Savvy Traveler Tip: Essential Travel Hacks for a Smoother Journey

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Hey fellow travelers! I travel frequently and use many best practices that I sometimes assume other travelers know - but often they don’t. So, based on some valuable insights from one of my clients, I want to share some more tips and tricks to make your trip A+++! 

Here's my guide to navigating the globe like a seasoned pro:

1. Connection Times: The Shorter, The Scarier

Airlines often schedule tight connection times, but anything less than a two-hour scheduled connection increases the risk of missed connections, lost baggage, and more stress to reach the gate.

  • Pro Tip: I recommend a minimum layover of 2 hours, especially for international connections or large airports. The peace of mind is worth the wait. Using a credit card that gives lounge access is ideal to grab a bite and enjoy the layover.

2. Stay Connected: Your Digital Lifeline

An international phone plan for everyone in your group is non-negotiable. Google Maps can be a lifesaver for navigating new cities.

  • Pro Tip: Ensure that at least two people in your travel party have all the essential apps and booking information on their phones. Don't forget to pack a physical copy of your itinerary and documents as a backup!

3. Local Transport: Don't Rely Solely on Uber

Uber works in many countries, which was convenient. However, we discovered a great local hack: local taxi apps. Look for the QR codes on taxi doors when you arrive; downloading their app often results in significantly cheaper fares than using Uber.

  • Pro Tip: Use a mix of services. Uber for reliability, and local taxi apps for better value.

4. Tours: Your Ticket to VIP Access

Tours are a must for popular attractions. Don’t miss seeing international highlights due to long lines. Book a tour in advance. Many of them offer “skip-the-line” tickets.

  • Pro Tip: Booking a tour in advance is worth every penny. It saves immense time skipping those notoriously long lines, and local guides provide invaluable context and assistance.

5. Document Safety: Scan and Share

In the unfortunate event of lost or stolen documents, preparation is key.

  • Pro Tip: Take photos of your passports and driver's licenses and share them among your travel companions. Also, send copies of these documents and your itinerary to a couple of trusted friends or family members back home.

6. Lost Bag Retrieval

Bag tags get ripped off all the time! A simple step that can save you a huge headache is adding internal identification to your luggage, along with using a baggage tracker like Tile or AirTag.

  • Pro-Tip: Write your name, address, email address and phone number on a bright, highly visible piece of paper and tuck it inside your suitcase, right at the top so it’s the first thing someone sees when they open it. If the external tag is lost, this simple step can dramatically speed up the process of the airline matching your bag to you!

Happy travels, and may your adventures be smooth and unforgettable!

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