Travel Hacks for Summer Vacations

Summer travel time is here! While the hustle and bustle of getting ready for a trip is rife with anticipation and excitement, it can also be a little stressful (especially if you’re going on a longer trip). There’s a lot to remember and so many things to do to make sure that your time away is relaxing and restful. If you prepare well, your trip will go smoothly. But what does preparing well consist of? We’ve come up with a few helpful travel hacks that will have you breezing through the preparations and you’ll be on your way to a perfect, stress free vacation in no time!

Packing

For starters, it’s good to deal with the really important items and those that are most commonly forgotten by travelers. Here’s a list so you can throw them in your suitcase before you forget:

• Toothbrush
• Phone charger
• Toiletries
• Water bottle
• First aid kit
• Camera
• Socks
• Cash
• Passport
• Travel tickets

When you’re shoving things into your suitcase, remember to roll your clothes instead of folding them. It keeps them free of wrinkles and it also saves a lot of space.

Planning

If you travel often, you should probably check out the TSA pre-check. It’s a 5-year membership for $85.00. All you have to do is apply online, schedule a 10 min appointment, and you’re good to go. For the next five years, you won’t have to remove your belt, shoes, liquids, and more. Just be sure to do this before your trip.

Save money by getting a hostel, private room or apartment instead of a hotel. Hostels are great if you’re traveling alone and they provide so many opportunities to make new friends from all over the globe. Airbnbs are much cheaper than hotels (whether you rent a whole space or just a room) and they’re much more personal. They provide a stronger local feel and you have the benefit of being hosted by someone who really knows the area you’ll be exploring. The benefit to your wallet is just the icing on the cake. According to Pricenomics, you can save up to $140 per night by staying in an Airbnb rather than a hotel in New York.

Once You’re There

If you’re traveling abroad and you don’t speak the language, download WordLens before you go! WordLens translates signs from the local language to English. Just point your phone camera towards the sign and watch as WordLens translates it into English. It works like a charm and is a real lifesaver when you’re traveling and need a little help getting around.

Bon voyage! We hope you have some unforgettable summer adventures out there!