15 Travel Hacks That Actually Work
As a travel advisor, I’ve helped hundreds of clients plan unforgettable getaways—from milestone anniversary trips to last-minute family escapes. And if there’s one thing I know for sure? The internet is full of “travel hacks” that sound great but fall apart in the real world.
So I’m cutting through the fluff. These 15 travel tips actually work—because I’ve used them myself or recommended them to my clients with great success. Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning your first big vacation, these smart travel tips can save you time, money, and sanity.
1. Choose Your Seat Like a Pro
Always check SeatGuru before choosing your seat—especially on long-haul flights. Not all window seats have windows (seriously), and that extra legroom seat by the bathroom? Not worth it.
2. Pack Like a Minimalist with Compression Cubes
Stop wrestling your suitcase. Compression packing cubes not only organize your clothes, but they also squeeze out extra air so you can fit more in your bag without paying for checked luggage.
👉 I personally use these Amazon cubes — they’ve held up on over 20 trips!
3. Wear the Bulkiest Items on Travel Days
Bringing boots or a chunky sweater? Wear them on the plane. It frees up space in your luggage and saves you from overage fees. Airports are always cold anyway!
4. Use a Travel Credit Card with Lounge Access
A credit card with lounge perks is a game-changer. Free snacks, comfy seats, and fast Wi-Fi—especially helpful if you’re stuck during a delay.
👉 My go-to is the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Capital One Venture X®—both have great lounge networks and solid travel protections.
5. Bring an Empty Water Bottle
Save money (and avoid single-use plastic) by packing a collapsible water bottle. Fill it after you clear security. Most airports have refill stations now.
6. Pre-Pack Toiletries and Refill After Every Trip
Keep a pre-packed toiletry kit ready to grab. After every trip, restock it. This eliminates last-minute packing stress—and you’re less likely to forget something critical like contact solution or sunscreen.
7. Bring a Universal Travel Adapter with USB Ports
If you’re heading abroad, don’t rely on the hotel to have extras. This one on Amazon is compact and works in 150+ countries.
8. Download Google Maps Offline
Even if you don’t have service abroad, you can still navigate. Search your destination in Google Maps, tap the name at the bottom, then select Download for offline access.
9. Use a Phone Stand on Flights
Trying to watch a movie on your phone without a tray-table stand is an ergonomic nightmare. I always bring this tiny foldable phone stand—it takes up no space and works great on long flights.
10. Pick a Capsule Wardrobe
Choose 3–4 colors and make all your clothes mix and match. I stick to neutrals, baby blue, and sage green—you can make a dozen outfits with just a carry-on.
11. Take Photos of Important Docs
Snap photos of your passport, ID, travel insurance, and itinerary. Email them to yourself or store in a cloud folder. If your bag is lost or your phone dies, you’re not out of luck.
12. Pack a Foldable Daypack
Perfect for excursions, shopping, or beach days. Folds into itself when not in use. This one on Amazon weighs less than a pound and has held up through Costa Rica hikes and European markets.
13. Use the 2-Hour Rule for Airports
Even if you have TSA PreCheck, arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 for international. Delays, lines, or tight parking can eat up your buffer fast. Trust me, I’ve watched too many clients sweat it out at security.
14. Book Flights for Midweek Departures
Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically the cheapest and least crowded days to fly. Plus, airport staff tend to be less overwhelmed—making for a smoother experience overall.
15. Don’t Overplan Your Itinerary
Yes, even coming from a travel advisor. Leave a little wiggle room each day for rest, unexpected discoveries, or moments that take longer than expected. The best memories often come from spontaneous detours.
Travel Smarter, Not Harder
These smart travel tips aren’t gimmicks—they’re based on experience, trial and error, and the real-world needs of travelers like you. Whether you’re headed to an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora or planning a national park road trip, a little planning (and a few good hacks) go a long way.
Need help planning your next adventure? I’d love to help. As a travel advisor, I take care of the logistics, so all you have to do is pack your cubes and show up.