best air travel hacks

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46 Amazing Airplane Hacks To Boost Your Flight & Travel Experience

Katie Seemann

Senior Content Contributor and News Editor

359 Published Articles 57 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 28 U.S. States Visited: 29

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Flight booking hacks, packing hacks, pre-flight hacks, flying with kids hacks, pre-flight airport hacks, airplane hacks, post-flight airport hacks, final thoughts.

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Love it or hate it, flying on an airplane is a common part of travel. So, if you have to fly, you might as well make the experience as enjoyable as possible.

We’ve compiled this list of 46 of our best airplane and travel hacks to elevate your flight experience, including everything from flight booking hacks and packing hacks to airport hacks and inflight hacks.

We hope you’ll be able to use some of these flight tricks to make your next travel experience as awesome as possible.

A great flight starts with a great booking experience. Try these tricks the next time you have to book a flight.

1. Be Flexible To Save Money

If you want to find cheap flights , it’s best to be flexible. When your dates aren’t set in stone, you can use the flexible date search option in Google Flights to see what dates offer the cheapest tickets. Just visit Google Flights , enter your origin and destination cities, then click on the travel dates.

You’ll see the prices for your flight every day on the calendar. Use the trip duration settings at the bottom to choose your desired trip length or play around to see if the trip length affects the ticket price. The lowest-priced tickets will be shown in green.

2. Stay Alert

Another way to keep an eye out for the lowest price tickets is by signing up for flight deal alerts . Websites like Google Flights, Kayak , and Skyscanner allow you to sign up for fare alerts on your chosen route so you know if and when the price drops.

3. Use Points To Book Your Flight

We couldn’t write a flight hack post without mentioning points and miles, could we? Of course not, since that’s our specialty! Using points to book your flight is an easy way to save on the out-of-pocket expense of travel. Plus, using points to book business and first class flights is a great way to make your entire flight experience so much more comfortable than flying in the back of the plane.

Hot Tip: If you’re brand new to the points and miles game, start with our beginner’s guide to bring you up to speed.

4. Get Help Finding Award Availability

Using miles to book a flight is a great way to fly, but finding award availability can sometimes prove to be difficult. If you need help, look at a tool like ExpertFlyer , Award Nexus , or Seat Spy . These websites can help you find award seat availability without spending all day searching.

5. Don’t Leave Miles on the Table

Whether or not this is your first trip on a specific airline or your fiftieth, sign up for the airline’s frequent flyer program and make sure your frequent flyer number is attached to your reservation. If you never plan on flying the airline again, you can credit the miles you’ll earn to a partner airline.

6. Choose Your Seat Wisely

No one wants to get stuck in a middle seat in the back of the plane next to the bathroom, right? That one is obvious, but there are pros and cons to other seats as well.

• If you get motion sickness, choose a seat over the wing so you’ll feel less turbulence .
• Choose a seat in front of the plane if you’ve got a short connecting time.
• If you’re traveling with another person, choose a window and aisle seat toward the back of the plane. Unless the flight is sold out, you’ll have a decent chance that no one will choose the middle seat between you.
• If you want to sleep during your flight, go with a window seat.
• If you’re more comfortable having easy access to the bathroom, an aisle seat toward the back of the plane will be your best bet.
• If you definitely need a small bag with you during the flight, don’t choose a bulkhead seat because they don’t have anywhere to store a carry-on other than the overhead bins.

Use a tool like SeatGuru to find seat maps for your flight, along with notes about the pros and cons of every seat. This website is a must if you want to find the perfect seat on your next flight.

7. Book a Flexible Ticket

Thankfully, many airlines are offering flexible cancellation and change policies these days, but be sure to read the fine print. These policies often don’t apply to the cheapest basic economy fares. If you want flexibility, you might need to pay a little more upfront.

Packing a suitcase is an art, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. These easy packing hacks will help you save space and ensure that you’re prepared for anything.

8. Keep Your Suitcase Organized

A packing tip that many can agree on is that packing cubes are a must. These zippered bags come in lots of different sizes and colors to keep your clothes organized. When you arrive at your destination, just move the packing cubes to the drawers, unzip, and you’ve unpacked in an instant.

If you’re packing for multiple people in 1 bag, assign everyone a different color packing cube to keep everything organized.

9. Bring the Ultimate Travel Accessory

A large scarf is a versatile item that is the perfect travel accessory. When you pack one in your carry-on bag, you can use it as a blanket to stay warm or for lumbar support to stay comfortable on the plane. Then use it as a scarf in cold weather destinations or as a beach cover-up for tropical vacations.

10. Pack Vacation Essentials in Your Carry-on

Picture this: your flight arrives at your vacation destination and you’re so excited to hit the pool at your resort — but your luggage didn’t make it yet! What could be a wasted vacation day for others is no big deal for you because you’re prepared. You packed an extra set of clothes in your carry-on , including important vacation items like a bathing suit, sunscreen, and flip-flops, so you can wait for your delayed luggage while sipping a tropical cocktail by the pool instead of being grumpy in your hotel room in the jeans and sneakers you wore on the plane.

11. Don’t Dry Out

Dry airplane air can easily dehydrate your body. In addition to drinking plenty of water on your flight, don’t forget to pack lip balm and hand lotion in your carry-on bag to combat uncomfortable dry skin. If you typically wear contact lenses, opt for glasses on your flight since the plane’s dry air can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable.

12. Pay Attention to Your Toiletries

Make sure your toiletries are in travel-sized containers if you’re planning on using carry-on luggage only. You can invest in a good travel toiletry bag to keep everything organized, or opt for the budget route and put travel-sized containers in a Ziploc bag to keep them from leaking on your clothes.

These tricks of the trade are things to think about before you get on your flight.

13. Know Where You’re Going

If you’ll be traveling somewhere where Wi-Fi might be spotty or unavailable, it’s a good idea to download offline maps of the areas you’ll be visiting so you can access them even when you can’t access the internet.

To download a Google Map for use offline, just type in your destination. Then click on the destination name at the bottom of your screen.

Then click on the 3 dots in the upper right-hand corner and select Download offline map .

14. Stay Entertained

While many airlines offer inflight entertainment, there’s nothing better than knowing you’ve got plenty of your favorites ready to go. Download podcasts, music, audiobooks, or Netflix shows before you take off to ensure you have plenty to keep you occupied during your flight.

If you’re planning on watching movies or shows on your phone, bring a small stand or mount to set up on your tray table so you don’t have to hold your phone for the whole flight.

15. Charge Up

Be prepared. Charge all of your electronic devices the day before you leave so they are ready to go for your flight. Keep all of your charging cords handy in your carry-on bag in case you need to charge up at the airport, or bring a portable charger if you think you’ll need more battery power during your flight.

16. Be Ready To Write

If you’ll be traveling internationally, bring a pen . This will save you from having to rely on your fellow passengers to borrow a pen on the flight to fill out customs forms.

17. Think About Meals Ahead of Time

If you’re on a long-haul flight that will be serving a meal and you’ve got dietary restrictions, be sure to order a special meal before your flight. If you wait until you’re on the plane, you’ll be stuck with the standard options.

Flying with kids can be an adventure, but with these pro tips, it will be as stress-free as possible.

18. Book a Bassinet Seat

Did you know that many airplanes (especially on long-haul international flights) have a few seats that can accommodate a bassinet on board (usually the bulkhead seats)? If you’re flying with a baby , book early and call the airline to reserve one of these seats.

19. Pack Snacks

If you’re a parent, you know that snacks are the answer to about 85% of your kids’ problems. This is no different on a flight. Pack snacks and everything will be okay.

20. Bring Lollipops To Help Pop Ears

Air pressure changes can affect kids’ ears more than adults’ ears. To help your little one pop their ears, give them a lollipop.

21. Keep Them Entertained

We aren’t saying you should always bribe your kids with new toys, but a long flight is a great time to go ahead and bribe your kids with a new toy ! Having something new will help keep them happy and entertained for longer.

If your child is sitting in the window seat, give them a package of gel window clings to play with, or try an airplane toy for a child’s first flight. The toy itself doesn’t matter as much as the novelty of having a new toy.

If all else fails, or even if you just want to keep things simple, bring a tablet with plenty of shows or games downloaded, along with child-friendly headphones . Most adults use screens for the whole flight, so why not let your kids do the same?

22. Use up Energy Before the Flight

Kids have a ton of energy, and it’s a great idea to get rid of as much of it as possible before you board the plane. Many airports these days have specially designed kids’ play areas for this exact purpose.

If your airport doesn’t have a play area, take kids on a walk and let them ride the people movers (making sure they don’t get in the way of others trying to quickly make it to their gate, of course). When all else fails, try to find an empty area (the far end of the terminal is probably your best bet) and let them run wild.

You can make the time you spend in the airport before your flight as comfortable and stress-free as possible with these airport hacks.

23. Remember Where You Park

While you think you’ll remember where you parked, it’s not quite so easy to remember after a week-long vacation. To help your memory out, take a picture of your parking space with any recognizable features and the parking row number so you can find your car easily when you return.

24. Skip the Long TSA Security Line

How would you like to breeze through the TSA security line — without taking your shoes off ? That can all be achieved when you have  TSA PreCheck . This program essentially gives you access to shorter security lines and the ability to pass through without taking your shoes and jacket off and without having to remove your laptop and toiletries from your bag. It’ll save time and hassle each time you fly.

According to the TSA , the majority of TSA PreCheck passengers wait less than 5 minutes in security lines.

Hot Tip: While TSA PreCheck costs $78 for a 5-year membership (and many would argue it’s absolutely worth that price), you can get it for free with many credit cards .

25. A “Touchless” and Even Faster Way To Skip Long Security Lines

Breeze through the security lines without having to even take your ID out of your wallet. CLEAR is a program that allows you to do just that because it uses biometrics to verify your identity. After your identity is successfully confirmed (through an eye scan), you’ll be escorted to the front of the security line.

CLEAR costs $189 annually and is available in select airports across the country. Several credit cards include a discounted or complimentary CLEAR membership as part of their benefits.

26. Go Left

If you have a choice, choose the security lines to the left — people tend to naturally go right more often than not, so the left lines may be shorter.

27. Be Ready for the Security Line

Regardless of whether or not you have TSA PreCheck, be ready to get through the security line quickly . Have your ID and boarding pass ready to go — do not wait until you’re at the front of the line to get these things out. If you don’t have TSA PreCheck, make sure you have your liquids and laptop easily accessible so you can remove them quickly without holding up the line.

Hot Tip: Be prepared before your flight. Know what you can and can’t bring through TSA security and check these TSA security FAQs for the answers to some common questions.

28. Don’t Pay for Checked Luggage

Checking your luggage can be expensive these days. While it might be easy to just bring a carry-on bag for some trips, many of us will still need to check a bag from time to time. You can avoid paying crazy baggage fees by choosing an airline that doesn’t charge for bags, like Southwest, by having airline elite status, or by having an airline credit card. Many airline credit cards come with free checked baggage , which can save you lots of money, even if you only fly a couple of times a year.

29. Don’t Buy Water

Buying water in an airport gift shop is expensive and isn’t great for the environment. Instead, bring an empty water bottle through security and then fill it at the filling station or drinking fountain after security. You’ll save money and reduce your plastic usage at the same time.

30. Stay Active

With many of us using fitness trackers and smartwatches these days, getting a recommended number of daily steps or movement time has become commonplace. To balance out sitting on an airplane for hours at a time, take the time before your flight to walk. Getting a few laps in around the terminal before you board your flight is a great way to stay active, even on travel days, and it provides great people-watching, too.

31. Get the Right Size Carry-on Bag

Before you attempt to pack for a week-long trip in 1 carry-on bag, make sure it’s the right size for a carry-on , and make sure you can lift it up to get it in the overhead bin. While other passengers will often offer to help lift heavy bags into the overhead bins, savvy travelers can manage their bags on their own.

Hot Tip: Need a new bag? Check out some of our favorite carry-on luggage bags for any traveler.

32. Know How To Access a Lounge

Airports are places we all spend a lot of time just waiting. So, next time you fly, plan to wait in style in an airport lounge . Lounges offer quieter places to get work done or to grab a snack and drink before your flight. Some even offer luxury amenities like showers and massages.

Having a Priority Pass membership allows you to access over 1,400 airport lounge locations in over 600 cities across the world. The best part is that there are many credit cards with Priority Pass access.

33. Know Your Luggage

While it’s not inevitable, sometimes your luggage doesn’t make it onto the same flight as you. When this happens, you’ll most likely need to fill out lost/delayed luggage paperwork that will include an area for you to describe your luggage. A description of “black suitcase” isn’t going to cut it, so make sure you know exactly what your luggage looks like. When in doubt, take a photo of it before you fly, for reference.

We love traveling here at Upgraded Points and have picked up lots of tricks along the way. These airplane hacks will help make your flight as comfortable and as fun as possible.

34. Put Your Bag in the Right Spot

When choosing a spot for your carry-on bag in the overhead bin, go for the space on the opposite side of your seat, directly across from or slightly in front of your seat (never put your bag behind you). That way you can see your bag from your seat and you’ll easily be able to grab it after the flight without having to wait for the people behind you to deplane before you can grab your bag.

35. Block Everything Out

One of the keys to really relaxing and enjoying a flight is the ability to block out airplane noise to enjoy your podcast, music, or movie. Because of that, having noise-canceling headphones is a great way to make your flight more enjoyable.

36. Brush Your Teeth

No, we aren’t suggesting you need to brush your teeth on that quick flight from Chicago to New York City, but brushing your teeth on long-haul flights or flights where you’ll be sleeping can really make a difference in how refreshed you feel. Be sure to pack your toothbrush and travel-sized toothpaste (or even a disposable product like Colgate Wisp ), and don’t forget to use bottled water.

37. Be Nice

While this should come easily to many people, it bears repeating. Be polite and respectful to the flight attendants. They are there to ensure your safety and to help you have a comfortable flight and they deserve your respect. If you’re having a bad flight or don’t like a policy, don’t take it out on them.

If you think you’ll need extra attention from the flight attendants during your trip, consider bringing a small, edible gift like a piece of chocolate or a cookie (prepackaged, store-bought) as a gesture of thanks.

38. Clean Your Tray Table

While airplane cleaning standards have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic began, things like tray tables are not necessarily cleaned between each flight. According to Forbes , airplane seatback tray tables are the dirtiest part of the airplane , so be sure to pack some disinfecting wipes and clean your tray table before using it.

39. Choose Your Drink Wisely

Be sure to drink plenty of water during your flight to stay hydrated. While you might not like it, it’s best to avoid alcohol on planes, since it can speed up dehydration and could lead to a fuzzy start to your vacation. It’s also best to avoid carbonated drinks as the bubbles combined with changes in air pressure can cause discomfort for some people.

40. Sleep Like a Pro

There’s a definite art to sleeping on a plane, and unless you’re one of those lucky people that can fall asleep anywhere, you’ll need all the help you can get. Use a  sleeping mask and earplugs to block out light and sound, and bring along a comfortable travel pillow to give your head and neck some support. Choosing a window seat can also make sleeping easier since you can lean up against the side of the plane.

Another trick to help you sleep on airplanes is to wear a jacket or sweatshirt with a hood . Putting up the hood will help keep you warm but will also cover your ears and part of your face, giving you more of a sense of comfort and privacy. Some hoods are big enough to pull down to cover your eyes, too.

41. Dress in Layers

Airplanes can often be freezing… unless they are way too hot. The problem is, you never know which temperature extreme your plane might suffer from until you are on it, so it’s best to dress in layers so that you’re prepared for anything. Always bring a jacket in the summer and wear a t-shirt under your sweater in the winter.

Hot Tip: If you bring a jacket but don’t need it on the plane, you can roll it up and use it as extra lumbar support.

42. Bring Socks

If you’re wearing sandals on your travel day, bring a pair of socks to wear on the plane. Your feet will stay warm and your seatmate will appreciate not being up close and personal with your bare feet.

If your feet and legs have a tendency to swell, consider bringing compression socks onboard to wear during your flight. They will help reduce fluid retention and swelling, and may even reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

The travel hacks don’t stop when your flight lands. Use these tips to travel like a pro.

43. Find Your Luggage Quickly

Many bags can look the same, so it’s smart to use a unique luggage tag or tie a brightly colored ribbon around your checked bags to make them easily identifiable in the baggage carousel. Alternatively, you can buy luggage in a variety of colors and patterns that are easy to pick out of a crowd.

44. Late Bags? Earn Points!

Did you know that some airlines offer bonus points if your bags are late ?

Delta Air Lines offers the “Bags On Time” guarantee. If your bags take more than 20 minutes to reach the baggage carousel after any domestic flight, you’re eligible for 2,500 bonus miles by completing this form .

Alaska Airlines offers a $25 discount code for future travel or 2,500 bonus miles when your bags take more than 20 minutes to reach the baggage carousel. To make a claim , you need to visit the Alaska Airlines baggage desk at the airport within 2 hours of your flight’s arrival.

45. Speed Through Customs

If you travel internationally even just once or twice a year, Global Entry can save you tons of time. This program allows members to speed through customs upon re-entry back into the U.S. Instead of waiting in the long customs lines, Global Entry members scan their passports and enter customs information at a kiosk before heading to baggage claim.

Bottom Line: Global Entry is a great program that will help you speed through the airport after international flights. It costs $100 to apply and the membership lasts 5 years. The great news is that many travel rewards credit cards come with a credit for the Global Entry application fee .

46. Save Money on Transportation

If you’ll be taking a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft from the airport, make sure you download the app before you need to use it. It will be easier and quicker to get a ride if your account is already set up, and you’ll have time to see if any of your credit cards offer discounts or bonus points . Be sure to add your credit card to your account and activate any bonus offers, if needed.

We think flying is fun and we hope that by using some of these amazing plane and flight hacks, you will, too! Also, be sure to check out our best hotel hacks to get the most out of your next hotel stay. If you’ve got additional travel hacks ideas, share them in the comments below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best airplane hacks for sleeping.

If you want to sleep on your next flight, here are a few hacks that can help you out:

• Book a window seat so you can lean on the side of the plane
• Pack a neck pillow
• Bring earplugs and a sleeping mask to block out light and sound
• To stay warm, bring a jacket or large scarf that can be used as a blanket; wearing a hooded sweatshirt or jacket can also help cover your ears and eyes and keep you warm so you can catch some shut-eye

What are the best airplane hacks for toddlers?

If you’re traveling with a toddler, be sure to bring plenty of snacks and things to keep them entertained. A new toy is a great way to keep them occupied as are gel window clings if they’re sitting in the window seat. If all else fails, bring a tablet and kid-friendly headphones to keep them entertained and quiet for the trip.

What are the best airplane hacks for comfort?

There are a few things you can do to make your next airplane flight more comfortable. Wear comfortable clothes in layers so you can adjust based on the temperature of the plane. To help ease back pain, you can use a rolled-up jacket or scarf for extra lumbar support. If you’re wearing sandals, bring socks to keep your feet warm, and consider compression socks for long flights to help reduce swelling.

What are the best airplane hacks for long flights?

To make a long flight more comfortable, try these hacks on your next trip:

• Wear comfortable clothes that you can sleep in
• Dress in layers so you never get too cold or too hot
• Wear compression socks to help reduce swelling
• Brush your teeth before you go to sleep and once you wake up (but be sure to use bottled water)
• Download plenty of entertainment before the flight and bring a portable charger so your devices don’t run out of batteries
• Use airline miles to book a business or first class flight

What are the best packing hacks for flying?

To pack like a pro, you’ll want to follow these simple tips. Keep your luggage organized by using packing cubes. If you’re packing more than 1 person in a single suitcase, get a different color of packing cube for each person to keep everything separated. Use a toiletry bag or a simple Ziploc bag to pack your bathroom essentials. If your products leak, the spill will be confined to the small bag and won’t get all over your clothes. If you’re checking suitcases for vacation, always pack what you’ll need for the first day in your carry-on so you can start your vacation right away, even if your bags are late.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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8 Airplane Tips That Make Air Travel Suck a Lot Less

Let’s be honest, modern air travel sucks, especially long-haul flights . Even before COVID-19, it was tedious, inconvenient, and, frankly, just not healthy. Now, amid the pandemic, it’s all of those things and worse. So, we’re fond of any tip, no matter how small, that makes flying easier. Here are our favorite airplane hacks you’ve (probably) never heard of before.

How to Score an Airplane Row All to Yourself

Get a better meal (faster), embrace the rear, near-bathroom seat, win the armrest battle for good, armrest tip to get the aisle seat room you deserve, pack a party in your carry-on, hang your headphones, invest in noise-canceling headphones.

Scoring an entire airplane row to yourself is like a blessing from heaven, particularly on a long-haul flight. But, it’s always a game of chance even on half-empty flights. Your best bet is to start by flying off-season and off-peak routes. If you’re working with a travel agent, they can direct you toward less-crowded alternative flights.

Beyond that, veteran travelers  know that it’s all about last-minute timing. Download ExpertFlyer — the free version of the travel app provides near-real-time updates on your flight’s seating chart. If you notice a row isn’t filled just before boarding is set to begin, swap your seat using your airline’s dedicated app or talk to the gate agent to secure the change. As a last resort, once every passenger is on board, you can move to any open seat within your same class of travel. If you can hold out till the very end, you might also be able to score a dirt-cheap upgrade to Business or First Class.

Airline food has slightly — we stress slightly — improved since the military-grade, Dharma Initiative  slop of the last century. But, unless you’re flying first class, it still leaves something to be desired. In order of your best alternatives, the first is to splurge on a proper meal just before your flight. This is, of course, the most expensive option, but the food will certainly be better than anything served mid-flight. Plus, you’ll be able to skip the meal service and start catching some zzz’s  as soon as the boarding door closes.

The next best option is to upgrade your meal on the plane. Some airlines, especially international carriers like Air France, allow even Economy passengers to upgrade their meal for a fee. We’ve found that these meals can be even better than, for example, standard Business Class eats.

If you’re cheap and flexible, however, opting for a vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-friendly meal means you’ll often be served first ahead of all other passengers. This also means you’re guaranteed to get the meal you want before they run out. Just remember you often need to request these at least 24 hours in advance.

Conventional wisdom leads many folks to angle for a seat closer to the front of the plane. These seats disembark first, and they’re the first to see the drink cart. Plus, sitting here also means you’re more likely to score your first choice of meal. But, flight attendants we’ve spoken with confirm they’re less likely to treat passengers in these seats with comps on the sly. The reason being: They don’t want other passengers seeing such preferential treatment and demanding the same. Passengers seated in the rear are more likely to score little freebies like an extra bottle of wine or a few free bourbon nips. Just remember to thank the flight crew and not to make a show of it.

Our unofficial, made-up research has shown that a full 87% of air rage incidents start with an armrest battle. Things only escalate from there. Armrests aren’t getting any wider, and the airlines seem content to do zero to remedy the problem. Enter Soarigami . This paper-airplane-inspired widget is made of leatherette and recycled cardboard and is as functional as it is silly-looking. It folds flat when not in use. But, once deployed, it “converts” one armrest into two. Rubberized wings secure to either side of any standard airplane armrest (up to 2.75 inches wide) to keep it firmly in place. For less than $20 , you can save hours of in-flight discomfort, and maybe even make a new friend (or at least “ not an enemy”) in the process. Ridiculous? Absolutely. But, what’s more ridiculous is getting into a fistfight over a quarter-inch of armrest space at 30,000 feet.

If it seems airplane seats are getting smaller and smaller … and smaller , it’s not your imagination . Particularly for taller or ( ahem ) portly gentlemen, seats can be downright impossible to get comfortable in. Thankfully, air travelers with an aisle seat can find a bit of reprieve via a “secret” button. To find it, place your hand on the underside of the outermost armrest and run your fingers to the backside near the hinge. There, you’ll find an obvious button that you probably never knew was there. Push it, and you’re free to position the armrest vertically, flush with your seatback. Voilà! Much to the consternation of your fellow passengers, the entire aisle is now your own personal leg space. Positioning the armrest vertically also makes it easier to get in and out of your seat during bathroom breaks and upon touchdown.

Are you a nervous flier? You’ll be happy to know that the TSA surprisingly allows air passengers to pack alcohol in their carry-on bags. There are two caveats, however. Since they are liquids, the bottles must follow the 3-3-1 rule. Trust us, though, you can pack quite a few 3-ounce booze bottles in a quart-sized bag. The other, more troubling catch is that you’re not technically allowed to consume any alcohol that isn’t served by a flight attendant. However, you’re also not “allowed” to cut the tags off your mattresses, but some people choose to live on the edge.

We’ll assume you’re not the sort of hotshot that travels with $300 noise-canceling headphones (although you should), and that wired earbuds suit you just fine. If the tray table latch connected to the seat has the common J-shaped hook, fold your earbud cable in half and loop the entire bundle into the hook. It isn’t exactly groundbreaking, but it could save you from an impossibly tangled mess of headphone wires. The standard iPhone buds fit quite nicely, and it’s an easy way to keep them knot-free without stuffing them in the seat pocket in front of you.

If you’re a frequent flyer you’ll benefit from noise-canceling headphones. There are many quality headphones out there and we’ve rounded up the best travel headphones but we recommend the Bose QuieComfort 35 II because of its features, style, and price point. While its $299 price point is steep these headphones Whether your waiting for your flight to embark and want to wirelessly connect to your laptop or you plan to snooze through your flight without listening to any babies cry in the plane, the QuietComfort 35 II are the best wireless headphones to take on any trip.

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If you’ve ever glanced at a flight attendant during takeoff or landing, you might have noticed something peculiar: they often sit on their hands. This isn’t just a funny habit; it’s a safety protocol. Flight attendants sit on hands during these critical phases of flight to keep themselves protected. 

Hilary Clark, director of in-flight services with private jet company Planet 9, tells Travel + Leisure, “It’s a safety position. The reason for this safety position is if an emergency were to occur in takeoff or landing, their head, hands, and arms are already in a slight brace position.”

Airline pilots have a demanding, yet sometimes overlooked, job. With a mix of skill, focus, and experience, these modern-day navigators guide multi-million-dollar machines over thousands of miles while being responsible for hundreds of passengers’ safety. That’s a tall order, to say the least.

So, how much do pilots make? With responsibilities like that, it would seem they earn significant income. But do they? To find out, we researched the median airline pilot salary, along with the required training to get there. Here’s what we found. Airline pilots undergo rigorous training

For some nature-loving travelers, pitching a basic camping tent in the woods is adventurous enough. Others are willing to pay handsomely to travel halfway around the world for their first African safari experience. If you crave even more — if you fancy sleeping with some of the world’s greatest predators — this one-of-a-kind glamping experience might be for you.

Waking up in the woods amid a pack of gawking, hungry wolves is not something most of us would pay for. But Canada’s Parc Omega Wolf Cabins aren't like a typical hotel or camping experience. The wildlife park features twin cabins with one-of-a-kind overnight stays. Its Wolf Cabins are the first in North America with panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the park’s gray wolf enclosure. Throughout their stay, cabin guests can sleep, eat, and relax mere feet from the pack. With only a glass pane separating them from a pack of near-perfect killing machines, it’s certainly a wild and bucket-list-worthy experience. Observe in comfort

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19 airport hacks to help you survive the holiday travel chaos

By Jordan Rozario and Olivia Morelli

You can’t read or watch the news at the moment without hearing horror stories about the travel industry. In so many cases, the criticism from frustrated travellers looking forward to their first business trip, holiday or family reunion in some time is completely justified.

Having worked in aviation for 17 years, from starting at the check-in counter to being senior cabin crew and now managing our people department, I have definitely witnessed my fair share of delays, long queues and passenger meltdowns. So far this year I have travelled about once a month, some for work, and others for holidays, and I have of course noticed the difference not just in the logistics of travelling, but also in the travellers themselves. Pre-pandemic, most of us were so used to just jumping on a plane like a bus and thinking nothing of it, but now we’re either having to remember the processes, adjust to the new requirements, or both.

All of our colleagues in the terminals and on board the aircraft are working tirelessly with great kindness and professionalism to iron out as many negative experiences as possible. To further help relieve those stressful situations and save time, here are some handy common sense hacks that every traveller should know about.

1. Do your homework

Make sure before heading off to the airport that you’re familiar with the most up-to-date passport , visa , vaccination and health requirements for where you’re travelling to. Chances are, things have changed since you last travelled, and the last thing you want to do is stand in a check-in queue only to be denied boarding. Make sure you research the country you are travelling to and read our guide on how your holiday may be impacted by the wildfires in Europe .

2. Check entry requirements a few days before flying

Between an onslaught of strikes, heatwaves and European wildfires – over the last few years, we’ve seen rules and regulations for travellers change overnight. We’ve learnt how quickly things can change, sometimes with minimal notice. So it’s not worth only reviewing the country’s entry requirements a few weeks before your travel – you also need to check them again a few days before you go, and even the day before your flight just to be sure.

3. Print your documents

It may seem easier to travel with e-tickets and certificates downloaded to your phone, but in this current climate taking a printed copy of your documents is actually faster. When flying now I always have everything I need printed out and stored in a clear wallet. Whether it’s a check-in agent or an immigration officer, I can just hand them the wallet and everything is there, rather than going into different emails or files on my phone. With paper documents, especially if there are delays, it also skips having to worry about a dying phone battery.

4. Pack across suitcases

This is an old tip, but if you’re travelling in a couple or as a family, avoid having individually packed  suitcases . By packing your items across two or more bags, it means if one suitcase does go missing, you at least still have some clothes you can use until you are reunited.

5. Know your airline's hand baggage allowance and actually stick to it

A lot of travellers don’t want to risk checking anything into the hold and want to travel with carry on luggage only. It’s understandable given the footage online of piles of mishandled bags, but it’s also where people often run into problems. Often someone buys a bag that is compliant with their airline’s hand baggage allowance but they overfill it. If the bag ends up bulging, it doesn’t fit into the sizing gauges, and it inevitably has to be checked in. It’s an easy mistake to make, especially as there isn’t an industry standard hand baggage allowance, and this is where a lot of travellers get caught out. Pack carefully and check your allowance to minimise that stress and frustration at the check-in counter and the gate. To help you lighten your load, we spoke to organisation experts, flight attendants and frequent fliers about their most efficient packing tips , from how to categorise your clothes to the ultimate travel essentials not to forget.

6. Pre-order liquids to be picked-up airside at the airport

If you are only travelling with hand luggage, and worrying about taking all of the 100ml bottles and making them last for a week, it’s worth knowing that  Boots  and  World Duty-Free  offer an airside click and collect. So if you want that larger shampoo or a particular skincare item, or even baby items, you can order them online and they will get delivered to the designated airside store on the day you travel. If you don’t need anything too big, it’s worth nabbing a few extra plastic toiletry bags on your next trip through security to stash away at home – this way you’ll avoid any last-minute panic of whether or not you’ve got too many lotions and potions. Or go one step further and buy an airline-approved see-through toiletry bag so you can rest easy in the knowledge that you won’t get held up at security, and you’re also not travelling with single-use plastic bags.

7. Dress for the journey

When I travel it’s still lovely to see people getting dressed up for the occasion, but elaborate outfits can often mean delays at security – think strappy boots that take ages to undo. Inevitably when they get to security, they get stressed, the people behind them get frustrated, and then that causes one of many unnecessary delays at security and the queue gets longer. When I travel I always wear comfortable slip-on shoes and have an outfit that is layered. That way, it’s not only easy to take on and off to make going through security quick and easy, but also to be comfortable depending on the temperature in the terminal, onboard, and at the other end. For more tips, check out our ultimate guide on what to wear on a plane according to our fashion editor , from top tips on the cosiest socks to the comfiest matching sets.

8. Be prepared for security

Always assume you will have to put everything in the tray at security and don’t just wait until you get to the front of the queue. While you’re waiting, take your shoes and belt off, take your liquids and laptop out of your bag, and put anything that’s in your pockets in your bag. Remember that it is a common misconception that you must use one a plastic bag taken from the airport itself – you can place your liquids in a clear plastic resealable bag ahead of time to save stress at the security gate. An organised  flight bag  with designated compartments speeds this process up even more. If your bag doesn't have suitable pockets, keep passports, tickets and your electric devices in a separate packing cube so they can be easily accessed.

9. Beat the queues

Many airports will allow travellers to book tickets to access a fast-track queue or a priority lane. This is a reliable way to avoid having to waste time queueing and make sure you can arrive at your gate with lots of time to spare. Pete Coombes, Senior Passenger Operations Manager at London Gatwick said “At London Gatwick, you can purchase the airport’s premium security experience for just £5 when you book online. It’s a smart investment that allows you to breeze through security without breaking the bank.” Plus, Heathrow is now allowing travellers to book security time slots for free as part of a new trial, saving you the stress of worrying about extra long queues. Here are more tips on how to get through airport security quickly .

10. Pack for a delay or cancellation

You might not need to wait, but if you do, having something to keep you happily occupied is key. Pack a snack (which won’t be confiscated at security or customs if you forget about it), a good book and some headphones to keep you amused. Before you head to the airport, download any movies or podcasts to your phone with your home wi-fi, to avoid any painfully slow loading and save yourself from dead time at the airport.

11. Pack a portable charger

There is nothing worse than the packing you feel when your phone hits low battery – especially when you are relying on it to access all of your tickets and certifications. Make sure you pack a (fully charged) portable charger for your devices, and don’t forget the charging cable for the portable charger, too. This power bank from Amazon has three output ports and is super fast charging so you won’t have to sheepishly hang around while it loads.

12. Use packing cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to save space, time and stress when travelling. Not only do they help keep your luggage neat and tidy, but they will be easier to unpack at your destination – particularly if you plan outfits in advance. They are also handy in making sure your clothes don’t get mixed up among those belonging to your travel partner, if you are packing across several suitcases, as suggested above. These Chelsea packing cubes from Antler are the ultimate travel accessory.

13. Bring a travel pillow

As much as we hope any delays you face are short-lived, there is always the chance that your flight could be cancelled for hours on end. Packing a travel pillow will at least allow you to snooze in the airport while you wait for your new flight time. We’ve rounded up our favourite tried-and-tested travel pillows you should consider investing in, from the best one for neck support to the best for side sleepers.

14. Pack some noise-cancelling headphones

Flights with noisy children or rowdy holiday-goers are the worst. But even more frustrating are airport delays surrounded by people who are eager to let everyone else in the airport know how annoyed they are. To drown out those around you who you’d rather not be sharing your travel experience with, we love these Sony over-ear headphones from John Lewis are fantastic, and these Bose headphones are super soft on ears and definitely worth the investment.

15. Don’t forget your water bottle

To avoid wasting money on multiple bottles of water at the airport (and at your destination), make sure you bring your trusty water bottle with you when travelling. It’s better for your wallet and for the environment – just make sure you drink it all before you go through security so you don't have to down it in one or pour it out. Lots of airports have water fountains and filtered water available (normally there is a water station near the toilets), so you can fill up your bottle before you board your flight.

16. Book your airport parking ahead of time

According to the press team at London Gatwick airport, travellers should “always pre-book parking space ahead of your departure date. Car parks at the airports – especially the cheapest and closest to the terminal – fill up quickly during the holidays, so your best bet is to book a spot in advance”. By booking in advance you are saving yourself time, stress and money: Oliver Bedford, head of car parks at London Gatwick, said: “By pre-booking your car parking space at London Gatwick you save up to 60% on your stay. You can even book parking at London Gatwick up to a year in advance of your travel date.” Make sure you research the different parking options available

17. Pre-book special assistance

For disabled, elderly or other passengers who require special assistance, it is important to check the airport’s website for information on facilities, services, and accessibility options, and try to book assistance in advance so they can ensure help is available to you and your journey is as smooth as possible. The same applies for your airline – try to contact the airline you are flying with at least 48 hours before your flight. Pete Coombes says that “by booking in advance, both your airline and the special assistance provider at the airport will be prepared and fully aware of your needs, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey". Always ask for more help than you need, Pete advises: “Plan always for your ‘worst day’ when booking Special Assistance, and if you don’t need as much help as you thought you might when you arrive, just inform the provider on the day.” For more tips on travelling as a disabled person, check out our accessible guide to air travel .

18. Think ahead when packing

When travelling during the festive period, it's easy to stuff as many presents and extra bits into your luggage without thinking about it. But planning ahead can save you a lot of hassle. Pete's top tips for travelling around the holidays include:

• “Don’t pack wrapped presents in hand luggage. Security regulations require all items in your hand luggage to be easily inspected.”
• "Festive food – mince pies, Christmas puddings and even frozen turkeys – can be taken in hand luggage. As per normal security rules, liquids over 100ml are restricted. This includes commons gifts such alcohol, cosmetics, jams and preserves."
• “Christmas crackers can go through security if the pack is still sealed. However, this is limited to a maximum of two boxes per passenger. Party poppers are not allowed.”
• “Make sure you consider leaving enough space in your luggage or pack a swag bag so you can bring any presents you receive back on your return flight safely.”

19. Be kind

It can be tough when we’re stressed, but it makes for a far nicer travel experience when we’re helpful and patient with our other travel companions, and the people who are trying under immense pressure to get us away safely, comfortably and punctually. Also, try and remember to be kind to yourself, and don’t let a delay or small error ruin your overall experience. Much of the time, delays and cancellations are the result of genuine security and safety issues, so remember that the people working behind the scenes are dedicated to ensuring you have the best experience possible.

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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. She is the Executive Producer at  Money with Katie  at Morning Brew, a personal finance brand for women including a chart-topping podcast, blog, and newsletter. She’s also a long-time writer at The Good Trade. Henah holds a Master’s in Social Entrepreneurship and is a proud Rutgers grad. Originally from NJ, Henah’s now in Atlanta where she loves shopping small, hanging with her pets, or traveling.   Say hi on  Instagram !

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Simple Flying

5 top air travel hacks from industry experts.

These travel hacks are sure to save you some money on your next trip.

• Airlines have increased capacity to meet rising demand, resulting in lower airfare than 2022 levels for most of the year.
• Booking flights on Sundays can save travelers approximately 6% on domestic travel and 13% on international flights.
• Traveling on Thursdays is the cheapest day of the week for both domestic and international flights while traveling on Sundays is the most expensive.

Commercial air travel has significantly increased in the last few years . Airlines have been on a strong path of recovery since the pandemic-related downturn. Passenger numbers have certainly gone up, but so have ticket prices. Labor shortages , cost of fuel, and global economic instability have contributed to the higher ticket prices.

Popular travel website Expedia researches airline tickets and flight schedule data, showing various tips and tricks to minimize the cost of travel for passengers. According to the Managing Director of Data Science and Research at Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), Chuck Thakston,

“Airlines are adding capacity and increasing service to meet the sustained air travel demand we’ve seen throughout 2023. Air travel has proven resilient over the past few years, with travelers increasingly taking to the skies for both business and leisure. Fortunately for those travelers, the cost of airfare has been below 2022 levels for most of the year.”

With an ever-increasing variability in ticket prices, regular travelers need to find ways to reduce costs. Simple Flying Compiled a list of travel hacks for your next journey.

1 When to book flights

Booking flights is the first step in finalizing an air travel plan. The analysis of such data shows that flights booked on Sundays are cheaper than those booked on any other day of the week, particularly on Fridays. On average, travelers who book their domestic flights on Sunday can save approximately 6%.

The number is even greater for those traveling internationally, where the savings can be about 13%. All in all, Expedia shows that the beginning of the weekend is the worst time to book, while the very end is ideal. Even more interesting, perhaps, travelers interested in purchasing business class tickets can save up to 24% when buying on a Sunday compared to other days in the week.

2 How early should you book flights

Most leisure travelers plan at least a few weeks before their intended travel. Tickets must be purchased well ahead of time to ensure cheaper fares. Airline ticketing systems are programmed to change ticket prices based on the number of booked seats and days left in departure. For domestic travel, booking at least 28 days out can result in savings of up to 24%.

Ticket prices for domestic travel start to surge four weeks out and continue increasing as the travel time gets closer. International travel should be booked 60 days in advance to ensure availability selection and savings of approximately 10%. It is noteworthy that some airlines may have discounted fares for last-minute seats. However, experts do not recommend waiting that long, particularly for a planned trip.

3 The best day to travel

Thursday has been recorded as the cheapest day of the week to travel both domestically and for international flights. On average, passengers traveling on a Thursday save approximately 16%. On the other hand, traveling on a Sunday is traditionally the most expensive day for travel. Experts also suggest that Tuesday to Thursday should be the cheapest days for air travel.

For most domestic and international routes, there is less demand during the peak working days, and hence, the ticket prices are relatively lower than on other days. If you must travel on a weekend, domestic flights on Saturdays are generally cheaper compared to Fridays and Sundays.

4 The best time to travel

Perhaps, this one is more obvious, but the best time to travel is between early morning and 3 PM. Departing before 3 PM reduces the chances of delays and cancelations. The analysis conducted by Expedia shows that 32% of Americans avoid traveling in the early hours of the day to avoid getting up early. However, flight data shows that flights departing after 3 PM have a 50% higher chance on average of being delayed or canceled than flights departing earlier in the day.

Generally, airports are less busy during the daytime, and hence, there are minimum airport delays. Evening flights are likely to get triggered by accumulated delays at the airport or from previous flights.

Interested in similar content? Check out our complete guides section here.

5 Other price-saving techniques

While air travelers try to find the best day and time for travel, it is not always possible based on individual needs. Therefore, other techniques can be applied to minimize the cost of travel. Newer ticketing applications and platforms provide price tracking for different flights searched by customers. Price tracking shows the change in price over time on a given date.

Some platforms also provide price drop protection, a feature that enables customers to receive a price difference should the price drop after the ticket has been purchased. This option comes with a small fee and provides automatic refunds if the price of their flight becomes cheaper at any given time. Expedia also offers a price protection program to its customers. Expedia states,

“More than a quarter (28%) of U.S. travelers continue checking ticket prices even after they’ve booked, but this new product issues a refund if the price of the ticket drops on Expedia after booking.”

What are your thoughts on travel hacks that can save cost and hassle during air travel? Have you implemented any of these hacks before? Share your experience in the comments section.

Source: Expedia Newsroom

These 6 Travel Hacks Will Help You Save Time and Money on Your Next Flight

As we all witnessed, air travel has been somewhat of a crapshoot for the last few years, with cancellations and delays often becoming the norm . And with airports seeing record passenger numbers as of late, planning a stress-free trip in the immediate future feels unlikely, if not impossible.

But all is not lost. To help you avoid any potential travel pains, Expedia released six travel hacks for anyone traveling by air, including the best time to buy or fly, and how to decrease your odds of a delay. And the best part is, each one is backed by data collected by the online travel company. 

At the top of their money-saving tips, Expedia says that travelers should book their flights on a Sunday. Securing a flight on Sundays saves an average of 15 percent, up 5 percent from last year. The report adds that travelers can also save 15 percent, on average, if they choose flights that depart on a Wednesday. 

So, how far in advance should you book for the best deal? According to the Expedia report, you can save up to an average of 10 percent if you book your tickets at least one month ahead of domestic flights and at least six months in advance for international flights . 

Expedia also advises traveling during off-peak flight times to avoid delays—and while this tip isn’t anything we haven’t heard before, the travel company found that you will decrease your chances of a cancellation by a staggering 50 percent if you book yourself on a flight that departs before 3 p.m.

The study’s main takeaway, though, is to set price alerts for any flights or destinations you’re interested in flying. Seems like an obvious thing to do, but many travelers skip this step.

Expedia. "Expedia's 2023 Air Travel Hacks Report: US Travelers Can Save on Airfare by Booking and Traveling on This Day to Avoid Flight Delays."

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Amtrak + National Park Service: These Are The 2024 National Trails & Rails

These 7 national parks see the most loss of life, 7 perfect mountain towns in alaska for hikers.

Long plane flights can sometimes feel like a prison sentence when it comes to plane anxiety. Even without the extra added stress of feeling anxious on a flight, most people get a bit antsy and restless when they're sitting in a cramped seat for ten hours or more. While nothing can fully take away the flight frustration that comes with being stuck in one place for hours at a time, there are some things that can pass the time a little more smoothly.

Even if travelers only commit to one of these things, they're sure to make a flight slightly easier. If nothing else, they'll prepare a traveler both mind and body when it's time to buckle that seatbelt for lift-off .

Before The Flight Even Begins, Splurge On The Lounge

It can be an expensive option but when it comes to sitting in an uncomfortable waiting room seat vs. a luxe lounge (complete with WiFi and snacks), the choice is obvious. The airport has these executive lounges available for a reason and fliers do not need to be executives - or anything close - in order to take advantage of them. A swipe of a credit card can gain travelers entrance into some of the most elite lounges in the airport, and if you've got frequent flier miles, those can sometimes be used, too .

In some airports, lounges will allow guests simply because they have a specific card (such as American Express, which is the most popular), or for a fee. In exchange, travelers can look forward to:

• Comfortable, private seating with personal workspaces
• Vending machines, food vendors, or a bar
• Restrooms belonging strictly to the lounge area
• Free WiFi, complimentary coffee or tea, and even free snacks

Related:  You Can Expect A Good Pilot To Make The Following Announcements On A Flight

Avoid Sleeping On Shorter Flights, Bring On The Zzz's During Longer Ones

The reason that sleep should be avoided on shorter flights is that when a person goes lights-out, the human body does not automatically regulate pressure. This means that taking a nap on a short flight is a surefire way to wake up with clogged or popped ears, which can be painful and will definitely be uncomfortable. Therefore, if the flight is shorter than the length of a nap, it's best to keep one's eyes open and chew gum or drink water to maintain relatively normal ear pressure.

During longer flights, there's less chance of a passenger sleeping through take-off or landing, which means a nap might be just what's in order. This is quite possibly the best way to pass the time besides watching a movie or TV show, and these are some tips to get there:

• Pack some earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to drown out the noise.
• Create a sleepy playlist prior to boarding the plane to help lull you off to sleep (rain or ocean sounds are great for this).
• Read a book to help get the brain and eyes tired enough to fall asleep.
• Pack some chamomille tea in your carry-on and ask for hot water from the flight attendant.
• Pack your coziest layers, beanie hat, fuzzy socks, and comfy shoes, along with a neck pillow, to optimize comfort.

Pack A Podcast And Stay Awake From Sugary Drinks

The combination of carbonation and air pressure usually isn't a good one. While it doesn't happen to everyone, in some cases, carbonated drinks can lead to painful gas that's only intensified due to the rising air pressure in the cabin of the plane. Therefore, any soda or tonic drinks should be avoided. Sugary drinks will only serve to dehydrate a traveler while also keeping them awake - which can be bad for anxiety. The best option is water, which is free, and in high supply on planes; just ask the flight attendant .

For those who can't fall asleep on planes (and there are definitely those of us who are incapable), a podcast is most certainly the way to go. Sometimes, it's nice to just zone out or close our eyes while listening to the soothing voice of an audio episode that we love. A week or two before the flight, be sure to avoid listening to any new podcasts, saving them for the time spent on the flight. Or, if there are no podcasts currently in the rotation, take some time to find one! There's truly a podcast for everyone and even if it takes some time to find one that's enjoyable or interesting, it's worth it. If nothing else, passengers can create an in-flight playlist that has soothing or distracting songs.

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Explore > Company > Airline > Expedia’s Best Travel Hacks to Take You Through 2022

Expedia’s Best Travel Hacks to Take You Through 2022

Hey  Out Travel the System  fam – we’re not slouching on our mission to be your travel besties even while we’re on hiatus between Season Three and Season Four!

In this episode, we are bringing you deep data right from the vaults of  Expedia  and the  Airlines Reporting Corporation , an industry leader in air travel intelligence. These are our very best travel tips, tricks, and hacks.

Listen in as host  Nisreene Atassi  takes you through everything you need to know to maximize your travel experiences, including:

-what days to book your flights, and what days to travel on

-why what month you travel in can make a big dent in your travel budget

-why upgrading your seat may be less of a splurge than you think

-what ‘downstarring’ means, and how it can help you save big on accommodations

-what  not  to skimp on, especially when it comes to peace of mind

If you’re looking for inspiration for good ways to splurge a bit with all of your well-researched savings, check out this  past episode  of  Out Travel the System.

We also have some international inspiration here, with past episodes to specific destinations:

We want to make sure you can research and plan your travels with confidence, so make sure to make time to check out these handy guides assembled by  Expedia :

COVID-19 Travel Advisory tool

Expedia COVID-19 Travel Guide

Expedia Travel Podcast

Nisreene Atassi : It’s the most wonderful time of the year. And I know what you’re thinking, but no, it’s not because the holidays are right around the corner. It’s because it’s the time when I get to finally share the ultimate booking hacks to help you plan your next year of travel. I’m Nisreene Atassi and this is Out Travel The System. Longtime listeners know this already, but just in case you’re new to the show, every year Expedia releases a report, revealing key travel hacks. For the year ahead. We work on this research with the airlines reporting corporation and industry leader and air travel intelligence. We pull together their data along with ours and a very detailed survey to get deep insights on travel. And then, in the spirit of being your ultimate travel companion, we deliver all of this information right to you. So let’s go ahead and start with flights.

Average ticket prices were at their lowest in the last 12 months during December 2020 and January 2021. We are still seeing some savings on international flights compared to 2019, but on average, ticket prices have been steadily rising and are almost back to pre- pandemic levels. Your best way to get some savings is by being smart in how and when you book your flights. For domestic flights, and by this we mean flights within the United States, the prices start to increase 21 days before your departure. So, that means you’re going to want to buy plane ticket between 28 to 35 days in advance. The ideal day of the week to book a domestic flight is on a Sunday. This can save you around 5%. The ideal day of the week to start your domestic trip is going to be on a Friday. That can save you around 15%. consider taking both of these savings and doing a little bit of a splurge.

We talked about good ways to splurge in a previous episode. So we’ll link to that in the show notes. Let me just also quickly recap that before we shift to international flights. For domestic trips, you want to book at least 28 to 35 days out, and you want to make sure that you make that booking on a Sunday. Look to also start your trip on a Friday. So now on the international front, you’re going to want to book your flight three to four months in advance to get the lowest prices. That’s tough, I know, but that’s really what the data’s telling us. That reminds me, we’re going to link to some of our favorite deep dive episodes on international destinations like France, Spain and Australia in the show notes so that you can get some really great travel inspiration there. The ideal day to book your flight is also going to be on a Sunday.

But what you’re looking for here is to travel starting on the Thursday as opposed to the Friday, which I mentioned for domestic travel. That on average can create savings of more than 5%, which on an international trip can be quite substantial. To recap for international, you want to book your flight three to four months in advance and also make sure that you do your booking on a Sunday. That’s going to get you some of the best prices. In terms of when you want to start your trip, look to depart on a Thursday as opposed to a Friday. If you can’t find travel that fits into these exact parameters, don’t worry, here’s a rule of thumb that works. It’s generally cheaper to start your trip in the back half of the week, so a Wednesday through a Saturday than the front half, so a Sunday to a Tuesday. Okay, I’m not done yet.

We’re going to talk about what month to travel in right after this.

You’re listening to Out Travel The System. I’m Nisreene Atassi. It can seem really confusing to consider travel right now. What should I book? Where should I go? How am I going to get the most out of my trip? Well, look no further than this show. In every episode, we’re thinking about how to keep you inspired and informed about travel. You can catch up on back episodes featuring people who have traveled to almost every country in the world and experienced almost everything under the sun, as well as interviews with guests like Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenny and Rashida Jones about what they love the most about travel. And make sure you stay tuned as we plan out season four so like and subscribe now on your favorite podcast player.

Nisreene Atassi : All right. We are back on Out Travel The System, and I’m talking about the ultimate travel tips and tricks for 2022.

If you’re willing to be flexible with what month you’re going in, and to be honest, maybe accept a few trade offs, you can definitely unlock some huge savings. For example, if you’re willing to travel domestically in January, you can save more than 10% compared to traveling in June. Most people did their holiday travel probably in December or they were taking a summer break in June. January’s not a super popular time to travel so it’s naturally going to be a little bit cheaper than some of these other months. When we’re talking internationally, traveling in August can save you almost 20% compared to traveling in December. Again, the key here is to really think about seasonality. School breaks, major public holidays. Those are all a big factor in determining what’s going to yield different pricing. And if you want a suggestion on where to put those savings to enjoy your travel more, consider upgrading to a premium economy ticket.

The average pricing on that currently is actually lower than it was both last year and in 2019. So if you want a little bit extra leg room, consider that tiny little upgrade. Now, I know you might be saying, ” Nissy, this is all flight stuff, so what about accommodations?” Don’t worry. I’ve got that for you as well. The high demand for domestic travel, and again by this, we mean the United States, has actually pushed domestic lodging rates higher than they were in 2020 and 2019. That’s why I’m so glad I can put these two travel secrets right in your hands. The lowest average daily rate for accommodations tends to happen on Mondays. I know. Kind of annoying because we’re not typically traveling on Mondays, but including that on your stay can actually save you more than 15% compared to staying on a Friday, for example, which tends to be the most expensive day.

So if you’ve got some flexibility, those are some adjustments that can help yield some decent savings. For international trips, book and stay on a Tuesday compared to a Thursday. That can save you almost 10%. If your accommodations aren’t a key priority for you in travel, and by that, I mean you’re the type of person that just needs a place to lay their head, but you spend most of the day out and about, consider down starring to save. What I mean by that is, someone who typically likes to stay in a five- star property, consider going for a four- star property, which could save you 45% on average. Similarly, choosing a three- star instead of a four- star can save you around 30%. So really think about what are the most important things to you? What amenities do you really need and whether you can make a few trade offs, if budget is really an important factor for you right now?

Now I know I keep mentioning so savings, but there are times and places where spending a little bit more is going to be worth it. And it’s not just a splurge. It can actually give you peace of mind. There’s still some unpredictability with travel because of the pandemic, so booking a refundable lodging rate is really going to benefit you. Even if it’s going to be around 15% more than a non- refundable room, it’s going to give you that flexibility to change or cancel your trip without penalty, as long as you do it before the specified date. In my mind, that piece of mind is well worth the extra money. I do have a few more tips to keep your travel budget in check. So look for bundling wherever you can on Expedia. That’s been a tip that I’ve said repeatedly over the course of the last season, but I want to reiterate it here again, because it still really holds true. On average, US travelers can save up to 10% by booking your flight and accommodations in the same transaction instead of doing them separately.

Oh, and don’t forget to sign up for Expedia rewards that unlocks member only pricing and that lets you start collecting Expedia points that you can use for other savings down the road. And if you’re a silver or gold member who books an Expedia VIP access hotel, you may also get some perks, like a room upgrade or even a spa credit. And if you book through the Expedia app, not only can you unlock up to 10% savings with hotel deals that are exclusively on the app, you can also earn double the Expedia rewards points by booking on the app. So it really gives you lots of amazing benefits, not to mention travel alerts about your itinerary right there on your phone. We’re also going to drop a couple of really important links in the show notes. It’s going to be to Expedia’s COVID- 19 travel advisory tool, as well as our Expedia COVID- 19 travel guide.

We want to make sure you have all of the information you need so that you can travel with confidence. I know it seems like this is a ton of information, and some of these tips and tricks do actually contradict each other a little bit. I would encourage you to set aside a small chunk of time to really play around with your dates for flights and accommodations. It may be that the savings from one travel hack is higher than from another so keep an eye on the overall budget. This time, we’ll also let you research everything you need to know about your destination. And I promise you it will be time well spent that will definitely pay off. I’m looking forward to some downtime to research my own travels, including whether to head to some of the hottest destinations of 2022, and I’ll share those thoughts in the new year. Until then, happy travels.

Show links: Expedia //  Expedia Social Media: Instagram , Twitter , and Facebook

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5 Idiotic Viral Travel Hacks You Shouldn’t Bother Trying When You Fly

Don't believe everything you see on the internet. These viral travel hacks aren't likely to make flying better—and could make things worse. 

By Zac Thompson

June 24, 2024

Some days, “air travel” feels like a shorter way of saying “global conspiracy to leave me bankrupt and bewildered.”

So it’s no wonder internet users go in search of travel hacks to save money, cut red tape, and ensure a modicum of in-flight comfort (you poor deluded fool). 

But while trying to satisfy those worthwhile ends, some hacks go viral on message boards, travel sites, and, especially, TikTok, by proposing solutions that may be, depending on the hack, ineffective, unproven, overcomplicated, against the rules, or downright dangerous.

Worse, the online popularity of such bad advice seems to earn it a weird legitimacy. Maybe this can be hard to remember in a world where views and followers are regarded as the be-all and end-all, but “viral” doesn’t automatically equal “good.” Just look at the milk crate challenge . Or Covid-19.

As a public service, then, here are five recent examples of viral air travel hacks you should ignore, along with some advice on what to try instead.

Questionable Air Travel Hack #1: Wear Red to Get Better Treatment

The hack : According to some psychological studies, people wearing red are perceived to be more authoritative and even more attractive (a result of the so-called “ red dress effect ”) than the beige-clad masses. Armchair color theorists ( amplified by media enablers ) therefore advise flyers to wear shades of red when traveling so that airport security agents, airline workers, and flight crews will subconsciously regard those scarlet-sporting passengers as important, desirable, and deserving of a seamless TSA experience and maybe an upgrade to business class. 

The problem : It’s unproven. Most of the scientific studies attempting to measure the “red dress effect” have to do with sexual attraction, not securing better airplane seats—and, in any case, other researchers have found “no effect of the color red on human mate preferences.”

Basically, the wear-red hack is a variation on the ol’ dress-to-impress advice for getting a free seat upgrade—advice that has become outdated in our era of strictly enforced , automatically  deployed rules  for granting upgrades based on factors such as credit card points and elite status with the airline. 

In most cases, gate agents and flight attendants do not have the authority to move you up into first class just because they like the cut of your jib. Or the cut of your red blazer. Or because it’s your birthday . Or because you dole out gift cards . Or because you say the words “revenue management,” as recommended in a 2018 Bloomberg piece rightly identified by View from the Wing’s Gary Leff as a “classically idiotic” entrant in the Travel Hack Hall of Shame. 

What to try instead : Sorry, but for airline upgrades, your best bet is to start racking up points and miles with a travel-friendly credit card and frequent flyer programs. 

Enrolling in TSA PreCheck will get you through the airport faster. Click here for tips on speeding things up even without PreCheck .

Questionable Air Travel Hack #2: Freeze Liquids to Circumvent the TSA’s 3-1-1 Rule

The hack : The Transportation Security Administration’s 3-1-1 rule dictates that all liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on luggage must be in containers no bigger than 3.4 ounces apiece and gathered in one quart-size bag per passenger. But a popular TikTok video found a workaround: If you freeze liquid in larger quantities, it is by definition no longer liquid. So freeze that bottle of Dasani and you can take it right through the TSA checkpoint, avoiding the exorbitant prices of bottled water at airport shops on the other side of security. 

@kazsawyer We successfully snuck water past TSA!???????? #fyp ? Mission Impossible Theme (Movie Trailer Mix) - Dominik Hauser

The problem : It’s too complicated. In the TikTok clip, the video’s creator is shown thawing his TSA-approved block of ice after getting through security by running the bottle under hot water in the bathroom and, later, by pouring steaming water on it from a to-go coffee cup in what appears to be a free water fountain that probably dispenses filtered water. Wouldn’t it have been easier to just bring an empty bottle and fill it up at that water fountain after going through the TSA line? 

What’s more, as Travel + Leisure points out , whatever you’ve frozen must remain fully solid by the time of its encounter with TSA agents. Slush is a no go—and a very real possibility if you’ve had to wait in a long line for check-in or security. And you’re not really going to try freezing your toothpaste and sunscreen, are you?

What to try instead : For heaven’s sake, pack an empty, reusable water bottle and refill after you get through security. 

Questionable Air Travel Hack #3: Stuff Everything Into a Pillowcase to Avoid Bag Fees

The hack : If your checked luggage is heavier than the allowed limit, or your carry-on and personal item are both already near overflowing, or you’re flying with an airline that charges extra for a carry-on bag and you don’t have any more room in your personal item, all is not lost.

To try TikTok's favorite travel trick, simply throw those extra clothes into a pillowcase or neck pillow cover and you’ve got yourself a stealth carry-on that gate agents are likely to overlook. Goodbye, excess baggage fees; hello, sleeping on lumpy dirty socks and your phone charger all the way back home to Fresno.

@dontbemike traveling with pillow cases from now on #pillowhack #airporthack ? Mission Impossible (Main Theme) - Favorite Movie Songs

The problem : It can get you in trouble if you’re caught. Even we’re guilty of having highlighted a humorous variation on this hack a couple years ago, but some social media–influenced travelers have taken things too far. It's not hard to find tales of attempts recounted on message boards , but the success rate of the pillow hack is reportedly low, owing in large part to gate agents not being stupid.

If you get caught trying to pass off a thin cotton sack full of your belongings as a pillow and dig in your heels, you could even get booted from the flight. That’s what happened  recently to a passenger trying the pillow trick while boarding a plane at Orlando International Airport in Florida. 

The altercation was documented on TikTok , of course, in a video sagely captioned, “Stop listening to the internet.”

What to try instead : Learn to pack more compactly. Tried-and-true tricks include rolling clothes, using packing cubes, and editing your travel wardrobe wherever possible. 

Questionable Travel Hack #4: Velcro Your Toddler to the Airplane Seat to Prevent Squirming

The hack : Got a toddler who won’t stay still during a flight? One mommy TikTokker has a widely viewed solution : Attach strips of Velcro tape to the seat and to the backside of your wiggle worm’s onesie (not directly on skin, of course), and then stick the little one in place. Et voilà ! No chance of your pint-size passenger making a break for it and toddling about the cabin.

@ljflommom The best airplane travel hack #mom #momhack #hack #travelwithkids #kids #travel #baby #toddler #momlife #motherhood #momsoftiktok #fyp #momtok ? original sound - Lisa Flom

The problem : It’s probably ineffective and possibly dangerous. As pointed out by many of the video’s commenters as well as the Johnny Jet travel site , the Velcro’d youngster is liable to grow frustrated pretty quickly after the urge to squirm is thwarted, and when toddlers get frustrated, they’re not usually suffer-in-silence types. So you’ll probably just trade one problem (too much mobility) for another (shrieking). 

Further, the Federal Aviation Administration advises that “the safest place for your child under the age of two on a U.S. airplane is in [an] approved child restraint system (CRS) or device.”

And believe it or not, strips of adhesive Velcro do not meet those standards, which are designed to protect babies from turbulence and other in-flight dangers. You might also damage the seat with adhesive residue, or worse, ruin the pants of the next passenger.

Of course, an infant age 2 or under is allowed to travel for free on the lap of an adult passenger during a domestic flight and for a reduced fare on an international one—but with this hack, you’d have to purchase a seat for the kid anyway. Might as well use a safer and more effective restraint system, no? 

The child might still squall, but at least there’s less risk of your bouncing bundle bouncing into the aisle. 

What to try instead : Unless you want to go the lap-infant route, bring aboard a car seat that meets FAA safety standards. Here’s how to make sure the seat you have will do . 

Questionable Travel Hack #5: Buckle Up Over Your Ankles to Get Comfier in an Airplane Seat

The hack : The standard way of sitting on an airplane is notoriously uncomfortable. A TikTok video with millions of views devises an alternative ( click here to watch ) for passengers who’d prefer to snuggle up into a shape more reminiscent of a butterfly in a cocoon. Simply pull your feet up onto the seat so that your knees are up against your chest, and fasten the seat belt across your ankles to hold the position in place. 

The problem : Sorry, we can’t pretend to take this seriously. Don’t do this. It’s unsafe, uncomfortable, and so, so stupid. Fortunately, the hack won’t be doable for many passengers, requiring, as Australian travel journalist Finlay Mead points out , a degree of flexibility and diminutive stature many adult flyers do not have. But even if you are physically able to pull your feet up onto your seat with only 30 inches of space in front of you, why is it preferable to bunch your legs up even further than they already are on a plane? Don’t you want to stretch out?

Not to mention that wearing the seat belt in this way goes against FAA regulations, which call for wearing lap belts across, you know, your lap—specifically low across the hips, and not around the thighs, belly, ankles, or, lord help us, neck.

The FAA’s reason for wanting passengers to wear seat belts properly—and it’s the best reason for doing so—involves safety. When “placed low on your hipbones,” the FAA explains, “the belt loads will be taken by the strong skeleton of your body.” 

But by fastening yourself into this inverted bowling-pin shape, you’ve put yourself in danger, should the plane encounter turbulence, of breaking your legs or flying headfirst into the seat in front of you or the ceiling above. That's an ouch at best, an RIP at worst. 

What to try instead : Literally anything. Buy one of those foot hammocks (though make sure the product you get is okay with the airline ). Consider compression socks if you’re concerned about circulation in your legs. Read our 24 tips for sleeping on a long flight . Travel by train. ANYTHING.

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How to upgrade to first class without spending a ton of money

Editor's Note

For many travelers, flying in a first-class seat may seem like an unachievable dream reserved for the ultra-wealthy or business travelers who spare no expense. But in reality, there are many other ways to score a seat at the front of the plane without paying an exorbitant amount.

In many cases, there are even ways to upgrade to first class (or business class) without having elite status in an airline's frequent flyer program or paying the full cash or award retail price.

Admittedly, in these days of high travel demand , it's hard to guarantee a first-class seat without directly paying for it. However, with some luck, tips and strategy, there are options out there.

How to upgrade to first class without elite status

One of the easiest ways to score a first-class upgrade is to have elite status. Many airlines offer complimentary upgrades as a loyalty perk.

However, it's possible to snag an upgrade without paying full price, even if you don't have status.

Here are some strategies to consider.

Use miles to upgrade your economy ticket

One of the easiest ways for travelers without elite status to upgrade their seats to first or business class without paying the full cash price is by paying for the upgrade with miles .

This won't require elite status, but it does require you to have a decent stash of frequent flyer miles with an airline or credit card rewards points you've earned through your everyday spending.

Even casual flyers might be surprised at how many points and miles they can earn by charging their daily expenses to the right credit card; many of these points and miles can be transferred to airline frequent flyer programs and redeemed for travel, including upgrades.

For example, American Airlines will allow American AAdvantage members to use miles to upgrade tickets. You'll generally pay some miles and a fee for an upgrade.

Related: Best airline credit cards

As you might expect, upgrading to first class on a short domestic flight is much less pricey than moving to a lie-flat business-class seat on an overseas flight. The latter costs 25,000 miles plus $350 per traveler for upgrades to business class from standard economy seats.

You'll want to consider your miles' value before making the splurge. Per TPG's June 2024 valuations , 25,000 AAdvantage miles are worth $425. But remember, in this scenario, you'll need to also pay $350 in addition to redeeming miles.

That said, if you prioritize having a comfortable seat to sleep in during your overnight flight to Europe, using your miles for an upgrade can be a far better option than paying for a business-class ticket outright.

For example, a round-trip economy ticket from New York to Rome costs $1,171 versus $6,564 for a Flagship business-class seat.

An award ticket on the same round-trip itinerary costs a whopping 592,000 miles for business class.

Not many people have more than $6,500 to spend on one flight to Europe, and 592,000 miles is a hefty price to pay.

On the other hand, after purchasing an economy ticket, you may be able to upgrade it for 25,000 miles plus $350, one-way, if available. Regardless of the airline, before you wade too deeply into upgrade pricing, make sure the ticket you purchased is eligible for upgrades. On many airlines, restrictive basic economy tickets are not eligible for changes, including upgrades.

If you don't have 25,000 AAdvantage miles at the ready, a credit card welcome bonus could help get you there. Right now, the Citi®/AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® (see rates and fees ) is offering new members an impressive 100,000 bonus miles for cardholders who spend $10,000 in their first three months with the card. The card carries a $595 annual fee but includes sizeable perks like an Admirals Club membership and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application statement fee credit.

Related: The best ways to travel to Europe using points and miles

Upgrade through your credit card travel portal

There are credit card rewards programs that will help members upgrade their flights. Some American Express cardholders can use their American Express Membership Rewards points (or pay) to upgrade a flight on an airline with which Amex partners.

To look into an upgrade, you'll need to make the request through your Amex Travel account.

Airlines that partner with Amex include Air Canada (Star Alliance), Qantas (Oneworld), Aeromexico (SkyTeam) and Etihad, among others.

Get help from a friend or family member with elite status

You can still receive some airline elite perks without personally having elite status. Some airline programs like Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan will allow their members to spread the wealth of their elite status to family and friends.

Those with Alaska MVP Gold status or higher receive four one-way guest upgrades for every year they gain or maintain their status. They can spend the upgrades on their travel companions or when their guest travels without them.

There are some rules around space availability and other factors to consider. Still, if your friend or a family member has status with an airline such as Alaska Airlines or United Airlines, they may be able to help you get upgraded without spending any money.

Bid for an upgrade

Even if you don't have any miles saved up or have never been a frequent flyer, you may still be able to fly in first class without breaking the bank.

Some airlines will send out an invitation to bid for an upgrade if they expect some empty premium seats on a flight. These invitation texts or emails allow you to bid for a seat in the next available cabin. If you have some miles stashed, some airlines, like Australian carrier Qantas, will also allow you to submit a bid composed of miles and cash.

Not all routes are eligible for upgrades, and other restrictions may apply. Rules will vary by airline, but most will have a suggested bid and a minimum amount you'll need to offer. Keep in mind that many airlines restrict you to bidding for one class of an upgrade, so you may need to be booked in premium economy (if it's available on your flight) in order to score a business-class seat via a winning bid.

Buy a discounted upgrade

The cash price to upgrade to first class can decrease if the airline doesn't expect to sell all seats at the full fare. Many airlines would rather get some revenue for the seat than none at all.

If you notice low demand for your desired seat as the travel date approaches, see if you can scoop up an upgrade at a discounted cash rate.

While the price will vary, it never hurts to check. Look at your upcoming flight reservations every now to see what the airline is listing as the cost to upgrade your seat with cash.

Ask about first-class upgrades at the check-in counter

Unfortunately, the price for a first-class seat often doesn't drop. However, it never hurts to ask about a last-minute upgrade.

Airlines make more money from filling their first-class seats, so next time you're feeling a little spendy, you can ask at the ticket or boarding counter if there is any availability at the front of the plane. You may even find the extra cost is lower than expected, especially when factoring in any fees you'd otherwise have to pay for add-ons like checked bags.

How to upgrade to first class with elite status

Unsurprisingly, getting upgraded to first class with elite status is much easier. Many airlines offer complimentary upgrades as a perk of elite status. The exact process differs from one airline to the next, but often, the higher-tier status you have, the more luck you'll have.

That means that unless you're a higher-level elite member, you may be low on the waiting list for an upgrade.

However, you can try additional tricks to position yourself in a premium seat.

Purchase instant First Class Upgrade tickets with Alaska Airlines

While many airlines will upgrade elite status members one, two or a few days before departure, Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan's elite members can buy certain fares that qualify them for an immediate upgrade.

When booking a trip like the one pictured below, you will see four fare options instead of the typical two Main and first-class fares after checking your elite status in the fare type column to the left.

The Premium Class Upgrade option is for an extra legroom seat, whereas the First Class Upgrade option is for the airline's first-class cabin.

By purchasing an upgrade fare, you'll be eligible — pending availability — for an immediate upgrade instead of waiting until the days before your flight for your upgrade to clear.

How do you know if there's availability? Look for the "F" symbols by the flight details. A navy blue "F" square means there is availability on that particular flight; a white "F" square means there isn't.

You'll be placed on the upgrade waitlist if you don't buy an immediate upgrade-eligible fare.

Use your upgrade certificates with Delta Air Lines

Delta SkyMiles , Delta Air Lines' frequent flyer program, features four published Delta Medallion elite tiers : Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond Medallion. All come with perks, including the chance to receive complimentary upgrades to first-class seats.

Access to unlimited, free upgrades to first class comes standard with Delta Medallion elite status, but Delta's upgrade process is still complex. You can increase your chances of being upgraded on Delta by being a higher-tier Platinum or Diamond Medallion member.

Members in these two elite tiers receive upgrade certificates known as Global Upgrade Certificates and Regional Upgrade Certificates. If upgrade space is available, these certificates can be cleared as soon as you book your ticket.

Like many airlines, Delta has certain fares that are not eligible for complimentary upgrades through Medallion status.

Use PlusPoints for priority upgrades with United Airlines

United has a complicated revenue, award and upgrade class system that can be confusing for even experienced flyers.

Luckily, TPG has made it easier to understand United's system with this comprehensive guide to United fare classes .

All United MileagePlus Premier members are eligible for complimentary Premier upgrades on eligible fares and routes, but only Premier Platinum and Premier 1K members receive PlusPoints .

Using PlusPoints, high-tier Premier members can confirm their upgrades long before their flight. Premier Platinum members receive 40 PlusPoints when reaching status, and Premier 1K members receive 280 PlusPoints when they earn or retain their status.

The screenshot below shows United's PlusPoints pricing breakdown for upgrades. For instance, it takes 40 PlusPoints to move from economy to Polaris business class on a long-haul flight.

Generally, you should reserve PlusPoints for long-haul Polaris flights to get the best value for your points. However, sitting up front is always better than in the back, regardless of the route. This is especially true if you have points set to expire soon, as it's best to use them for any first-class option rather than let them go to waste.

Instead, whether you are on a business-class cash fare or a redemption, look out for upgrade offers in your inbox before the flight during online check-in, or ask at the check-in desk at the airport.

While the upgrade cost is likely four figures, it could be worth it to experience some of the best products in commercial aviation.

Related: Swiss first class review: Is it worth paying $1,000 to $2,000 to upgrade?

Bottom line

Whether you want to treat yourself once or increase the number of times you sit up front, getting upgraded to first class is possible and feasible.

From cashing in miles for an upgrade to winning the upgrade lottery with a cash bid, there are several ways to snag an upgraded seat without spending much money, including with elite status or the right credit card. Even those without elite status can score a prime seat in the front of the plane with careful planning.

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This Google Flights Hack from TikTok Finds Cheap Airline Tickets to Any Destination

A TikTok user, who goes by 'Around the Atlas,' went viral last week after discovering a Google Flights hack that finds affordable airline tickets

@aroundtheatlas/TikTok ; Getty

One TikTok user seemingly cracked the code for finding cheap flights .

Last week, travel influencer @AroundTheAtlas posted a video , which has garnered over 4 million views, that featured a search hack for air travel.

"Did I just unlock a cheat code or did everyone know about this?” she wrote over the start of the post. In the clip, she recorded her screen to let followers in on her discovery.

She navigated to Google Flights and typed her departure city, London, into the box that read “Where from?” In the “Where to?” box, instead of adding her desired destination, she typed “Anywhere.” And instead of adding desired trip dates, she left them blank.

From there, she was able to look at a map, to choose where that “anywhere” might be. She hovered over Barcelona, commenting that roundtrip flight is priced at £26 (or about $31.74 USD). Meanwhile, she noted, a roundtrip flight from London to New York City is cheaper than it would normally be, priced at £336 (or about $410.51 USD).

While prices only apply to certain dates, the creator said it could be helpful with booking travel if the exact timing isn’t important.

“Does anyone else know about this? Because I feel like the world is gatekeeping how insane this is,” she added.

Getty Images

Users in the comments were excited by the finding.

“THANK YOU me and my mum want to go on a holiday somewhere but flights are just too expensive this is soo helpful,” one person wrote, while another added, “I travel a lot and always use Google Flights… didn’t know this 'to anywhere' though… thanks."

Some commenters noted that the discounts generally apply to "cheaper" airlines, flights with long layovers or departures at undesirable hours. 

Regardless, TikTok loves a good travel hack. Last month, a video from a Southern California's Ontario International Airport employee went viral, which reminded travelers to remove old airline stickers from their luggage . Evidently, sometimes suitcases get lost because the wrong sticker scans and the bag is sent to the wrong airline.

“Let's say you flew American [Airlines], and then a month later you flew Southwest," the airline worker explained in the video. 

“Well, there's a little sticker that goes on for American [Airlines] that tells the computer that it should go to there… so if your month-old American sticker is on there, there's a chance it scans it instead of this one. It just depends how it's clocked and where the stuff is. It might end up over there and not get on the plane," he added.

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11 Travel Hacks To Avoid in 2024

Posted: February 26, 2024 | Last updated: February 26, 2024

When it comes to traveling, frequent and casual travelers alike often look for ways to save money and time, or make the trip the best it can be. Common travel hacks include searching for flights in incognito tabs, traveling during the off-season, and using hotel booking sites to score the cheapest accommodations.

Read Next: Dave Ramsey: 7 Vacation Splurges That Are a Waste of Money Learn More: 6 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

While some of these travel hacks have served people well over the years, many of them either don't work anymore or don't work like they used to. Sometimes, these so-called travel hacks end up costing more money in the long run -- or they detract from the entire experience.

Before you book your next trip, here are 11 travel hacks to avoid in 2024, according to experts .

Hidden City Ticketing, aka Skiplagging

"Booking a flight with a layover at your actual destination, and then skipping the connecting flight will backfire because the airline will cancel the remaining parts of your ticket, leaving you stranded or facing additional fees," said Kat Fleishman , a luxury travel expert and CEO of Do-Tell PR .

This so-called travel hack referred to as "skiplagging" might seem more cost effective than booking a direct flight. However, you won't be able to check any bags if you do this. It's also technically legal, but could result in lost miles or lifetime bans from that specific airline.

Check Out: 8 Tips To Fly Business Class for the Price of Economy Trending Now: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024

Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief.

Buying a Cheap Flight Over a Pricier Train Ticket

You might save money by purchasing a cheap airplane ticket over a train ticket, but money isn't everything when it comes to traveling.

"Some train journeys may cost more than a cheap flight but the beauty of a train ride is the greater flexibility from the booking system to being able to jump off at a certain point in the journey -- much less stressful and also enjoyable," said Jessica Dante , a leading travel expert at Love and London. "Boarding is much also less hassle, there are no luggage restrictions and inevitably more leg room."

Plus, you could save money -- or at least break even -- by taking a train over a flight. Luggage fees can add up when you fly, and many airports are located far from the city center, which means you'll need to spend more money on a taxi or public transport to reach your destination.

Explore More: I'm a Luxury Travel Agent: 10 Destinations My Wealthy Clients Are Booking for 2024

Exchanging Money at the Airport

"Using currency exchange services at airports or hotels can be convenient, but they charge higher and hidden fees with really bad exchange rates compared to local banks or ATMs," said Fleishman. "It's better to withdraw local currency from ATMs or exchange money at local banks."

Traveling Only During the Off-Season

Off-season travel is often less expensive than any other time, but not always.

"There has been a lot of talk around the benefits of off-season travel recently, which presents this as a travel hack for getting the best prices. In some cases, visiting during these quieter periods can offer a unique and more affordable experience. However, sometimes, they are just less popular times to visit for a reason," said Jan Luescher, CEO of luxury travel social network, ASmallWorld .

"Visiting certain destinations during their quieter periods significantly limits what you can do there and causes you to miss out on some of the best things to do and see because they are not open or safe to visit at this time," she continued.

If you miss something you really wanted to do, it might require a second trip to the same place. Or you might not enjoy yourself quite as much as you'd hoped.

Booking Non-Refundable Accommodations Early

"While early bookings can secure lower rates, committing to non-refundable accommodations too far in advance puts a damper on flexibility," said Fleishman. "Plans can change, and unforeseen circumstances always arise, leading to potential financial loss. Always better to book a hotel with a flexible cancellation policy if you are booking in advance."

Be Aware: 9 American Travel Brands to Stay Away From

Buying Cheap Airline Tickets but Ignoring Layover Times

"Traveling further afield often means catching a connecting flight and a common hack or tip for planning an indirect journey is checking the layover time to ensure it gives you enough time to disembark one flight and get onto the next," said Luescher.

But even if you account for the layover time, you might be forgetting a very important detail: The size and layout of the connecting airport.

"It's easy to get lulled in a false sense of security that because these connecting flights are available to buy, the layover time must be fine," Luescher continued. "However, each airport and airline can have very different rules for connecting travelers that require you to set aside different lengths of time."

Most international airports, for instance, have additional security checkpoints or requirements. You might even have to claim and recheck your luggage during the layover, depending on your destination. This can cut into your layover time quite a bit.

Some airports are also massive, so it could take you even more time to get to your gate. If you don't account for all of these factors, you could end up missing your flight -- and having to buy a new ticket.

On the flipside, if your layover time is substantial, you could end up wasting valuable time that cuts into your trip.

Getting Bulk Airline Miles

Airline miles, or frequent flyer points, rack up for frequent travelers. When you have enough of them, you can redeem them for discounted future flights, rental cars, accommodations and more.

But don't buy them in bulk to try to get more points quickly.

"Buying airline miles or loyalty points at a discounted rate is not OK by the airlines and there's a risk of having your account suspended or worse," said Fleishman.

Searching for Flights in Incognito Tabs

"A common travel tip people have been following for years is that you should search for flights in private Incognito mode and clear your browser cookies to see the lowest fares," said Mercedes Zach, travel expert at ASAP Tickets , part of Trevolution Group.

"This approach comes from the belief that airlines are using browser cookies to track your searches and will show you higher prices if you do several searches for a particular destination within a short period of time," Zach continued. "In reality, airfare pricing is dynamic and constantly fluctuates and Incognito mode has no impact on it."

Just because a price drops for a specific flight doesn't mean it's because of the way you searched for it. If you want to get the best fares, set up alerts on Google Flights or a similar platform.

Discover More: 7 Cheap, Beautiful Places for a Winter Vacation

Using Free Wi-Fi

There are lots of hidden fees when it comes to traveling, so you might be tempted to find even small ways to save money. One such way is to use free Wi-Fi, but there are many scams that can end up costing you.

"Beware of hackers who set up fake Wi-Fi networks with names similar to legitimate hotel networks to trick travelers into connecting," said Fleishman. "Using unsecured networks can expose personal information. It's safer to use a hotel's official Wi-Fi or a virtual private network (VPN) for added security."

Booking Flights on Tuesdays

If you've been booking flights on Tuesdays in the hopes of saving money, chances are it isn't actually working.

"I have been with a flight booking agency for several years now and I cannot say for sure that Tuesdays are cheaper than other days. Flight fares are dynamic and constantly fluctuate," said Shreya Patel, marketing manager at Lowest Flight Fares . "A flight from Austin to Boston may cost you around $114 on a Tuesday and $89 on a Saturday."

Instead of booking flights based on the day of the week, compare different options around the time when you want to travel. Patel also suggested booking between 21 and 115 days before your trip for the best prices.

Dressing Nicely To Get Upgrades

Some travelers swear by this travel hack, but there's not much proof that it actually works.

"What you are wearing at the check-in counter has no influence on the agent. Moreover, the airline already decides where its passengers are going to sit before they even leave the house," said Patel.

"For example, British Airways' check-in automatically upgrades passengers if it is required, based on the ticket cost, frequent flyer status, whom you are traveling with or if you have any special needs," Patel said. "The agents on the ground can no longer upgrade you."

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Some men like hitting it  raw  — the friendly skies, that it. 

“Raw-dogging” has become the buzziest travel trend of the summer, seeing stealth plane passengers forgo the modern comforts of flying to stare at either the in-flight map or nothing at all during lengthy trips. 

No music, no streaming, no snacking, no sleep. 

“I have never seen so many people raw-dogging a flight in my life,” wrote Michelle , a stunned New York-based beauty influencer, in the closed-caption of a TikTok clip. 

“Literally just staring straight ahead the entire time?” she added in the video, featuring an aircraft full of jet-setters enjoying a journey sans distractions. “This was a 5-HOUR flight from NYC to [San Francisco].” 

The anti-indulgence phenomenon has been loosely credited to Idris Elba’s character, Sam Nelson, on the Apple TV+ series “Hijacked.” 

In the seven-episode anthology, the heartthrob-turned-hero, 50, is forced to endure the more than seven-hour flight from Dubai to London without any amenities once his airbus becomes commandeered by crooks. 

Unlike other skyway hacks that put freaked-out flyers at ease, such as “going over the alpha bridge” — a sleeping trick that helps the nervous knock out while up 30,000 feet in the air — raw-dogging is all about pushing oneself to their mental and physical limits. 

“Just raw-dogged a 7-hour flight (new personal best),” Wudini, a UK DJ, bragged to his over 13.2 million TikTok viewers . “No headphones, no movie, no water, nothing.”

“Incredible,” he added. “The power of my mind knows no bounds.”

Australian musician Torren Foot, too, celebrated his fun-free, 15-hour jaunt to Los Angeles in a viral raw-dogging vid. He memorialized the flight as the longest trip he’s taken without rest or entertainment. 

“No music, no movies,” wrote Foot, “just the flight map.”

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Westy, a London-based content creator, also completed the mile-high feat . He took to social media to boast about the accomplishment to his nearly 2 million impressed online onlookers.

But the blank-stare boredom isn’t just for the boys. 

@therealjohannariehm Am I the only one? 🤪 #momsoftiktok #momtok #momsbelike #momlife #travel #airplanemode #airplane #travelhumor #traveltiktok #comedy #momsover30 #millennials #bookaflight #traveltok ♬ love on the brain sped up – xxtristanxo

Moms looking for a little peace and quiet like Johanna Riehm, 34, are, too, cruising the clouds in sweet soundlessness. 

“My beige flag is that I like to raw dog flights,” the New Yorker penned in a post , showing herself monitoring the plane’s departure from John F. Kennedy International Airport to the Caribbean. 

“I sit there in silence with my thoughts and just watch the little GPS plane.”

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Travel warning for airport passengers after viral packing hack backfires

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We all know it’s better for your back and your budget to pack light when you go away, but sometimes you just need a little extra room for your belongings.

To avoid forking out for a checked bag, some savvy travellers make use of loopholes in hand luggage rules with various packing ‘ hacks ’. Yet although many get away with it, that’s not always the case.

This week, a TikTok video posted by @natashaorganic showed the potential consequences of trying to evade carry-on guidelines.

The clip showed a man being escorted away from the gate at Orlando International Airport by police following an exchange with staff at the desk.

While it’s hard to hear exactly what went down during the interaction, Natasha explained in the caption: ‘This dude was trying to take in a pillowcase full of clothing and other items, which he is stating is simply just a pillowcase.’

The TikToker claimed the man was informed he’d have to pay for the extra ‘bag’ before boarding and he initially declined. After they closed the doors to the jetway he then changed his mind, but by that point it was too late.

@natashaorganic Stop listening to the internet #airline #travelhacks #pillow #frontier #mco #orlando ♬ original sound – natashaorganic

When he tried to push through and get on the flight anyway, staff allegedly told him, ‘we gave you your chance and you didn’t pay for it,’ before eventually calling the police to remove him from the airport.

Natasha warned viewers to ‘stop listening to the internet’, alluding to a viral trick that’s remarkably similar to the one this man tried (and failed) to pull off.

A number of creators have shared their own version of the method, which involves stuffing a travel pillow with clothing you can’t quite fit in your bag. TikToker Anayo Awuzie managed to dodge a $60 excess baggage fee on one trip with a zippable option, for example. Another, Kristen Black created a DIY version by rolling up her garments into a sausage shape and tying it round her neck.

It’s certainly not failsafe, but there is some logic to it: in general, airlines tend not to be too strict about a small travel pillow, especially if you’re wearing it as you board.

@anayotothe My flight is in 3 hours let’s see how this goes! #travelhacks #budgettravel #travelpillow #blackgirltravel #blacktravelfeed ♬ original sound – Ayo!

However, this man was less sneaky about his plan, using a standard pillowcase and filling it right up. Inconspicuous it was not.

Travel writer Matthew Klint, who runs the Live and Let’s Fly blog, previously commented on the trend , saying: ‘Stuffing socks and underwear into a neck pillow is quite a different matter than trying to stuff a ski parka into an oversized pillowcase.

‘Just be prepared, if you use this trick, to pay up if you get “caught” with the extra item.’

That’s a risk you have to accept when you attempt a stunt like this. Since you’re well aware you’re breaking the rules, the civilised thing to do if officials catch on (and the best way to ensure a trouble-free journey) is to put your hands up and take the hit.

Graeme Buck, Director of Communications at  ABTA , tells Metro.co.uk: ‘The best source of advice on what you can take on the plane will come from your airline – not a social media travel hack.

‘Each airline has their own rules around what you can take on as hand luggage and cabin bags, and what you do and don’t need to pay for. So, it’s important you follow their advice – otherwise you could find yourself having to pay extra at the boarding gate.

‘We’re also encouraging people this summer to make sure they don’t carry liquids of more than 100ml in their hand luggage. There had been a planned change around this but that has been put on hold , so we’re advising people to pack their hand luggage and prepare for airport security checks as they always have.’

If saving a few pennies ahead of your next holiday is worth the hassle of a ‘hack’ such as this one, on your own head be it.

There are a range of legitimate ways of optimising your hand luggage, though, from swapping your towel for a sarong to going for flip flops over bulkier shoeslike trainers.

Former flight attendant Daisy White revealed her trade secrets for packing , telling Metro.co.uk: ‘Roll up a pair of socks with two pairs of knickers inside each pair. It sounds weird, but it saves room and keeps everything tidy.

‘Bras can also be folded carefully inside dresses, and T-shirts rolled up from bottom to top.’

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She added: ”Anything that doubles up as an all-purpose (Elizabeth Arden/Clarins/ Elemis/Vaseline lip balm) is ideal. And if you’re going somewhere cold, rather than pack a bulky knitwear collection, layer up and pack lighter camis, T-shirts and roll-necks.’

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The 5 states with the worst, best traveler's airplane etiquette

Sitting next to someone with poor airplane etiquette can easily ruin your flight, and the U.S. state you’re flying out of may determine that.

From the seat in front of you reclining into your lap to a passenger who hogs both armrests — and isn’t in the middle seat — there are a number of behaviors that can bother your fellow travelers. In a recent report by Solitaire Bliss, 78% of the 2,002 Americans surveyed in April said they feel air travel etiquette has worsened over the past few years.

The participants cited the most common inconsiderate behaviors in airports and airplanes they’ve seen being people reclining seats without asking, using phones loudly in the terminal, and placing bags on terminal seats. 

The survey asked what bad behaviors people have seen and if they are guilty of committing these air travel offenses — and many admitted they do. With survey respondents coming from every U.S. state, the report determined the states with the most polite and inconsiderate fliers. (Yes, these are blanket statements, and both good and bad fliers are everywhere.) The states were ranked on a scale of 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating a greater tendency among travelers from that state to have poor air travel etiquette.

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“With the summer travel season here, we’ll be seeing an influx of stories on the media circuit about poor passenger behavior and airline issues,” Assaf Cohen, founder of Solitaire Bliss, said in an email statement to USA TODAY. “Along with common behaviors like taking up a seat in the terminal using a bag, or reclining a seat without asking, one in eight passengers report having seen a physical altercation.”

Read below to find the top five states with the best and worst travel etiquette.

States with the worst travel etiquette 

3. Virginia

2. Illinois

With the highest score of 94.29, Iowa’s survey respondents were the most guilty of poor travel etiquette, like putting their bags on the terminal seats and passing gas on the plane. Virginia’s top bad habits when flying included placing their luggage on the terminal seats, not putting their phones on airplane mode, and reclining their seats without asking. In Illinois, one in four residents admitted they ignore the seatbelt sign when flying. 

States with the best travel etiquette

2. Wisconsin

1. Arkansas

Call it “Southern hospitality” or “Midwest nice,” but the states that reported the least rude air travel behaviors were along the South and Midwest. Arkansas stole the top spot for having the most well-mannered passengers — or at least those who did not admit to their offenses.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

This 'easy to use' luggage scale is a summer travel life-saver — and it's under $15 right now

It's the lowest price we've seen this month.

Travelling for the Canada Day long weekend? This $16 airplane footrest is a 'godsend' for overnight flights

Save money on business class with this wallet-friendly travel hack..

While joy is often said to be found in the journey, not the destination, we don't think that applies to airline travel — especially during busy times like the Canada Day long weekend. For many, airplane travel, especially long-haul flights, is something to endure rather than enjoy, especially if you're flying economy. However, a group of savvy Amazon shoppers may have come across a new life hack to make overnight travel bearable this summer — a $16 floating footrest .

Airplane Footrest

This portable travel footrest has an adjustable strap to suit your height.

How it works

This airplane footrest is one of those products that makes you wonder, "Why hasn't this been done before?"

To use, simply hook its straps to the bracket of your open or closed tray table and put your feet in it until they're stretched out and slightly suspended.

The footrest is small enough that it won't weigh down your carry-on bag and can be used anywhere you need a little leg room, including a train, bus or plane.

If you're worried about durability, don't be. The sturdy airplane footrest has a lock to reinforce the strap and can be adjusted to fit your height.

The reviews are in

1,300 reviews

4-star rating

"Airplane game changer"

"I cannot travel without this little thing since I’ve tried it."

The versatile footrest has been dubbed a "lifesaver" by shoppers and earned praise for sturdiness, comfort and ease of use.

It's a "lifesaver for long-haul flights," according to one reviewer. The shopper, who's 5'8" and flew a 15-hour flight between Toronto and the UAE, writes it made their middle-seat economy experience "tolerable."

The elevation "helps to take pressure off" your back, legs and lower back, they say.

Amazon shoppers swear by this $16 airplane footrest for long-haul and overnight flights.

It works "wonderfully" for restless legs, lauds another shopper. Adding, it's "well made" and "sturdy."

The footrest is a "godsend," raves a third shopper. "I [no longer] get restless legs on flights," they say. It's "small and light" to tuck into your carry-on, and it doesn't "bother the passenger in front of you." All in all, it was "life-changing for me."

Despite its four-star rating, some reviewers found the footrest "uncomfortable" as it "pushes your feet against each other." You'll also want to double-check with your airline before using this footrest, as it may not be compatible with all planes.

Do you need it?

Before you head out on your next long-haul flight, Amazon shoppers recommend checking out this "life-changing" airplane footrest.

Praised by shoppers who experience restless leg syndrome, the budget-friendly device is a "godsend" for uncomfortable flights. However, some reviewers say the device caused more discomfort than relief, which is something to keep in mind when placing your order.

Best travel essentials on Amazon Canada

Tru earth compact dry laundry detergent sheets, scotch-brite mini travel lint roller, gum antibacterial toothbrush covers, tide to go instant stain remover, 1 count pack, downy wrinkle release wrinkle releaser spray travel-sized, superbee dentos toothpaste 100 tablets, motion sickness patches, myhalos 100% blackout sleeping mask, graduated compression socks, melatonin 5 mg extra strength - chocolate mint flavour, travel folding hair brush & comb, alpine flyfit - earplugs for pressure relief.

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @ YahooStyleCA ! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram .

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