No matter where you end up travelling, sometimes you just need a good old travel hack to make your trip that bit smoother. From packing to flight booking, here are my top 8 Travel Hacks.

Roll Roll Roll

I always used to be a folder when I packed my bag. Maybe that’s from my dad packing our suitcases when we went on holiday as a family – he would always fold our clothes. But as soon as I discovered the art of rolling my clothes, it was like a whole new world. Not only does rolling your clothes save so much space in your suitcase or backpack, but it also helps to keep your clothes crease-free for an awful lot longer.

Clear Your Cookies

Ever noticed when you’re searching for flights, the price goes up the more you search? Websites can use your search history to determine what flight you’re thinking of booking. And by doing that, they can increase their price. Clear your cookies, or use an incognito tab in order to avoid this!

Travel Mid-Week

Flying mid-week is often the cheapest time to fly (I’ve found Tuesdays to often be the cheapest), with Sundays being the most expensive.

Use ATMs

If you need to get cash out to start your adventure, avoid using airport money converters (and some cash machines) if you can. These money converters will often use their own exchange rate and fees. I always try and take £20 worth of local currency with me and wait until I get into the town or city centre before heading to a cash point.

When in Rome…

To be honest, this one is just plain decency. Ever heard of the saying ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do’? An example of this is dress codes. If the country you’re visiting advises modest dressing, then do so. Not only is it being respectful to the cultures and values of that country, but in some cases can ensure your safety as a foreign visitor.

Eat Locally

Wherever I go, I always try to eat like the locals do. You can eat McDonalds or get your Starbucks when you’re back home. But when else are you going to get to experience traditional foods? You can often find great places to eat by asking local tourist offices, or if you’re a fan of free walking tours, the guides are often happy to point you in the right direction. As a general rule of thumb, I tend to go where the locals are. Meaning if a restaurant, café or coffee shop is busy with locals, then head there. At least you know the food will be decent!

Learn some Lingo

Now, I don’t mean learn the entire language. But having some basic words and phrases such as hello, please, thank you and help can go a long way. Not only will it help you, but it will impress the locals to, and may even work in your favour.

Unpacking

I know a lot of people who like to put off unpacking for as long as physically possible. But I would highly recommend unpacking as soon as you get home. I get you might be weary, feel like you need a week long shower, or just want to catch up with your family, but honestly, you” be glad you did it when you wake up the next day. You don’t have to unpack perfectly, but even just putting your washing on will make a huge dent.

All these travel hacks above have been lifesavers for me while I’ve been out and about on my travels. Let me know in the comments if you have any travel hacks you always follow!

Keep safe,

Charley x