You know that moment when you’re zipping up your suitcase and feel like you’ve forgotten something? Same. 
Whether you’re a first-time flyer or a seasoned suitcase slinger, there’s always room for a little travel glow-up. So why not take free tips when you can get it.
So buckle up, wander-lover — we’re diving into 7 ridiculously smart (and slightly cheeky) travel hacks that’ll save you time, money, and maybe even your sanity. And yes, affiliate links are sprinkled in like coconut on your piña colada — they’re tasty and help keep this blog alive 
1. Book Flights Like a Sneaky Ninja
Prices change depending on the time, day, and how many cookies are lurking in your browser.
Hack: Use incognito mode and compare flights with Skyscanner or Google Flights.
Don’t forget to clear the cache in your browser so you can get updated prices, sometimes even cheaper! Google Flights is like a hidden gem. Most people often overlook this option, but once you tap into it, you realize that a quick Google search could yield unimaginable savings.
Want deals that feel like magic? Try travel credit cards with juicy sign-up bonuses — these can often cover your first flight.
With some credit card options, you have to make a required amount of purchases within a specific time frame, then voila – your points are added and you can book your next adventure in no time. (Keep an eye on those dates for completing the purchases.)
2. Pack Smarter, Not Sadder
Forget folding — roll your clothes and use packing cubes for max space and zero stress.
Try these adorable (and durable!) packing cubes from Amazon:
Amazon Packing Cubes Set – Colorful & Compressible
Packing cubes have been a life-saver for me, especially when travelling with kids. It makes packing and un-packing such a breeze.
*Tip – I usually label each packing cube with our names – to make organizing and finding belongings easier.
Bonus hack: Stuff socks in shoes. Boom. Instant space win. (There are also packing cubes for shoes – if you’re worried about saving even more space)
3. Download First, Regret Never
Wi-Fi in the middle of nowhere = nope.
Before you go:
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- Download offline maps on Google Maps. And if you’re a bit old-school – feel free to print a copy of your map and bring it with you.
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- Save boarding passes in Apple/Google Wallet. Again, feel free to print these off if you’re more of a paper person. At least you’ll have a copy in the event that your electronic device loses power.
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- Add your itinerary to your notes or Google Calendar.
Oh, and this universal travel adapter will save your life and your battery. You’re welcome.
You don’t know you need it – until you do. So save yourself the trouble, and stay prepared.
4. Stay Hydrated, Stay Sane
Airplane air is drier than my DMs. Bring a collapsible water bottle and refill after security.
My fav: Collapsible BPA-Free Travel Bottle.
This is a space saver while going through security and reduces the likelihood that you’ll accidentally have a full water bottle while standing in line. I’m sure we’ve all had that one time when we had to scramble to find somewhere to empty our water bottle, or better yet – forced to drink the water while still having another half an hour to go before getting through security. Not fun at all!
Also: bring electrolyte packets! They’re a lifesaver after long-haul flights. This helps to replenish required nutrients and to keep you hydrated.
5. Play the Loyalty Game
Join hotel loyalty programs (they’re free!) and rack up points.
Try:
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- Hilton Honors
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- Marriott Bonvoy
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- Hotels.com Rewards (10 nights = 1 free)
These are some of the more popular ones. However, if you regularly stay at a different hotel chain, chances are they also have a loyalty program – check it out and sign up for rewards!
6. Let Your Credit Card Pay You Back
Earn points while you sleep (or snack at the airport). Look for travel credit cards with:
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- Free lounge access
– this is a huge deal, especially if you like getting to the airport hours before your flight. Plus, you can usually get some pretty decent meal/food options. Some of them even have showers and change rooms – cool, right?!
- Free lounge access
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- No foreign transaction fees
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- No foreign transaction fees
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- Bonus points for travel spend
- Bonus points for travel spend
Tip: Promote cards from providers like Capital One, Amex, or Chase once you’re set up with Impact!
7. Turn Your Trips into Tips (and Cash!)
Start a blog or social media channel. Share tips, guides, and funny moments.
Content ideas to repurpose from this post:
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- TikTok: “Travel hacks that feel illegal but aren’t”
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- Instagram: Carousel of 7 hacks w/ visuals
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- YouTube: “7 Must-Know Travel Hacks for Beginners (That Actually Work)”
The idea is to make money from the things you are already doing. So if you’re a travel junkie, make some money doing what you love 
Wrap-Up:
That’s it, fellow jet-setter! Bookmark this, share it with your fave travel buddy, or just save it so you don’t forget to roll your socks into your shoes next time.
And hey, if you love saving money and making money while you travel, follow along. This is just the beginning of the Travel Jollies adventure.