First things first—can we all agree that the whole concept of packing is pretty overwhelming? A lot of energy goes into perfectly executing a trip, whether you are a first-time traveler or a veteran planning instinctively. To make your journey a little less chaotic, we have curated a list of 13 travel hacks you can use on your next trip.
Here’s a list of 13 travel hacks for your next vacation:
1. Navigate Using Offline Maps
On your traveling journey, you might not have internet access 24*7. To navigate during these times, we recommend downloading Google Maps for offline use. Once done downloading, open the area you want to visit, type ‘ok map’ into the search, press download, and voila—you are all set!
2. Google Translate for Language Barriers
Language barriers are one of the major issues faced by travelers exploring new countries. You know what you need? Google Translate. It provides two translation options—either type the text or use the microphone to say the words or phrases you want to translate. Additionally, you can also use your phone camera to translate various texts into your desired language.
P.S. You can also learn some simple phrases in the local language to use as an icebreaker.
3. Get a Universal Travel Adapter
The electricity plug points differ from country to country. To ensure the compatibility of your electronic gadgets, carry a universal adapter that works seamlessly across countries for better convenience.
4. Packing Cubes to the Rescue
Want to pack your bags efficiently? Packing cubes are god sent to keep your luggage organized—making packing and unpacking hassle-free. The cubes can also save space and protect your belongings.
5. Choose Off-Season to Save Money and Avoid Crowds
It’s to be expected that the peak season will be flooded with tourists. However, the time before and after the peak season is where a golden opportunity lies if you want to save on flight tickets and also avoid large tourist crowds. The off-season also gives you better deals on accommodation without making the bookings relatively late compared to peak season.
6. A Travel First-aid Kit is a must
Carrying a first aid kit during traveling is crucial. Ideally, the first aid kit should include basic medications such as painkillers, stomach remedies, and antihistamines in an easily carryable way. This is especially helpful in places where you cannot get basic medication without a prescription. Notably, the name of the medicine can also vary across countries.
7. Keep offline copies of Essential Travel Documents and Reservations
Whether passport, visa, flight tickets, vaccination, or other documents, always keep offline copies of these documents. You can also keep the copies on your phone in the digital form. Remember, you must be able to access these copies without the internet.
8. Save $$$$ on Flight Tickets
Let’s face it: flight tickets are expensive. Wouldn’t we all love it if they were cheaper? Sigh. One of the best ways to save money on plane tickets is by signing up for flight ticket alerts on a travel aggregator. The alerts will keep you updated with the price drops or promotions offered by the airlines.
9. Travel Insurance
For travel insurance, while the amount to be spent on the insurance can seem overwhelming on paper, it is truly worth it—especially in a foreign country. You or the people you are traveling with can both benefit and have a safe and seamless traveling experience.
10. Connect to Public WiFi with a VPN
When connected to public WiFi networks at airports, cafeterias, and hotels, use VPN for additional data security and privacy. Public networks are often unsafe and could be a threat to your crucial personal information like bank details and other credentials.
With a VPN, you can encrypt your internet activity and data to keep it secure from interception. VPN can also help you acquire a new IP address and protect your identity and location. However, it is important to ensure the VPN you choose operates in the country you are visiting.
11. Currency Exchange at the airport is a big NO
Despite the convenience, avoid exchanging money for a local currency at the airport. Exchange only the minimum required amount. Generally, the airports charge higher due to higher overhead costs or offer less favorable exchange rates.
Instead, it is more beneficial to exchange money at a reputable bank, ATM, or exchange bureau in the city. As an alternative, you can consider using credit or debit cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees and have reasonable exchange rates.
12. A Good Travel Wallet is Underrated
A travel wallet is a lifesaver, helping you organize your passport, bills, receipts, boarding passes, and other such things in one place. A good travel wallet does not always cost a fortune, there are numerous affordable travel wallets available as well.
13. Jet Lag Remedies
While difficult, jet lag can be managed through exercises like yoga, running, or resistance band training. These exercises can also help reduce stress and enhance the energy levels. Another way to combat jet lag is by not falling asleep after boarding the flight or reaching the destination.
Remember, the most important thing is being patient when fighting jet lag as you take time to adjust to a new environment. The fundamentals remain the same—eat healthy, stay hydrated, and get enough rest.
Bon Voyage!
Planning trips is understandably nerve-wracking, from onboarding and reaching your destination to the moment you come back home–it’s a rollercoaster. By employing these travel hacks, you can without a doubt make your journeys a lot more enjoyable. Share this article with someone who you think could benefit from these hacks.
