Travel Hacks to Make Your Next Trip Easier

I love traveling, but there are times when honesty there are times that I wished it was easier. Generally, if you a plan or process in place its less hectic but without a system it can be overwhelming and frustrating. 

Here are five things that have made my life a whole lot easier while traveling, let me know what you think.

Pack better: Pick a color scheme and outfits ahead of time. 

I used to a notorious overpacked, but after traveling every week for work for almost a year I learned that a well planned back is the best. Pick a couple/few of colors and try to coordinate everything based on that – your shoes and accessories - this way you can mix and match. Try few things on together see how they will work together. I would say pack enough outfits for every day plus 3 others, for you know just in case. When it comes to shoes and purses, try and pack neutrals or colors that work well with range of shades. Wear your coat or heavier items or layer on the plane – this will help with fluctuating temperatures on a plane and save you space. Rolling your clothes tight, use packing cubes or Ziploc bags in order to pack it more effectively.

Breeze through security: pack your carry on like a pro.

More organized and better packed your carry on is, the easer security line and check will be. I always have a cross body purse that holds all my travel documents, headphones, phone, gum and make up remover wipes. You want to have easy access to your passport/ID and boarding pass, and keep an eye on it easily. (because safety first). I am partial to the backpack as a carry on, but the same packing principle applies. Make sure your carry on size is appropriate (airlines and airports differ) last thing you want is to show up at check in and be told you have to check in your carry on due to size or weight.

Put all your liquids in a Ziploc bag - check security rules because not all make up has to in ziploc bags. Make sure that your laptop, e-reader and liquid are easily accessible  

Wrap all your cords and tie them with elastic or paper clip. 

Be prepared: things make my life easier when traveling.

A portable charger, converter (if traveling over seas) and a power bar if you have more than one piece of technology. There is nothing worse than landing places and having no ability to call a cab, check routes or make resos. 

Make up removing wipes, hand sanitizer, gum, lip chap and moisturizer. Airplane air is the worst - so take your make up off, moisturize and hand sanitize. You don't want to be sick while on your trip.  

Snacks/Water. One of the simplest things you can do to save money and make sure you can eat something you actually want is to bring your own snacks. The last thing you want to do is go hungry (we all know not all plane/airport food is good), and the second to last thing you want to do is spend too much money on overpriced. Bringing an empty water bottle, which you would refill after security is recommenced.

Walk/Stretch. I stand behind this, especially if you are on a long haul flight, make sure that you walk around the airport, find a spot to stretch your legs and back because you are about to be sitting on a place for a long time.

Relax/Sleep. I know this is easier said than done, I personally cannot sleep while people are moving around, but having noise canceling headphones, eye mask and my favourite Spotify list usually at least help me relax if not sleep. I have a friend who takes a Tylenol cold and flu (and one who takes a Neocitron) every time they fly - it helps them relax and prevents from being sick. If you are tall like me and don't have seats with more space try and change your seating position every 30min or so. If you can, try and sit cross legged on your seat for a bit - you be shocked what that does for your legs.

What are your best travel hacks?