Some Travel Tips to Start

This oft-mentioned subject is one that is based a lot on personal preference, but those who are lucky enough to have travelled extensively do tend to agree on certain things. For someone like myself, for whom travel is both a living and a passion, some things that are second nature to me are like lightbulbs of genius to others. So feel free to use or discard these tips, but know that each has come from experience!

• Start a packing list and save it on your phone. These lists are personal, and everyone has their own quirks and oft-forgotten items. But if you have easy access to this list – on the Notes app for example – you can refer to it each time you pack, and add to it as you realise items are missing. I even add to my list while I am lying awake in the middle of the night and random things come to me.

• Always travel with a scarf. Another tip that pops up often, and for good reason. I have a personal favourite travel scarf – it’s a great size, thickness and suitably smart if I am in an airport lounge or business class. It makes a perfect pillow, blanket and shawl, and I even plan my travel outfit based on its colours. Handy tip? Scarves also make ideal outfit features and are small, light and inexpensive to buy anywhere in the world!

• Always pack a multiplug. Not an adaptor – that’s obvious (add it to your packing list right now!) – but a multiplug that offers several outlets for your home country. Often hotels have only one available plug point and then you have to debate what deserves to be charged first, how to dry your hair and heat your straightener at the same time etc. I literally have one that lives in my suitcase.

• Ladies, this one if for you. Find a nice, stylish, transparent make-up bag, and use only that bag on your travels. It saves having to use a ziplock bag on the flight, and saves you a little weight for your check-in luggage. You also then have all of your make up on the flight – if you need it.

• Noise. Cancelling. Headphones. Enough said. Just trust me. Do it. You will NEVER REGRET this. I have a pair of Sony wireless ones, and they are the ultimate game changer.

• Pack a pair of spare undies and a small aerosol dry shampoo and deodorant in your hand luggage. As long as the aerosols are under 100ml they are safe for travel, and along with your make up, these can make you feel instantly refreshed when you land. This is especially helpful for flights that land super early, where you cannot check in to your accommodation immediately.

• If you have a long stopover, especially travelling with kids or family, consider adding lounge access to your travel booking. The cost is often equivalent to what you will spend on food and drinks, plus you get some quiet time and a comfortable seat.

• On arrival at your destination, weigh up the costs of the train or bus service with the cost of a taxi. Taxis are normally regulated from the airport into town, so you can judge based on the number of travellers in your party which makes more sense. Normally for three or more people the costs are quite similar, and the sheer convenience of taking a taxi directly to your destination is worth the few extra bucks you may need to put in.