As much enjoyment that traveling brings, I think we can all agree that it also comes with some downsides. Long queues at the airport, increasingly-less personal space on planes and the inevitable…jet lag. Just to name a few.
Over the years, I’ve learned ways to travel smarter and gathered a list of essentials that have been true game-changers! Some I really can’t believe I survived without in the beginning.
Here I’m sharing five things that have been instrumental in the way I travel and the experience I have. If you don’t have them, I highly suggest you get them before your next trip to make it even better!
1. Travel Reward Credit Cards
Where do I even start? Travel reward credit cards honestly deserve an entire blog post dedicated to them. (coming soon) But until then, just believe me when I say, YOU NEED THEM. If you consider yourself a “frequent traveler” by any means and don’t have any…you’re really doing it all wrong.
There are a plethora of perks to using plastic (or metal for the heavy hitters) when you travel and even while at home with your everyday spending. Credit cards take travel hacking to a whole new level. Many of these cards come with a sign-on bonus of points, miles, and/or a free night at hotels.
If you play your cards right (pun intended), you can redeem your points for stays at top destinations and five star hotel properties for basically FREE.
Some great starter cards I recommend are the Chase Sapphire Card or the Capital One Venture card.
2. Global Entry
Global Entry is a program by the US Customs and Border Protection that provides travelers expedited entry through customs upon landing in the US. To be eligible you must be a US citizen, a lawful permanent citizen or a citizen from an approved list of countries.
There’s nothing worse than returning home after a long haul flight from an international trip and then having to wait in the longest line for customs. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather get through customs quickly so I can go home, get some food and sleep.
Think of global entry as the equivalent of Disneyland’s fast pass. While everyone is standing in a long line, you have a separate (and significantly shorter line) that takes you directly to the customs kiosks. After you enter your information, take the printed receipt, hand it to the customs officer, and you are on your way. Simple!
If you don’t travel internationally often, you may be thinking whether it’s worth it? In short answer, YES! Global Entry is good for five years and includes the TSA PreCheck benefit, which gets you expedited security lines. There is a $100 application fee, however, many travel credit cards will reimburse this.
3. Priority Pass
Gone are the days of sitting on the floor in a crowded airport terminal with no outlets for your electronics!
Say hello to Priority Pass, a membership program that provides travelers with access to over 1000 airport lounges in 500+ cities around the globe. The lounges are equipped with free WIFI, free food, and drinks (this includes ALCOHOL), some have showers and other amenities. The membership also provides other in-airport discounts such as free food and drinks at participating restaurants.
It’s a great way to save money while traveling, as many know how overpriced airports can be. Most importantly, it’s another perk that comes with many travel reward credit cards that should definitely be taken advantage of! All you need to do is sign up through your creditor to receive your membership card.
4. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Seated near a crying baby? No problem. Noise-canceling headphones are truly a lifesaver and something every traveler should consider splurging on for some peace and quiet. Here are recommendations that can easily fit in your carry on bag:
5. A Good Sleep Mask & Pillow
Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or car, having these two items are a must if you plan on getting any sleep. Some airlines will provide these items but I always think it’s better to bring your own. A silk mask is soft on your skin, while a memory foam neck pillow will have you feeling like your sleeping on clouds.
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