13 Seriously Outdated Travel Hacks You Need to Stop Using
1. Using a travel neck pillow
Travel pillows might seem like a cozy companion for your neck during long flights. However, clutching to the traditional U-shaped neck pillow could be a snooze fest! Tucked away in the depths of your closet, these pillows are often bulky, taking up precious carry-on space—and they don’t always live up to the task of providing proper support.
2. Print out physical maps
Gone are the days when travelers relied on printed maps to navigate the roads. Your phone has become your go-to navigator with real-time updates and step-by-step directions. Clinging to paper maps may seem charming, but it’s like using a Walkman when you have a music streaming app.
3. Using a translation book
Ditch the old-school translation book when you’re globetrotting. Let’s face it, thumbing through pages for the right phrase while the local vendor waits is awkward. It’s the 21st century, and technology is your new travel companion. Download a translation app, and voila, you’ll be chatting with locals in no time!
4. Dress up nicely to earn flight upgrades
Dressing in your Sunday best won’t magically bump you up to first class. While it certainly feels nice to look polished, suiting up to snag an upgrade doesn’t work like it used to. Airlines nowadays are all about loyalty points and elite status. To really increase your chances of a luxe seat in the sky, start racking up those frequent flyer miles.
5. Carry a stack of traveler’s guides everywhere
Lugging around heavy guidebooks can be a real hassle when you’re exploring new places. These bulky books take up precious space in your luggage that could be used for souvenirs or essentials. Plus, they can be outdated; local spots might have changed or closed since the guide was published.
6. Carry traveler’s checks for emergencies
Carrying traveler’s checks on your trips may seem like a wise move, but times have changed! While once a staple for globetrotters to safely access funds abroad, traveler’s checks have taken a back seat to more convenient options. The days of hunting down a place that actually accepts these checks are fading fast, with ATMs and credit cards taking the lead in travel finance.
7. Only book directly through travel agencies
Booking through travel agencies might seem like a reliable option, but it’s not the only way to score a sweet deal. In fact, sticking to this method could limit your choices and even cost you extra money! Nowadays, it’s smart to compare prices online.
8. Carry a massive DSLR for the best vacation photos
Gone are the days when lugging around a bulky DSLR camera was a must for capturing high-quality vacation snaps. It turns out that today’s technology offers fantastic travel cameras that are a fraction of the size but don’t skimp on photo quality. Instead of wrestling with a heavy camera bag, you can opt for a nifty gadget that won’t weigh you down but still delivers crisp images.
9. Use travel guides from 5 years ago to plan
Using travel guides that are several years old might seem like a smart money saver, but it can lead to outdated advice and missed opportunities. Cities evolve and so do their attractions. Restaurants close, new parks open, and local customs may shift. Plus, public transportation options can change dramatically in just a few years.
10. Find Public Payphones to Stay Connected
In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected can seem crucial, but relying on finding a public payphone has become an outdated strategy. You might recall spotting payphones on every corner, but these relics of communication have nearly vanished, replaced by the smartphones in our pockets.
11. Overpacking ‘just in case’ outfits
Packing for a trip can be tricky. You want to be prepared for anything, but lugging around a hefty suitcase filled with ‘just in case’ outfits can slow you down. Instead of packing for every possible scenario, consider creating a travel capsule wardrobe.
It’s a set of clothing that you can combine to make various outfits, perfect for any occasion that might pop up. Keep in mind that less is more; focus on dual-purpose items like a scarf that doubles as a beach wrap.
12. Exchanging money at airports
If you’ve ever thought that exchanging money at the airport is your saving grace for international spending, it’s time to switch things up. Airports are notorious for charging sky-high fees which can take a serious bite out of your travel budget.
A travel pro tip is to exchange enough cash before your trip or find local ATMs once you arrive at your destination. Sure, it might take a tiny bit more planning, but your wallet will feel much heavier.
13. Carrying a heavy itinerary binder
Let’s lighten that load! Carrying a heavy itinerary binder around on your travels is a bit out of date. With the world at our fingertips, it’s easy to keep all your travel plans in digital form. Your smartphone can become your travel guide, storing hotel reservations, tickets, and must-see sights without the extra weight.
