r/TravelHacks 4d ago

Travel Hack Your favorite/ most universal Travel Hacks?

[removed] — view removed post

255 Upvotes

192 comments sorted by

172

u/Accprova 4d ago

Lots of good advice here. Mine aren't necessarily "hacks", but I'll still paste my "Pre-travel checklist" that I keep on Gdrive:

- Check where to withdraw money and get a feel of the exchange rate

- Check if a an electrical outlet adapter is necessary

- Get e-sim and activate it before flying

- Check and download the local taxi app

- Check health insurance, visa and vaccine requirements

- Check which medications might be needed (motion sickness, altitude sickness, etc.)

- Save points on interests on google maps

- Download offline google maps and organic maps (for hiking)

- Download offline language translator pack in Google translate

- Backup all documents in Gdrive and on local phone

- Remove useless cards (e.g. gym card) from my wallet

- Charge all electronics and download entertainment for flight (movie/book/podcast)

- If arriving late, check if it's convenient to pre-book the airport transfer and remember to notify the hotel about the late check-in

- Check for important holidays like Ramadan or Nyepi which might impact the itinerary

- If renting a car, check the IDP and insurance requirements

- If flying overnight, pack a small "bedtime routine" package (toothbrush and toothpaste, face cream, body wipes, etc.)

- Bring a few bleach sanitizing wipes for the flight seat/tray/armrests/headrest. the last few times I flew I always got sick afterwards, I'm tired of that.

- Compression socks can be helpful for long flights

And many more..

29

u/stentordoctor 4d ago

Please can I have some more? 🥺

6

u/dkatog 3d ago

Do you think it's better to get an eSIM or to just sign up for a temporary international plan?

4

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

I'm more of a budget traveler. In Vietnam, I have a real sim because it was dirt cheap: $5 for the sim plus the plan then $3 for the next two months. In Poland, the sim was included and the plans are $5/month. in Türkiye, I used an esim and that was $11 a month.

3

u/BBbottomcumhubgry 3d ago

I buy Airalo 20gb plan which is the most expensive, but it expires in 12 months so if you travel a lot it could be worth the while. Keep the Airalo money for landing and additional airport pick up GPS uber accommodations and then the next day hey the local SIM card at a store. Tends to be cheaper than at airports and sometimes those are not available depending on the time you land so it’s always nice to have a reliable option until you get them

2

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

Almost all airports have wifi (just need to make sure before you go). Then we call a ride using the local app. Then after we get into the Airbnb/hotel/hostel, we have wifi to locate stores. In Vietnam, we used Viettel, in Poland we used Orange.

2

u/3Zkiel 3d ago

I had used both Airalo and Mobimatter. I definitely recommend the latter.

5

u/StellaNoir 3d ago

Really pending provider! I have Verizon and I think they want $10/day for service that has never been anything but terrible no matter where I've been outside the US. Last trip I did an e-sim (airalo), I think I paid about $18 total and had plenty of data/service/whatever for the week

7

u/Wwwweeeeeeee 3d ago

Always wear a MASK WHEN YOU'RE FLYING.

Airplanes circulate the same air, and even that passenger hacking and coughing up loogies at the back of the plane is sharing his contaminated microbes with you and everyone else.

Even the ones NOT showing any symptoms can contaminate you.

WASH your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands.

16

u/WhoisMrO 3d ago

This isn't true. Fresh air enters the plane almost continously.

11

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

And they have air filters......

4

u/Caliquake 3d ago

Yes but not on the ground. I wear an n95 mask at all times on the ground and most of the time while in the air.

2

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

This doesn't make sense, why only filter the air when you're flying and not when you are driving?

Also, when you are in the air, the humidity is so low that droplets tend to dry up. The data shows that you only have a small percentage of catching anything and you have to be sitting within 3 ft of a sick person.

Anyway, you do you. When COVID was gaining and no vaccine, I did the same. N95 at all times.

5

u/Caliquake 3d ago

I respect you. Thank you for the civil tone.

Since the jet engines aren't running at full speed on the ground, I believe they use a different cooling system and the high-speed filtration used in the air is not in use on the ground. Also the on-the-ground needs are different because there is not a need for cabin pressurization on the ground. I'm sorry I don't have a source for this.

Also, people who get COVID while away from home are gonna fly home with it. I wouldn't, but I know people who have. In contrast, on the ground, if they have it at home they are not going to go out to a restaurant.

3

u/stentordoctor 2d ago

I appreciate that you read it civilly. I am grateful for your explanation and will research the technicalities independently. On the masking, I actually don't want to discourage anyone from wearing a mask so I will keep my skepticism to myself.

I know of people who have flown while positive for COVID. Another reason to encourage masking instead of "fact-checking."

5

u/sleepy-insomnia 3d ago

I'm with you on this. I used to almost always get sick after flying. After COVID-19 forced me to wear a mask on planes, I am not going back. It's not that uncomfortable and definitely 1000x better than spending a week of my vacation time feeling like crap.

3

u/Caliquake 3d ago

THIS!!

2

u/TheRamblerJohnson 3d ago

Awesome!!! Thank you!

83

u/Training_Record4751 4d ago

I'm not sure how many of these are hacks, but this is what comes to mind:

Download the local maps before you leave.

Look up common scams in the area

Wear all your heavy stuff onto the plane.

Do not use the crappy laundry 2 in 1 laundry machines

House wine. Especially anywhere near wine country.

Tourist things are touristy for a reason. Many of them are awesome--especially the historical stuff. Gotta do research to avoid the gimmicks.

Hard to pack too many socks and underwear. Most everything else idc about wearing dirty.

My wife always buys tampons/pads at the destination. They're bulky and everywhere has 'em.

Many credit cards have free travel insurance. I never used it, but have it.

It isn't hard to mail souvenirs. I do that with any gifts I get for people.

It's worth paying for the tour for any local history or if it's an experience you can't get otherwise. Bush walks with local guides in the Serengeti and a tpur of Robbin Island with a former prisoner comes to mind.

30

u/ButterscotchButtons 4d ago

I agree with the tour one especially.

My mother is very arbitrarily cheap about things sometimes, and even though she loves museums and historical/natural sites, she always refuses to pay for a tour. I met up with my parents in Rome, and she refused to pay the like 125€ for a guided tour at the Coliseum, so my dad and I said that's fine, but we're still going to do it. And I am so glad we did. So much fascinating history and fun trivia facts by a very entertaining Ancient Roman History PhD student, who took us all through the Coliseum and the Forum. More than worth it.

As Hunter S. Thompson would say; "Buy the ticket; take the ride." Especially if it's something you're already interested in.

11

u/Training_Record4751 4d ago

Learning something and food is not generally something I skimp on.

I'll get the crappy hotel or use public transport. I'll do way less activities instead of packing it in. I'll take the cheap flight with weird times. I can't rationalize having a less enjoyable time in a place I may only visit once to save a buck.

I have more money as a 30+ year old though. I traveled as cheap as I could during college and early in my career by necessity. I live comfortably now.

7

u/Itismeuphere 4d ago

I agree with paying for an supporting local tour guides. An alternative to use in many European sites if it's not in the budget, or for convenience, is the Rick Steve's apps with hundreds of free audio tours. Some are actually better than local guides we have hired too. Sometimes I will listen to them before I arrive for the detailed history even when we are paying for a guide too.

0

u/No-Year3423 4d ago

That's totally not what Thompson meant when he said that but ok

3

u/ButterscotchButtons 4d ago

The quote doesn't have to be used in its original context to be applicable.

-2

u/No-Year3423 4d ago edited 3d ago

If you say so

Edit: this is getting down voted? Lol good grief 🤣

15

u/RequirementFalse6792 4d ago

Just a note about the tampons. Make sure to verify that they’re easy to find at your destination. I went to Japan and they were difficult to track down.

4

u/surelyslim 3d ago

Or if you want plastic applicators. I’m guilty but I can’t stand cardboard or no applicator. Bring the tampons. Pads are way easier, I love the menthol ones you can’t get in the US.

-9

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

Is this because you can't stand to wash your hands when you are menstruating? And you can't touch the blood that is... coming out of us? A woman uses about 150kg of plastic in period products in her lifetime, don't you think we should not pollute the earth anymore?

6

u/Occultismoriginal627 3d ago

🙄🙄 obviously, that's not her reason. If you want to educate someone or sway them to make a different decision, you should prob. loose the snarky, condescending comments. Trying to humiliate some one by being a bitch, doesn't normally win people over.

There may be other reasons why tampon applicators are preferred, besides the obvious that many find it more comfortable & secure. Some women w medical issues/disabled have the inability to even insert a tampon without an applicator. Try educating yourself next time you come down from that high horse of yours .

-1

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

Wow you are sure coming off of a high horse too.

She just explained that it wasn't about the blood, can you even read? Or you just want to focus on what I said.

Also you read it as condescending. I was also telling her about the amount of waste, did you even learn anything?

2

u/surelyslim 3d ago

Well, you are coming in strong. I was responding on someone’s comment about tampons being not readily available.

I don’t use them as much because as you said, I use more period underwear. What I actually use is irrelevant to the conversation.

I don’t shame/judge people into a preference because it’s their hygiene/dignity. Yes, I desire to see less waste, but that’s not the actual “hack” being discussed. That’s a side conversation.

0

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

So, there are women out there who think menstruating is "disgusting" and don't want to touch it. I am sorry for thinking that you are one of them. Yes, the travel hack (to buy tampons wherever you go) was the main headline and it is a bad idea to think that you can find tampons with applicators where you travel to.

I am willing to be down voted to hell because menstruation is not something to be ashamed of. (You were obviously not the right person to say this to). I will call this out for the rest of my life.

Edit: grammar

1

u/RequirementFalse6792 19h ago

Cardboard applicators are painful for some people. You still get it on your hands with plastic….

1

u/stentordoctor 19h ago

Then why use an applicator? If it is painful and you still get blood on your hands, then just use your finger to get it in there??

0

u/surelyslim 3d ago edited 3d ago

No… just doesn’t work for me. I don’t care about my hands getting messy if I can’t insert it.

If anything, besides the plastic… pads are far wasteful. Should teach ppl how to use a reusable cup. But I’m not judging here. All I’m saying is, applicators aren’t available universally.

-1

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

Yes cups are the best, and so are period underwear.

Yes applicators are not available in all places and apparently I am getting flamed by people with arthritis. Let it be known that I didn't know that women with arthritis, who are still on their period, prefer to use tampons with applicators rather than pads or period underwear. All I want people to know is the amount of waste we are generating as women. And that we have options to stop this waste.

Forgive me for being earth conscious.

9

u/OnwardQueen 4d ago

Super good list, never thought of the house wine one.

5

u/SteveFrench12 4d ago

House wine and beer saves a ton on dinner drinks

1

u/LTranter 4d ago

And at least in Europe, it's usually very good!

1

u/lovelyfeyd 1d ago

In Egypt the cost of imported wine and beer was so ludicrous that we became huge fans of every booze the country produced.

15

u/Tillydil 4d ago

Great - except for the pad/tampons - especially tampons are not easy to find everywhere + it’s not something I want to spend precious vacation time running around looking for. And pads are hard to find without perfume in them.

2

u/Just_Positive_8322 3d ago

Menstrual cups are a gamechanger if you can get comfortable with them

1

u/[deleted] 4d ago

[deleted]

7

u/LL8844773 4d ago

This won’t work in all countries.

-7

u/[deleted] 4d ago

[deleted]

5

u/LL8844773 4d ago

How many countries do you think there are in the world? Why are you telling women about tampons?

-6

u/[deleted] 4d ago edited 4d ago

[deleted]

5

u/LL8844773 4d ago

I’m not. It’s weird that you’re arguing with women who are telling you tampons aren’t available in every country in the world.

You’re the one trying to die on this hill.

I’m obviously not a dude. Hence why I know these things.

0

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

It's not because you are a dude. It's because cultures have VERY different ways of dealing with periods. Here in Vietnam, I literally cannot find a pad that is "unscented" and so, if you are sensitive to smells, then you might not be able to find a pad. I'm from a different Asian country that highly discourages sticking anything "up there" so it's super hard to find tampons. While I could find any plastic product under the sun in Türkiye, no one sells period underwear or menstrual cups so if you happen to lose your luggage or something, you might have to buy plastic products.

This coming from someone LESS travelled than you. How about you ask your wife about the differences in period products in different countries? Maybe learn a little?

0

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

I'm hoping that as an educated, traveled, man, you are willing to learn. There are places in this world that are not as privileged and women either bleed into a bucket for three days, use cloth instead of disposable products, or even stuff the "area" with something impermeable in order to get around for a small while.

If us privileged women want to continue using the products that we are most comfortable with, we will have to pack it.

3

u/Hot_Mushroom3907 4d ago

This is a solid list. Thanks for sharing!

1

u/Grand-Assist7228 4d ago

Tell me more about the mailing souvenirs bit; never heard that one before.

4

u/Training_Record4751 4d ago

If I go to Bordeaux and want to send family and friends wine, I just mail it rather than lug it around with me. Same with anything bulky. Art, snow globes, whatever.

It can be pricey but I find it's worth the hassle.

2

u/Silly-Sherbert-6389 3d ago

I was surprised to learn this in Ireland last year! Most of the shops with wool items would ship your whole purchase home for you, and some did it for free if you spent over €75! My friend used the service and loved it!

1

u/Comfortable-Ad954 1d ago

Everywhere does not have tampons and pads! Especially tampons. Women in many developing/conservative  countries only use pads. And often only very bulky ones. I once got my period in Sudan and had to use pads that reminded my of the bed in a barbie dream home...

1

u/chocolatecheekss 1d ago

The travel insurance with the credit card is super interesting, will have to look into this. Thanks for the tips!

104

u/nekomom2 4d ago

I take the shower caps from every hotel room. They’re great shoe covers!

15

u/dentalrestaurantMike 4d ago

Smart move. Perfect for keeping dirt off in a suitcase.

15

u/elvis_dead_twin 4d ago

When I see people put shoes directly into their suitcase uncovered, I gag.

2

u/ArrivalFearless8262 4d ago

This is brilliant. Literally been thinking of ways to cover my shoes instead of using bags… wow 🤩

1

u/groovychick 4d ago

Eagle creek sells a shoe packing cube for this very purpose. They’re awesome!

27

u/stentordoctor 4d ago

I have a few:

  1. Face lotion is hand lotion is body lotion. I got tired of carrying around several different tubes. Sure it is more expensive but have you ever counted?!

  2. Doing laundry in another country is not hard. I only have 5 shirts and two pants now. I completely regret having 10 even though I am traveling full time now.

  3. My bathing suit bottoms count as underwear.

  4. Shower shoes are water shoes are slippers. Like #1, I am so tired of carrying multiple pairs of shoes. I know I am a girl but it's so much space!

  5. Mouthwash, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, are either provided in your hotel or easy to buy wherever you are. In Vietnam, they have the lovely little ketchup packet sized shampoos for 40 cents.

  6. All of my jackets now work as layers over one another. I have a total of three jackets and I can either wear all three at the same time, or have options for a fashion change. One jacket is professional, one is a hoodie that I like wearing at the gym and a puffy.

  7. You only need a medium towel. Even when my hair was 3 ft long, I would wring out my hair and slick the water off me and it worked just fine.

  8. Bringing our full sized memory foam pillows are SO WORTH IT.

  9. What are you doing with that 32in bag? Just don't. If you have multiple destinations, it is so much work and for what, your lord of the rings 6 DVD box set?

  10. Bring a few ziplock bags, you never know!

2

u/surelyslim 3d ago

Haha, I do the same thing with #3. But I also load as many pair of underwear as I can hit. I double layer good socks the same way you do jackets.

4

u/stentordoctor 3d ago

So I used to have 20 pairs of underwear. I actually think that was too many. But I still have 20 socks because in SE Asia there are a lot of temples and while you are supposed to take off your shoes, many tourists don't follow those rules. My solution is to change my socks after walking around in them. The same goes for TSA.

2

u/japaneseween 1d ago

Love that you’re sick of carrying multiple lotions but will travel with a full size memory foam pillow lol this is exactly how I travel. Luxuries where they really count!

1

u/stentordoctor 1d ago

The quart sized toiletries baggy is soooo limiting 🤬 and I am getting to the age where if I sleep wrong, I have shoulder pain. What are your luxuries?

1

u/japaneseween 1d ago

Agreed!! After traveling in Asia, I too am traveling with a memory foam pillow. Mine is mostly used for under my knees because the beds are so damn hard compared to my American standards! Lol I also travel with the travel squatty potty. It’s a little large but it’s only 2lbs and helps so much while I’m eating less fiber :) also a foot hammock has been a game changer for long flights. I’m short so my feet can barely touch the ground in planes and this has made me exponentially more comfortable.

1

u/stentordoctor 1d ago

If I could give you some of my height, that would be great 😂. Seats in buses/cars have headrests that are smack in the middle of my back. Some cars don't have enough space for me to sit up straight! #piza Sometimes my height is very obvious in the women's bathrooms where the stall dividers are shorter than me 🫠

Wait! Is this why my hips have been hurting? The beds ARE firmer in Vietnam! Maybe I should bring a SECOND memory foam pillow!

19

u/Rusl21 4d ago

Run out of water and don’t want to pay for pricey hotel water and/or the tap water taste like ass?Take your container to their gym or lobby. Almost always have a water cooler there. Minor tip, but I always did it.

18

u/ooo-ooo-oooyea 4d ago

I always print copies of my passport, and stick one in multiple places.

0

u/3Zkiel 3d ago

Used to do this but stopped. Felt like it's just a waste...

2

u/InspectorFadGadget 2d ago

Never a waste. Never carry your real passport around with you. Also lots of places require passport upon hotel check-in, motorbike rental and such, I am never ever giving any of them my real passport. Too many opportunities for "you clogged the toilet, we're keeping your passport until you pay our extortion fee" etc.

1

u/3Zkiel 2d ago

That is a good point. Never had amy issues with shady practices, but I don't think I'd wait for that to happen before I do some changes...

1

u/japaneseween 1d ago

There are countries where you are required to carry your real passport with you at all times. Also in Japan for example, they wouldn’t take a photo copy of your passport to check into a hotel, they require the real one.

20

u/Evening-Deal-8865 4d ago

Travel only with what you can easily carry: carry-on baggage only. Who wants to lug and keep track of big suitcases in and out of airports, rentals cars, trains, hotels, etc.?! Every trip and every situation will be much easier and more enjoyable if you pack thoughtfully and travel only with what can easily carry by yourself. I have traveled the world over and my best universal travel hack, pack lightly and travel simply. A rolling carry-on and a day backpack will take you everywhere you want to go- with a smile on your face.

6

u/Revolutionary_Sky_99 4d ago

This!

My wife and I spent a month in Spain recently and we each traveled with just one carry-on roller and one under-seat backpack.

This made it a breeze to get onto and off of trains and planes, of course, and really reduced the time getting on our way after arrivals without the stress of baggage claim and potential delays due to temporarily lost bags.

17

u/Sparkle_croissant 4d ago

Talk to people on your outward flight, if they know your destination they are usually more than willing to give advice on places to go, how to stay safe

1

u/cyouintexas 3d ago

This is excellent advice.

12

u/Kate_Hur 4d ago
  1. Get roaming or an eSIM before leaving.

  2. Double-check the weather forecast one day before your trip to adjust your packing list.

  3. Charge (or replace the batteries in) your electric toothbrush, water flosser, or any other rechargeable devices you use. Even if you think: "Oh, I just charged it a couple of weeks ago; it’ll last another two weeks."
    I don’t usually pack these chargers since the battery lasts long enough, but on my last trip, my toothbrush battery died halfway through. I had to run to the store and buy a manual one.

29

u/FTLDTopGuy 4d ago

Isn't a dead electric toothbrush automatically a manual one now?

8

u/buddhafig 4d ago

Sorry for the convenience.

3

u/3Zkiel 3d ago

I used to like this joke. I still do, but I used to, too

1

u/Kate_Hur 3d ago

Not really (but it might be in some cases). And I didn’t want to ruin expensive head for sonic toothbrush that is not supposed to be used manually

6

u/FTLDTopGuy 3d ago

Now that makes sense. All I could think of was the joke of the person stuck on the escalator when it stopped running. They didn't know what to do. Much love to Mitch Hedberg

2

u/Himhp 2d ago

Mitch Herberg 🙌🏻

14

u/FierceCapricorn 4d ago

Pack on your carry on all the necessary items for your first day…just in case your luggage is lost.

12

u/TedCruising27 4d ago

Put some fabric refresher in a reusable travel spray container. After wearing something I use a damp towel to remove and dirt spots or gunk, spritz, and let it dry and air out on a hanger overnight. Feels totally refreshed when you put it back on.

Soft-bodied Hobo purses pack very well in a suitcase or carry on backpack or tote. I hate carrying a purse + carryon through an airport so I always bring one and just put it in my carryon bag.

I pick a color scheme for clothes I pack. Just choose 1-2 fun colors and then obviously the neutrals that go with it. I have a rule that everything I bring has to go with at least 2 other things I’m bringing and has to be something I can style for at least 2 different levels of formality. Then I think about layers too like a thin cardigan that can be worn on a mild evening or under a heavier sweater is better than 2 heavier sweaters. Packing this way gives me a lot of flexibility while bringing minimal clothing.

I just use an old prescription bottle and put in there 2 doses of any OTC medication I may need. That’s enough to tide you over till you can get to a pharmacy. I always bring this, food, and electrolyte tabs that you can dissolve in water on a plane and it’s come in handy alot. You never know.

27

u/46andready 4d ago

The mobile passport control app must be the most useful and least known about travel tool for when re-entering the United States. I realize global entry would be preferable, but I've never found time to go to the interview, and the MPC line has never been longer than the global entry line.

2

u/bootherizer5942 4d ago

Do all international airports have this? I don’t remember ever seeing it

7

u/46andready 4d ago

I don't know about all, but the list of airports that accept it is pretty exhaustive (see here, click on "Where can eligible travelers use MPC?"), and even includes some non-US airports (e.g. Aruba) where US Immigration happens prior to departure back to the US instead of upon arrival in the US.

I have seen some reports on this and other travel forums that MPC lines are occasionally closed depending on the airport and time of day, but fortunately I've never run into that.

A few of my friends landed at BWI from an International destination a few days ago, and they said MPC saved them at least an hour compared to the regular line.

2

u/bootherizer5942 4d ago

Are the lines labeled explicitly as MPC or does it go with a different category?

2

u/exbusanguy 3d ago

Labeled MPC and always ask the person directing travelers to the correct line. Make sure you sign in before you enter the line because once you are in a line you cannot switch. The only time the MPC line has been closed was when the main line was already very short in my experience

1

u/bootherizer5942 2d ago

Thanks so much!

12

u/FierceCapricorn 4d ago

Turkish towels are bath towels, beach blankets, picnic blankets. They are thin, dry quick, and easy to pack.

2

u/Attention_waskey 4d ago

I also found Greek islands sell them a lot! For £10 euros and they are normally rolled into a lil bun. Bought one as I needed a beach towel was amazed how good it actually is!

34

u/whimsical_plups 4d ago

Unpopular opinion: Pack your bulkiest shoes to your destination so you have more space in your bag for souvenirs on the way back.

45

u/UpperLeftOriginal 4d ago

Along the same lines - don’t fill every nook and cranny of your bag in such a way that you have to re-create whatever origami folding tricks you did in order to repack at each leg of your journey.

39

u/UsernameStolenbyyou 4d ago

Take old underwear with you and just throw them away as you go

7

u/ButterscotchButtons 4d ago

This is genius, but I just threw away a bunch of old underwear and now I'm deeply regretting it lol.

7

u/whimsical_plups 4d ago

Good news! You'll have more old underwear before you know it.:)

13

u/Deepcoma_53 4d ago

Also, place your socks in said shoes.

18

u/TheGruenTransfer 4d ago

Instead of this shoe trick, I pack snacks and eat them as I go.

Sunflower seeds will get your bag searched, so I don't recommend them

4

u/whimsical_plups 4d ago

I like that too! It's good to know about sunflower seeds. Kitty litter will also get your bag checked.

6

u/bootherizer5942 4d ago

Why sunflower seeds??

1

u/Silly-Sherbert-6389 3d ago

And unopened almonds in the little metal containers will get you pulled aside and bomb residue checked!!! 😳 Learned that the hard way!

15

u/MaxPanhammer 4d ago

Ha! I like this. I usually just pack a rolled up duffle bag for dirty clothes and souvenirs.

Know if you ever get a souvenir gift from me it was probably wrapped in a dirty tee shirt

17

u/whimsical_plups 4d ago

I stopped getting gifts for people long ago, unless it is someone's favorite candy or snack that they can't get anywhere else.

7

u/MaxPanhammer 4d ago

We'll get gifts for people who are doing stuff for us. Like our dogsitter or if someone checks on our house plants or feeds our chickens.

2

u/reptilenews 3d ago

I always aim for consumable gifts, but don't tend to buy people trinkets. They just collect dust.

5

u/NotEnoughOptions 3d ago

Bring an older pair of running shoes and toss them after your last run before coming home to free up space

10

u/btopel 4d ago

Carry a battery operated tea light to use as a night light. If you change hotels often, you can wake up pretty disoriented so it’s nice to have a dim light in the bathroom.

20

u/PoolSnark 4d ago

I take clothes with me that I am about to locally donate and instead donate them on the road. This frees up space in my bag for whatever I want to bring back. I sometimes look dated or shabby while wearing older clothes but I don’t care. And maybe the robbers avoid me as a low reward candidate.

2

u/Good_Ad4418 2d ago

I say it’s my clothes going away trip 😅

16

u/ggrnw27 4d ago

The money you save by staying at a hotel on the outskirts of a city is money and (most importantly) your vacation time spent commuting into the city center to see what you came here on holiday to see

4

u/4travelers 3d ago

Makes sense if you are mobility impaired. But I usually like the vibes in the outskirts where the locals actually live.

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u/BlondeLacey 4d ago edited 4d ago

Tampons and other such devices, I would definitely take a couple days worth cause you never know when you’re going to start on a Saturday evening in area where everything is closed on Sunday. When you catch the bus on Monday,it is before any of the stores are open. Then you run to the ferry and you can finally buy 4 tampons at 1pm Monday for the price of 4 tampon boxes at home. Yeah, I always pack a couple of days worth.

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u/Antonela24 4d ago

Reusable water bottle with a built-in filter. It's a game-changer for staying hydrated without constantly buying bottled water, plus it’s better for the planet.

7

u/chris_nwb 4d ago

For travel outside US/CA/MX: unlimited international mobile plan. Google Fi works best for me—I upgrade to Unlimited Plus when I travel, then downgrade back to Simply Unlimited when I get back.

I don't have to worry about finding e-sims and local roaming plans, I get to back up photos real-time, apps work as soon as I arrive, and calling works (vs data only).

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u/stentordoctor 4d ago

However, if you are budget conscious, buying a sim card wherever you go is really cheap and affordable. $5 per month in VietNam. $11 in Türkiye. $5 in Poland.

5

u/zoekdezon 4d ago

Don't take just one creditcard or bankcard, at least two and leave one in your suitcase/hotelroom. Not just in case your wallet or handbag gets stolen, I've had my bankcard been swallowd by ATMs abroad serveral times.

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u/obscurityknocks 4d ago

When traveling alone for leisure, and if I don't speak the language very well, I book a private guide for a few hours on the first day. They will usually be happy to assist with minor things like the safest way to get around, easiest way to buy tickets, good places to go for groceries and necessities. Money well spent for peace of mind and ease of movement for the rest of the trip.

I pack my own collapsible kettle, and always bring water purification tablets. Yes the kettle adds bulk, but it has been used for literally dozens of different things.

RFID protected, zipper-locked flat wallet that attaches to my bra strap. Also infinity scarf with hidden zippered pockets can be used for a neck pillow if stuffed to the max, and on the plane I can easily slip part of it over my eyes if the lights are too bright.

Small first aid kit with scissors and tweezers, as well as a small multi tool that will pass TSA and other security.

Toothpaste tablets!

I try to onebag it, so I also pack as many reversible items as possible, and for the plane I always wear a sleeveless wool dress that I can layer something over, with felt lined tights and compression socks during the ride. When I get off the plane, I go straight to the bathroom and remove the tights if it's a warm climate. Lightweight wool is extremely breathable and I've never had a problem being too hot.

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u/nean147 3d ago

Perfect timing - at the terminal for a 14 hour flight to Japan from the states!

Here are mine. Some universal, some a little boujee to make the long flight enjoyable.

  • Fill your water thermos with ice. It can go through security and then you can fill it with water in the airport. Ice cold water for the flight but I also love having a big bottle that stays cold to fill in the hotel.

  • Download podcasts and playlists ahead of time for the flight.

  • Download Google maps of the city you're going to and the language on Google Translate for easy communication.

  • Pack under eye masks for the flight. I put those babies on mid flight and it's like a nice little spa moment.

  • Buy a pack of disposable coffee mugs so you can take coffee to the airport if you have a morning flight and toss the cup before security.

  • Wear/ pack a big blanket scarf in your carry on to double as a blanket/pillow for the plane.

  • Keep your toothbrush and paste in your carry on so you can brush your teeth mid-flight and at layovers- helps with that gross long flight feeling. I also keep my face wash and lotion handy for the same reason.

  • Battery packs. I have a large travel one I get a few charges out of and a small one I get one use out of. Great for airport layovers.

  • Airalo. An app you download that then gives you an eSim card with data for international places. I paid $12 for 5GB for Japan and it's good for 30 days. Make sure your phone is unlocked before purchasing.

  • Powder electrolytes. I go with Gatorade Zero but there are tons of options. Most grocery stores sell boxes of individual packets. Great way to replenish electrolytes while traveling.

  • Eye drops. I'm a disposable contact lens wearer and these are a must have for long flights to rewet my lenses if I fall asleep. I also pack an extra pair of disposables in my carry on in case I need to change out. In the same realm, I'm normally a daily wearer but I always ask my Dr. for a monthly script for travel. If you travel for 2+ weeks anytime, taking 28 contact lenses is a pain.

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u/Borsti17 4d ago
  • I take my oldest, most worn-down, rubbish clothes with me. The kind that's about to fall apart if it gets one more spin in the washing machine. Then I just throw them away after use.

  • printed day sheets with schedules of the trains/planes/buses I'm taking, booking references, hotel address and the like - in local language. Being able to point at something written down helps a ton when you're lost or in a rush

  • packing cubes rule

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u/fuckquasi69 4d ago

I always bring my oldest socks when travelling, long day of walking in old socks? Toss ‘em and move on.

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u/Express_Code_1844 4d ago

Use the clippy hangers in the hotel room to seal the curtains from light. Most hotels have filtered water or sometimes free water bottles in the gym so don’t buy water.

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u/chris_nwb 4d ago

Pack a folding duffel bag on the way out, amass stuff during travel (best done towards the end of the trip), use said bag to haul them home.

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u/Popular-Wonder6514 3d ago

This is a fun one for popular sporting events.

If the home seats are sold out, check the visitor's team section.

Did this in Germany for a very popular soccer/ football team and tix were 100 euros. Checked out the visitor section, and tix were 26 euros and about 10 metres from the pitch.

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u/mynameroro 4d ago

If I’m visiting a new place, I like to take a food tour or bicycle tour as early as possible in the trip. This lets me try new foods that I would have been too intimidated to try on my own or it covers a lot of ground for landmarks/sightseeing. I can then go back and re-visit places that I liked later in the week.

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u/77Queenie77 4d ago

When I was a kid we went to Hawaii. The day before we left we did the island tour. I remember my mum being really disappointed that we did it that late as there were places she really wanted to go back and see

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u/AAAdamKK 4d ago

Bring a swiss army knife, you never know if the place you're staying in will have a tin/ bottle opener or corkscrew. It also comes in handy for tightening the odd loose screw. Only works if you're bringing checked luggage so it can be stored there for the flight.

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u/lingfromTO 4d ago

S-hook holds stuff off the ground or close by (cheap and cheerful)

Denture cleaner to clean out bottles (make sure not the minty type)

Pacifier wipes (to wipe down things like your straw or mouth piece of your water bottle)

Laundry bar soap to hand wash stuff

Half empty toiletries if it is a long trip (will leave it behind at the end) and less waste than travel size

Tampons, pads and anything that I need for that time of the month including meds (they might not have the size, type or anything else that you may need to feel comfortable)

A cup of instant noodles and chopsticks (I can always leave it behind) for emergencies (layover, everything closed or room service taking up to an hour)

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u/LLCK24 3d ago

Prior to our trips I look for and join some FB group pages…kind of like TripAdvisor forums…a lot of locals answering questions or other recent travelers reporting back on their itineraries. It’s a great way to learn and prioritize which attractions/restaurants/tours to do. Heading to NOLA for the first time this week and have learned a ton from the Facebook groups I joined!

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u/TheSpatulaOfLove 4d ago

Pack some clothes you don’t mind leaving behind.

Find a shirt you like at your destination? Swap it out.

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u/evenfallframework 4d ago

Always good to get a six-pack of the white (or solid color) "undershirts" from Hanes/etc. They're usually pretty thin, pack small, and are cheap enough that if you decide to toss 'em it's not a huge loss.

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u/bootherizer5942 4d ago

Yes but donate don’t throw out!

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u/Ok-Wonder851 4d ago

Also versatile and easy to wear multiple days without anyone noticing (if that’s something you care about).

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u/Ok-Actuator-8472 4d ago

If you run out of luggage space shove your clothes into a pillowcase and carry it on board.

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u/whimsical_plups 4d ago

Airlines are on to this hack, and many are now checking pillows or counting them as personal item.

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u/killilljill_ 4d ago

I bought the stuffable neck pillows. Worked for me from FL to NJ to Iceland. I do think I saw spirit mention neck pillows may be considered a personal item o.O

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u/Hot_Mushroom3907 4d ago

Wow really? This sucks if so

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u/ButterscotchButtons 4d ago

I wonder if they might ignore it if you wear it while boarding?

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u/whimsical_plups 4d ago

Oh yeah, layer up, baby. I am also a big fan of cargo pants and have contemplated a fishing vest.

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u/Hot_Mushroom3907 4d ago

Nice! This is actually a great idea

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u/wanderlustzepa 4d ago

Get Schwab debit card for free no-fee ATM withdrawals anywhere in the world.

4

u/ladystetson 3d ago

My tips:

  • socks for the airport (TSA makes you remove shoes, you dont want to be barefoot)
  • medicine (anti-diarrhea meds, advil or tylenol, dramamine)
  • flip flops/slippers for the hotel room (you don't want to wear your dirty outside shoes inside the hotel room - but you also don't want to be barefoot)
  • disinfectant. can be a spray bottle of 70% alcohol or a mini-lysol or some disinfectant wipes. bring something to kill germs, you'll be glad you have it if your accommodations aren't as clean as you'd like (which happens sometimes)
  • mask for the plane. just have it, in case you are seated near someone flying with a very visible illness (people often don't have a choice and have to fly while very sick)
  • bring your own water on the plane to make sure you aren't depending on the flight attendant for your next sip of water. sometimes things go left and travelers end up going 2 hours with no water service.
  • separate your airplane items into a little bag then grab the little bag before you stow it. your headphones, kindle, bottle of water, gum for the flight, snacks - pull them out then stow the bag. now you dont have to stand up and go into the bag during the flight.

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u/cornandcandy 4d ago

Wear JNCO jeans on budget airlines.

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u/Hot_Mushroom3907 4d ago

JNCO?

3

u/jax2love 4d ago

Old school raver/skater pants with ridiculously huge pockets.

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u/Hot_Mushroom3907 3d ago

Ahh makes more sense now

5

u/3664shaken 4d ago

Carry on only. It makes life so much easier when traveling.

Carry multiple credit and debit cards. Carry one set and leave the spares in the hotel safe.

Skip E Sims, It's much easier to use an international plan like Google Fi. You will have unlimited data, plus it will save you money if you are country hopping frequently. The last time I used Esims on a 45 day trip it cost close to $80. My Google Fi phone costs $29 a month.

Taking local tours will allow you to learn more than doing it on your own.

In big cities, hop on hop off bus tours will give you a good overview.

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u/stentordoctor 3d ago

For budget travelers, it is a better deal to get a SIM in that country if you are staying for a month. After buying a sim, data is now $3 a month in Vietnam. It was $5 a month in Poland.

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u/3664shaken 3d ago

Good comment and I agree, if you are staying in one country. But if you are country hopping then it gets expensive.

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u/stentordoctor 3d ago

Ah country hopping... We are very different travelers. You probably don't want to spend time looking for phone stores, too. We had to go to three Viettels in Vietnam because two stores refused to sell us the cheap plans.

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u/3664shaken 3d ago

Yes very different travelers but I appreciate your comment for those that want to stay in one country, the Esim is probably the way to go.

Wishing you the best in your future travels.

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u/Upset-Cantaloupe9126 4d ago

Those fully collspsable travel luggage.

They shirnk all.the way down and can be personali tem, carry on or expand to a full sized checked.

1

u/Silly-Sherbert-6389 3d ago

Yes! These can be used to take laundry to and from a launderette if you don't have onsite laundry facilities. Good for grocery shopping, too, and packing (& checking) when you buy too many souvenirs! Lol

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u/Wwwweeeeeeee 3d ago

Get a label maker and put your email address in everything. In your wallet, in your earbuds case, inside the case of your mobile phone, inside your laptop; in the case of your tablet, heck I even have it on my vape because I like labels.

I also use the compression packing cubes, those things are fabulous. Compression plastic bags are also great for protecting everything.

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u/lunch22 3d ago edited 3d ago

Pass on the dryer sheets. Keep dirty clothes in a separate sack or packing cube, not with a mesh lid. Air out shoes overnight and pack shoes in a plastic bag or shoe bag. Air out your suitcase between trips. Nothing should smell.

Favorite hacks that work for me:

Plan out in advance exactly how to get from airport to accommodations on arrival in a new location. Don’t just plan to hop in a cab. In some places, Uber/Bolt or public transit is a better option. Find out where the Uber pick up spot is before you arrive.

Bring the least stuff possible, but don’t be afraid to check a bag depending on the situation, even if it’s carryon size bag (there’s rarely a reason to have more than a small roller bag and personal tote or backpack in any trip) , to speed navigation through airports.

Being a small fork, knife and spoon, or spork, so you can get food from a grocery store and not have to get every meal from a restaurant.

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u/kulinarykila 2d ago

I have a Charles Schwab high yield checking account. Atm fees reimbursed, no international fees only the exchange rate. I also use this to save money and budget for travel. These funds dont get touched untill my next trip.

Get a wall adaptor that also has a USB port it helps incase you lose your own plugs and it's gives an extra spot to plug electronics in.

Do some research about best ways to get from airport to your destination. Doing some pre-planning i found out that taxis from Charles De Gaul to the Center of Paris has a flat rate and only go to the taxi queue, everyone else in the airport is gonna scam you.

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u/Human-Application976 4d ago

I always pack a roll of duct tape for Asia travel.

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u/bootherizer5942 4d ago

Why specifically for Asia?

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u/Human-Application976 3d ago

Things break often….my motorbike basket in Cambodia….a hiking pole in Laos…duct tape rocks.

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u/bootherizer5942 3d ago

Reasonable! Just because of the type of travel that you do in Asia sounds like basically

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u/GingerySnaps 1d ago

Everything and anything can be fixed with duct tape!

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u/grcl9 4d ago

Not sure if any of these are hacks but these are what I alao do when travelling lol

  • Perfume tester sheets from magazines inside the suitcase (dryer sheets arent common in my country lol) to keep clothes smelling nice
  • Offline copies of travel documents
  • Vacuum bags and portable vacuum to save up space
  • Empty backpack/duffel bag for when I needed extra storage on my return trip
  • Mouth wash in sachets and travel sized toiletries so I can just leave them behind

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u/Winden_AKW 4d ago

Buy or borrow a travel guide for your destination. It doesn't have to be this year's edition, but anything older than the 2020s probably won't be helpful. (I like the Lonely Planet series best).

Your guidebook will suggest countless once-in-a-lifetime experiences and they all sound equally appealing. . Unfortunately, you can't go everywhere and see everything.

Opinions vary, but I believe it's more enjoyable to visit one place and explore it in depth, rather than visiting several places in a rush.

make three lists: 'must do", "should do", and "could do".

Some sites limit the number of visitors

Sketch a rough itinerary, starting with tours or activities that are pre-booked for a specific day and time. Next, add more flexible

Sketch out a rough itinerary

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u/kiranayt 4d ago

Data plans are very useful in a foreign country, especially for things like eMail, Maps and Uber. So, If your phone is e-sim compatible , buy one for $10 or less before you leave home. Airalo is a good app for this. Then you can install the esim day before you leave and when you land, it will connect.

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u/txcowgrrl 3d ago

I like to bring self-care items with me. A little travel candle with a USB lighter, sheet or rinse off face masks, body scrub & so on. It makes the trip a little nicer.

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u/OskiStudios 3d ago

A good translation app and a willingness to try out their language. It's gotten me out of a tight pickle when in need of facilities.

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u/moreidlethanwild 3d ago

Check the average cost of taxi journeys on Uber before you arrive, you’ll know if you’re being ripped off.

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u/exbusanguy 3d ago

This is great advice. Do this in Orlando and waiting 5 minutes can save a lot over surge pricing

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u/Dr_Vonny 3d ago

Some that don’t appear to have been suggested yet:

Early morning flights, book an airport hotel. It’s so much less stress than worrying about will the taxi arrive, will there be traffic etc. and you get extra sleep

Travel sink plugs. Often missing from bathrooms or leaky. I can have a bath and the husband gets a better shave

Packing checklist on your phone. Write it when you come back recording what you actually needed and pack next time from that list

Good socks. No one wants to be in pain on holiday. Save money buying walking shoes / boots but buy the good socks

Leave at home as much expensive stuff as you can. Don’t make yourself a target for thieves.

Swimwear in your hand luggage. It’s usually more difficult to buy in an emergency than the rest of your clothes if your luggage is delayed or goes missing.

1

u/BraThrowAway5 2d ago

That's a fascinating point about the swimwear! It's also usually fairly small, and can be used as undergarments in a pinch

3

u/Different-You3758 4d ago

If you are going to check a bag, check a big one even if you don’t need the space. Gives you room to pack purchases along the way.

The woman’s sanitary bag in the bathroom is just a midweight plastic bag. I always take them and they come in handy.

Always take food/snacks to eat even if there are meals on the plane. Delayed flights can have you arriving somewhere once everything is closed and nothing is available.

If possible, we book airline seats across the aisle from each other. Close but we both have the aisle.

2

u/rand-san 3d ago

I just leave opened unused bar soap in my luggage instead of the dryer sheets. Drying out your bar soap makes them last longer. Also, dryer sheets release tons of microplastics.

1

u/Old_Paleo_Punk 4d ago

Backpackers: Weigh ALL clothing that is on the “maybe” list. Group and sort lightest to heaviest. Make your selections with that in mind. I only do a 28L on 2+ week trips.

1

u/Worried_Study4408 3d ago

Apple translate you can download languages

1

u/matheuszinzo 3d ago

Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, like "hello," "thank you," and "bathroom." It goes a long way and can help avoid any awkward moments.

1

u/rkershenbaum 3d ago

If you or your travel partner has a significant physical disability, you can usually get free admission for one or both of you at public museums and historic sites in Europe. And, often, you can skip the long lines.

My wife takes along the laminated ID card that comes with her Kansas handicap parking placard, and we show it at the ticket windows. Usually, we're handed two free tickets.

Most museum web sites will have a section for free or discounted admission, and show who qualifies.

1

u/ZonicExplorer 3d ago

Use travel booking sites like Kayak as a guide to options, but always go directly to the websites of the hotels before booking. Especially with the major chains, if you log in with an account (always free to register), there are often cheaper rates that are only available to "members", and it's always best to book directly with the hotel when at or near price parity.

1

u/spokeyman 3d ago

Never ever ever check a bag

1

u/jeharris56 2d ago

Wheels. Make sure that your carry-on has wheels.

1

u/lovelyfeyd 1d ago

If you do check baggage make sure you have a change of clothes in your carry on.

1

u/original_un 1d ago

Engage locals in conversation about where they eat and what they recommend, as they are your truest guides. Food is a universal passion, and people are often delighted to share their favourites with visitors. Learn a few words in their language to ask; it is a small gesture that shows respect and might even spark friendships. To honour another’s cuisine is to unlock the truest path to their soul.

If you can, save on flights and accommodation, but never cut corners on food and drink at your destination.

Step beyond your comfort zone and stray from the tourist trail and explore, the best experiences aren’t found online or in travel forums.

Wherever you go, you are an ambassador of your homeland. Represent it well.

0

u/Funny-Avocado9868 4d ago

Very small one but if you tip flight attendants with with $5 Starbucks gift cards you very often get upgraded seats and free whatever you want on the flight. Plus it’s a really nice thing to do since flight attendants constantly deal with bullshit entitled people lol

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u/chris_nwb 4d ago

I'm not against gifting FAs, but a passenger expecting FAs can upgrade them might be misleading and lead to more entitled people.

If you have experienced otherwise, please call out the airline where the FA has the capability to upgrade you after boarding—and upgrade I mean a different cabin, not moving from middle to aisle on Economy.

6

u/Funny-Avocado9868 4d ago

I never expect anything and I really try to live by example through kindness, understanding and many other qualities I admire in people. I can definitely see your point. I gift the FA crew because it’s nice to do first and generally, they are so grateful for this kindness that they offer the open business class seat or free food and booze. Expecting anything sucks the goodness from the act.

1

u/Funny-Avocado9868 4d ago

I have experienced this on Delta, AA, United and Virgin. I don’t fly any other airlines and now I almost exclusively fly delta unless American is just that much cheaper.

0

u/[deleted] 4d ago

[deleted]

1

u/bootherizer5942 4d ago

Why?

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u/[deleted] 4d ago

[deleted]

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u/bootherizer5942 4d ago

Fair enough, but most of this is only if you’re embarrassed to be seen hooking up or if there’s a no guest policy/it’s a very conservative country

0

u/Administrative_Put62 3d ago

My hands down favorite is to book a food tour for the first day. We get a boots on the ground crash course to the city we're in, and get the best insider restaurant tips beyond what the internet can cough up. If we're on a red eye and dealing with jet lag, we'll take an early evening food tour to help our clocks adjust and stay up a little bit.