bulky, and after one use, it would stay damp and musty for the rest of the trip. A microfiber travel towel was a game-changer. It’s incredibly lightweight, it folds down to the size of a small book, and it’s super absorbent. The best part is that it dries in a fraction of the time of a regular towel. I can use it in the morning, hang it up, and it will be completely dry and ready to be packed a few hours later.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about the need for a “travel” credit card.
The Points Game You Might Be Losing.
I was convinced I needed a special “travel” credit card with a huge annual fee to earn points and miles. I learned that for many casual travelers, these cards are not a good deal. The benefits often don’t outweigh the high annual fees, and the points can be difficult to redeem. A simple, no-annual-fee cashback credit card is often a much better and more straightforward choice. You get a direct, tangible reward without having to play the complicated and often frustrating points and miles game.
I wish I knew that a simple daypack can be so useful for carrying my essentials during the day.
Your Mobile Basecamp.
I used to leave my hotel for the day with just my wallet and my phone, stuffing things in my pockets. I would end up having to buy a bottle of water or a snack that I already had back in my room. A small, lightweight, packable daypack has become an essential travel item. I can carry a water bottle, a snack, a light jacket, and a portable charger. It acts as a mobile basecamp for the day, allowing me to be more prepared, more comfortable, and to save money.
99% of travelers make this one mistake when it comes to their budget: not tracking their spending.
The Mystery of the Vanishing Money.
I would go on a trip with a budget, but I would come home having spent way more than I planned. I had no idea where the money went. I started using a simple expense-tracking app on my phone. Just the simple act of plugging in what I spent on that coffee or that souvenir made me so much more mindful of my spending. At the end of the trip, I had a clear picture of where my money had gone, and I was much more likely to stay within my budget.
This one small action of packing a reusable shopping bag will help you avoid plastic bags.
The Bag That Folds to Nothing.
I would be traveling and buy a few things at a market, and I would always end up with a flimsy, plastic shopping bag. It was wasteful and annoying. I started packing a small, reusable shopping bag that folds up into a tiny pouch. It takes up virtually no space in my luggage, and it’s incredibly useful. I use it for grocery shopping, carrying souvenirs, or even as a small beach bag. It’s a simple, sustainable habit that makes me a more responsible traveler.
Use a luggage tag with your contact information, not just your name and address.
The Tag That Helps Your Bag Find You.
I used to put my home address on my luggage tag. I learned that this is a security risk; it advertises that your home is empty. A much smarter and safer approach is to use your name, your email address, and your phone number. If your bag gets lost, the airline has a way to contact you directly, no matter where you are in the world. They don’t need to know your home address; they just need to know how to reach you.
Stop trying to plan every minute of your trip. Do leave room for spontaneity.
The Itinerary That’s a Prison.
My early travel itineraries were planned down to the 15-minute increment. It was a stressful, rigid schedule that left no room for discovery. If we saw an interesting side street, we couldn’t explore it because we had to be at a museum in 10 minutes. The best travel memories are often unplanned. Now, I plan one or two key things for each day, and I leave the rest of the time open for wandering, for getting lost, and for saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities.
Stop buying travel insurance from the airline. Do get it from a third-party provider for better coverage and a lower price.
The “Add Insurance” Button Is a Trap.
I used to just click the “add travel insurance” button when I was booking a flight. It seemed so easy. I learned that this insurance is often overpriced and provides very limited coverage. By doing a little bit of research and buying a policy from a dedicated, third-party insurance provider, I was able to get a comprehensive policy that covered not just my flight, but my entire trip—including medical emergencies and trip cancellation—for a significantly lower price. The convenience of that button comes at a high cost.
The #1 hack for a more comfortable economy flight is to choose an aisle seat in the last row.
The Secret of the Back of the Plane.
I used to dread long-haul flights in economy. Then I learned a secret. I started choosing an aisle seat in the very last row. It’s a bit of a gamble, but often the middle seats in the last few rows are the last ones to be filled. I’ve had a whole row to myself on multiple occasions. You’re also close to the bathrooms and the galley, and you’re one of the first people to be served drinks. And on an aisle seat, you can stretch your legs out without bothering anyone.
I’m just going to say it: The best travel experiences are often the ones that are not on the itinerary.
The Detour That Became the Destination.
Our rental car broke down in a tiny, non-touristy village in rural Italy. It should have been a disaster, but it became the highlight of our trip. A local mechanic invited us into his home for lunch with his family while he worked on our car. We didn’t speak the same language, but we communicated through gestures and laughter. It was a beautiful, authentic human connection that we never would have experienced if we had stuck to our perfectly planned itinerary. The best moments are the ones you can’t plan for.
The reason you’re not sleeping well in a new place is because of the “first-night effect”.
The Brain That’s Sleeping With One Eye Open.
I would always sleep terribly on the first night of a trip, no matter how comfortable the bed was. I thought it was just me. I learned that it’s a real, documented phenomenon called the “first-night effect.” It’s a primal, evolutionary response where one hemisphere of your brain stays more alert as a sort of “night watch” to monitor for unfamiliar threats in a new environment. Just knowing that this is a normal, biological response helped me to relax and not get so frustrated when I don’t sleep perfectly on that first night.
If you’re still using a regular suitcase, you’re losing the convenience of a spinner suitcase.
The Glide vs. The Drag.
I used to have to drag my two-wheeled suitcase behind me through the airport. It was constantly tipping over, and it was a strain on my arm and shoulder. I switched to a spinner suitcase with four wheels. The difference was like night and day. I could effortlessly glide the suitcase alongside me, or push it in front of me, with zero strain. Navigating a crowded airport became a breeze. It’s a simple design change that makes the physical act of traveling so much more comfortable and less strenuous.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about the need for a “hard-shell” suitcase.
The Case That Cracks Under Pressure.
I bought a sleek, hard-shell suitcase, thinking it would offer better protection. On its very first trip, it came off the baggage carousel with a huge crack in it. I learned that while they look tough, they can be brittle and prone to cracking under the rough handling of air travel. A high-quality, soft-shell suitcase made from a durable ballistic nylon is often a much more resilient and forgiving choice. It can absorb impacts better and often has convenient exterior pockets that a hard-shell case lacks.
I wish I knew that a simple TSA-approved lock can give me peace of mind.
The Lock That Won’t Get Cut.
I used to lock my suitcase with a regular padlock, thinking it was secure. I would often get it back with the lock missing, having been cut off by the TSA for a random inspection. A TSA-approved lock is the simple solution. It allows you to lock your bag, but it has a special keyhole that allows the TSA to open it with their master key if they need to inspect it. It gives you the peace of mind that your bag is secure, without the risk of having your lock destroyed.
99% of travelers make this one mistake when it comes to their medication: packing it in their checked bag.
The Most Important Thing You Own.
I used to just throw my prescription medications into my checked suitcase. It never occurred to me what would happen if the airline lost my luggage. I would be in a foreign country without my essential, daily medication. It’s a dangerous and completely avoidable mistake. All medications should always be packed in your carry-on bag, in their original containers. Your medication is the most important and irreplaceable thing you are traveling with. It should never leave your sight.
This one small habit of downloading offline maps will save you from getting lost without a data connection.
The Map in Your Pocket That Needs No Wi-Fi.
I landed in a new city and my phone had no service. I couldn’t access my maps, and I was completely lost. I learned a crucial travel hack. Before I leave home, I use my mapping app to download an offline map of the entire city I’m visiting. It saves the map directly to my phone. Now, I can navigate, search for locations, and get directions, all without needing a single bar of cell service or a Wi-Fi connection. It’s a lifesaver that has saved me from a huge amount of stress.
Use a travel-size steamer to get the wrinkles out of your clothes, not a hotel iron.
The Wrinkle-Eraser That Won’t Burn Your Clothes.
My clothes were always a wrinkled mess after being in a suitcase. The hotel irons were always a gamble—they were often dirty and would sometimes spit rusty water on my clean clothes. A small, portable travel steamer has been a game-changer. It heats up in seconds and the steam gently relaxes the wrinkles out of any fabric without the risk of scorching. It’s faster, easier, and much safer for my clothes than a questionable hotel iron.
Stop bringing your expensive jewelry on vacation.
The Sparkle That Attracts the Wrong Attention.
I used to wear my nice watch and my engagement ring when I traveled. I thought nothing of it. I realized that my expensive jewelry was making me a walking target for thieves. It was an unnecessary risk that was causing me a low level of constant anxiety. I now leave all my valuable jewelry at home in a safe. It’s one less thing to worry about, and it helps me to blend in and look less like a wealthy tourist. The peace of mind is worth more than any accessory.
Stop buying travel-size products. Do refill your own travel-size containers.
The Tiny Bottles That Are a Huge Rip-Off.
I used to buy all those tiny, travel-size versions of my favorite toiletries. I realized I was paying a massive premium for a tiny amount of product and creating a huge amount of plastic waste. I invested in a set of high-quality, reusable travel bottles. Now, I just refill them from my larger, more economical bottles at home. It’s cheaper, it’s better for the environment, and it allows me to bring the exact products that I know and love.
The #1 secret for a great road trip is to have a good playlist.
The Soundtrack to Your Adventure.
A great road trip is about more than just the destination; it’s about the feeling of the open road. The single most important element in setting that mood is the music. A well-curated playlist can make the miles fly by, it can introduce you to new artists, and it becomes the soundtrack to your memories. I spend hours before a road trip creating the perfect playlists for different moods—upbeat for the morning, chill for the afternoon. The right song at the right moment can turn a boring stretch of highway into a cinematic experience.
I’m just going to say it: The journey is just as important as the destination.
The In-Between Moments.
I used to view the travel day—the flight, the train ride, the drive—as a necessary evil to be endured. I was just focused on getting there. I learned to reframe my thinking. The journey is part of the adventure. It’s a time to read, to listen to music, to look out the window and watch the world go by. Some of my best travel moments have been the unplanned conversations on a long train ride or the beautiful scenery on a random detour. By embracing the in-between, the entire trip becomes a richer experience.
The reason you’re always stressed out when you travel is because you’re not being flexible.
The Rigid Plan and the Inevitable Curveball.
I used to plan my trips with a rigid, inflexible itinerary. When something inevitably went wrong—a delayed flight, a sold-out museum—I would get incredibly stressed out and feel like my trip was ruined. Travel is, by its nature, unpredictable. The key to a stress-free trip is to build in flexibility and to have a “plan B.” Now, I go with the flow. The missed train is an opportunity to explore the town you’re stuck in. A flexible mindset turns a problem into an adventure.
If you’re still using a regular travel pillow, you’re losing the support of a memory foam one.
The Inflatable Donut vs. The Supportive Cloud.
My old, inflatable travel pillow was better than nothing, but it was still pretty flimsy. It didn’t provide any real support, and my head would still bob around. I upgraded to a memory foam travel pillow. The difference was incredible. The dense foam actually cradled my neck and supported the weight of my head, allowing my muscles to fully relax. It felt like sleeping on a supportive cloud instead of a cheap pool toy. It’s a small upgrade in price for a massive upgrade in comfort.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about the need for a “travel” outfit.
Comfort Is the New Cool.
I used to see pictures of people traveling in stylish, but uncomfortable, outfits. I tried to emulate that and would end up on a long flight in tight jeans and a restrictive top. It was miserable. The truth is, there is no such thing as a “travel” outfit. The best clothes for a long travel day are your most comfortable clothes. Think soft, stretchy fabrics and layers. No one on the airplane cares how stylish you look. Prioritizing your own comfort will make the entire experience so much more pleasant.
I wish I knew that a simple portable fan can be a lifesaver in a hot climate.
The Personal Breeze.
I was in a stuffy, non-air-conditioned room in a tropical climate, and I was melting. I couldn’t sleep; it was just too hot. A fellow traveler had a small, portable, USB-rechargeable fan. It was a complete lifesaver. That small, personal breeze was the difference between a miserable, sleepless night and a comfortable rest. It’s a lightweight, inexpensive gadget that has now become an absolute essential for me anytime I am traveling to a hot and humid destination.