99 Essential Travel Hacks to Become a Savvy Globetrotter

For years, I’ve prioritized experiences over possessions. Forget designer labels; my money goes towards exploring the world. Travel creates incredible, lasting memories, offering unparalleled perspectives and adventures. Having journeyed through over 30 countries and countless cities, from the serene landscapes of Northern Thailand to the vibrant coasts of French Polynesia and across the diverse terrains of the United States, I’ve accumulated a treasure trove of Travel Hacks. These aren’t just tips; they are strategies to transform your trips into seamless, enriching experiences.

Planning a trip can be overwhelming, filled with endless questions and details. That’s why I’m sharing 99 of my best travel hacks to cut through the noise and spend less time planning and more time living in the moment. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or planning your first getaway, these travel hacks will empower you to travel smarter, not harder. Ready to elevate your travel game? Let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to becoming a truly savvy globetrotter. And if you’ve got your own travel hacks, share them in the comments below – we believe in sharing the knowledge!

Whether you’re soaring through the skies, gliding on rails, or hitting the open road, safe travels and happy exploring! 🌍

1. Carry-On Only for Speed and Freedom: Ditch the checked baggage and embrace the freedom of a carry-on. You’ll save precious time skipping baggage claim and minimize the risk of lost luggage. Streamline your packing and experience the liberation of traveling light.

2. Track Your Luggage with Smart Tech: If checking a bag is unavoidable, use an Airtag or similar tracking device. This simple travel hack provides peace of mind, allowing you to monitor your bag’s location and ensure it arrives at your destination with you.

3. Flexibility is Your Best Deal-Hunting Tool: Unlock incredible flight deals by being flexible with your destination and travel dates. I’ve snagged round-trip flights to various European cities for under $200 simply by being open to different locations and travel times. This travel hack is all about letting the deals guide your adventures.

4. Never Skip Travel Insurance: A Non-Negotiable Travel Hack: Always buy travel insurance. This isn’t just a tip; it’s a crucial travel hack that protects you from unforeseen circumstances like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Consider it an essential investment in your peace of mind.

5. Travel Rewards Credit Cards: Earn Points While You Spend: Maximize your spending by using a credit card that racks up points redeemable for travel. Cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve or AmEx Gold are excellent choices for travel enthusiasts. This travel hack turns everyday spending into future adventures.

6. Credit Card Bonuses: Fast Track to Free Travel: Take advantage of credit card sign-up bonuses, often offering up to 150,000 points after meeting a minimum spend. Websites like Nerdwallet’s top credit card offers are updated monthly and are a great resource to find the most lucrative bonuses. This is a powerful travel hack to accumulate points quickly.

7. Off-Peak Flights for Budget-Friendly Travel: Save money on flights by searching for departures during off-peak times. Mid-week flights, red-eye flights, or flights with layovers are typically cheaper. This travel hack requires a bit of flexibility but can lead to significant savings.

8. Prioritize Early Morning Flights for Reliability: If convenience is paramount, prioritize early morning flights. They are statistically less prone to delays and cancellations. This travel hack minimizes travel disruptions and keeps your itinerary on track.

9. Incognito Flight Searches: Beat Price Hikes: Use Google Incognito mode or a VPN when searching for flights online. Airlines can track your browsing history and potentially increase prices if they detect repeated searches for the same route. This travel hack ensures you’re seeing the most unbiased prices.

10. Set Flight Price Alerts: Track Deals Automatically: Once you find a flight you like but aren’t ready to book, set up a price alert. You’ll be notified of any price drops, allowing you to book at the optimal time. This travel hack takes the guesswork out of flight booking.

11. Utilize Flight Finder Apps for Optimal Timing: Apps like Skyscanner or Hopper are invaluable for identifying the best prices and times of year to travel to your chosen destination. These tools are essential travel hacks for strategic planning.

12. Airline Loyalty Programs: Accumulate Miles for Future Flights: Join loyalty programs with every airline you fly. Accumulate miles that can be redeemed for future flights, upgrades, and other travel perks. This is a long-term travel hack that pays off over time.

13. Airline-Specific Credit Cards: Boost Loyalty Benefits: If you frequently fly with a particular airline, consider getting their co-branded credit card. These cards often come with perks like early boarding, free baggage, and bonus miles, enhancing your loyalty program benefits.

14. Points Sales: Top Up Your Miles Strategically: Keep an eye out for points sales, especially around holidays like Black Friday. Purchasing points during sales can be a cost-effective way to top off your balance for a nearly free flight.

15. Mistake Fares: Score Unbelievable Flight Deals: Be alert for mistake fares – deeply discounted fares accidentally published by airlines. While sometimes canceled, airlines often honor them, leading to incredible travel bargains.

16. Real-Time Deal Alerts: Stay Ahead of the Curve: Subscribe to real-time deal alerts from sources like The Points Guy and The Flight Deal on Twitter. Be the first to know about flash sales and limited-time offers.

17. Premium Flight Deal Subscriptions: Curated Deals Delivered: Consider a premium subscription service like Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). Specify your departure airports and receive curated flight deals directly to your inbox. This travel hack saves you time and effort in searching for deals.

18. Expedited Security Programs: Breeze Through Airports: Enroll in TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry to significantly expedite the airport security process. Time is precious, especially when traveling; this travel hack maximizes your efficiency.

19. Airport Lounge Access: Elevate Your Airport Experience: Explore Priority Pass, offering access to hundreds of airport lounges worldwide. Many premium credit cards provide Priority Pass membership. Enjoy complimentary food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a comfortable environment away from the airport hustle.

20. Encrypted Communication Apps for International Travel: When traveling internationally, use encrypted apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Signal for calls and texts. Avoid international roaming charges and communicate securely. This is a smart travel hack for staying connected globally.

21. Local SIM Cards: Affordable International Calls: If you need extensive international call access, purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Airport kiosks or your carrier may offer global SIM options for temporary use. This travel hack provides cost-effective communication abroad.

22. Inform Banks of Travel Plans: Avoid Transaction Issues: Before departing, notify your credit and debit card companies of your travel dates and destinations. This prevents your cards from being flagged for fraud and ensures smooth transactions abroad.

23. No-Fee ATMs for International Withdrawals: Access Cash Smartly: Use a no-fee ATM card like Charles Schwab for international cash withdrawals. Avoid foreign transaction fees and access local currency affordably. This travel hack saves you money on every withdrawal.

24. Local Currency ATM Withdrawals: Maximize Exchange Rates: Always withdraw cash from ATMs in the local currency, not your home currency. This ensures you get the best exchange rate and avoid unfavorable conversion fees imposed by the ATM.

25. Pay in Local Currency with Credit Cards: Avoid Hidden Fees: Similarly, when using credit cards abroad, always choose to pay in the local currency. Avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC) and secure better exchange rates.

26. Airline App Downloads: Manage Flights Effortlessly: Download the airline app before your flight for easy mobile check-in, boarding pass access, seat selection, and meal preferences. Streamline your pre-flight process with this simple travel hack.

27. Seat Map Checks: Find the Best Seat: Utilize the seat map feature on airline apps or websites to check seat availability and make changes as needed. Discover better seat options and enhance your flight comfort.

28. Polite Upgrade Requests: You Might Be Surprised: If you notice open seats in First or Business Class, politely inquire about a possible upgrade at the gate. You never know when a little courtesy might lead to a more luxurious travel experience.

29. Volunteer for Flight Delays: Earn Compensation: If your travel plans are flexible and your flight is overbooked, volunteer to take a later flight in exchange for compensation. This travel hack can offset your airfare costs significantly.

30. Negotiate Compensation for Flight Bumps: Maximize Your Rewards: If you volunteer to be bumped from a flight, wait to see if the compensation offer increases before agreeing. Holding out can sometimes result in substantial flight vouchers.

31. Build in Buffer Time: Account for Delays: Always factor in extra time for potential travel delays. Unexpected issues are part of travel, and buffer time reduces stress and prevents missed connections.

32. Longer Layovers for Connections: Reduce Missed Flights: When booking connecting flights, aim for at least a 90-minute layover. This buffer minimizes the risk of missing your connecting flight due to delays or security backups.

33. Shoulder Season Travel: Balance Value and Experience: Travel during the shoulder season – the months just before and after peak season. Enjoy fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and often lower prices, providing a sweet spot between cost and experience.

34. Convenience vs. Cost: Prioritize Your Wellbeing: Don’t sacrifice your comfort and wellbeing solely for cost savings. Consider your personal needs and preferences when choosing flights and accommodations. A cheap option that compromises your health or enjoyment isn’t a true bargain.

35. Explore Alternative Transportation: Beyond Planes and Cars: Consider alternative modes of transport like trains, buses, bikes, or public transportation. They are often cheaper, more environmentally friendly, and offer unique travel perspectives.

36. Default Packing List: Simplify Your Packing Process: Create a default packing list that you can copy and customize for each trip. Ensure you never forget essential items specific to your needs, like medications or chargers.

37. Layered Clothing for Transit: Adapt to Temperature Changes: Wear layers while traveling. This travel hack saves luggage space and allows you to adjust to varying temperatures during your journey.

38. Compression Socks for Long Flights: Boost Circulation: If you’re prone to swollen ankles or blood clots on long flights, wear compression socks. Many travel professionals swear by their benefits for comfort and health.

39. Reusable Water Bottle: Stay Hydrated Sustainably: Carry a reusable water bottle. Refill it after airport security and stay hydrated throughout your travels, reducing plastic waste and saving money on bottled water.

40. Water Filter/Purifier for Safe Drinking Water: If traveling to areas with questionable water quality, pack a water filter or purifier. Ensure access to safe drinking water wherever you go.

41. Packing Cubes: Organize and Maximize Luggage Space: Use packing cubes to organize your suitcase efficiently and compress clothing, saving valuable space.

42. Vacuum Bags for Extreme Space Saving: For maximum space compression, consider vacuum bags to shrink bulky clothing items. Ideal for longer trips or when packing for multiple climates.

43. Secondhand Suitcase for Souvenir Shopping: If you plan to shop extensively or bring back many souvenirs, buy a cheap, secondhand suitcase at a thrift store. Fill it up and leave it behind if needed, avoiding excess baggage fees on your main luggage.

44. Minimize Valuables: Reduce Risk of Theft: Avoid bringing excessive valuables when traveling. Consider wearing a fake wedding ring to deter unwanted attention and minimize risks of theft or robbery.

45. Share Your Itinerary: Travel Safety Protocol: Always inform someone at home about your travel itinerary and whereabouts. Sharing your plans is a crucial safety travel hack, especially for solo travelers.

46. Location Services and Sharing: Enhance Safety Measures: Turn on location services and sharing on your phone for added safety. In emergencies, this can help others locate you quickly.

47. Passport and Document Copies: Backup is Essential: Print extra copies of your passport and travel documents, and keep digital copies in your email. Losing your passport is a significant hassle, and backups are vital.

48. International Driver’s Permit: Drive Legally Worldwide: If you plan to drive abroad, obtain an International Driver’s Permit from AAA or a similar authorized organization. Ensure you are legally able to drive in your destination country.

49. Stay Outside City Centers: Save on Accommodation: Save money on accommodation by staying slightly outside of downtown city centers and major tourist areas. Even a few blocks away can significantly reduce hotel costs.

50. House-sitting or Couch Surfing: Budget Accommodation Options: Explore budget-friendly accommodation options like house-sitting or couch surfing, depending on your comfort level. These travel hacks can drastically reduce lodging expenses.

51. Hostels for Budget and Social Travel: Hostels are an excellent budget accommodation choice, particularly for solo travelers. They are also great places to meet fellow travelers and organize local tours.

52. Laundry vs. Checked Bag: Calculate the Cost-Benefit: Weigh the cost of doing laundry during your trip against the cost of checking a bag. Packing light and doing laundry might be cheaper and more convenient than paying for extra baggage.

53. Capsule Wardrobe: Maximize Outfit Options, Minimize Packing: Pack a capsule wardrobe with versatile, mix-and-match clothing items. Create numerous outfits from a minimal selection of garments, saving space and simplifying packing.

54. Pre-Purchase Destination Essentials: Avoid Tourist Traps: Think about items you’ll need at your destination that might be overpriced in tourist areas, like sunscreen at a beach resort. Buy these essentials beforehand to save money.

55. Essentials Kit for Transit: Comfort and Convenience on the Go: Pack a small essentials kit for your carry-on with items like spare underwear, earplugs, an eye mask, toiletries, and charging cables. Ensure comfort and preparedness during transit.

56. Secure Purse or Travel Bag: Deter Pickpockets: Use a purse or travel bag that you can keep close to your body and that closes securely with zippers rather than buttons or flaps. This travel hack helps prevent pickpocketing in crowded areas.

57. Pack Extra Snacks: Avoid Hunger Pangs and Pricey Airport Food: Always pack extra snacks. You never know when you’ll need sustenance, especially during travel delays or in places with limited food options.

58. Day Off After Travel: Ease Back into Routine: Schedule a day off after returning from a trip to relax and readjust to everyday life. Catch up on chores, laundry, and errands without rushing back to work.

59. Carry-On Essentials Bag: Prepare for Lost Luggage: In your carry-on, pack an extra set of clothes, a toothbrush, and underwear in case your checked luggage gets lost. This preparedness is a key travel hack for mitigating luggage mishaps.

60. Offline Google Maps: Navigation Without Data: Download offline versions of Google Maps, especially for areas with limited data access. Take screenshots of essential information for offline reference.

61. Google Translate App: Communicate Across Languages: Download the Google Translate app when traveling to countries where you don’t speak the local language. Use it for real-time conversations, text translation, and more.

62. Download Entertainment: Offline Enjoyment: Download audiobooks, e-books, movies, and music before you leave. Enjoy entertainment offline during flights or in areas with limited connectivity.

63. Portable Charger: Stay Powered Up: Invest in a high-quality portable charger. Essential for keeping your devices powered throughout your travels, especially when relying on your phone for navigation and communication.

64. Universal Adapter: Charge Devices Globally: Pack a universal adapter to charge your electronic devices in different countries with varying outlet types.

65. Voltage Converter: Protect Your Electronics: Don’t forget a converter if your devices’ voltage is incompatible with the outlets abroad. Protect your electronics from damage.

66. Credit Card Rental Car Insurance: Save on Rental Fees: Book rental cars using credit cards like Chase or AmEx that offer auto insurance and collision damage waiver coverage for rentals. This travel hack can save you money on rental insurance.

67. Rental Car Insurance: Essential if Credit Card Coverage is Absent: If your credit card doesn’t offer rental car insurance, it’s worth purchasing insurance from the rental company. Protect yourself from potential costs in case of accidents or damage.

68. Document Rental Car Condition: Avoid Disputes: Take photos of the rental car’s condition when picking it up and dropping it off. Document any existing damage to avoid disputes later.

69. Vaccinations and Shots: Health First, Travel Safe: Ensure you are up-to-date on required vaccinations and shots for your destination. Schedule appointments well in advance, as some vaccinations require time to become effective.

70. Read Reviews Thoroughly: Vet Accommodations and Tours: Read reviews carefully when booking accommodations, tours, and restaurants. Look for patterns and red flags, and be wary of overly positive or generic reviews.

71. Vetted Tour Groups for Solo Travelers: Safety and Community: For solo travel, especially for women, consider vetted tour groups like El Camino Travel, Stellavision Travel, and G Adventures. Enjoy safety, structure, and social connections.

72. Travel Agent Value: Access Exclusive Deals and Expertise: Sometimes, a good travel agent is invaluable. They can access exclusive discounts, tours, and accommodations that you might not find on your own.

73. Align Travel Priorities with Companions: Ensure Harmonious Trips: If traveling with friends or partners, discuss and align your travel priorities beforehand. Ensure compatibility in travel styles to avoid conflicts.

74. Learn Cultural Nuances: Be a Respectful Traveler: Familiarize yourself with the cultural nuances and customs of your destinations. Travel respectfully and be mindful of local traditions.

75. Combine Nearby Destinations: Maximize Trip Efficiency: When traveling to a faraway destination, consider visiting nearby cities or regions in the same trip. Maximize your travel time and explore more of the area.

76. Stay Hydrated: Combat Travel Fatigue: Hydrate consistently, especially while traveling. Adjusting to new environments and time zones is taxing on the body, and hydration is crucial for wellbeing.

77. Early Sunlight Exposure: Reset Your Circadian Rhythm: Upon arrival in a new time zone, get sunlight exposure as early as possible in the day. Sunlight helps reset your circadian rhythm and combat jet lag.

78. Minimize Naps, Maximize Daylight Hours: Beat Jet Lag Faster: While short naps might help initially, try to stay awake throughout the day and sleep at night to overcome jet lag quickly.

79. Chew Gum During Takeoff and Landing: Ease Ear Pressure: Chew gum during airplane takeoff and landing to help equalize pressure in your ears and alleviate discomfort.

80. Hydrating Skincare: Combat Dry Cabin Air: Invest in quality skin masks, moisturizers, lip balm, and lotion to combat skin dryness during and after flights. Cabin air is notoriously dehydrating.

81. Luggage Scales: Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees: Use luggage scales to weigh your bags before heading to the airport. Avoid overweight baggage fees by repacking or removing items if necessary.

82. Kids’ Busy Bag: Entertainment for Young Travelers: When traveling with children, prepare a “busy bag” filled with coloring books, toys, a tablet, snacks, and other engaging items to keep them entertained during travel.

83. Quality Neck Pillow: Comfort on Long-Haul Flights: Invest in a quality neck pillow, especially for long-haul flights. Choose one that provides good support and comfort for sleeping upright.

84. Backpack Over Suitcase: Potential Weight Flexibility: If possible, opt for a backpack over a suitcase or duffel bag. Airlines are sometimes less likely to weigh backpacks, offering potential flexibility with carry-on weight limits.

85. Sample-Size Toiletries: Travel Light and Compliant: Save sample-size toiletries from hotels or promotions. Use these for travel to avoid bringing bulky full-size items and comply with liquid restrictions.

86. Lavender Satchel or Dryer Sheet: Keep Luggage Fresh: Place a lavender satchel or dryer sheet in your luggage to keep clothes smelling fresh during travel.

87. Extra Plastic Bags: Versatile Travel Essentials: Pack at least two extra large plastic or Ziploc bags for shoes, dirty clothes, wet items, or unexpected needs.

88. Brightly Colored Suitcase: Easy Identification: Choose a brightly colored suitcase to make it easily identifiable at baggage claim and during transit.

89. Strategic Seat Booking for Couples: Increase Chance of Empty Middle Seat: If traveling as a couple and booking seats in advance, take the window and aisle seats. The middle seat is less desirable and might remain empty, giving you more space.

90. Spare Pen: Always Be Prepared: Carry a spare pen with you at all times. Useful for filling out customs forms, writing directions, or quick notes.

91. Car Parking Photo: Remember Your Vehicle Location: Take a picture of your parked car or note its location in your phone. Avoid forgetting where you parked at airports or large parking lots.

92. Sanitizer Wipes or Spray: Cleanliness on the Go: Bring sanitizer wipes or spray for quick cleanups, especially in transit. Wipe down tray tables, armrests, and surfaces for better hygiene.

93. Emergency Travel Budget Buffer: Prepare for the Unexpected: Whatever your travel budget, add an extra 10-20% for unexpected expenses or emergencies. Contingency funds provide peace of mind.

94. Local Walking Tours: Free City Exploration: Join local walking tours, often free or pay-what-you-can, in major cities. A great way to see key sights and get oriented in a new place.

95. Partner Company Deals: Leverage Loyalty Programs: Check for deals offered by businesses in partnership with your loyalty programs. Airline mileage programs often offer discounts on car rentals and hotels.

96. Visa Requirements Check: Plan Ahead for Entry: Always check visa requirements for your destination countries. Prioritize destinations that don’t require visas for easier travel and to save on visa fees.

97. Eat Street Food Safely: Authentic Culinary Experiences: Enjoy street food for authentic local cuisine, but ensure it’s cooked fresh in front of you and appears hygienic.

98. Lunch as Main Meal: Save on Dining Costs: Make lunch your largest meal of the day. Lunch menus are often cheaper than dinner menus, while still being just as satisfying.

99. Embrace the Journey: Travel is Life Enrichment: Most importantly, remember: travel is one of life’s most enriching experiences. Savor every moment, be respectful, and explore the world with open eyes and a curious heart.

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