Our Best Travel Tips

Packing tips

Hand luggage too heavy? Copy the pages of your travel guide that you need and leave the book at home.
Ask staff to put a 'fragile' label on your hold luggage for safekeeping and tie a colorful ribbon around the handle to help you recognize it at the other end.
The golden rule of travel, according to National Geographic: take half of the clothes you plan to bring and double the money
Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and avoid creases.
Tuck socks into any shoes you pack - you'll save space and prevent the shoes from losing their shape.
Label your simple hygiene bottle to avoid accidentally moisturizing your hair!
If you can't afford to lose something (emotionally or financially) don't pack it.

If you're going somewhere crowded where pickpocketing is rife, consider getting a 'throw away' wallet, with only a small amount of money in it. That way, if needed, you can deliver it without hesitation, knowing your credit card and more money is in your pocket.
Keep a scan or copy of your passport ID page in your wallet - it will help identify you if you lose your passport. For extra security, leave a copy at home with someone you trust who can scan/email you in an emergency.

If you've been comparing flights online, try clearing your search history and cache before you book, as many flight companies will increase their prices if they see you repeatedly searching for the same itinerary.
Book hotels and flights during "magic hour" when they are usually cheapest. This is six weeks before you go, on Tuesday after 3pm!
Don't mind an early start? Flights at 6 a.m. are usually cheaper than the more sociable hours. Likewise, flying on unpopular days (Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday) can save you pounds and you may even get more leg room.
If your flights or package holiday cost more than £100, paying by credit card provides extra protection should the airline or travel agency go bust. Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act means the card company is equally liable if something goes wrong with purchases of more than £100.
Check in online - track your email in the days before your flight - for potential cost savings (as well as time) to check in for your flight in person.
Planning to leave your car at the airport? It's always cheaper to reserve parking in advance than to turn up during the day.

If you're in a place where the water isn't safe to drink, make sure to keep your mouth shut when you shower.
Bring the packaging of any medications you need to carry, in case you need to get more while you're away.
Check the rules of the country you're traveling to (and wherever you're traveling through) - some prescription and over-the-counter medicines available in the UK may be controlled in other countries . Places like India and Turkey have strict rules on this, so check with the embassy of the country you're visiting before you travel.
Pack disinfecting wipes for tray tables on a flat surface - they are not the most hygienic surfaces to eat on.
Check if you need any vaccinations at least six weeks before travelling. Ask your family doctor
If you're afraid of flying but can't avoid it for a trip, try booking a seat with extra legroom in the middle of the plane where there will be less turbulence. Also inform a member of the cabin crew of your concerns - they will be able to reassure you.
Also, if you have motion sickness, a seat on the wing will help.
Long flight? Avoid soreness and return by packing a tennis ball. It sounds wacky, but you can roll it under aching feet or along a tense back to work out any kinks.
Fight jetlag by setting the clock at your destination as soon as you board your flight, then eat and sleep at the appropriate times to help you adjust.

If you're spending your summer in the capital, consider renting a college room. They are out of date and can cost as little as £45 per person, per night including breakfast - very cheap for central London.
Hotel prices on a website don't seem to be the cheapest available - always email or call the hotel to see if there are any wiggle rooms available. The worst that can happen is they'll say no, but you won't be worse in the end

If you have forgotten something, check with the hotel before going to the shops. From toothbrushes to combs, you might be surprised at what they can give you for free.
Visit the tourist information office (if available) as soon as possible to find out if there are passes available for many local attractions, as well as any free events or walking tours you have can enjoy.
Turn off data roaming on your mobile phone so you don't get a surprise bill when you get home. If you can't manage without a cell phone, talk to your phone provider before you go to find out what deals are available.
If you are asked if you want to pay in euros or pounds when using a credit card in Europe, choose euros. When a retailer does a currency conversion, the exchange rate is often less favorable.