travel hack sas

• Privacy & disclosure policy
• Portfolio & Press
• NORWAY ITINERARIES

A guide to bidding on a SAS flight upgrade (Bid for an upgrade) – Scandinavian Airlines

Psst! Some links in my posts may be affiliate links, which means that I get paid a fee if you chose to purchase something through it. This doesn't cost you anything, but makes a huge difference for me! Thanks for your support!

In the past few years I have discovered something pretty magical when flying my favourite airline. I have found a cheaper way to travel in Business Class with SAS, and I think it’s one of my greatest travel hacks yet. Not to say that this was my invention, but I have found that not that many people have heard of it when I tell them about how I’ve been travelling SAS Business Class between Europe and the US for several years at quite affordable prices. I am talking about bidding for a flight upgrade with SAS (Scandinavian Airlines)!

This post is about using cash or points and bidding to get upgraded to Business class, mainly with SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) specifically, as it is what I have been doing for years and have most experience with. Of course, many airlines offer this as an option, so you will find that the tips i share below (scroll all the way down for my best upgrade bidding tips) will work with many other airlines as well.

If you are only going to take one piece of advise away from this post, it is to always explore options for bidding or upgrading after you have purchased your tickets, as opposed to spending thousands when you book your flight.

(To be honest, I was considering not sharing this at all, as I am suspicious that one of the reasons that I’m always getting upgraded is that not enough people know about the fact they can bid for their upgrade and fly business for less) .

Ever since I manifested a business class upgrade with Emirates on my trip to Bali several years ago ( yep, I said manifested, please don’t judge ), I have known that there’s no going back to only flying Economy.

Business (and I assume First) is a whole new world of flying, and I love being able to recline my seat all the way and sleep flat on overnight flights, get superb service, cocktails made-to-order and enjoy a selection of wines (I always sleep better on planes after 2 glasses of red). Therefore, I started looking into how I could fly Business more often, and found that there’s a pretty easy way to do it with SAS!

So, after getting quite a few DMs and questions on Instagram about how I’ve been upgrading to Business Class for far less on my recent flights, I thought I’d let you in on the secret (and share how it works).

Consider this your ultimate guide to bidding on a flight upgrade (to Business class or even First).

Table of Contents

What is bidding for a flight upgrade and how does it work?

In short, bidding for an upgrade is when you put in a bid to get upgraded by an airline after you have purchased your initial ticket – making it much more affordable than splurging for a First or Business class ticket right away. Not all airlines offer this feature yet, but I have done it (and been successful) with both Scandinavian Airlines and Norwegian Air (go Nordics!) in the past. I have also upgraded with Qatar Airlines , but that was not in a bidding process.

You can bid using both cash or points you have collected with an airline . I have tried both, and don’t think either is more beneficial than the other. Meaning that it shouldn’t matter if you bid using points or cash.

If you have collected a large sum of points (sufficient enough to put in a bid), and you know that you won’t use them to get free tickets with that airline at a later stage, then go ahead and bid for an upgrade using points. If you want to save your points to purchase complimentary tickets at a later stage, I recommend using cash to bid.

How Bidding For An Upgrade Works

• Buy your tickets as usual, whether that’s Economy or Economy Plus (or similar).
• Get an email from the airline a few weeks before your flight offering you to bid for an upgrade (or find the direct link to the upgrading page – not all airlines have this page easily accessible on their website).
• Decide on how much you want to bid (whether that’s cash or points. Often the airline will show you a graph telling you whether your bid is “weak” or “strong”)
• Put in your bid and cross your fingers!
• 6-48 hours before your flight you’ll be notified if your bid is successful, and the money (or points) will be deducted from the card you entered. The window here depends on your airline.
• Pick your new seat and check-in to your upgraded class when it’s time!
• Enjoy your upgraded flight!

Let’s go through each of these points step-by-step, using examples from Scandinavian Airlines (where I most often do this). I’ll try to answer any question I have gotten about the process, but if you feel like anything is missing, please leave a comment.

How to bid for a business class upgrade (with Scandinavian Airlines)

Below is a step-by-step process of how I bid for Business Class upgrades when flying with SAS. The photos (and video below) are from when I most recently put in a bid for an airline upgrade. Press play on the video to see an exact screen recording of me bidding for a Scandinavian airlines upgrade on a recent flight.

#1 Buy your tickets as usual

This one’s a no-brainer, but many people get a little confused as to when the bidding process actually starts. The option to bid doesn’t become available until you’ve actually bought your ticket, so there is nothing to worry about until then. For some airlines, the option doesn’t show up until a few weeks before your flight.

In short, you can’t bid for a Business Class ticket as you are buying your flight, because then you’d just be buying a Business Class ticket (which can be very expensive). So just get your tickets as usual and leave it at first.

With SAS, the option to bid for an upgrade becomes available almost immediately under “My Bookings”. See the image below for an idea of what it looks like (they make it quite obvious). Additionally, there is a button where you can upgrade each individual leg of the trip next to that flight information in your itinerary.

#2 Get an Email from the Airline OR Find Button to Bid for an Upgrade

As mentioned, not all airlines offer the function of bidding for an upgrade. But, those who do will usually notify you when it’s time to put in your bid – or just include it at the bottom of your confirmation email at the time of booking. At least SAS and Norwegian have done this, and I have also had it happen with Emirates and Qatar.

Tip for scoring upgrades : I once wanted to bid/purchase an upgrade with Emirates, but didn’t have enough points for it. So, I spent some time browsing the upgrade page, before exiting. Then, a couple of days before my flight, I received an email from Emirates with a “Special Offer” to upgrade my flight for the exact amount of points I had left! So even though I didn’t have (anywhere near) enough points, I guess their AI or cookies noticed that I had been browsing the upgrade option. I ended up getting to fly Emirates business class for much less, and it was an amazing experience!

Another travel hack for you. Once you have received one of these emails (go ahead, check your inbox to see if you have any emails lying around that you didn’t consider at the time), simply save the link to bid for your upgrade and next time you don’t have to wait around for that email!

With Scandinavian Airlines, I already know the page to upgrade, and for my latest flight with them I just went in and added my upgrade bid (using points) the day after booking!

Here is the SAS Upgrade link for those who need it. You can also head straight to “Manage my Booking” to find the button for it, and this should work for most airlines.

#3 Decide on how much you want to bid

Now, simply follow the instructions on the page to place your bid. For Scandinavian Airlines, you have to select an available flight before you can enter a bid (see the image below compared to the image above).

For Domestic and European flights, you can usually bid to upgrade from Economy to SAS Plus (or Economy Plus with another airline), whilst for transatlantic and long-haul flights you can upgrade to business class (which is what I’m doing in the screenshots and in the video.

The page will tell you the minimum bid in both cash and points, which can differ from flight to flight. This is when you have to decide whether you want to upgrade using points or cash. Note that the payment is not deducted until your bid is accepted.

There used to be a lever telling you whether your bid is weak or strong (or just so). These days, you will simply see a statement saying if your flight is Weak or Strong, marked in green or red writing below your bid. This is great for indicating your chances of getting upgraded, especially on busy flights.

Every time I have been upgraded (after bidding up to 10 times and counting), my bid has been accepted with the lowest amount possible. I’ve found that SAS Business Class isn’t always full, and naturally, the airlines want to make more money when they can.

The result is that the airline makes a little more money on making you pay extra for seats that were already empty, and you get an up-levelled experience for a lot less!

When you have selected the flight you would like to bid for, you will also see a countdown that indicates when you have to add your bid by. Usually this is 1-3 days before the actual departure.

Side note to avoid confusion: the bidding process is not live like you’d imagine with a painting or with property (or any other auction). You simply put in your bid once, leave it and wait. No stress, and no worries. Just set it and forget it.

#4 Place your bid and cross your fingers

Once you have placed your bid, the hard part is over. At this point there’s nothing more for you to to do. Simply leave it be and wait. With Scandinavian Airlines (and most other airlines, I can imagine) you will receive an email confirming that they have received your upgrade, which will be considered your receipt.

#5 If your bid is successful you will be notified

Between 6 and 48 hours before your flight you’ll be notified if your bid has been accepted, and the upgrade will automatically be added to your booking. The money will then be taken out of the card you offered up, or the points will be deducted from your account.

Most of the time I have been notified around 48-40 hours before the flight, but it could end up being as close as 6 hours before your flight. This mainly depends on how full the business class cabin is, and how many people opted to bid for an upgrade.

Below you will see a screenshot of what it looks like when you have added your bids.

#6 Select your (upgraded) seat and check in like normal

The upgrade is, as mentioned, automatic and you don’t really have to do anything else at this point. However, I like to log onto the airline website as soon as I can after I’ve been upgraded to pick my new (fancy) seat.

If you’ve read my SAS Business Class review, for example, you’ll know that the seats along the window alternate between having the table and shelf area between you and the window and between you and the aisle, and I prefer the privacy of having the shelf and table area separating me a little from the aisle. Especially when I’m sleeping. But this is simply a preference, and you may have another. Regardless, I always go and select my new seat online as soon as I can.

Then, continue on just like normal, and enjoy your improved travel experience!

If you don’t want to risk bidding for an upgrade, and want to try something else, you can read more about different ways to get upgraded here !

SAS Upgrade Bidding Tips

If you came here for specific advice on bidding for an upgrade with Scandinavian Airlines, let me share a few here!

• Make sure you are logged in to your Eurobonus account. As a part of your tier benefits, you will have an increased chance of your bid being successful when you are a Silver or Gold member with Eurobonus. This means being logged in will be of benefit to you.
• When traveling long haul with SAS, and I know I want to use my points to bid for an upgrade, I try to book my original flight in the SAS Plus class. Like with being a higher tier member, the travel class gives you a slightly bigger chance of getting upgraded (I think). So, if you are a Silver member AND you are already travelling in SAS Plus, your bid will weigh much heavier than if you were logged out and flying economy.
• I always advise people to use points when you can, instead of cash. This is more of a preference than a tip, but basically, I’d rather spend my money on flights, and my points on getting upgrades.
• Following up on the previous point. Don’t bother upgrading to SAS plus for short trips if you can choose Business on longer haul flights. Basically, save your points for the “big” upgrades, such as Business on 8+ hour flights, instead of upgrading to Economy Plus on a 2 hour flight.
• Also, one thing to remember is that you won’t get the points/miles for your upgraded class. This simply means that if you booked SAS Plus at first, you will get the Eurobonus (or Star Alliance) points for a SAS Plus ticket, even if your upgrade bid is sucessfull in the end.

How much to bid for a SAS upgrade

If you are wondering how much to bid for SAS upgrade, the answer will obviously vary. Usually, I have bid somewhere between 30 000 and 40 000 points for transatlantic flights (usually Oslo/Copenhagen – Newark or Copenhagen – Boston). For European flights, this is naturally much less.

In the video above you’ll see that there is a little ticker that gives you an idea of how much to bid, and what is a weak and strong bid. I usually bid a little over “weak”, and have been successful every time.

Bid for Flight Upgrade FAQ

Yes, you can upgrade using both cash and points on SAS.

The points or cash you have bid will not be deducted from your account until the bid is successful.

You will get an email before your flight notifying you if your bid has been accepted or not.

No, not all airlines. But it is becoming more and more common.

The airline website will tell you the minimum bid you should expect to spend in order to upgrade. It will also tell you if your bid is Weak or Strong.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to bidding for upgrades on flights. The whole bid for upgrade function isn’t yet available with all airlines, but I think it’s such a great feature from those that do offer it. Personally, it has allowed me to travel on Business Class (return) from Europe to the US for less than $800 total , and it gives for a much more guilt-free splurge.

Have you ever bid for an upgrade before? Would you want to try it? Tell me in the comments below!

Domina Coral Bay, Sharm El Sheikh [REVIEW]

Qatar airways business class review [including qsuite review], you may also like, do you need a passport for punta cana, the 5 best punta cana excursions, how to plan a trip to norway [a..., is alcohol served in qatar airways, eurowings discover premium economy review [discover airlines], the best new zealand fjords & how to..., all inclusive packing list: what to pack for..., how to get from bergen airport to the..., 10 norwegian and scandinavian backpacks you’ll love, 18 great things to do in olden, norway....

Have you found that they have business available even if you can’t book that class now? I have a “medium” bid and went in to see how many seats were left in business by booking a “new” flight and it wasn’t an option to book. I’m wondering if this means it’s full and I’m SOL. I’ve been successful in the past, thanks for your tips!

I’m afraid that *might* mean Business is full or sold out. But I think it also depends on how far in advance the flight is – if the flight is close, they may have already “set aside” one or two seats for the bids that have been made. Crossing my fingers for you!

I was dissatisfied as the seats that were automatically assigned seemed to have been the worst in the cabin (all middle). Being able to see what seats are even still available to bid on would be helpful. It would inform my decision on how much I’d want to bid.

I bid on three seats. All were scattered across the cabin, all terrible seats. I was also astonished when my daughter (a minor) was not seated next to at least one of her parents. When asking about this at the check in gate, the SAS agent’s suggestion was “to call customer service”. They weren’t going to do anything about it.

Also, same response when asked if the money paid of the “normal” seats would be refunded.

I’m sorry to hear about this experience, but thank you for sharing! Definitely things worth being aware of if you try to upgrade as a group 🙂

Leave a Comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

10 Travel Hacking Tips For Beginners (Like How To Travel For Free)

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

You Still Can't Visit These 8 Places Destroyed By Natural Disasters

No beating the heat: 7 cities that could soon be uninhabitable with high temps, florida has been de-throned as the best retirement state for a surprising alternative.

• Sign up for hotel rewards programs to cut down on or eliminate accommodation costs. Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards are examples of beneficial rewards programs.
• Choose the right credit card that offers the best value of points per dollar spent and allows flexibility in redeeming the points. Accumulate points to pay for flights, accommodation, and car rental.
• Be financially responsible when applying for credit cards with big welcome bonuses.

Packing and flying with ease is, of course, one of the best ways to ensure traveling goes as smoothly as possible. But what about being able to go jet-setting more without paying more? Indeed, there's another type of travel hack dominating the internet: travel hacking. Travel hacking is no longer a secret thanks to the many newsletters, YouTube channels, and Instagram accounts dedicated to sharing this art form.

The art of traveling for free (or heavily discounted to cut travel costs in half ) is the key to many travel creators’ success. Travel hacking unlocks doors for the average traveler to see more of the world without having significant financial means to do so. It might sound too good to be true, but travel hacking is a legal way to make money go further when booking flights, hotels, and more.

Travel hacks are great for helping students , broke backpackers, and even aspiring luxury travelers see more of the globe. For those eager to take advantage of traveling more for less, here are some useful travel hacking tips for beginners to try!

Related: 15 Hacks That Make Car Travel Feel Like First Class

10 Sign Up For Hotel Rewards Programs

Signing up for hotel rewards programs is one of the many money-saving travel hacks ; it's a simple way to travel for less (or for free). Examples of top hotel rewards programs are Marriott Bonvoy , Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards . These rewards programs are beneficial because these chain hotels are located in countries around the world.

Through the rewards programs, travelers can earn points towards free or discounted stays, get an additional night free, or transfer points they’ve earned towards flights on specific airlines.

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Cuts down on or eliminates accommodation costs

9 Choose The Right Credit Card

Earning points on a travel credit card is a key aspect of travel hacking. This means researching which credit cards offer the best value of points per dollar spent. Travelers should also look at which cards allow them the most flexibility in redeeming the points they’ve earned.

For example, some travel credit cards only allow travelers to book flights through the bank’s booking portal or redeem points as cash. Others are more flexible and allow them to transfer points towards specific airlines or hotels.

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Accumulating points to pay for flights, accommodation, and/or car rental

Related: Travel Hacks To Make Your Trip To India Run Smoothly

8 Earn The Welcome Bonus (But Be Responsible)

To benefit from travel credit cards, travelers often need to sign up for a card that has a big welcome bonus. In order to qualify for the welcome bonus points, they often have to meet a minimum spend within the first month (or months) of opening the card.

It’s critical for travelers to be financially smart and not apply for credit cards where they can’t afford the welcome bonus. The benefits of credit card points for travel are negated by carrying any debt that cannot be paid off on a credit card.

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Makes it possible to get immediate redeemable points on a new card

7 Get A Fourth Or Fifth Night Free

One of the i mportant things to do before any trip is to check accommodation rewards programs. Hotel rewards programs like the Marriott Bonvoy rewards program allow travelers to enjoy perks like earning the fifth night of their stay for free.

These sorts of promotions are among the best travel hacks for saving money and making a big financial difference when one night at a hotel costs $200 or (usually) more.

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Increases the value of a stay at a hotel

Related: Safety Hacks All Female Travelers Should Know

6 Be A Frequent Flyer

A key to travel hacking for beginners is becoming a frequent flyer on a specific airline. This doesn’t have to mean flying often – it just means that whenever a person flies, they book with the same airline and earn points towards future travel, perks, or upgrades.

These programs incentivize booking with the same airline for all trips, so it’s a good idea to do some research about which airline has the most routes and best prices from your home airport.

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Loyalty to a particular airline can include perks like points, upgrades, and lounge access

5 Prioritize Travel

Travel hacking is most lucrative when a person prioritizes travel in their life. This means that they funnel their disposable income into trips and travel wherever possible.

Because most travel credit cards earn the most points back on travel purchases, this is a cycle that helps committed travelers travel more!

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Cut down on other unnecessary costs in everyday life (like going to the movies or going out for dinner) to reallocate funds for travel

4 Stick To One Airline Alliance

Choosing an airline to become a frequent flyer doesn’t have to mean never flying on a different airline again. Travelers should become aware of the concept of an airline alliance.

This is a group of airlines that come together under one umbrella to offer benefits to travelers who fly in any of the airlines that are part of that alliance. The three main airline alliances are SkyTeam, Star Alliance, and Oneworld.

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Flying on a different airline can still earn you points towards your preferred airline if they are part of the same alliance

SkyTeam has 20 airlines, including Delta Air Lines, Air France, Aeroméxico, and Korean Air. Star Alliance has 26 airlines, including Lufthansa, Air Canada, United Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), and Thai Airways. Oneworld includes American Airlines, Japan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Qantas, and many more.

3 Book Last Minute Flight And Hotel Deals

Travelers can book last-minute hotel and flight deals by searching sites like Hotwire. This is where companies post discounted deals and last-minute reservation opportunities.

Roomer is another marketplace for discounted hotel rooms that people post reservations they can no longer use and need to get rid of quickly.

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Affordable prices when hotels are desperate to fill rooms the day of or the night before, or people are selling their bookings they can no longer use at discounted rates

2 Start The Search On Skyscanner Or Kayak

Using travel search tools like Skyscanner or Kayak isn’t always the cheapest way to book, but it’s a great starting point for finding out which routes and dates are most affordable from one's departure airport.

Using Skyscanner’s flights to “Everywhere” tool provides a quick glance at destinations that are most affordable to most expensive from a specific airport.

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Provides a baseline for what destinations and dates are cheapest

1 Bundle Flight And Accommodation Bookings To Save Money

Using booking engines that allow travelers to bundle their flight and hotel reservations is an affordable travel hacking tool for saving money.

A great option is using Booking.com’s flight and hotel bundle tool to book a flight and hotel for basically the same price that just a flight would cost on another platform.

• How It Helps Fund Travel: Reduces the overall cost of these most expensive aspects of booking a trip
• Travel Hacks

Get expert insights delivered straight to your inbox.

Travel Hacks That Will Save You Money

16 Min Read | Nov 1, 2023

I travel a lot . Sometimes for work, and sometimes to sweep my wife off her feet with a not-so-surprise vacation. (Hey, it’s hard to hide a weekend getaway when you do a monthly budget together.) And as much as I love meeting new people and seeing new sights, travel can be expensive, exhausting and anxiety-inducing if you don’t do it right.

But if you’ve got the travel bug and you’re gearing up for a trip, I’ve gathered up my best travel hacks for you to make the most of your next adventure. You’ll learn how to travel smarter, travel cheaper, and make long flights more enjoyable. So, keep reading for my trusted travel tips, tricks and hacks to save money, time and stress.

Packing Travel Hacks

Save money on baggage and spare yourself stress when you follow these packing tips.

1. Print a copy of your passport, driver’s license and debit card.

Just in case you lose your most important documents during your travels, keep a printed copy of your passport, driver’s license and debit card in your carry-on (or leave a copy with a trusted family member back home). Bonus hack: Having a digital copy of your ID on your phone can help when you’re in a bind too.

2. Bring a carry-on, not a checked bag.

A great packing hack is to travel light to avoid pesky baggage fees. Most airlines will give you one free carry-on bag along with a personal item (a large purse or backpack). You can save anywhere from $25 to $50 per bag when you take a carry-on. Just check the size restrictions ahead of time for the airline you’re traveling with—they’re all a little different.

3. If you do need to check a bag, you can do it for cheap.

Choose airlines that include free checked bags, like Southwest (which includes two free checked bags that can weigh up to 50 pounds each). If you’re traveling with a spouse or kid, think about sharing one big checked bag. Yeah, you can do that.

4. Use packing cubes to stay organized.

If you haven’t heard of them, packing cubes are nylon bags with zippers you use to organize your clothes in your suitcase. They’re a fantastic tool to make packing easier, and you can get a set on Amazon for about $25. I use these on every trip I take, and it keeps everything super compact and tidy.

5. Use an app to plan your packing list.

Never forget sunscreen, earplugs, sensitivity toothpaste or your mouth guard again. Make your own travel checklist so you don’t forget anything at home, or keep track of your packing list with PackPoint . It’s an app that makes a packing list for you based on the location, dates, weather and activities you want to do during your trip.

Airfare Travel Hacks

When it comes to  buying your flight , you can time your purchase to save lots of money. Here’s how: 

6. Shop for airfare early.

Industry experts recommend booking your ticket anywhere from three and a half months to three weeks out. If you’re going to a super popular or international destination, try to go with the longer lead time.

7. Depart on the cheapest travel days: Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday.

The most expensive days are typically Friday and Sunday. Coming and going on weekends can cost hundreds of dollars more than scheduling your flights for weekdays. If you’ve got some flexibility in your schedule, Tuesday and Wednesday are typically the cheapest days to fly . But if you’ve got to fly on a weekend, Saturday is your best bet.

8. Choose cheaper places to travel .

There are plenty of amazing cities and countries to visit that aren’t the top tourist attractions. Why not explore a smaller city or somewhere off the beaten path for a unique (and affordable) travel experience?  

9. Use a travel app.

I love using all the different apps and websites out there that are designed to help save me money. In fact, I have over 200 apps on my iPhone right now. Do I use them all? No. But before you judge me, do you wear all the clothes in your closet? I didn’t think so.

Start budgeting with EveryDollar today!

Here are some of my favorite sites and apps to help you find a great deal on airfare:

• Skyscanner  
• Google Flights  
• Scott’s Cheap Flights  
• Hopper  

Don’t miss out on the great deals that can be found online and in travel apps.

10. Ask for a free upgrade.

Ask the ticket agent nicely if there are any seats available that are better than the one you have, and you might just get a free upgrade. You never know unless you ask!

More Money. Less Stress. Yes, Please.

In his new book, George Kamel does the research for you and exposes all the worst money traps out there so you can build real wealth!

Airport Travel Hacks

Between the people-watching, flight delays and entertaining ticket agents, hanging out at the airport can be its own adventure. Here are a few ways to make the most of your time at the airport.

11. Call the airline instead of waiting in line to rebook canceled flights.

If your flight gets canceled while you’re at the airport, call the customer service line. They can help you immediately instead of you standing in line forever. You can also call while standing in line in case one is faster than the other.

12. Bring your own mobile charger.

Rumor has it, some USB ports in the airport can be infected with malware, and you don’t want to risk identity theft . A mobile charging port is a lifesaver, and you can use it on the plane to keep your downloaded movie marathon going. I always put mine on my travel checklist and charge it up before a trip.

13. Don’t listen to music when you’re waiting at the gate.

I know it can be super boring to listen to nothing—especially when you get to the airport two hours before your flight like any savvy traveler. But if you’re plugged into your devices, you could miss important announcements about your flight, like delays or gate changes.

14. Head to the security lines on the left.

For some psychological reason, people typically turn to the right when it’s their turn to enter the security gates. Make a beeline for the left—that’s usually where the faster lines are. You’re welcome.

Travel Hacks to Save Money

Travel doesn’t have to be stressful when you’re prepared. Here are some ways you can travel smarter and keep the chaos at bay.

15. Don’t exchange money at the airport.

If you need to change currency because you’re traveling overseas, don’t do it at the airport—it’s one of the most expensive ways to trade U.S. dollars for foreign money. Instead, order currency at your bank or credit union. Alternatively, you can use a debit card that has no foreign transaction fees or ATM fees.

16. Take advantage of special occasions for special perks.

Celebrating a birthday or anniversary? Tell the world! Or at least the hotel staff. You might be gifted a surprise upgrade to your hotel room or get a fun perk, like a bottle of champagne or chocolate covered strawberries in your room when you check in.

17. Call your debit card company to authorize use for foreign travel.

To avoid a hold being put on your debit card when you try to buy margaritas in Mexico, call your bank or visit the website to authorize foreign travel transactions before you travel. Just don’t forget to notify the bank when you get home.

18. Travel during “shoulder season” to get lower rates.

The shoulder season is typically April through mid-June and September through October in most areas of the world. You’ll get decent weather, fewer crowds and enough daylight to still enjoy tourist activities. And the good news is travel rates will generally be lower during this time.

19. Book tours and local experiences through Airbnb.

Airbnb experiences are in-person or online activities hosted by local experts. Guests can get a feel for their host’s daily life with outdoor activities, cultural events, cooking classes, sight-seeing tours and more.

20. Bring your own reusable water bottle.

This is one of my favorite travel hacks: Pack your own reusable water bottle . You can carry it into the airport (empty, of course) and fill it up at a water fountain or tip an airport bartender to fill it. Voila! You just saved about $8 on a bottle of water. And you can keep refilling it throughout your trip to cut back on paying for more water bottles (unless you’re traveling somewhere where you definitely don’t want to be drinking the water).

Hacks to Make Travel Easier

I know traveling can be a hassle. There are so many details to take care of. But with these tips, you have a good chance of smooth sailing and traveling easier.

21. Get TSA PreCheck.

Lines aren’t my favorite, especially at airport security. That’s why I signed up for TSA PreCheck . For about $78, I can skip the long security lines for five years—and zip through a faster, easier security screening to get on my merry way. I highly recommend. It’s worth it just to never be barefoot on that filthy airport floor ever again.

22. Download Google Maps offline.

When you’re in a new city, you don’t want to be standing on the street corner fiddling around with your map app and no Wi-Fi or a folded paper map that sticks out like a sore thumb. Instead, download Google Maps offline so you can reference the locations you need without an internet connection and without drawing attention to yourself. In the Google Maps app, search the city or town, then swipe left and click the Download button.

23. Get a city travel card or transport pass for a discount on attractions and transportation.

Many cities offer a culture pass that gives you access to multiple museums and attractions for a fraction of the cost of individual tickets. Check with the tourism department for rates and included attractions.

24. Weigh your bags before you get to the airport.

Don’t wait until you get to the check-in counter to discover that your blow dryer, snow boots, mini waffle iron and croquet set put your bag over the weight limit. (Where on earth are you going that you need snow boots and a croquet set anyway?) Instead, order a luggage scale for about $10 on Amazon. If you don’t have a luggage scale, here’s a pro tip: Get on your bathroom scale at home with and without the checked bag, then do the math to make sure it’s under the weight limit. There are few things worse than frantically unzipping your checked bag at the airport and trying to get rid of stuff because your bag is overweight. So cut out the extra weight before you get to the airport—otherwise it’ll cost you.

Travel Hacks to Make Long Flights More Enjoyable

Try these travel hacks to make your long-haul flights more comfortable and fun.

25. Sleep tight with noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask.

When I’m on a long flight, I use noise-canceling headphones (AirPods Pro for me) and an eye mask so I can block out the glow of my seatmate’s iPad and drift off to sleep. These are must-haves for any long flight.

26. Bring a moisturizer or face mask for the plane.

Airplane air is dry—even more dry than British humor or a London gin. To keep this baby-soft skin feeling fresh, I bring a travel moisturizer in my carry-on. That way I can keep that epidermis hydrated pre-, mid- and post-flight. I’ve even seen some people go all out with one of those moisturizing face masks with the eyes and mouth cut out. Not the kind of mask I think about on a plane, but if it makes you feel dewy and fresh, who am I to judge? Treat yo’ self.

27. Download movies and podcasts on your phone or iPad.

Unless you want to be stuck watching B-rated movies from the in-flight entertainment menu, bring your Netflix queue with you. You can download your favorite shows and movies to your device before your flight. Just make sure to do it over Wi-Fi before you leave the house so you don’t use a whole bunch of cellular data. (And because I have trust issues with airport Wi-Fi.)

28. Bring a travel pillow and blanket or scarf.

Unless you’re flying business class, you’ll want to bring a few items to make your long flight cozier and more comfortable. I like to bring a neck pillow (mine’s inflatable because I’m extra ), and my wife always wears a scarf or jacket that can double as a pillow or a blanket to stay warm.

29. Splurge on the in-flight internet.

To me, a long-haul flight is anything over five hours. And if I’m crossing an ocean, that definitely counts. In which case, you bet I’m going to budget for internet access to check some emails, research my destination, and post a travel blog (kidding—I’ll leave that task to the fancy travel influencers).

30. Pack snacks.

Ladies and gents, if you want to make a long flight more enjoyable, buy your own snacks before you head to the airport. You’ll save money (nothing makes me rage like airport snack prices), and your snacks will probably taste better and be healthier than the chips and crackers the flight attendants pass out on the plane.

Lodging Travel Hacks

When you travel, you’ve got to stay somewhere, obviously. And let’s be honest, staying with family is nice (and cheap), but sometimes you need to have your own space. But I don’t want you to stay in a dump just to save money . . .

31. Find hotel deals online.

I want you to stay at a nice hotel but get a great deal on it. I like to start with  Hotels.com  to see what’s out there and check out the reviews. They’ve got a great app as well.  Trip Advisor  is also a great place to read reviews.

Once I’ve done my hotel research, I go to the hotel’s website so I can compare rates to make sure I’ve got a good deal. Another trick is to call the hotel and see if they’ll compete with and negotiate against the rates you’ve found online. (They’re usually happy to match prices you find online to get you to book directly with them.)

If you want to get an even better deal, check out Priceline’s Express Deals or Hotwire’s Hot Rates to get a cheaper price on a hotel within your preferred star-rating range—the only catch is you won’t know exactly what hotel you’re staying at until you book it. (Life hack: You can use Google Images to search the sample photo and easily figure out which hotel you’d be booking.) The key here is flexibility—the more flexible you are, the better deal you’ll be able to find. I also like to check out the HotelTonight app for last-minute hotel deals.

32. Stay in a house.

Another great option is to live like a local through sites like  Airbnb  and  Vrbo . Both Airbnb and Vrbo have options to book places entirely to yourself. And these places actually feel more like home—because they really are someone’s home.

Just read the specific rules for each location and pay attention to the extra fees (like cleaning fees) so you stay within your budget.

33. Rent a private room in a hostel or Airbnb.

If you’re a grown adult reading this, I’m not suggesting you relive your college backpacking days by renting a $12 bunk in a dorm with seven strangers. (Hey, if that’s your thing, no one’s stopping you.) But if you want to save money and get that cultural experience, some hostels and Airbnbs rent private rooms that are cheaper than hotel rooms.

Transportation Travel Hacks

Transportation is another great area to find some deals. Here are my best travel hacks for transportation at your destination:

34. Save money with public transportation.

If you’re going to a big city, consider saving money on transportation with public transport. I grew up in the Boston area, so I’m comfortable taking subways, trains and busses. They help you catch the vibe of a city. And bonus: It’s always cheaper than renting a car or Ubering around.

35. Find deals on rental cars.

If you need to rent a car, there are still some great ways to save money. One of my favorites is to use  Costco Travel .

Always do your research and shop around when getting a rental car (and pay attention to costs like rental car insurance ). Note: Some rental car companies can make it difficult to rent with a debit card. Always do your due diligence and research on the debit card policy for the specific company you’re booking through. Some require extra documentation or an extra deposit or hold.

Another budget- and debit-friendly option for renting a car is using the Turo app . Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing company that allows car owners to make extra cash by renting out their vehicles to travelers like you. It’s like Airbnb but for cars.

36. Take advantage of ride sharing.

I’d rather have someone else drive me around a big city so I can enjoy the sights, sounds and surroundings. Both Uber and Lyft have apps where you can pull up your location and ask for a ride to your destination. Within a few minutes, you’re on the road to wherever you want to go. Pro tip here: I always check both apps and see which one has a cheaper ride in the moment.

37. Explore all-inclusive packages.

One of the coolest travel trends is an all-inclusive vacation package that literally includes  everything  you need:

• Room service
• Entertainment
• Transportation/shuttles

Personally, I start by finding a great deal online through sites like  Kayak or  Expedia . Then, I’ll check the resort website to see how their rates compare, and even call the resort directly. There’s so much competition out there right now that the resort may offer you a better deal if you contact them. Tell them the deal you’re looking at online and the price it’s offered for—and then  ask if they can do better . Many times, you’ll get a better price or extra perks if you put in a few minutes and a little bit of effort. The resort staff are always very helpful, and they’re willing to go above and beyond to earn your business.

Plan for What Matters With a Travel Budget

I’ve said it a couple times: Being intentional and doing some research will help you save money. Before you hit the road , fly the friendly skies, camp in the backcountry, or do a little glamping, plan your budget. That way, you can save money and have a sweet, memorable vacation with no FOMO. No regrets. And no debt. My favorite tool to use is the EveryDollar budgeting app, and you can try it out for free!

Did you find this article helpful? Share it!

About the author

George Kamel

George Kamel is the #1 national bestselling author of Breaking Free From Broke, a personal finance expert, a certified financial coach through Ramsey Financial Coach Master Training, and a nationally syndicated columnist. He’s the host of the George Kamel YouTube channel and co-host of Smart Money Happy Hour and The Ramsey Show, the second-largest talk radio show in America. George has served at Ramsey Solutions since 2013, where he speaks, writes and teaches on personal finance, investing, budgeting, insurance and how to avoid consumer traps. He’s been featured on Fox News, Fox Business and The Iced Coffee Hour, among others. Learn More.

The Ultimate Travel Checklist

Don't leave home without using this travel checklist first!

How to Save Money on Transportation

Most people think saving money on transportation means jumping through complicated technical hoops. The truth is, it’s much easier than that. Keep reading for simple tricks and tips.

To give you the best online experience, Ramsey Solutions uses cookies and other tracking technologies to collect information about you and your website experience, and shares it with our analytics and advertising partners as described in our Privacy Policy. By continuing to browse or by closing out of this message, you indicate your agreement.

• Work + Money
• Relationships
• Slow Living

99 Travel Hacks To Make Your Next Trip A Little Easier

I’ve never cared about brand-name purses or clothing, much less cars or makeup. Instead, I spend whatever leftover money I can on travel. Traveling has exceptional “memory dividends” long after the money’s gone and is the best way to experience all the world has to offer (at least, in my humble opinion).

I’ve now been to 30+ countries and hundreds of cities—from rural northern Thailand to Moorea in French Polynesia to most of the United States—so I’ve picked up quite a few hacks here and there to make traveling the best experience it can be. Below, I’m sharing 99 of my best tips so you can spend less time planning and questioning and more time experiencing and enjoying. Got more? Share them in the comments; we don’t gate-keep here!

Wherever you’re heading—whether by plane, train, or bus—safe travels and happy exploring! 🌍

1. To save time, only pack a carry-on ; no more waiting at baggage claim! 

2. If you decide to check a bag in, throw an Airtag into your suitcase, so you can always track where it is and ensure it’s reached your destination.

3. For the best possible travel deals, be flexible on your destination and dates. I’ve scored deals to multiple European cities for under $200 by leveraging that flexibility.

4. Perhaps the most important tip of all: Always buy travel insurance . Always.

5. Allocate all your spending on a credit card that racks up points which can later be redeemed for travel—my preferred option is Chase Sapphire Reserve or the AmEx Gold.

6. Sign up for credit card bonuses that offer up to 150,000 points once you hit a minimum spending bonus—I like to check Nerdwallet’s top credit card offers (updated monthly) to see the best bonuses.

7. Search for flights leaving at off-peak times (for example, mid-week, red eyes, or with a layover) if you’re trying to save money.

Prioritize early morning flights; they’re the least likely to be delayed or canceled.

8. If convenience is more important than money, prioritize early morning flights; they’re the least likely to be delayed or canceled.

9. Use Google Incognito or a VPN to search for flights. Searching on the same browser and internet connection tells the airline that you’re looking to book and allows them to hike the price up. 

10. Once you find a flight you like—if you’re not ready to book—set up an alert to be notified if the price changes. If it drops, great! If not, you’ll know to book soon or keep an eye on it in case it comes back down.

11. Not sure when to go? Check out apps like Skyscanner or Hopper to find the best prices and times of year to head to your destination.

12. Sign up for loyalty programs with every airline you can; you never know when you’ll need to use them, and you can rack up miles for later use.

13. If you’re used to one specific airline, see if they have an airline-specific credit card for additional bonuses and perks. For example, United Airlines has major hubs in both our hometowns and our current cities so we have the United MileagePlus cards, which offer early boarding, free baggage, and 60,000 points each.

14. Keep an eye out for points sales , like Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals, 30% off transfer premiums, and more. (This is always a good option to keep in mind if you just need a few more points for a mostly-free flight!)

15. Look into mistake fares (deeply discounted fares mistakenly shared by an airline). They can sometimes be canceled or refunded, but many times, airlines will honor them anyway. One time, I was able to travel to Milan, Prague, and Amsterdam for $197 one-way from New York.

16. Subscribe to real-time alerts from The Points Guy , The Flight Deal on Twitter, and more.

17. If you have a few bucks to spare, sign up for flight deals from Going (previously known as Scott’s Cheap Flights). You’ll share your departure airports of choice, and you’ll receive deals right in your inbox.

18. Sign up for TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry to expedite the security process.

19. Once you’re past security but before you get to the gate, check out the Priority Pass, which will give you access to hundreds of lounges around the world. Both Chase and AmEx offer cards with Priority Pass access, and once you get to a lounge, you can stock up on free food, drinks, WiFi, and more.

20. Heading abroad? Use a third-party encrypted program like WhatsApp, Viber, or Signal for international texts and calls—you can avoid extra data and call charges!

Alert your credit and debit card companies about your travel so you don’t get flagged for fraud.

21. If you need access to international calls, buy a SIM card locally—you can usually find kiosks in the airport after arrival, or sometimes your carrier will offer a global SIM card for temporary use.

22. Alert your credit and debit card companies about your travel so you don’t get flagged for fraud.

23. Get a no-fee ATM for international destinations; my favorite is the Charles Schwab.

24. Only ask for ATM withdrawals in the local currency, not your native one.

25. Same for credit card charges; if you’re in Italy, pay with your card in Euros, not USD (for example). Then you’ll avoid fees and often score better conversation rates.

26. Download the airline app before you fly for easy access to your boarding pass, checking in, and seat or meal selection.

27. While you’re at it, you can check out the seat map on most flights to see what’s open and change seats accordingly.

28. You may even find an open seat in First or Business Class—consider politely asking for an upgrade. You never know if they’ll say yes!

29. If your travel plans are flexible, volunteer for a later flight when they’re offering compensation to offset the cost of the airfare.

30. If you decide to volunteer, try and wait to see if they’ll increase the compensation before you agree. Sometimes, you can get thousands of dollars in flight vouchers if you hold out long enough.

31. Buffer in extra time for delays—always.

32. Have a connecting flight? Aim for at least a 90-minute layover in between to avoid missing your flight in case of delays, security issues, etc.

33. Travel during shoulder season (i.e., not quite peak time yet). For example, if June-August is the best time of year to visit Greece, consider going in May or September for lower prices but still preferable conditions.

34. Don’t cut costs over convenience either, though—if you know you suffer from insomnia and back pain, taking a red eye in economy to save $100 may not be worthwhile. Similarly, don’t go for the cheapest hotel without thorough vetting; you don’t want to be stuck three miles from the beach without a bike because you didn’t know how far it was!

35. Check out alternative modes of transport besides the typical plane or car: Trains, bikes, public transportation, buses…the list goes on. These are often cheaper, better for the environment, and more accessible.

Create a default packing list for yourself that you can copy and tailor for each trip.

36. Create a default packing list for yourself that you can copy and tailor for each trip. This way, you’ll know you’ve included all the necessities most important to you, like specific medications, chargers, and toiletries.

37. Wear layers while in transit—it’s easier to pack your luggage, and you can stay warm (or cool) as needed.

38. If you suffer from swollen ankles or potential blood clots when sitting in one place for hours, get a pair of compression socks. There’s a reason many travel pros swear by them!

39. Another must? A reusable water bottle. Perfect for refilling inside the airport after security, carrying with you on tours, and having in case of emergency.

40. Heading to a place without clean, potable water? Don’t forget to bring a water filter or purifier for when you’re on the go.

41. Easily organize your suitcase (and save space!) with packing cubes .

42. If you’re really in need of space, consider vacuum bags to compress all your clothes.

43. If you know you’ll want to shop or bring back many souvenirs, get a secondhand suitcase at your local thrift store for cheap and fill ‘er up.

44. Don’t bring too many valuables. Many women travel pros will wear fake wedding rings to avoid burglaries or attacks.

45. Always tell someone at home what your itinerary is and where you’ll be. Even better if you can tell someone you trust locally in case of an emergency. #safety

46. Turn on location services and sharing, too, for good measure.

Print out extra copies of your passports and travel docs; keep digital copies in your email as well.

47. Print out extra copies of your passports and travel docs; keep digital copies in your email as well. Losing your passport is all too easy! 48. Need to drive worldwide? Don’t forget to pick up an International Driver’s Permit , which are readily available at most AAA locations.

49. Want to save money or avoid excess noise? Stay slightly away from downtown city centers and tourist spots—usually going even two or three blocks away can make all the difference.

50. Another way to cut costs is to consider house-sitting or couch surfing, depending on your level of comfort. 

51. Hostels are another great budget-friendly accommodation option; it’s also a wonderful place to meet like-minded people and organize local tours.

52. Weigh the cost of laundry versus the cost of a checked bag. Sometimes packing light and doing laundry will be far cheaper than paying for an extra suitcase.

53. Pack a capsule wardrobe for easy mix ‘n matching for your daily #lewks.

54. Think about items you may need at a destination that you’ll end up paying a premium for later and see if you can get them beforehand. For example, sunblock at a tropical destination will be far more expensive than getting it in the off-season in the Midwest.

55. Pack an essentials kit in case you need certain toiletries or accessories while in transit—for example, a small bag with spare underwear, ear plugs, eye mask, tampons, and charging wires.

56. Carry a purse or travel bag that you can keep close on your body, closed with zippers rather than buttons or flaps. This will help stop pickpockets!

57. Pack extra snacks. Just trust me on this one! You never know when you may need sustenance and can’t find anything worthwhile.

If you can, take the day off after you get home so you can ease back into everyday life.

58. If you can, take the day off after you get home so you can ease back into everyday life. Then you can finish up any chores or errands like laundry, grocery shopping, and more without worrying about rushing back into the office.

59. In your carry-on backpack or purse, keep an extra set of clothes, a toothbrush, and undies in case your luggage gets lost. (Which is another reason why you always want travel insurance!)

60. If you’re not using data and/or are heading to a remote area, download offline versions of Google Maps and take screenshots of any information you need.

61. If you’re heading to a foreign country and the local language isn’t one you speak, download the Google Translate app. You can then converse with locals, take photos of written text to translate, and more. (This was an invaluable tool when I was stranded in northern Thailand during a downpour once!)

62. Download media a day or two before you leave, so you can access it while traveling—think audiobooks, ebooks, Netflix, etc.

63. Get the best portable charger you can afford if you know you’ll be relying on your phone throughout the trip. You’ll never regret it.

64. Pack a universal adapter so you can use your electronic devices around the globe.

Pack a universal adapter so you can use your electronic devices around the globe.

65. Don’t forget a converter too, if your electronics’ voltage doesn’t match up to the outlets abroad.

66. Getting a rental? Book the reservation on a credit card like Chase or AmEx, which offers auto insurance and collision insurance for rentals.

67. If that’s not an option, it’s well worth getting auto insurance from the rental company. 

68. Take photos of everything important: The condition of your rental when you pick it up/drop it off, receipts if you’re going to be reimbursed or splitting costs, WiFi passwords, and so on.

69. Make sure you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations and shots , which vary by country. (And don’t wait until the last minute to book your appointment!)

70. Read. The. Reviews. Make sure you look for any bots or planted reviews, and keep an eye out for any red flags, whether you’re searching for accommodations, a tour, or restaurants.

71. Similarly, seek out vetted tour groups if you’re traveling alone. A few of my favorites for women include El Camino Travel , Stellavision Travel , and G Adventures .

72. Sometimes DIYing a trip can be helpful, but other times, a good travel agent is the most valuable. They’ll get access to exclusive discounts, tours, or accommodations that you couldn’t leverage otherwise.

73. If you’re considering traveling with a friend or partner, ensure your travel priorities are aligned before leaving. Nothing will be more frustrating than having a companion sleep in when you’re a morning person or dealing with a racket first thing in the morning if you’re a night owl.

74. In the same vein, learn many of your destinations’ cultural nuances and customs—it’s important to be considerate and mindful of the communities you’re visiting.

75. Heading to a faraway destination? Try pairing nearby cities together on this trip so you knock out two at once.

76. Stay hydrated, especially when traveling. We’re already adjusting to new environments, time zones, etc., and hydration is key for our bodies to adapt.

Get sunlight as early as possible when you’re in a new time zone to help reset your circadian rhythm. 

77. Get sunlight as early as possible when you’re in a new time zone to help reset your circadian rhythm. 

78. Napping to adjust a timezone is okay, but try staying awake the whole day and sleeping at night to beat jet lag once and for all.

79. Chew gum while taking off or landing if your ears pop while in flight.

80. Invest in a quality skin mask or moisturizer, lip balm, and lotion during and post-flight when our skin is driest.

81. Luggage scales can be clutch—if your baggage is overweight and you can’t rid yourself of any items, you’ll be on the hook for hefty excess fees.

82. Traveling with kiddos? Bring a “busy bag” to keep them entertained throughout the day, stocked with coloring books, toys, a tablet, snacks, and whatever else your little one prefers.

83. If you’re dealing with long-haul travel, you’ll want a quality neck pillow—this is mine and I’m obsessed.

84. If you can , opt for a backpack over a suitcase or duffel. There’s a good chance transportation carriers won’t bother to weigh your backpack!

Whatever you’re budgeting for your trip, add another 10-20% in case of emergency.

85. Whenever you get samples like shampoo, moisturizers, or sunscreen, throw them in your travel toiletry bag. That way, you don’t need to bring the bulk items or worry about the liquid limit.

86. Throw a lavender satchel or a dryer sheet in your bag to keep things smelling…fresh. 🙂

87. Pack at least two extra large plastic or ziplock bags for shoes, dirty clothes, etc.

88. Opt for a bright-colored suitcase so it’s easy to spot at baggage claim or while in transit.

89. If you’re flying with another person and can book your seats in advance, one of you can take the window and the other can take the aisle. That way, the middle seat will likely be left open for you both to enjoy.

90. Always keep a spare pen on you, especially if you know you’ll have to fill out customs forms or write down directions.

91. Take a picture of your car or write down where it is in your notes app so you don’t forget where you’ve parked, whether at an airport parking lot or a new hotel.

92. Bring extra wipes or a sanitizer spray for when there’s no washroom or when things need some tidying…like your tray table.

93. Whatever you’re budgeting for your trip, add another 10-20% in case of emergency.

94. Check out local walking tours in big cities; they’re often free or pay-what-you-can and are a great way to see the most important sights and get acquainted.

95. Some businesses offer deals if you book with a partner company—for example, United MileagePlus members earn savings if you book a car rental through Avis or Budget.

Travel is one of the most valuable experiences there is in life. Enjoy every moment, be mindful and respectful, and explore as much as you can.

96. Don’t forget to check if you’ll need a visa for specific countries! Or, prioritize countries where you won’t need one for ease of access and to save money.

97. Eat street food (as long as it’s cooked in front of you and looks safe!). It’s often one of the best ways to enjoy a local culture.

98. Make lunch your biggest meal—it’s usually cheaper than dinner while being just as filling.

99. Most importantly, remember: Travel is one of the most valuable experiences there is in life. Enjoy every moment, be mindful and respectful, and explore as much as you can.

Henah Velez (she/her) is a Contributing Editor at The Good Trade as well as the Executive Producer and Operations Lead of  Money with Katie  at Morning Brew, a personal finance brand for women. She’s also the co-founder of  Departure , a quiet travel newsletter for women. Say hi on  Instagram !

RELATED READING

What Is Quiet Travel—And Why Are People Seeking It Now?

9 Eco Hotels Blending Luxury With Sustainability (2024)

9 Sustainable Luggage Brands To Travel The World (2024)

How To Make A Travel Journal

Site Navigation

Latest stories, 30 travel secrets pros use to save time and money, because getting to your destination shouldn't be so stressful..

Do you know the secret trick for skipping long taxi lines at airports? What about the ultimate frequent flyers' tactic for shaving precious time off the security wait? And do you know the best way to double the space in your suitcase without forking out money on a second bag? If not, don’t sweat it—we’ve got your back! Because what follow are 30 genius, expert-backed travel hacks that are guaranteed to help you plan your trips like a pro, save money on all of your bookings, and guide you through just about every obstacle you'll face in the high-stress world of summer travel .

1 | Set up a price alert months in advance.

It feels too soon to make plans for Independence Day. Okay, so when is the best (i.e. cheapest ) time to book a flight? Sign up for a travel app like Hopper and let them alert you when the price is right. The truth is that there's no "right" time to buy your flight. Not six months out. Not four months out. Not two weeks ago. Experienced travelers set an alert for great deals and let those deals come to them.

2 | Use the 24-hour rule.

If you want an impromptu trip, go ahead and book your flight with the best rate you can find. But get this: if you find a better price within 24 hours, you can cancel your reservation and get a full refund without any "booking fees." It's a federal rule . And some airlines, like American , will even let you cancel if you've booked just two days in advance of your flight.

But, as always, be sure to read the fine print. If you book with a third party ticketing service, there are likely exceptions. If you book directly with an airline, like United, the 24-hour policy is usually guaranteed.

3 | Score the seat you want.

Nothing ruins a flight like being stuck in a middle seat, or being too close (or far) from the bathroom. Use a seating app like Seat Guru to guarantee the perfect seat placement. If you're traveling with a partner and want some extra leg room (without paying for first class), book the aisle and window seats . Even single riders want to avoid the middle if they can help it, and if your row is their only option, they'll happily trade so you can sit together.

4 | Book your flight in Incognito.

Never check for fares without first going into Incognito mode. (Here's a step-by-step guide to going private in Google Chrome.) Airline websites store your cookies, which gives them too much intel on your travel plans. If they know when you want to fly , they can automatically raise their rates accordingly. Don't give them that power.

5 | Cut your wait time in half.

The moment you leave your house to the moment you find your seat on the plane can feel like an eternity, but it doesn't have to be. Waze can get you to the airport with the least amount of hassle, giving you the absolute fastest route and detours around traffic jams and accidents. And if you're at one of the 150-plus airports covered by MiFlight , that app can give you travel times for all security gates, and alerts when lines are thinning out. Combine the two to minimize your time spent in-transit.

6 | Pre-order your airport meal.

You've planned ahead for everything else about your trip, why not the airport food? Grab lets you order your meal in advance, so you can pick it up as you're on the way to your gate without having to rely on a day-old tuna salad wrap from the Hudson News fridge. No lines, no wait, no problem.

7 | Write down the airport's Wi-Fi password before you show up.

You only have so much down-time at an airport, don't waste it trying to figure out Wi-Fi passwords. This handy Google page gives you the passwords for 266 different international airports and lounges . Visiting the Frankfurt Airport? The network name is "Frankfurt Airport, Hotspot Telekom" and the password is "Internet." At the Zurich Airport? You need to get an access code from an information desk. At JFK, you can get connected instantly whether you're at the Delta Sky Club, British Airway Lounge, or the Etihad Lounge in terminal 4.

8 | Hang out with the locals.

You already know that the best restaurants and bars in any city are the spots where the locals go. Okay, so how does one find them? You either skim dozens or maybe hundreds of Yelp or Google Maps reviews and hope you're not just getting the opinions of disgruntled tourists. Or you sign up for an app, like Eatwith , and get the skinny on where the locals are really hanging out.

9 | Make sure you're not sleeping on somebody's dirty sheets.

Here's a way to find out if you're getting clean linens without using a dark light ( and being utterly disgusted ): Look for fresh crease lines on your sheets. If you see them, that means the bed was likely changed recently, and the sheets were folded a short time ago. But if you can't find any, you should probably call housekeeping immediately.

10 | Don't leave bathroom breaks to chance.

Taking a road trip rather than flying? Good for you. You'll save money and see more of the country. But there's still a price to pay. When you're hungry, almost out of gas, or just downright desperate, figuring out when and where to pull over can be an exercise in futility—unless your phone is loaded with the right apps. SitOrSquat doesn't just tell you where the nearest bathrooms are, but whether any of them are disgusting . You'll also need the iExit app, which alerts you to every upcoming service stop, not just what's advertised on highway billboards.

11 | Get directions without Wi-Fi.

You can't always depend on access to Wi-Fi when you need it. And when you're in a foreign country, the price of staying connected can be exorbitant. Play it safe and download a Google Map of your destination before you get there— here's an easy explanation of how it works —and pull it up later when you're ready to explore.

12 | Get the right soundtrack for 30,000 feet.

Whether you're petrified by turbulence or just can't fall asleep during a long flight, stay away from mood-calming drugs. A better idea: Put on some calming ambient soundscapes and pick up the Travel Halo , a stabilizing headband that blocks out light and keeps your head balanced and upright. You'll be catching some Z's in no time.

13 | Roll your clothes.

If you're not doing this already, you're wasting a lot of valuable real estate in your suitcase. Always roll and layer , never fold and stack. This will allow you to double your wardrobe for your next cross-country outing. It's a total space saver.

14 | Mark your luggage as fragile.

Call it a little white lie. Tagging your bags as "fragile" even if they aren't will save you a lot of time. Most airlines put fragile bags on top for the flight, so they're the first to be unloaded onto the baggage claim carousel. You'll be hailing a cab while your fellow passengers are still looking for luggage carts.

15 | Add some dryer sheets to your suitcase.

Dryer sheets are the most versatile travel accessory. They can keep your clothes fresh while traveling (just slip a sheet or two into your suitcase), deodorize stinky shoes, and freshen up a hotel pillowcase or bathroom.

16 | Refill travel-size toiletries.

Only those who don't plan ahead travel with full-size bottles of shampoo and shaving cream. But buying miniatures for every trip seems insane. So here's a better way: Just refill your tiny bottles and use them again and again and again. And if you really want to save every dime, just lift the bottles that come with your hotel room .

17 | Give your phone's speaker a boost.

The tiny speakers on a smartphone do a good enough job when you're on the go, but when you're looking to set the scene in your hotel room, you might need a bass line with a little more oomph . For better sound, cut a phone-size slit into the middle of a used toilet paper roll, slip your phone inside and presto: instant speakers.

18 | Pack a sunglasses case for your power cords.

Whether you're going through security or trying to use your laptop on board, power chords can be a major inconvenience. It can feel like you're traveling with a garden hose. But with a sunglasses case (or two, depending on the size of your cables), you can keep everything neat and organized .

19 | Store money in a lip balm tube.

If somebody wants to steal from you, they're going to look for wallets or money clips, something that usually contains cold hard cash. They probably won't touch your lip balm. (Unless they're seriously chapped, of course.)

20 | Pick up an any-temperature shirt.

Although it may be sweltering outside, it's likely to be a teeth-chattering 64 degrees inside the airplane. You'll want a shirt that can handle the whole range in style—something like this polo shirt, from Brooks Brothers . It's made out of Supima cotton , an ultra-rare strain of the fabric that's softer and more breathable than any other cotton on the planet. The result? An extremely comfortable polo that's practically temperature-controlled; it'll cool you off when it's warm and keep you snug when it's chilly.

21 | Scan your passport.

Here's something experienced globetrotters know: If you can scan your most important documents and email them to your phone, they'll be much easier to replace than if you hadn't. And yes, we're talking about your passport, your drivers license, and credit cards, too.

22 | Bring an empty water bottle.

You have two options if you want to bring your own bottled water through security and not pay the ridiculous airport prices. One, you can freeze it. Yes, the TSA lets you keep your liquids "as long as they are frozen solid when presented for screening." If that sounds complicated (and it is), just bring your own reusable water bottle and dump it before entering the security line. You'll have to settle for refilling with a water fountain on the other side, but you may just discover that free water doesn't taste so bad after all.

23 | Pack a first-aid kit.

It's easy to remember things like aspirin for headaches. But what about slightly more pressing emergencies that don't exactly require a visit to the ER? Pack Band-Aids, anti-bacterial cream, stomach antacids, cold meds, and throat lozenges. It's not planning for the worst, it's planning for the small health annoyances that at most require a pharmacy visit (but who has time for that on vacation?).

24 | Use ATMs to get local currency.

If you're traveling to a foreign country and need some cash, skip the airport's currency exchange kiosks. You'll just end up paying a fortune in service fees. You're better off using the ATMs. Check with your bank to make sure it has an international branch. If it does, you can withdraw cash without extra charges.

25 | Hail a cab at the departures gate.

There's only one golden rule for traveling: Whenever possible, avoid the crowds . This applies to everything about your trip. When you arrive at the terminal, don't go to the first bathroom, the one with the longest lines. There's probably a mostly empty one a few yards away. And when you arrive at your destination, don't follow the throngs of tourists towards the taxi corrals right outside Arrivals. Instead, make a beeline to Departures, where you'll find plenty of cabs dropping off customers. Just snag one of those.

26 | Fight jet lag with exercise.

Feeling a little sluggish and foggy after an international flight? What you need is a workout. It's been proven by science. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Physiology found that the best way to get your circadian rhythm back in whack is some rigorous, heart-pounding, sweat-inducing exercise.

27 | Charge your phone on the hotel TV.

Forgetting the plug for your phone charger doesn't have to be the end of the world. Just connect it to the USB input on the back of your hotel room TV and you're good to go. If you forgot the cable, you're still not out of luck. Ask the front desk if they have any loaner chargers. Most have extras that were left by guests and never claimed.

28 | Bring a jacket.

A jacket, especially when it's a scorching summer day, always feels like it's going to be a pain. But forgetting a jacket for air travel is like camping without a sleeping bag. A jacket makes going through security easier (it's a great place to store your phone, wallet, keys, glasses, and other loose items during screening), and it's a perfect makeshift blanket or pillow for the flight. Something like  this effortlessly cool, water-repellent field jacket from Brooks Brothers  should do the trick. Look at all those pockets!

29 | Be polite.

You would be shocked, literally shocked, at how much more you can get—from a flight attendant, a hotel employee , or a waiter—by being the person who's polite and doesn't act like a self-entitled jerk. Seriously, try it sometime. You'll get better seats, nicer treatment, maybe a drink on the house, or a room with a way better view. It's like the world opens up to you.

30 | Plan a post-vacation staycation.

Why does everyone think they're going to fly back from a trip and immediately be refreshed and rejuvenated? It doesn't always work like that. If anything, you're going to come home feeling bleary and exhausted from too many miles in transit. Give yourself a one-day buffer to recover. For more ways to make traveling less of a hassle, check out these 25 Genius Trip-Planning Tips—Straight from Travel Agents .

15 Places to See Fall Foliage in the U.S.

When you can see peak fall foliage, this city is the new hotspot for travelers, this national park was just named "most breathtaking".

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink

trending now in Lifestyle

Ultimate World Cruise has finally ended, and passengers are...

I'm a heart surgeon — these are the two types of patients who...

Fabled NYC restaurant has met its long overdue end

These 'good for you' foods may actually be to blame for troubling...

I'm an air travel expert — here's why I always book the worst...

Mom's vacation ruined by stranger's 'gross' habit at hotel pool:...

Gamer reveals simple hack to win prize at an arcade claw machine...

Family hit with shock $100K flight bill after airline takes back...

Gamer reveals simple hack to win prize at an arcade claw machine every time: ‘legit’.

Here’s how to snatch victory from the claws of defeat.

A TikTok gamer has revealed the sneaky reason you can’t seem to beat the ever-vexing claw machine arcade game — and how to hack the system so you win every time.

The crafty content creator revealed the handy hack in a TikTok video that has quickly gone viral, scooping up over 3.4 million views online.

@jiuziauyo30 THIS IS WHY THE CLAW MACHINE CAN’T CATCH DOLLS #fyp #knowledge #foryoupage #shortknowledge ♬ 原聲 – Short Knowledge

So why do people whiff on this Gruffalo grabber, or, worse still, nab the desired toy only to drop it right before the exit hole?

The TikTokker, who posts under the handle @jiuziauyo30, explains that this inevitable fumble is because the arcade game is equipped with “sensitivity levels from one to five, with five being the tightest grip and one being the loosest.”

“Each time you start the machine, it randomly selects a level,” they explain. “But the chances of getting 5 are the lowest.”

Like many carnival games, the claw machine is rigged so that it only provides a player with a toy every so often.

Fortunately, the TikTokker has devised a way that players can allegedly get the tightest grip setting every time.

“If you press left, right, left, right, down, down and then press the grab button twice before starting, you’ll hear a prompt sound,” the claw-breaker advised. “This means the machine has switched to level five sensitivity. If you try to grab it again at this time, you will come back to thank me.”

Flustered claw players were over the moon about this method of beating the machine.

“Bro got cheat codes in claw machine before GTA 6,” exclaimed one, while another wrote, “Y’ALL I’M DOING THIS LATER REMIND ME.”

“Ain’t no way bro. It work, legit!” fawned a third.

Jiuziauyo30’s not the first person claiming to be above the claw law.

Last year, another online arcade aficionado claimed that they mastered the machine by double-tapping the claw button.

The player simply taps the automated trinket snatcher once to select the desired toy, then once more to get a firm grip.

They then carry the plush toy to victory, sending it into the shoot to claim their prize.

Alas, many experimenters in the comments threw cold water on the cheat code, claiming that while this hack certainly increases their chances, it doesn’t guarantee a toy every time.

Advertisement

Travel Hacking on a Budget: How to best manage your travel money with the Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard®

Planning a trip overseas? Worried about managing your money abroad? Don't sweat it, this guide will show you how to become a travel money whiz with the Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard® by your side.  

Become a Flight Ninja: 

• Embrace flexibility: Be open to different travel dates and times. Weekdays and off-peak seasons often offer cheaper flights. Consider flying into less popular airports near your destination city, and lesser-known airlines.  
• Utilise flight deal websites and apps: Several websites and apps like Google Flights, Kayak, Skyscanner, and Hopper aggregate deals and track flight prices. Set price alerts for your desired destinations. 
• Consider Alternative Routes: Sometimes flying direct can cost more, so you might consider exploring connecting flights or open-jaw flights (flying into one city and out of another) which might be cheaper, but also allow you to see another city. 

Master the art of affordable stays: 

• Hostels and guesthouses: Hostels offer dorm-style rooms or shared accommodations at a fraction of the price of hotels. Guesthouses often provide a more local experience with a lower price tag. 
• House sitting and home exchange: Some companies connect travellers with homeowners willing to swap houses or have their homes looked after while they're away. This provides free or low-cost accommodation and a unique cultural experience.  
• Consider alternative locations: Research neighbourhoods outside the city centre or lesser known outside of tourist hotspots. You might find charming and affordable options where you may see more of the authentic side to the city. 

Embrace the budget-friendly mindset: 

• Free activities rule: Many destinations offer free walking tours, museums with free admission days, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Utilise travel blogs and local resources to discover these options. 
• Become a foodie on a budget: Skip expensive restaurants and explore street food stalls or local markets for delicious and authentic meals. Consider cooking some meals in your accommodation to save even more. 
• Slow travel: Instead of rushing through multiple destinations, focus on exploring one place in depth. This allows you to appreciate the local culture and save on transportation costs. 

Bonus hacks: 

• Travel prepaid cards: Consider a travel card that offers $0 currency conversion fees like the Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard (when you spend and load in the same currency). Manage your budget better with a travel card – as you can only spend what you load, and it is not connected to your everyday savings or credit card accounts. Locking in rates before your travels means you’ll know exactly how much you have to spend. 1 
• Avoid dodgy exchange tellers who may offer unfriendly rates: Instead tap and swipe your Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard at millions location worldwide. 2   
• Use public transport: Many cities have excellent public transport systems with passes offering unlimited travel for a set period. This is a much cheaper alternative to taxis or rental cars, especially in larger cities. 
• Discount passes: Make sure you check out the local tourist centre and ask if there are multi-passes to save on admission fees to top tourist attractions. 
• Use travel apps: Look up things to do or restaurant reviews and places to stay on the go (like TripAdvisor). Use the Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard App to keep track of your spend or top up your card anywhere, anytime.  
• Work abroad: Volunteering or working holiday programs allow you to experience a new culture while earning money to support your travels. 

Remember: Travel hacking is about being resourceful and creative. With a little planning and these tips, you can embark on amazing adventures without sacrificing your budget. So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to explore the world on your own terms. 

The Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard® is your travel mate so you can manage your finances like a pro. Focus on creating amazing memories, not stressing about finances. Visit your local Post Office or auspost.com.au/travelcard  to get your card.  

Ready to travel?

Get your travel money sorted with a prepaid travel card. Lock-in rates and add up to 11 currencies.

Mastercard Prepaid Management Services Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 47 145 452 044, AFSL 386837) arranges for the issue of the Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard in conjunction with the issuer, EML Payment Solutions Limited ('EML') ABN 30 131 436 532, AFSL 404131. Australian Postal Corporation (ABN 28 864 970 579, AR No. 338646), the card distributor, acts as an Authorised Representative of Australia Post Services Pty Ltd (ABN 67 002 599 340, AFSL 457551). You should consider the Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard Product Disclosure Statement, Financial Services Guide and Target Market Determination before deciding to acquire the product. Any advice does not take into account your personal needs, financial circumstances or objectives and you should consider if it is appropriate for you.   

1 Lock in your exchange rates means the exchange rate is locked in for the initial load only. The exchange rates for subsequent reloads will be set at the prevailing exchange rate at the time of the transaction.  

2 Excludes ATMs, over the counter at financial institutions and merchants who elect not to accept Mastercard Prepaid™ cards. Merchants or other providers may impose limits on use of the Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard®.  

AusPost Travel Team

Share this article

Australia Post acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate, live and gather as employees, and recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

30 Best Travel Hacks From An Expert Globetrotter

We take pride in providing authentic travel recommendations based on our own experiences such as unique images and perspectives. We may earn a commission when you purchase a product or book a reservation. Learn more ›

Written by Amanda Finn

Frequent travelers know that adventuring the world comes with its fair share of planning or shortcuts. Travel hacks are trendy to talk about on social media; however, it can take some time and experience to learn which ones are worth using on your next trip.

A few of these tips may seem obvious to seasoned travelers. It may be a no-brainer to download Google Maps to some, though others may not know how intuitive the app is–even from abroad.

So, even if you think you’ve heard it all, I implore you to read on. I’ve been to 18 countries and visited 27 states – and I’m still learning new things! You may learn a trick you’ve never heard of before.

These hacks can come in handy when you want to save money or space. You could score some free food, learn to kick jet lag in the butt, or save a few extra bucks along the way. In any case, here are my favorite travel hacks for your consideration!

The Best Travel Hacks I’ve Found

1. always protect your trip (and yourself).

What every traveler needs, especially if you’re planning a complicated itinerary with international flights, is travel insurance . These trip-protecting and asset-protecting plans ensure that you don’t lose out on any money if things go awry, you get hurt, or you lose something valuable.

Keep in mind that travel insurance is not an all-size-fits-all solution. There are a few things to consider for your next trip, from destination to how many people you’re bringing along .

For health coverage , you’ll want to look into our favorite digital nomad-friendly insurance option: SafetyWing . Not only can you get travel health insurance with SafetyWing, but you can also use it if you are a remote worker living abroad.

VisitorsCoverage is another one of our favorites, and you can find many more trusted firms on insurance comparison sites like TravelInsurance.com .

But if you want to save yourself some trouble, here are some of our top travel insurance resources:

• AIG Travel Guard
• AXA Travel Insurance
• Insured Nomads Travel Health Insurance
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance
• World Nomads
• World Trips – Atlas Travel Insurance

See Related: Important Pros and Cons of Travel Insurance

2. Let cheap flight alerts come to you!

Scoring flight deals isn’t always about being savvy with internet searching . Sometimes, these magical flight prices can come right to you. With sites like Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) , you can set your email notifications to ping you whenever a surprise flight deal is found. I even scored a $250 roundtrip flight with American Airlines to Japan once–though lockdowns got in the way.

Flight cancellations and flight delays are possible with some of these incredible deals. Saving money sometimes comes at a cost. Even so, long-haul flight options are frequently hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars cheaper, thanks to sites like Going or Skyscanner .

See Related: Best Skyscanner Alternatives to Book Travel

3. Pack your own amenity kit for long-haul flights

This is one of my most indispensable travel hacks for a long flight. I pride myself in packing light, but bringing my amenity kit saves my sanity onboard. Although I love a freebie like inflight comfort kits, nothing beats having your own set of travel-related items to keep you cozy in the air for hours on end.

Here is what I always bring with me for long-haul flights:

• Separate zip pouch for seat back pocket for easy access to my essentials
• External battery pack for my electronic devices (and charging cables)
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Moldable travel pillow for ultimate comfort
• Compression socks to fight swelling
• Light blanket scarf
• Pack of jet lag prevention pills
• Headphones or earbuds
• Hand sanitizer
• Silk eye mask

See Related: Ways to Book the Cheapest First-Class Flights

4. Use packing cubes

I’ll sound like a broken record here, but packing cubes was an absolute game-changer to save space in luggage. It took me a year of using packing cubes to learn that the best packing hack with these bad boys is to roll your clothes in them rather than laying them flat inside the cubes and then pack any remaining things around them in the suitcase.

Using these cubes may make your carry-on luggage a bit heavier and sometimes lopsided, though they’re well worth it. For an added bonus, you can add fabric softener sheets or reusable cotton pads dabbed with essential oil into your suitcase to keep your clothes smelling fresh. Then, as you wear clothes, pack the dirty clothes into the packing cubes to keep them separate in your luggage.

We know a thing or two about packing cubes. See for yourself:

• Best Packing Cubes for Travel
• Best Packing Cubes on Amazon Right Now!
• Sea to Summit Packing Cubes Review: Are They Worth It?

5. Bring hand soap

This is one of those travel hacks I needed for one particular trip that has stuck with me a lot ever since. Hand soap, particularly easy-to-pack soap sheets , is a terrific addition to your carry-on bag no matter where you go.

Particularly when visiting a foreign country or a foreign city, you’ll be glad you brought soap along. Not every bathroom you encounter will have soap, for example, even in very touristy places .

Heck, being a very touristy place might be the reason there isn’t any soap if it all got used up. Just a word of advice: make sure your hands are dry when you grab a sheet, or you’ll accidentally use the whole pack at once.

Another favorite way to carry soap around is the Matador Flatpak Bar Soap Case , pictured above with handmade soap from the Farson Merc in Wyoming. The Matador case is about a thousand times less messy than a plastic bag and it helps dry your bar soap and keep it slime-free.

See Related: Ways to Luggage-Free Travel

6. Take advantage of credit card offers

A travel hack used by frequent flyer folks everywhere is taking advantage of the perks of a travel credit card. Mainly if you are loyal to one specific airline, a sound companion credit card could save you so much money when planning your trips. Every card will have its own set of advantages, whether that’s earning cashback in restaurants or booking travel, and some even have other perks like access to an airport lounge.

Do be careful when dealing with credit cards , though, since the perks aren’t worth it if you can’t pay them off monthly. Credit card companies make their money back in spades when folks overspend to try and access those great perks. So use these strategically.

See Related: Best Credit Cards for Rewards Points

7. Learn to avoid long airport security lines

Although this hack won’t help you save money, it will save you a lot of time at the airport. I cannot emphasize enough how game-changing TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry are in my travel game. Not having to take my shoes off or unpack my stuff at security and breezing through customs when I get back into the country is well worth the small fee associated with signing up with these programs.

As a matter of fact, some credit cards even include reimbursement for the signup fee for Pre-Check and Global Entry as part of their perks package. In which case, you’d ultimately be paying nothing to join these programs that will make airports a lot less stressful.

See Related: Essential Packing Tips for Travel

8. Use a pillow as an extra carry-on bag

This tip is a little bit on the controversial side if you ask social media. Anytime I see this brought up on TikTok, the comments are filled with people arguing about the morality of doing this. I will admit that I haven’t packed my travel pillow completely full of extra stuff, though I do tuck a few things in the case here and there if I need the space in my personal bag or carry-on.

In this case, you are using the case around your pillow (or instead of a pillow in the case of the Tube Travel Pillow ) to lug anything that didn’t fit into your bag to avoid paying extra baggage fees. Since pillows aren’t considered carry-on items, using all the space you have makes sense.

If you’re not sure where you stand on the morality of gaming the luggage allowance rules, pick up the Rumpl Stuffable Pillowcase . It’s meant to be stuffed with clothing to create the pillow itself, and it’s the perfect size for travel. Do note that you’ll need the window seat for this type of pillow.

See Related: Best Gadgets for Long Flights

9. Join a group tour

One of the best travel hacks for scoring free meals and free wifi with activities you wanted to do anyway is by booking a group tour. These tours can be for a few hours, a day, or for the duration of your trip.

Regardless of the tour length, you’ll be paired with like-minded group members and a guide who will give you more insight than you’d get venturing alone. That in itself makes the experience worth it.

A group tour also tends to give you more bang for your buck. Not only will it often include the cost of your activities, but it also includes amenities like travel to different places, food, accommodations, and additional perks. You might also make a few friends along the way, and you can’t put a price on that.

Some of our favorite tour and ticket resources include:

• GetYourGuide
• TripAdvisor

See Related: Thrifty Traveler Review: Is Premium Worth It?

10. Create your own airline TV

Okay, so a lot of planes have built-in televisions. But, let’s be honest, most of them are frustrating to use.

Not only that, but you can’t watch all that you have thanks to downloadable content from streaming services. That said, there are a few ways to turn your handheld device into a seatback mini television.

The easiest way to make this happen is to get a phone holder that attaches to the seat tray when it’s closed. I have one of these, and, for the most part, it’s an excellent travel accessory .

Or, if you’d rather not spend money on this, you can also take the paper barf bag to make a quick and easy phone holder. Place the bag between your phone and the phone case, and then use the tray lock to hold the bag and phone contraption in place.

See Related: The Best Travel Movies to Inspire You To Explore

11. Save money on your accommodations

There’s no doubt that accommodations will easily eat a lot of your travel budget. Even so, you can save a lot of money by utilizing deals, particularly through online travel agencies (or OTAs as they’re starting to be called) or third-party booking sites. These websites will organize the best deals for you, saving you so much time from searching the web to save some money.

Sometimes these OTAs will have incredible last-minute deals , which is also perfect for all those procrastinators out there. You could end up at a much nicer hotel than you otherwise would have, so it’s always worth a look.

Our favorite sites that will save you the most money on accommodations include:

• HotelTonight
• EcoHotels.com

See Related: Best Tools & Travel Resources

12. Utilize Google Translate

Translation apps have gone a long way in just the last few years. If you aren’t making high marks with Duolingo or aren’t fluent in the language of your destination, I highly recommend using the Google Translate app. Granted, you’ll need an internet connection to use it, but so long as you aren’t blowing your whole budget on data use, this app will make your trip so much better.

Should you plan on using this app extensively, be sure it’s up to date on all of your electronic devices and that you have a portable charger along. You don’t want your translator to die while you’re in the middle of a conversation.

If you know you’ll be spending some time abroad, it’s a good idea to learn a little of the language. Babbel is easy to use and offers live online classes, podcasts, and plenty of other resources.

See Related: Best Travel Apps for Europe

13. Earn free hotel stays

There’s no such thing as a free lunch… said no travel hacker ever. It may seem silly, but I highly recommend signing up for a loyalty program anytime you stay with a hotel. This is not only the easiest way to earn free nights, but it’s also an excellent way to get free upgrades or other bonuses like free beverages or snacks when you stay.

Staying at the hotel isn’t the only way to earn points either. A lot of hotels have partner programs. If you could earn points for every time you used DoorDash or Grubhub , wouldn’t you?

ViaTravelers writer Woodrow Matthews is an expert at what he calls “upgrade engineering” – that is, maneuvering his way from basic rooms to luxury stays. Take a peek at some of his best travel tips and soon you’ll be working from a private pool, too.

See Related: Cheap Places to Travel

14. Download an offline version of local Google Maps

Anytime you travel, particularly internationally, being aware of the need for an internet connection to use apps is crucial. Luckily you can avoid that by downloading the offline version of Google Maps for wherever you’re going. That way, internet access or not, you won’t get lost.

Not only can you use Google Maps all over the world (for the most part), but it also updates public transit information so you can utilize trains, buses, and even ferries. Keep in mind that some countries block Google Maps, so you’ll need a local equivalent or an app like OkMap instead.

Countries that have banned Google Maps include:

• North Korea

See Related: Best Hiking Apps

15. Save a bundle on local transportation

Once you get to your destination, you’re still going to need to get around. Even in the most walking-friendly city, you’ll want ways to save money on transportation.

If you’re game to drive around yourself, sometimes renting a car is the easiest way to save money on cab rides. However, that isn’t always the cheapest way to do things.

In Europe, sometimes a Eurail Pass can save you tons of money on trains. The passes are valid in dozens of countries and are the perfect way to hop around the Continent.

Booking things like ferries ahead of time can save you money too, so consider how your day-to-day itinerary might look before heading to the airport and choose the best mode of transport for your wallet.

Some of our favorite transportation partners include:

• Thrifty And, of course,
• FerryHopper

See Related: Cheapest Way to Travel Around the U.S.

16. Bring an extension cable or power strip

Even the best hotels can suffer from a lack of outlets. A travel hack I wish I had known sooner is to bring a portable power strip along, so your whole travel party can charge up every day without having to leave their electronics in the bathroom or a closet. Just be sure you have an outlet converter if you need one to avoid picking one up from the hotel or airport gift shop at double the price.

Hostels to five-star hotels can lack useable outlets. So it doesn’t really matter how much you spend on your accommodations, you could end up with just one well-placed outlet. Thank us later for not having to groggily run to the bathroom to turn off an alarm clock.

See Related: How to Pack for a Month-Long Trip

17. For solo travelers – dress like a local

When it comes to traveling solo , how you dress almost becomes more important. A lot of folks are afraid to travel by themselves because they don’t want to be a target for salespeople or thieves, which is a reasonable concern. One way to waylay this is by dressing as If you live there.

Let’s be honest; a lot of tourists look like tourists . If you show up in Barcelona wearing an I Love NYC shirt; people are going to know you aren’t from there.

We aren’t suggesting that you wear another culture’s attire like a costume; what we’re saying is to recognize the cultural differences ahead of time and try to reflect that into your clothing. Or, keep it simple and don’t wear logo shirts, shorts, and baseball caps.

See Related: Solo Travel Luggage and Accessories

18. If you’re backpacking, ditch the liquids and single-use items

Folks who have backpacked around countries know that even one extra item makes that pack a little more difficult to carry. I learned firsthand on my six-week European backpacking trip that one of the easiest ways to lessen your load is by swapping out your liquid toiletries for solid ones and reusable items.

Not only will this change make your backpack less heavy, but it’s also a more sustainable swap. Plus, it’s so much nicer to have just a few bars of soap or a reusable ear swab to bring into the bathroom.

Items I loved for my backpacking journey:

• Toothpaste tabs
• Shampoo bars
• Perfume bar (my personal favorite from TonyMoly)
• Reusable not-cotton swab
• Handkerchief instead of kleenex

If there’s one liquid to NEVER ditch while backpacking, it’s water. So get yourself a decent water bottle or a gravity water filter and stay hydrated!

See Related: How to Pack For a Camping Trip

19. Keep the kids entertained

Listen up, parents of little kids, this travel hack is for you! If you’re dreading bringing your little ones on the plane or a road trip for fear of their boredom getting the better of them, I recommend bringing a busy bag or five along to keep them occupied. These kid-friendly kits can be made easily by you or purchased in the form of busy books often attached to the Montessori teaching method.

We recommend creating a few busy bags for different legs of the journey. These activity kits can be tailored to kid’s interests, or even the trip itself.

Maybe include a set of airplane stickers with a sticker book to stick and unstick to their hearts’ content, or perhaps even themed coloring pages . Here are some other ideas for how to fill a busy bag:

• Travel-friendly felt board
• A quiet activities book
• Sensory squares for quiet enrichment
• Silent fidget toys
• Mini Voyager Travel Activity Kit

You might also want to pack some games for things to do at your destination. And for parents of little kids and babies, don’t forget the diaper bag !

See Related: Best Family Travel Hacks

20. Plan your trip during shoulder season

One of the most underrated travel hacks is doing your traveling during the shoulder season. Also known as the off-season, traveling to certain places when other tourists are not is a terrific way to save money on airfare, hotel accommodations, and even tours. While the weather might not be as ideal during this period, it can still be perfect for your adventure.

Take for example the first time I went to Ireland and the UK – it was at the beginning of December. Although the Christmas markets were magnificent and busy, the cities were generally far less crowded. Not to mention the weather was so dreamy, the perfect sweater weather… and who doesn’t love an Irish holiday in a good sweater?

This goes for National Parks, too – take a look at how empty the Old Faithful boardwalk is above, just because it’s the “wrong” time of year to visit. Avoid summertime at major landmarks and you’ll save time and money.

See Related: Best Travel Tips And Hacks From Our Readers

21. For campers or hikers, waterproof those shoes!

I won’t lie; one of my least favorite parts of camping or hiking is the notion that my shoes will get wet. “Wet” + “socks” is a texture combination I can’t stand. Luckily, you don’t need to spend a fortune on waterproof shoes to enjoy the outdoors.

You can waterproof, or at least water repel, your shoes at home. Rubbing beeswax, Dubbin, or clear candle wax against the fabric of your shoes will help keep your feet nice and dry. Or you could buy some spray-on waterproofer for your shoes instead, though the beeswax/Dubbin method is more fun and more environmentally friendly.

Don’t forget to waterproof your winter shoes, too. Nothing is worse than snow soaking through your boots.

See Related: Tripped Travel Gear Review: Accessories for Your Next Trip

22. Mark your bag as fragile

If you are a frequent bag checker, this is one of the travel hacks that can be exploited in the industry. Though we don’t recommend doing this every time you check a bag, it’s worth reminding travelers that you can mark your bag(s) as fragile if it makes sense.

On your own or with the check-in desk folks, labeling your bags with a fragile sticker or bag tag can help keep your belongings safe in storage. This can’t guarantee that your bags will be handled more safely, though it might make all the difference to the baggage handler having a bad day.

The few times I have done this to get something flown safely to its destination, my belongings have arrived entirely unscathed. Either way, remember to pack carefully, even if you label the bags, to give yourself some cushion for mishandling.

See Related: Ways to Make Travel Easier for Your Next Trip

23. Use AirHelp to get compensated for delayed or canceled flights

When we got stuck on the runway in an airplane for over three hours for a 45-minute flight from Germany to Czechia , AirHelp was a huge help. Not only did they fight for us to receive the monetary compensation we were entitled to because of the European flight delay/cancellation compensation system, but they even took it a step further and took the airline to court for us when they refused to pay.

AirHelp isn’t free; they take a portion of your compensation as a fee. Although we got about half of what we should have received if we had fought the airline ourselves, AirHelp saved us a lot of time from fighting alone. To us, that was worth the fee.

24. For road trippers, use seat organizers to maximize space

Road trips are an excellent way to see the world without having to negotiate rest stops or deal with airplane delays. But keeping everyone happy and comfy on the road trip is a whole other story. One way to deal with this and maximize space at the same time is to utilize a seatback organizer.

These organizers can keep snacks within arm’s reach for passengers, hold onto beloved stuffies so the littles aren’t wriggling out of their seats, and even serve as a way to motivate passengers through the trip. Each section could even be designated for a certain leg of the trip to give them something to look forward to.

See Related: Road Trip Games For Couples

25. Use a pants hanger to keep blinds closed

This is a niche hack specifically for hotels that have pants hangers in the closet. Not all hotels will have this , but for the ones that do, the clips on clothes hangers will keep your blinds or curtains fully closed.

With how difficult it is to keep these window covers closed without intervention, this trick always makes me feel better, especially when I am traveling solo. No more worrying the AC blowing your blinds open while you sleep.

If you want to come prepared and not take up too much luggage space, you could always bring a chip clip or two along. A sturdy clip will keep the shades closed regardless of whether the hotel room has pants hangers or not for you to use.

See Related: Best Travel Safety Tips

26. Keep track of itinerary ideas in Google Docs

Planning group travel is the bane of my existence. Why? Because no matter how hard you try, it can be a pain to keep everyone on the same page at all times. So the next time you get a group travel itinerary inspiration (or a very organized small trip), I highly recommend using Google Docs to keep track of everything.

With a program like Google Docs, you have the ability to share up-to-the-minute itinerary changes. Anyone can make changes to the documents (unless you restrict editing access), and no one has to worry about being left in the dark about changes in plans.

Editor’s Note: Yes, that’s a real screenshot from my Google Drive folder, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg Any time I see a good flight deal come in from Going.com or Thrifty Traveler , I put together a quick spreadsheet to see if the trip is plausible at that time. If it’s not, I save everything anyway and wait for the right time to go.

See Related: Best Vacation Planners

27. Use your hotel’s shower cap to protect your stuff

The complimentary shower cap in your hotel bathroom is useful even if you don’t use it for your hair. I use the cap to pack my shoes in my luggage if they’ve gotten dirty or to keep my toiletries from leaking everywhere. Honestly, these are the most versatile hotel freebies.

One smart way to use these is to pack all of your liquid toiletries in one before placing them in your toiletry bag . That way, if your bottles leak, the mess is mainly contained with the other liquid bottles in the shower cap. Another way to keep your toiletries from leaking is to invest in some quality refillable bottles that are leakproof or resistant.

See Related: Hotel vs. Motel vs. Inn: What’s the Difference?

28. Create a frequent flyer account on every airline you travel with

Regardless of how often you fly, creating a loyalty account whenever you fly with an airline is a good idea. Not all airlines keep your miles in perpetuity, though a few domestic airlines like Delta , Southwest , and United do. Even if you don’t plan on collecting miles or points for free travel with each individual airline, sometimes these loyalty programs have perks.

For instance, some programs allow members early boarding, free bags, changes on an otherwise nonrefundable ticket, and ways to earn miles outside of air travel . Plus, there are ways to exchange points across different programs, like with hotels, so you could potentially rack up a ton of miles if you have applicable partner programs.

See Related: Proven Ways to Save Money for Travel

29. Invest in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones

As much as I love to fly, I have never become accustomed to the constant humming in the cabin. Honestly, it bothers me.

For other travelers, it’s the constant din of other passengers constantly chatting, coughing, chewing, etc. No matter what kind of traveler you are, noise-canceling headphones will improve your air travel.

Comfortable headphones won’t interfere with your nap, and they won’t irritate your ears the way that earbuds can. Plus, when you aren’t wearing them, they can rest around your neck, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally dropping an earbud or fiddling around trying to get the earbud case out of your bag.

See Related: Best Travel Gifts for Him

30. Beat conversion fees by paying by card in local currency

While it’s always a good idea to exchange money in a foreign country so you have a little cash on hand, generally, I wouldn’t say I like paying with cash anywhere unless I have to. One way to avoid pesky conversion fees when paying by card is always to have the card charged in the local currency.

That means when the screen pops up asking if you want to charge in USD or the local equivalent, you always want to choose the local option. This won’t protect you from foreign transaction fees, though.

Your best bet to avoid those is to bring a credit card that offers no foreign transaction fees anytime you travel abroad. There aren’t a ton of those credit cards on the market, though quite a few cards do offer that perk .

See Related: German Currency

How can I make travel fun?

Stress can kill even the most exciting vacation. Travel can be so much fun, though, especially if you have an organized planning system to keep track of your plans without adding stress to the experience. Starting your planning well ahead of time will leave room for more fun during the actual travel, and you’ll save money by booking things well in advance.

How can I improve my flight?

I recommend making your amenity kit for air travel . Especially if you’re planning on a long-haul flight, bringing some comforts tailored to yourself will make the experience more enjoyable. A few things I usually include are jet lag prevention pills, my moldable travel pillow, a silk eye mask, and compression socks.

How can I make travel more efficient?

A few ways I have streamlined my travel are included in this travel hacks list. These steps include having a digital boarding pass, enrolling in TSA-Precheck, using Google Translate, and organizing plans with Google Docs across the travel party.

Related Resources

• Must-Know Pieces of Advice for Booking Flights Online
• How to Find Cheap Business Class Flights [Step-by-Step]
• How To Book Flights With Longer Layovers

Please sign in to leave a comment.