I love to travel, and over the years I’ve picked up a few tricks that make every trip smoother and a lot more enjoyable.
Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer holiday, I’ve learned that a bit of planning can make such a difference. From packing smarter, to finding the best places to eat, here are my go-to travel hacks that I live by.
Check the Weather Before You Go
It sounds obvious, but it’s one of the easiest things to forget. Before I pack, I always check the weather forecast so I can plan my outfits properly. It saves so much space and stress. There’s nothing worse than arriving to a week of rain with a suitcase full of bikinis. Checking ahead means you can pack pieces that actually work for the weather and still feel stylish.
Make an Itinerary
I’m all for a bit of spontaneity (actually, am I?), but having a loose plan helps you make the most of your time away. I like to list out the main things I want to see and do, along with any restaurants or cafés I want to try.
That way, I’m not wasting time scrolling or Googling on the go and I don’t come home realising I missed something amazing that was right around the corner. Even just mapping things out roughly by area can save time and help you fit more in.
Use Instagram for Food and Drink Finds
One of my favourite ways to find great places to eat and drink is by checking Instagram. It’s so helpful seeing real photos rather than just a menu online, and it gives you a feel for what’s popular locally. I’ll usually search location tags or hashtags for the city or neighbourhood I’m visiting and save a few spots that look good. It’s such an easy way to discover places that actually live up to the hype.
Time Your Travel Right
This is a big one for me. I always try to plan trains and flights at times that let me actually enjoy more of my trip. Arriving somewhere at 10pm only to go straight to bed feels like such a waste of a night, so I prefer to travel in the morning or around midday. That way, I can drop my bags, explore a little, and get a feel for the place even if it’s just a few hours.
If I’m moving between cities or countries, I’ll do the same thing; travel early or late so I can make the most of my time either where I’m leaving or where I’m going next. It makes a big difference when you’re trying to fit a lot in without feeling rushed.
A Few More Tips
I always keep a small make up bag in my hand luggage for the essentials I’ll want mid-flight or train ride. These are things like lip balm, hand sanitiser, face mist, and snacks. It saves rummaging through your whole bag or spending money buying things that you have with you, but that are locked away in your suitcase.
Packing cubes are another game-changer. They keep everything organised and make unpacking so much quicker when you arrive. I’ve used them for years at this point, and even when my mum would laugh at me for using them (she’s now equally, if not more obsessed with them than me now by the way…), I love nothing more than an organised suitcase and ease of dressing when away.
And finally, I always leave a little room in my suitcase. There’s nothing worse than spotting something you love abroad and realising there’s no space to bring it home.
Final Thoughts
Travel is one of my favourite things, but I’ve learned that it’s so much better when it’s well planned. A few simple tweaks like checking the weather, making an itinerary, and timing your travel right can completely change your experience. It means you can relax, enjoy yourself, and make the most of every day away. And, controversially, planning and packing is sometimes just as fun as the holiday itself haha!
