Smart Travel Tips for Today's Traveler
A little preparation with smart travel tips can make a big difference when traveling.
While traveling, there are many smart travel tips.
One of the simplest ones is to create secure digital backups of important documents. Use your smartphone to photograph your passport, driver’s license, visas, and insurance cards, then store them in a secure cloud service or a password-protected notes app. Take photos of your checked luggage and its contents as well—these images can be extremely helpful if your bags are delayed or lost.
When you pack battery-powered items like electric toothbrushes or razors, prevent accidental activation by removing the batteries or locking switches in the off position. Always place spare lithium batteries and power banks in your carry-on luggage, never in checked bags, to comply with airline safety rules.
Pack strategically to stay organized.
Use pillowcases or reusable shoe bags to separate dirty clothes and shoes, and bring a small roll of travel duct tape. It can temporarily repair broken zippers, torn handles, or damaged luggage until you can fix them properly.
Staying connected while traveling is easier than ever.
Airports, hotels, cafés, and even many flights offer complimentary Wi-Fi. For added security, avoid accessing sensitive accounts on public networks unless you use a VPN. Many travelers choose international data plans or eSIMs for reliable service, which eliminates the hassle of constantly searching for Wi-Fi.
Plan ahead for hotel arrivals and departures.
While some hotels offer flexible check-in and checkout—especially for loyalty members—post-pandemic staffing shortages mean early check-ins and late checkouts aren’t guaranteed. Download hotel apps before you arrive to use mobile check-in, digital room keys, and contactless checkout, and notify the front desk if you expect to arrive late.
When you rent a car, take advantage of loyalty programs, spousal waivers, or credit card benefits to avoid extra-driver fees. When paying abroad, always choose the local currency and carry small bills for everyday purchases to get better exchange rates and ensure smoother transactions.