What are
/r/TravelHacks'
favorite Products & Services?
From 3.5 billion Reddit comments
The most popular Products mentioned in /r/TravelHacks:
The most popular Services mentioned in /r/TravelHacks:
Google Flights
Matrix (airfare search)
Hotels.com
Kiwi.com
KAYAK
Trustpilot
Wanderlog
Roadtrippers
Groupon
TextNow
Mayo Clinic
Wise
Curve
The Weather Channel
AccuWeather
The most popular Android Apps mentioned in /r/TravelHacks:
Hopper - Watch & Book Flights
Wallet - Money, Budget, Finance Tracker, Bank Sync
The most popular VPNs mentioned in /r/TravelHacks:
The most popular reviews in /r/TravelHacks:
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is quite popular and is my go-to bag. It’s definitely carry-on size. The Jasper Red version is currently $80 or $104 depending on your frame size. Osprey Farpoint 40 Men's Travel Backpack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014EBKJB0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6NQ8F4K949WFQ7PCJZSC?psc=1
I am an American, and since I (before Covid) travel yearly to Australia, I bought a $10 hairdryer in Australia for use. I also bought a dual voltage curling iron. I found it on Amazon. You still have to use an adapter, but at least you won't destroy it and cause a fire.
Sleepy Ride - Airplane Footrest Made with Premium Memory Foam - Airplane Travel Accessories - Tested and Proven to Prevent Swelling and Soreness - Provides Relaxation and Comfort (Jet Black) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01M35M87O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_QM6M3F79YYVK9WRH3SAT
Game changer.
(1) Consider one or two of these inflatable “leg rests” - Inflatable Travel Foot Rest Pillow | Kids Airplane Bed | Adjustable Height Leg Pillow | Make a Flat Bed for Kids and Toddlers | Great for Airplane, Train, car（Grey, 2 Pack） https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07G2534KC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7EA1SX569A70P0VT6DMW
They fill the space between your kids seat and the seat in front of them. Best case scenario, they use it as a cot to help sleep. Worst case, it prevents them from trying to get down and walk. Doesn’t take up much space. We think it’s worth it.
(2) Get a lot of energy out at the airport.
(3) Don’t add extra stress worrying about what others think if your kid cries or acts up.
Google Flights for sure, but if you need more sophistication, it's powered by Matrix by ita software, which you can access here (not as user friendly):
Yeah, in fact I do use NordVPN and so far my info hasn't been misused or abused. I think it's important no matter where you go, although less developed countries will probably have less hackers, but a lot of tourist attraction places have some sleaze bags so it's better to be safe than sorry.
Remember to grab your bags from baggage claim at each international arrival after customs, as they are not checked through to your destination city automatically. Then recheck your luggage at your East China Air ticket counter and go straight to your gate after going through security. You don’t have to take off shoes at Shanghai, just metal, coats and electronics. Always get spare water after security and healthy snacks for surprise delays/problems, you don’t ever want to be stuck on a tarmac for hours unprepared. Chinese airlines are notorious for delays, but also for impeccable service. On long flights remember to walk a lot and stretch muscles as much as possible. You can’t access most websites in China, unless you get a VPN beforehand. I use NordVPN and it works great in China. I use their WiFi, but you can buy data through your carrier if you’d like too. Verizon was $10/day. Load your Kindle with books, and download as many movies, Netflix shows, etc. as you can for long waits in airports. Your inflight movie entertainment system will have a lot of great movies too. Get your sleep/wake schedule on to your destination time as soon as you land to prevent jet lag. Plan ahead, read other blogs before you go. Get a great set of converters and adaptors for your electronics. Take lots of pictures and enjoy! Get lost and wander. That’s my favorite part of traveling.
I use this one, you can get a touch screen one for ~300 bucks from ASOS. It works great, there are similar brands/options in this price range. I think I originally got it on sale ~$130. Happy to share any more info if helpful
Travel light. My wife and I take a small rolling duffel bag each. Do laundry when necessary or if in your budget and the price is right have it done by the hotel. Take a few power adapters. Most modern electronics are dual power and need no more that the small adapter. Real cheap on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Ceptics-Europe-Asia-Plug-Adapter/dp/B0084OPT8C/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1530797232&sr=8-6&keywords=eu+power+adapter+plug.
If not dual power you will need the ones that convert the power. Spain is awesome. Learn a little Spanish if you don't already know some. Almost everyone we spoke to was happy to use English when our Spanish skills were not enough. I think that the fact that we try shows respect. Enjoy the food and people watch while eating in outside restaurants. The waiters will in most cases not bring you the check until you ask. Tipping is only done by adding a euro or two to the bill. For coffee shops there are two prices. One for sitting at a table and one for standing at a counter. Watch for pick pockets. They are very common in tourist areas. We always have a great time but also keep aware of our surroundings. Don't be surprised by seeing prostitutes on the streets. I think they may be legal in Spain. They were very common in some areas of Madrid and Barcelona. They never bothered us. Go in churches. Even if you are not a religious person, they are full of art and amazing architecture. They are like free museums. We've been going to Europe for years and learn something new each time we go. Enjoy your trip. I'm sure you will be hooked and want to return.
My friend swears by ITA. She and her husband flew to Ireland, round trip, for less than $1,000 total. She said that you’d have to be flexible with some aspects but if you’re not on a tight schedule, not as strict about your destination, then it helps save you money.
We stayed at Siri Lanta Resort resort (not to be confused with Sri lanta). It was quite a ways from the beach and while the woman who owns it was very kind and their food was good, the beds were not comfortable and we stayed off a stretch of the beach that didn’t have much outside of an outdoor bar/restaurant to offer. There were a couple shops/restaurants we could walk to but I was let down for sure compared to the experience in Chiangmai.
If you use a couple different search engines yourself, you’ll find all the flights yourself. I don’t see how this “service” is worth anything. If you can post on Reddit, you can find a couple search engines.
There are plenty of recent reviews on Trustpilot
I carry this bag and highly recommend it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09DKTCDGT?ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details&th=1
You would not believe the amount of stuff you can fit in it and still be compliant with the spirit airlines personal item size limit of 18 x 14 x 8 inches.
I carry this bag and highly recommend it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09DKTCDGT?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
You would not believe the amount of stuff you can fit in it and still get under the spirit airlines personal item size of 18 x 14 x 8 inches.
I use an electric skillet, specifically the Elite Gourmet EGL-6101 Personal Stir Fry Griddle Pan, Rapid Heat Up, 650 Watts
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HYSS699
It's nice because it's all one piece, easy to clean, $17, and actually fairly energy efficient as it turns itself off once it gets up to temp and then starts cycling so it's only running 50% of the time.
I recently flew with Spirit and I bought this bag specifically since it meets their "personal item" size limitations: https://www.amazon.com/HOMIEE-Backpack-Expandable-Approved-Weekender/dp/B09LC88DX3.
You can fit a lot of stuff in that bag! Since it is square you can really maximize what you can bring.
I would check to make sure the measurements are okay for Frontier but I imagine it would work.
Paying for the bag was cheaper than a carry-on in two directions.
QC35 bad battery, airpods bad quality, and if you have migraines better off not listening to anything. I suggest ear coverings like this https://www.amazon.sg/Reusable-Sleep-Earplugs-Noise-Reduction/dp/B076DWBWMJ
Another advice would be stop using apple device, very poor in quality. Thanks and do better
This water bottle is amazing. You can fill it up from any tap anywhere in the world, and it cleans it without chemicals or electricity. Last for around 300 gallons of water. I used it in India, Thailand, Bali, all without ever getting sick or spending money on plastic bottles. https://www.amazon.com/GRAYL-GeoPress-Water-Purifier-Bottle/dp/B08TTXBHRW
They also sell it at REI and you can get a coupon to get it cheaper.
Assuming overseas travel:
- a scarf for chilly planes (I have this one with a hidden pocket that can double as a lightweight shawl)
- enough cash for at least a week (I'll research an average daily budget using google)
- photocopies of my passport, driver's license, and phone numbers for my bank and phone provider hidden in the lining of my carry-on bag
- outlet adaptors and splitters so that I can charge everything
- rechargeable phone battery that holds enough power to charge my phone twice
- solid facial soap, shampoo, and conditioner bars because not all hotels will provide
- a pickpocket-resistant purse or backpack with RFID protection (I highly recommend the brand Travelon)
I bought two of these. Keep it simple, and safe, and inexpensive. https://www.amazon.com/Travelon-Modern-Black-One-Size/dp/B084D22BS9
Great list!
I would add:
-Neck pillow
-Xanax - get a prescription if you have any anxiety about flying, plus it helps you sleep and makes the flight tolerable
- If you're short, this foot rest. However, I forget mine once and I was able to use a scarf instead.
-Compression socks
-Ear plugs
-If you're a woman, use panty liners and change it throughout the flight. Easier than changing your underwear.
They make little humidifiers that will attach to a water bottle and therefore don't take up much luggage space. You can place it on your bedside table while you sleep.
IDK anything about this one specifically, but a cursory amazon search yields tons of decently priced results like this: https://smile.amazon.com/Pure-Enrichment-MistAire-Travel-Ultrasonic/dp/B07HCTYFLV/ref=sr\_1\_5?keywords=portable+humidifiers+for+travel&qid=1668014589&sprefix=portable+hum%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-5
Is this for my trip to Bali recently 21h flight. I really liked it.
i'm going 3rd week of march.. weather will be fine according to weather.com Based on everyone's feedback, the blue route which I initially selected is the way to go!
Yes on Yellowstone!
Do these count as sneakers? I have two pairs and I love them, even with my plantar fascitis and wide feet. They are unisex, and they come in lots of different patterns -- maybe even plain black! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08X2P5TTF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Scroll down a bit to read the description :) here
I'm sure you've got plenty of replies, but you should check out this bag (and personal item that comes with it)
And get packing cubes.
I packed for 6 days on my trip to Vegas (only stayed for 3 days but I wanted options)
I didn't have to fold my clothes any type of way either.
Normally I wouldn't suggest something, but this bag definitely made packing easy for me.
Enjoy your trip!
I use the pill organizers. Gets you multiple spices in one compact set and they are meant to not spill. Used them on a couple rips and they work great!
I use these really cheap ones when I travel. They don't look very cool, but the battery lasts forever and I won't be mad if I lose them. They're also my main Zoom headphones.
My pillow at home is a foam pillow. It flattens well and then pops right back up when taken out of the suitcase. I bring it everywhere I travel to. https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Standard-Sleeping-Sleepers-Shoulder/dp/B005IAMS7K
This packing list. It is so comprehensive and detailed. I travel a lot, and still use it every time to make sure I don’t forget anything. https://smile.amazon.com/Knock-Pack-This-Pad/dp/1601061560/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2630YOR66Y07W&keywords=Travel+list&qid=1658631605&sprefix=travel+list%2Caps%2C236&sr=8-3
With this Bestek Travel Adapter, my girlfriend and I can charge 2 computers, 2 phones, and a camera.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012ERZ7B8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
RFID Blocking Passport Holder... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077RWDG5G?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
This one is simple but perfect: It holds the passport by tucking the back cover in about an inch, making passport removal/replacement easy. It has RFID shielding. It has credit card slots that hold my Global Entry card and a Tile Slim (for tracking, if I misplace it). Behind the credit card slots is another area that holds my Covid Vax card. It comes in lots of colors, so my wife and I can distinguish between ours. The leather is soft and expensive-feeling. Under $15!
I use something like this. When we travel I have to keep track of about 8 passports. This works great
Valante Premium Family Travel Document Organizer Capacious RFID Passport Holder Wallet (Large, gray) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F8TMTZ7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_M88KW2T754KTRRS5DRAK
We have this one and it works ok. The USB ports are handy. Might buy one of yours, too, as it’s smaller. Many of the trains have plugs to charge, so carry it with you.
Here’s the adapter for UK. You dont need anything else https://www.amazon.com/OREI-Hong-Kong-Adapter-Plug/dp/B008Y8PSSE/ref=sr_1_37?crid=2QX96GZPHO5XZ&keywords=type%2Bg%2Badapter%2Bsingle&qid=1654440257&sprefix=type%2Bg%2Badapter%2Bsingle%2Caps%2C200&sr=8-37&th=1
And take some warm clothes. Night time lows in the 40s
ExpressVPN is one of the best vpn’s out there i used it for a Long time its simple and easy, and its safe. I Would highly recommend it. I have had No problems with it at all. Its super fast and Secure. You Can use it for watching movies or Gaming, you choose.
Check out the awesome prices and buy it in the link under:
To address your door lock question, I've carried this with me.
Then I earned more money and stuck with higher end hotels.
Portable Door Lock Home Security, fority Travel Door Locker Latch Traveling Extra Locks Lockdown, for Additional Safety and Privacy, for Hotel Home College Apartment (Red) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B09B14XR9N/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_NKWJ0FGY4QWP6ZSQP8TJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I am REALLY surprised that refrigerating a neck cooler didn't do the trick. But it should be like a towel type deal. Not beads. Like this
This is the only one I have tried so I can't say any are better or worse. I read a review on this as the back of my thighs always got uncomfortable and cut off. For me it works in that cramped economy seat. Have yet to find a neck thing that works for me tho.
Sleepy Time Airplane Footrest
For QR codes some countries have made the scanner app publicly available, for example https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=at.itsv.mobile.cochap for Austria so you can check it yourself.
For pieces of paper you arguably can't be sure, you could always end up with someone who is being a pain. But lots of people have managed fine and you can ensure your aware of the rules before leaving. They can be different at the boarder Vs within the country.
I like these better and you'll have one less item to bring.
Ziploc Space Bag Clothes Vacuum Sealer Storage Bags for Home and Closet Organization, Travel, 2 Bags Total https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RCMUDSS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_07MBWFPB3165WKWVMB30
There are a lot of options for wet bags. Everything inside WILL stay wet while inside the bag. But the outside stays dry.
I just started using it but it can link with my US and Thai banks. It also I think updates currency daily and honestly its close enough for my use (The Thai Baht doesn't really change haha) give it a try! To link a bank account you have to buy perimum but its pretty cheap and you can try the trial first.
If your mask doesn't already strap to your head, get one of [these](https://www.amazon.com/URSA-Maskies-Comfortable-Adjustable-Low-Profile/dp/B08NXG8DD8/ref=sr_1_14?crid=XTYZTBSI4DU8&keywords=mask+strap+extender&qid=1650374226&sprefix=mask+strap%2Caps%2C95&sr=8-14). Snug, secure, and comfortable. Been using one at work for ages.
I bought this backpack from Amazon.
It’s been great so far.
Have used this lightweight one so many times over the years https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00R3KP37K/ref=cm_sw_r_wa_api_i_SF973NEMBQFRGBRWRPKM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Especially if I'm going to isolated areas where there are aren't many tourists ; nature reserves, hike trails.
I am a serial ear popper too. I totally understand the lasting discomfort if they don't pop. The thing that works best for me is yawning. The beginning part of a yawn, before you exhale is when they should pop.
For this reason, I did get some of these, but have not tried them yet:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B077F3YM5H/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Be sure to read the instructions, I believe you have to start wearing them before a change in pressure for them to work.
Personally, I try to maximize my carry-on capacity to avoid checked luggage.
I loved this luggage since the wheels are built into the luggage space allowing for more storage.
I also had a carry-on with expandable capacity (using a zipper). This way you can also fit-in more contents while having the ability to squeeze it tighter if airline staff are being dicks.
Look for solid black sun shades. Amazon has plenty of options like this one
i have this one... i used it in hawaii so i didnt have to leave cash/card/phone on the beach wen i went in the ocean... also i got to take photos while i was swimming so that was a bonus
We absolutely love this one. My Husband and I both have one and it’s awesome
Osprey Meridian 60 L/22" Wheeled Luggage https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019TSS3A2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_8858FAY3YJBN9XKBZN2X?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I tried booking a flight from Dubai to Toronto. Got a very cheap deal on this app.
Little ads are there but it works.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=trilok.flights.cheapflights.bookings
JFK - cancun $217
NYC to Lisbon and NYC to London, both under $400 round trip
A few options.. click on whichever flight looks best to you (AM or PM) and do the same with the reutrn!
Computer about to die, I'll look on ryanair for this one, as all of the flights seem pretty steady for the next few months
Look on google flights for sea-lax ... should be able to find some cheap(ish) ones.
$250 USD
*note, I am in EST :)
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2/7/22
VIE - SAW 2:50-7pm
4 hr 40 min layover... the prices we pay, haha
SAW - IKA 11pm - 3:15am
2/20/22
IKA - ESB 3am-5:30am
1 hr 15 min layover
ESB - VIE 6:40am-7:30am
Best tools for me in order to do that are: Momondo, Google flights, and Kayak.
In Momondo, for example, you choose "Anywhere" in Destiny, and in the start and end dates you put "Anytime" (I don't know the exact text, since I use it in spanish)
Google flights and Kayak have similar options, but with a few additional options to filter and compare dates where it is cheaper.
Check out Wanderlog - https://wanderlog.com/
It lets you plot points on a map AND recommends other cool stuff nearby. I'm waiting to travel again but when I do I'll go with the pro version bc it lets you export your plans onto Google maps. Oh, and they even include the hours/days open so if you say that you want to go to the Louvre on a Monday and they're closed Wanderlog will point this out. I was psyched when I found it ☺️
You can buy physical a SIM card in Amazon. Activate it the day you travel, swap it in the plane before / when you land and you'll have service while you are there, subject to their terms.
Then swap them back in your way back to the US.
The SIM card gives you a new "local" phone number, so probably apps like WhatsApp that relay on the phone number won't carry over your contacts.
If you had a 2nd cheap unlocked phone, you could keep your iPhone as is, turn airplane mode on and leave it on for the duration of your trip. You'd just turn wifi on whenever appropriate. If it's an open network (unprotected Wi-Fi with no password), I'd use a free VPN like ProtonVPN. Then you'd just use the new SIM card on that other phone.
This one apparently isn't sold anymore but there's another that I like even more since it only uses nano sim and can hold more spots as such
https://www.google.com/flights
Best site to find flights anywhere from really cheap to really expensive.
No VPN needed, they don't manipulate ticket prices in order to make you buy tickets.
How much were the tickets? I’ve never flown Norwegian because I’m flexible on dates and have never seen tickets much lower than legacy competitors.
I’ve been flying to Europe for $300-$450 on flights like EWR-FRA,FCO-EWR for $432 and NYC-Madrid rt nonstop $327 on the mainstream airlines which I’ll still pay a small premium for because of the perks.
Google Flights has a dropdown for prices to compare prem economy and business
https://www.google.com/flights#flt=SLC.MAN.2018-08-11*MAN.SLC.2018-08-15;c:NZD;e:1;sc:p;sd:1;t:f
I prefer to use an inflatable one, so I can adjust the firmness. This is the one I bought. I see it's now unavailable, but maybe you can find it from another seller.
That is a fairly common size and configuration. You should be able to find that anywhere.
Here is what I use and recommend if you fly a couple dozen or more times a year…
Briggs & Riley Baseline 22 inch Softside Carry On Luggage with wheels 22 x 14 x 9 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008M6ZD10/
If you travel rarely, there are far less expensive models.
What airport are you based out of? For companion fares, the good cards are Alaska and Delta Platinum/ Reserve.
Chase Sapphire Reserve is of course good, although it's intro offer is weak. Amex Platinum is a great premium card. Unfortunately Centurion Lounges are closed due to corona. However to make up for it, they have added excellent 40$ per month credits totalling to 320$ for the year for phone bill/ streaming services, which brings down the "effective annual fee" significantly. And it still has the usual credits. You won't directly get a hotel "discount" using it-- however you get Gold status for Marriott/ Hilton using it. And you can sign up to Rakuten which will give you ability to earn Amex Membership rewards for all your online purchases, and significant discounts on hotels booked through Expedia/ hotels.com etc.
Let me know if you have more questions. I can give you customized advice on this- I have spent a lot of time playing with cards, and have more than 10 in my wallet :)
In US, it makes sense sometimes. I have got a Marriott credit card now, and will booking with them direct whenever i am staying at a chain. But so many times I stay at random motels and they don't have direct from website booking. And overseas, it's even more amplified. I don't really expect $20 hotel in Vietnam to have their own website and accept American CC on it. Anyways as I said, I have liked hotels.com especially with their 11th night free program.
And it's less about whether I had an issue, and more about what they did when I had it. I had an issue in fact with hostelworld.com booking once. Even they made sure the issue was fixed on their dime, and Priceline with 1000x their revenue won't.
We go to Europe every year and I do all my own planning. I use sites like Trip Advisor, Hotels.Com, Kayak and Viator for ideas. Trip Advisor is a great place to hear thoughts of others on Hotels, Cities, Tours, how to get from one place to another. If you have questions feel free to message me. Just returned last Friday from 15 days in the Greek Isles. I haven't used a travel agent since 2001 when I took my kids to London, Paris and Brussels. Europe is very easy to do on your own.
I just learned about this tool from Kiwi.com called Nomad that helps you to book multi-city flights at the very best prices. I haven't used it yet but did a couple test searches and it seems pretty legit.
I forgot to mention, this search style on their mobile site does not work very well at all. I only use it on a computer. This should get you started... if it works.
https://www.kiwi.com/ shows discounted flights from your destination and also allows you to combine flights from other airlines on one itinerary. You can adjust the flights to fit your budget in the search settings and allows you to search multiple destinations
I used to go to coffee shops to study a lot, and still do to work, but have a really older version of something like this so it's small and easy to travel with, would work perfect for travel on planes. https://www.amazon.com/NTONPOWER-Outlets-Extension-Nightstand-Conference/dp/B072N854DK/ref=sr_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=portable+power+strip&qid=1632956101&sr=8-8
Hi, I understand what you’re feeling. I’m traveling overseas at the end of October and I’m struggling with the same thing. My therapist is doing EMDR with me to help me prepare. I’m in the US and also take Rescue Remedy (link below). It seems to help calm some of my nerves.
Another thing I’m working on is reassuring myself that I’ll be ok, even if I don’t feel like it. I remind myself that if I miss my connecting flight the airline will help me get onto another flight. If I can’t figure out where to go I can find someone to help me. I remind myself that the airport is used to helping people that are tired and stressed. If I have a breakdown it will be ok, I’m not going to see the people around me again.
I also have a list in my phone of the things I need to pack in my checked luggage, what I need to have in my carry on, and what I need to do before leaving. This way I don’t have to work on remembering these things, I can just refer to my list.
I hope this helps and I hope you are able to have a good trip!
Have you tried calling your carrier? If you have been a customer for a several years, they may unlock your phone as a courtesy if you explain you're going to be using it overseas. Mainline carriers (Verizon, AT&T) are more generous than discount providers who resell mainline service.
Of note, many prepaid SIMs don't allow for tethering. For example, the SIM I used when I spent three weeks in Europe a couple years ago worked like an absolute champ in my iPhone but explicitly disallows tethering.
If your carrier won't unlock, you may be better off buying/borrowing a phone and buying a prepaid SIM than rolling the dice on a tethered mobile hotspot and prepaid SIM. Doesn't everyone have an old phone or two in a drawer somewhere?
I use these brackets under my mask that allows a space between my face and mask and makes it more breathable. They’re very helpful! mask bracket
This will probably get buried but still I’d like to recommend this: A Velcro
It’s a regular looking velcro and anything like it should help you avoid the pain over your ears due to extended periods of wearing masks. I traveled a lot last year due to work reasons and found these to be lifesavers, especially on longer flights.
I picked this one up about 5 years ago. Definitely worth it. This is my go to bag for any type of travel. I never had a problem with airlines as a PERSONAL ITEM.
​
If you don't want to constantly refill small bottles and wind up with two kinds of shampoo in one bottle or forget which bottle is the shampoo and which is the conditioner, you go to Amazon and search "bulk travel toiletries" you may find what you are looking for. You can find the items you want separately or in a set.
I normally use the hair dryers provided by the places I stay but I did purchase this straightener to use and an adapter similar to this one and have not had any issues. I have a chi straightener but couldn't confirm the voltage would work so bought the HSI.
Something like this could be handy.
I’m not sure if this’ll help depending on how much room you have but there are small crank washing machines (The Laundry Alternative Wonderwash Retro Colors Non-electric Portable Compact Mini Washing Machine (Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FTXG5SG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_hvK7FbX92QAPM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1) that may be helpful for you! I don’t have one but the reviews look pretty positive. Good luck!!
Although you are in LAX, look at Skyscanner and Google Flights to start your research.
- Look at leaving from ANY major airport in the US... NYC, ATL, ORD, BOS, SFO, LAX, HOU (you can get a cheap US R/T flight in the US... however your luggage wont be checked all the way through).
- Look at arriving in ANY major airport in Europe: Paris, Rome, London, AMS, DUB, Frankfurt, Nice, Milan, Marseille (Traveling IN Europe can be cheap)
Then... if you really want to be savvy... go directly to the airline/site found on Skyscanner/ Google Flights / Kayak and search for the flight directly. Then use a VPN service (Hola in Chrome, NordVPN, etc.) to change your country to be IN the destination.
For instance, if it is Norwegian Air, then FIRST search in English from America and find out the cost. Then change your settings to be in Norway. The site will be in Norwegian, but you will know what buttons to click because you just searched in English. You may see a savings of more than $100.
For travel to your destination in France, then use as a first search. This tells you fastest and cheapest methods.
Also check budget airlines like EasyJet, Norwegian Air, RyanAir, Eurowings (change VPN to European country like Ireland for english sites) Or bus: Flixbus
It is more complicated to do it this way. However, it can save you a lot of money. I got a r/t from NYC to Milan in August (high season) for $324.
I hope this helps.
Besides these two, I'm checking options from Everest and Waterfly but the one from Waterfly has caught my attention, here's the link:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088D4598B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_EP3AFbS77X5X6
Edit: I should've been more specific, I'm using the backpack as a personal item on a flight, not as a carry-on
Ah I know this one!!! It goes like this: silicone earplugs or Bluetooth earpods for calming music + construction site ear muffs like those and then melatonin based sleeping pills.
I laugh in the face of crying demons.
Edit: it is crucial that those are earmuffs for construction or shooting range. Passive preferably, I have Peltor.
Noise cancelling headphones are useless imho.
This could work. Antenna built into the box with embedded sim would give best signal pick up. Not cheap but it’s a mobile LTE Router that has global capabilities. Find a smart sim carrier and it should work anywhere.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085R7W2MF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Gx7fFb30DAD3M
This is the harness I have for both of my cats. It's comfortable enough for them to move and lay down in, but is sturdy and they can't get out. I also recommend keeping his harness and leash on at all times, if the worst happens and he tries to do a runner, it's a lot easier to catch the leash than the cat
I decided to sign up for NordVPN in Bali recently.
- Can’t access reddit as it’s blocked in Indonesia. Will also be visiting China soon so I assume it’ll allow me access to all the things blocked there.
- Wife wanted to watch Hulu/Netflix and you can use it on up to 6 devices.
- Extra layer of security.
I have the older style of this piece.
Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Carry On Luggage with Double Spinner Wheels, 20-Inch, Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FDNWQJL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OasxCbE6VHYX4
For some reason, the share button on Amazon wouldn't let me share the listing even though it's still active.
The listing name for the model I have is "Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside 20" Luggage, Charcoal" if you want to try to search Amazon for that. It's $102 prime eligible, compared to the $155 that the newer model is.
Foot rest!!
Ohderii Foot Rest, Portable Travel Footrest Flight Carry-on Foot Rest Office Feet Rest Foot Hammock(Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WW14HVB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QhvAAb2XM90WZ
Trtl travel pillow
Trtl Pillow - Scientifically Proven Super Soft Neck Support Travel Pillow - Machine Washable Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LB7REBE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_zivAAbJRA5VMC
I really like an app called Hopper. You set when and where you want to travel and it'll give you predictions about when the ticket prices are (probably) going to be at their lowest. It notifies you when the prices won't get any lower too. Airlines price their tickets pretty predictably -- it's been very accurate for me so far.