I can be pretty lazy. I can’t tell you the last time I blow dried my hair — and I shower every day. Sometimes I even drive with the windows down to finish my perfected look of, well, just washed and a couple spritzs of It’s a 10. I like putting on a full face of makeup but mostly just for nights out or special occasions. On a normal day, you’ll find me snoozing and then rushing to slap on my eye shadow-primer combo.
Lazy is one word, but I like to use the word efficient or practical. I like getting the job done, and I bet you do too, especially when it comes to travel. I’m willing to work hard, but I’d rather work smart, not hard. If you’re anything like me, you want to simplify travel and make things go as smoothly as possible. Eleven countries later and here are my top tools that make my travel life easier.
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1 . Portable charger
I’ve seen these in dollar sections for years but only just got on the bandwagon. On my trip to Europe this past winter, I used my portable charger often, and it saved my life. When you’re in a foreign country and constantly using your GPS on data, the battery goes pretty quick. Be smart, and pack a portable charger. Here’s the brand I used.
2 . Google maps
Another important app to download before your next adventure. I like that you can specify that you don’t want tolls and change your route after you’ve already begun. I’m a loyal Apple gal, but good lands, I hate Apple Maps.
3 . Spotify Premium
I don’t know what I’d do without Spotify Premium. I’d venture to say it’s my most used app, and with Premium, you can download music so that it’s available when you’re offline. It’ll keep you company on the journey and make it a smoother one.
4 . Hard-shelled luggage
And while we’re at it, get one with four wheels. Traveling often means wear and tear on your luggage, and I’m partial to hard-shelled because it keeps what’s inside safe. I have a floral patterned set, which makes it so easy to find at baggage claim. Investing in quality luggage is worth it so that you don’t have to worry about shoddy bags and your items stay safe.
5 . TSA Pre-check
This was my 21st birthday gift, and I can’t think of a better gift. You can breeze through security, and I added the Global Entry option so that even outside of America, I can have priority security. It’s faster, which helps when you’re rushing to make your connecting flight.
6 . Travel rewards credit cards
Free money. Seriously. If you pay off all your bills, you get rewarded with free travel credit. I have Bank of America’s Travel Rewards card, which paid for a round-trip flight to New York. Score! There are a good number of travel credit cards out there, but this Bank of America one isn’t partial to a specific airline or hotel, which can come in handy. If you are in a spot to get a credit card, this is a great investment because it pays you for being responsible.
What are your favorite tools and tricks that make travel easier for you? Share in the comments!
