Want to make traveling easier? We've got some hacks to help!
It’s the holiday season, and that means many of us are traveling! And if you are anything like us, you dread the traveling experience, even though it is entirely worth it in the end. Whether you travel often or seldomly, we have 12 travel hacks that anyone can use to make the experience a little easier.
Track your baggage — Traveling these days has become synonymous with lost luggage! We try only to pack a carry-on whenever possible, but if you must check a bag, we suggest attaching an AirTag or similar tracking device to your baggage. This will allow you to pinpoint the location of your belongings and bring some peace of mind! And, worst case scenario, will help you track down your bags in the event that they get lost.
If you’re traveling internationally, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months before you travel — Seriously, this one of those things that is very easy to forget. Make sure that all of your documents are up to date and in compliance with whatever country you are traveling to. Otherwise, you will arrive at the airport only to be turned away.
If you’re traveling economy or on a train, invest in a seatback footrest — This handy little airplane footrest just hangs on the arms of the tray table in front of you and voila!, you have a built in footrest. This gadget won’t work on bulkhead seats or first class seats, but if you’re seated anywhere else, it’s a nice little addition.
Layer your clothing — Comfort is key when traveling! Because the temperature between the airport, plane, and your location can vary, we suggest wearing easily removable layers so that you can stay comfortable on your journey.
Check your airline’s luggage constraints — Every airline is a little different with what they will and won’t allow for luggage. Before you travel, make sure that you check your airline’s baggage rules so you don’t get stuck paying more for your bag, or having the check your carry-on.
Prepare for security ahead of time — Keep that security experience quick and easy — Don’t wear a belt, wear shoes that can easily be removed and have your laptop ready to be removed. And of course, make sure you don’t have any excess liquids. Being prepared to go through security will make your experience faster and easier and your fellow passengers will thank you, too.
Bring a charger for your phone — We are going to say this one again for the people in the back… BRING A PHONE CHARGER. Whether you grab a portable battery or bring a charge cord, make sure to have some way to refuel your phone while traveling. It’s amazing how fast a phone battery can drain when you travel and if you get stuck having to buy one at the airport you will get seriously ripped off on the price.
Screen shot all your travel confirmations — Confirmation codes, reservations and emails have a way of disappearing at the exact moment you need them (call it Murphy’s Law). Take a screen shot of all your vital confirmations and save them on your phone for quick and easy access should you need them.
Download audiobooks, ebooks, and television shows before you leave — Download audiobooks, ebooks, movies, or TV shows a day or two before you go. This way, you’ll have a variety of media readily available, ensuring you stay entertained without relying on an internet connection, which can be very spotty. And don’t forget your earbuds or headphones.
Check in for your flight asap and sign up for text updates from the airline — Gates change, flights get delayed and sometimes even terminals change. By checking in for your flight early and signing up for text alerts from your airline you will be kept in the loop of any major changes or delays.
Take a picture of where you parked — One of the most frustrating experiences after a trip can be remembering where you parked your car, especially in large airport parking lots or at unfamiliar destinations. Before leaving your car, take a quick picture of its location. We promise this will save you time and energy when you return.
Install multiple rideshare apps on your phone — Rideshare apps love to surge prices during the holidays! But just because one app is surging doesn’t mean another is. Try downloading a few of them and if your ride is surging and you have some time, wait a few minutes and then check again. Often surge pricing varies from minute to minute.
Hope these tips help make your travel smoother!
Have more travel hacks we should know about? Be sure and share it with us on the WOT Instagram or Facebook!
