Categories: Travel Tips

🧭 Top 20 Travel Hacks Every Frequent Flyer Should Know

Zach Cary -
May 7, 2025

✈ 1. Use Flight Deal Websites and Alerts for travel hacks

Sign up for fare alerts from platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, Hopper, and Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). These tools track price drops and hidden deals, helping you book at the right time.

💾 2. Book Flights in Incognito Mode

Airfare prices can increase based on your search history. Use your browser’s incognito mode or clear cookies to avoid price hikes when searching repeatedly.

Fly Midweek or During Off-Peak Hours

🕒 3. Fly Midweek or During Off-Peak Hours

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays usually offer the cheapest flight options. Red-eye or early-morning flights are also less expensive and less crowded.

đŸ—“ïž 4. Book Flights 6–8 Weeks in Advance

This time frame usually provides the ideal combination of availability and affordability. For global journeys, 2–3 months in advance is even more beneficial.

🧳 5. Choose Airlines with Generous Baggage Policies

Avoid surprise baggage fees by flying with carriers that offer free carry-ons or checked luggage, like Southwest Airlines or international budget carriers with bundle options.

🎒 6. Pack a Personal Item Like a Pro

Use your “personal item” allowance wisely a spacious backpack or tote can hold a lot if organized well. Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, and wear your bulkiest items to the airport.

Master the Art of Packing Light

📩 7. Master the Art of Packing Light

Stick to a capsule wardrobe neutral basics that can be combined in various ways. Restrict footwear to a maximum of two pairs and utilize compression bags to optimize storage capacity.

đŸ“± 8. Download Offline Maps and Travel Apps

Apps like Google Maps, TripIt, XE Currency, and Google Translate work offline and are essential for navigation and communication on the go.

⚡ 9. Store cables and power adapters in a glasses case.

Avoid tangles and maintain order by storing small cords, earbuds, and USBs in a reliable (yet durable) sunglasses case.

Use a VPN When Booking and Traveling

🌐 10. Use a VPN When Booking and Traveling

Prices can differ by location. A VPN lets you view prices from different countries and keeps your data secure on public Wi-Fi networks while abroad.

đŸ§Œ 11. Bring a Mini Toiletry Kit and Laundry Soap

Refillable bottles save space and reduce waste. Bring a small pack of travel detergent sheets or a bar soap for sink laundry during longer trips.

🚀 12. Register for TSA Precheck or Global Entry.

Skip long security lines with TSA PreCheck (domestic) or Global Entry (international). The time and stress saved are worth the application process.

đŸ’ș 13. Choose Your Seat Wisely

Utilize platforms like seatguru to locate the most desirable seats on your flight. Exit rows and bulkhead seats offer more legroom, while avoiding back rows saves you from being last off the plane.

Get Airport Lounge Access Without Business Class

đŸ›‹ïž 14. Get Airport Lounge Access Without Business Class

Apply for travel credit cards that offer lounge access, like the Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve. Additionally, you have the option to purchase priority passes or day passes.

🧊 15. Bring an Empty Water Bottle

Most airports have refill stations past security. A collapsible or filtered bottle keeps you hydrated and reduces plastic waste.

🌍 16. Carry a Universal Power Adapter

Don’t get stuck with dead devices abroad. A compact universal adapter with USB ports will work in almost every country.

📄 17. Scan or Photograph Important Documents

Store digital copies of your passport, visa, itinerary, insurance, and ID in a secure cloud folder (like Google Drive) in case of emergencies.

đŸ§„ 18. Use Your Jacket as Extra Storage

Coats with multiple pockets can stash snacks, chargers, and even a tablet. Great trick when your bag is bursting at the seams.

Download Entertainment in Advance

đŸ’€ 19. Download Entertainment in Advance

Wi-Fi isn’t always reliable. Pre-download Netflix shows, Kindle books, Spotify playlists, or podcasts before takeoff.

🎯 20. Keep a Travel Checklist

Create a reusable checklist on your phone (or use apps like PackPoint) so you never forget essentials like travel documents, meds, or chargers again.

✈ Whether you’re flying for business, adventure, or family reunions these travel hacks will help you make every trip smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable. Explore more

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🙋 Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the cheapest flight every time?

Use price comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner, search in incognito mode, be flexible with dates, and sign up for fare alerts to track deals.

What's the smartest way to pack for a week in a carry on?

Stick to a capsule wardrobe, roll your clothes, use packing cubes, wear bulky items, and choose multi-use items like a scarf that doubles as a blanket.

How can I get airport lounge access without flying business class?

Use travel credit cards that include lounge perks, purchase day passes, or join Priority Pass. Some lounges also offer paid entry at the door.

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All News Updates

Travel Safety 101: How to Stay Safe Abroad
Travel Safety 101: How to Stay Safe Abroad

🔍 Know Before You Go: Research Local Info, Stay Safe Abroad Before your trip, spend some time learning about your destination. Not every place works the same way you're used to at home. Here’s what to check: Local customs, traditions, and what’s considered respectful...

Social Media Follow

✈ Get Exclusive Travel Tips & Hacks Straight to Your Inbox

Join thousands of smart travelers who get our best travel secrets, money-saving hacks, and destination guides—before anyone else.