12 Travel Tips Everyone Swears By That Are Completely Useless
1. Roll your clothes to save space
You’ve probably heard folks say you should roll your clothes when packing to save suitcase space. It sounds nifty, right? Flatten those tees and jeans into tight burritos and – voila! – more room for souvenirs.
But let’s get real: when everything’s snug as a bug in that suitcase, finding that one rolled-up sock becomes a digging adventure. Plus, rolling doesn’t always beat the simplicity of folding. Ever tried rolling a bulky sweater? It might end up hogging more space than before!
2. Wear all your bulkiest clothes on the plane
Packing for a trip can feel like a puzzle, especially when you’re trying to fit everything into your suitcase. Some folks advise wearing your puffiest jackets and biggest boots on the plane.
On paper, it sounds smart. But let’s be real: juggling a mountain of clothes while hopping through security and squeezing into your airplane seat can be a real hassle. Plus, you get to be ‘that person’ overheating and wrestling with a bulky coat at 30,000 feet.
3. Separate your valuables into different bags
Splitting up your valuables can seem like a neat trick. You might feel smart tucking your cash, cards, and camera into separate totes. That way, if one bag goes missing, you’re not stuck without your essentials, right?
But let’s think for a moment—how often do you juggle bags on the move? Each one is a new chance to forget something on a cafe chair or at the airport security bin. It’s simpler to secure your valuables in one spot, perhaps in a lockable compartment, and keep that by your side. After all, keeping a close eye on one trusty bag is a whole lot easier than watching over a few.
4. Print out all your travel confirmations
Gone are the days when printing out your travel plans was a must. Now, most people keep everything on their smartphones. The thought of having physical copies might seem reliable, but it’s often unnecessary.
In the rare event of a phone’s battery dying, places like hotels and airports are well-equipped to help you out. Instead of cluttering your carry-on with paper, save electronic copies of your documents on your phone or a cloud service.
5. Pack a raincoat no matter where you’re going
Said no one ever. Let’s be honest, lugging a raincoat everywhere feels a bit like inviting clouds to your sunny parade. Weather apps are pretty sharp these days, so a quick glance at your destination’s forecast could save you the extra bulk in your bag.
Why pack for a downpour on a desert trip? If rain does decide to crash your party, local shops are more than happy to sell you an umbrella, often doubling as a neat souvenir!
6. Never travel without a guidebook
While some swear by the trusty old guidebook, times have changed! Your smartphone probably has all the latest tips and cool spots for your trip. Plus, guidebooks can quickly become outdated, while online resources are updated regularly.
Check out travel websites before your trip for the most current info. And remember, locals know best. Chat with them for the freshest recommendations that you won’t find in any book!
7. Book your flights at 3 AM for the best prices
Ever stumbled upon the tip that snapping up flight tickets at 3 AM guarantees the lowest fares? Well, isn’t that a convenient little secret! The truth is, this time-honored trick isn’t quite the ticket to savings that many believe.
Airline pricing algorithms are complex beasts, changing fares based on demand, competition, and other factors—not just the time on the clock. While some may swear by this nocturnal nugget, studies suggest there’s no magical hour for universal deals.
8. Always take twice as much money as you think you need
Packing your wallet for a trip can be tricky, and you might have heard the tip to take double the cash you expect to spend. While having a financial cushion sounds smart, it can lead to overspending.
Let’s be real, with extra cash in your pocket, those fancy souvenirs or unplanned restaurant trips become far more tempting. Instead, budget carefully and have a backup plan, like a secure travel card or a mobile payment app. This way you keep your spending in check and still have a safety net.
9. Buy a money belt to deter pickpockets
Money belts might seem like a smart way to hide your cash from sneaky pickpockets, but those sly thieves are already on to this trick. Sure, these belts tuck away your money neatly under your clothes, but if everyone’s wearing them, they’re not the clever disguise you might think they are.
Plus, imagine digging under your shirt every time you need to buy a souvenir. A bit awkward, right? Your trousers have pockets for a reason, and sometimes a simple, attentive eye is better than a hidden pouch that’s no longer a secret.
10. A travel pillow will save your neck
Travel pillows seem like a smart pick for long rides. Many travelers buy one, thinking they’re set for some cozy snoozing. Chances are, that plush loop isn’t the hero you expect.
It’s a hit or miss, and most times, they just bob around your neck, more awkward than comfy. Plus, who wants more carry-on baggage? Your neck might fare better with some good old-fashioned leaning back and relaxing.
11. Use a large plastic bag for wet clothes
Ever packed a wet swimsuit in your luggage? Using a large plastic bag seems like an easy fix, but it’s actually not the best move. If you toss your damp clothes in a plastic bag before shoving them in your suitcase, you’re creating a mini ecosystem for mold and bad smells. Kind of gross, right?
Instead, consider a wet bag designed to hold damp gear. These bags are meant for the job, so they keep the rest of your stuff dry and smelling fresh. Who wants to unpack a bag that smells like a locker room? Not you!
12. Always pack a travel iron
“Always pack a travel iron,” they say, but let’s be real, when you’re off exploring new places, who wants to iron? Most hotels already have one waiting for you, or you could simply hang your clothes in the bathroom while you shower; the steam works wonders.
This little appliance might seem like a good idea, but it’s just extra weight in your suitcase. Clothes get creased, life goes on. Embrace the crinkles and spend more time enjoying your travels!
