11 Clever Travel Tips to Make Every Journey Easier

Travel often brings its share of stress, starting long before you even reach the airport. From figuring out what to pack and picking the perfect outfit to ensuring a safe and smooth hotel stay, this article shares essential tips to make your journey as stress-free as possible.

Choose the right outfit for the airport

• Opt for something practical and easy to walk in. It’s best to skip high heels and flip-flops, since they can be tricky to move quickly in during an emergency and may even pose challenges for other travelers.
  High heels, in particular, have the added downside of potentially triggering metal detectors due to the nails in their construction. Meanwhile, open-toed shoes like flip-flops aren’t the most practical choice, especially if you plan to use the airport restroom.

• When traveling, wearing light layers is a smart choice. Temperatures can shift dramatically between outdoors, the airport, and the plane, so having clothing you can easily add or remove ensures you stay comfortable no matter the changes.
• Choose clothing that fits properly — avoid anything too tight or overly long. Ill-fitting clothes not only make traveling uncomfortable but can also pose safety risks. For instance, overly long pants could cause you or someone else to trip in an emergency, which is the last thing you’d want during your journey.

Pack smartly

• If packing for trips always feels like a challenge, packing cubes might just become your new best friend. They keep your belongings tidy and organized while saving space compared to tossing everything into one big heap in your suitcase.
• Ironing clothes while traveling can be a hassle, so it’s a smart move to pack wrinkle-resistant clothing. This way, you save yourself the stress of hunting for an iron or dealing with creases in your favorite outfit during your trip.
• Plan a capsule wardrobe for your trip to keep things simple and efficient. Even if your journey lasts more than a few days, you likely don’t need duplicates of everything. A well-curated capsule wardrobe is not only practical, but leaves room for any shopping you might do while traveling.

Protect yourself from pickpockets

• When you’re in busy places, stay alert and pay attention to what’s happening around you. Keep your bag or purse in front of you where you can see it, making it harder for anyone to access it without you noticing. Carrying a backpack on your back or letting your bag hang loosely at your side can make it an easy target for pickpockets.
• Get into the routine of double-checking all your belongings, including your pockets and bags, before leaving any spot — be it a hotel room, a taxi, or a café. This simple habit can save you the trouble of leaving something important behind.

Always check the bathroom at a hotel

• Before booking a hotel room, pay attention to details that reveal whether it’s the right choice. One simple way to judge a hotel’s quality is by checking the bathroom. Well-maintained hotels typically avoid leaving items like toilet brushes or plungers in the bathroom, as these can signal poor upkeep or cleanliness.

Put your suitcase in a bathtub first

• When you arrive at a hotel, avoid opening your suitcase right away. Instead, place your luggage in the bathroom or bathtub first. While it’s there, inspect the room for any bugs or insects. Keeping your luggage in the bathroom helps protect it, as pests are far less likely to be found there.

Ensure your safety while staying at the hotel

• If you’re unsure about the security at your hotel, hang a glass on the doorknob before going to sleep. If someone tries to open the door, the noise will wake you and likely scare off the intruder.

Ever wondered what the flight crew knows that most passengers don’t? From sneaky ways to score upgrades to insider tips for a smoother, more comfortable flight, these secrets can completely change the way you travel.