Traveling is one of the most rewarding, fun, and educational things you can do with your time and money. Seeing new places is a great experience and something that everyone should do. While it is all of these things, there are definitely some parts of traveling that aren't always great. I personally find the airport experience to be exciting, but it's always nice to have some tricks up your sleeve to make it a bit easier and sometimes cheaper. So, here are some travel hacks that I have come up with that can help you out with your travels.
- If you're in a long line at the airport regarding a delay or cancellation call the airline while you're in line. By doing this you'll be waiting in two lines to speak to the airline. This way you'll be helped much faster than just waiting in one and if they answer the phone first then you can step out of line.
- Always pack a swimsuit. Even if you are going somewhere cold or you don't plan on swimming, you never know when a pool, hot tub, or other swimming opportunities may arise. You don't want to be the only one who can't go swimming or have to buy an expensive swimsuit, so it's best to be prepared.
- Always travel wearing layers. Airplanes can sometimes be very cold and other times can be very warm. I always wear a tank top with a hoodie with leggings usually. I like to be comfortable and ready for any climate the plane may throw at me.
- Pack snacks. Airport prices are ridiculous so come prepared with something to snack on during your trip. Trail mix, freeze-dried fruit, nuts, crackers, popcorn, pretzels, etc. all make good and easy travel snacks. You can also get a sub or other easy carry-out food to take with you as well. But its best to buy it while you're not at the airport.
- Bring an empty water bottle. You can't go through security with a full bottle of water so bring an empty one and fill it either in the airport at a drinking fountain or ask a flight attendant during the drink service to fill it for you. You can also bring a frozen water bottle through security, as long as the water isn't liquid when you reach security it should go right through and then as it melts you'll have nice, free, cold water. This way you won't have to purchase expensive airport water but you'll still stay hydrated.
With everything going on right now, it's most important to stay safe. So as hard as it is, wait to travel until this has settled down. Always travel with hand sanitizer, hand and Clorox wipes, and especially now, gloves and a mask. Wash your hands frequently and bring moisturizer because staying germ-free can really make your skin dry out. But when we are free to explore the world again, I urge everyone to go out there and see as much of it as you can.
