Our editors share their favorite travel hacks and tips for navigating the peak travel season.
30 May 2024
After taking hundreds of flights between us, the editors of iBestTravel know a thing or two about how to make experiences abroad go as smoothly as possible. A few mishaps when away can quickly sour your day, so thank us later when you’re dodging tourists lugging heavy cases down heaving streets, seamlessly planning days to the minute, and saving money on data and hotel services. From what to wear to how to pack to how to best utilize technology, here are the golden rules for traveling comfortably in Europe this summer.
Skip the Bulky Luggage
Part of the charm of a European summer getaway is stealing off down charming cobblestone streets or taking a ferry to a tiny rugged island. However, the more remote the location, the trickier the journey can be, especially when toting big bulky luggage. Therefore, pack strategically (we’re big fans of compression packing cubes) and opt for carry-on only. Make full use of your under-seat bag allowance. Brands like BEIS, Away, and Monos make larger carry-ons that are perfect for longer trips, and using packing cubes helps keep your case tidy and organized, allowing you to pack more tightly.
Even better for traversing bumpy streets is switching your carry-on case for a travel backpack. These hand luggage-sized bags usually open fully like a suitcase but offer all the convenience of a backpack. Away, Stubble & Co., and Horizn Studios make some of our favorites.
Stay Organized with Packing Cubes
Packing cubes maximize the available space in your luggage. They squeeze out the air, allowing you to fill every inch efficiently. Additionally, they are useful for remaining organized. For instance, keep underwear and swimwear in one, shoes in another, and use separate cubes for dresses and tops. This method prevents the hassle of rummaging through your suitcase, which is especially handy if you need to access it at the airport.
Download Essential Travel Apps Before You Fly
There are several apps I can’t imagine traveling without. For group payments management, Splitwise is invaluable. Google Translate assists with ordering in restaurants and navigating taxis, while Google Maps serves as a superb navigation tool. It’s especially effective due to its new ‘category’ feature that sorts saved places by function, enabling you to find nearby locations easily. Moreover, using wheelchair-friendly directions can help you avoid stairs and steep hills, proving beneficial when carrying heavy luggage.
Escape Airport Crowds with Airport Lounges
The thought of finding a spare seat at a busy airport can be daunting. Consider accessing an airport lounge via membership services. Memberships, often starting around £69 annually, give you access to numerous lounges, offering comfortable, quiet seating as well as complimentary snacks and drinks.
Pre-book Your Airport Transfers
Relying on Ubers or taxis from the airport during busy travel times can be unpredictable. Pre-booking airport transfers can mitigate this. Using reliable services has proven beneficial, especially for families needing car seats and boosters for young children.
Bring Earplugs for Peace on the Journey
Consider bringing earplugs, especially if you’re a light sleeper. They significantly reduce onboard noise, providing a more restful experience. Similarly, they can help filter out overwhelming sounds when visiting busy tourist spots.
Save Money with an eSIM
Using an eSIM can offer better data deals while traveling abroad compared to traditional roaming plans. Recently, a friend paid substantially for limited data, whereas I managed to secure significantly more data at a lower price with an eSIM provider. This option allows you to maintain connectivity without the hassle of changing physical SIM cards.
Utilize a Mobile Phone Strap
For photography enthusiasts, a crossbody phone strap enhances convenience, allowing easy access for snapping pictures without the hassle of digging through bags. It also keeps your device secure, reducing the risk of theft.
Keep Clothes Fresh with Washing Machine Sheets
Washing machine sheets are a traveler’s dream. They simplify laundry while abroad, offering a lightweight and cost-effective solution to maintaining fresh clothes without resorting to hotel laundry services.
Stay Comfortable in Hot Weather with Anti-Chafe Shorts
Lightweight, comfortable anti-chafe shorts are invaluable when traveling to warm destinations. They provide a practical solution for staying active and comfortable in hot conditions, ensuring your journey remains enjoyable.
