Maximise Your Packing List with Minimalism: Essential Travel Gadgets for Long Flights
Are you ready to revolutionise your packing list? In this blog post, we’ll explore how to go minimalist while highlighting ten game-changing travel gadgets that will become your long-flight essentials. Stick around until the end for a thought-provoking question: Do you really need that everyday carry item when you travel, or even at home? Essential Packing Tips for Your Next Flight Planning your next flight and wondering what to pack for a comfortable journey? In this blog, we’ll reveal the travel essentials you really need and highlight the items you should ditch! From unnecessary tech to bulky accessories, we’ll break down the items that could weigh you down. Get ready to travel smarter and lighter with our expert advice! The Necessity of Hand Sanitiser First up, hand sanitiser. Keeping germs at bay is a must, but instead of a bulky bottle, consider using handy wipes. Not only do these save space in your liquids bag, but they also reduce plastic waste—environmentally friendly and practical! Opt for Eco-Friendly Toiletries When I started my long-haul flying adventures, I was excited about those tiny bottles of moisturiser and mini tubes of toothpaste designed for travellers. However, I quickly realised these single-use items contribute to landfill waste. Now, I collect free samples from beauty purchases or transfer my toiletries into smaller containers, like contact lens cases. This approach minimises plastic waste, saves money, and maximises space in my liquids bag! Power-Up Your Charging Gear When it comes to charging gear, I’ve refined my setup. I stick to USB-C to USB-C cables, but since most flights only have USB-A outlets, I bring a tiny USB-A to USB-C adapter. It’s space-saving, lightweight, and efficient! Choose the Right Power Bank Power banks are essential, but many recommendations fall short for long-haul flights. For instance, the iWalk, with just 4,500 milliamp hours, won’t fully charge an iPhone. Instead, consider the NiteCore NB10,000, which packs ample power in a compact size—perfect for charging multiple devices. For those who prefer a maximalist approach, check out Michael’s favourite power bank with a massive 30,000 milliamp hours. Ditch Bulky Items Many travel YouTubers suggest hefty items like large water bottles and bulky pillboxes. Instead, opt for a collapsible water bottle and pack your pills in ziplock bags—your carry-on (and your back!) will appreciate the extra space. Embrace E-Books If you haven’t converted to e-books yet, what are you waiting for? They significantly lighten your load. A weeklong trip used to mean packing at least four heavy books. Now, I read e-books on my phone or iPad, saving both space and weight while ensuring I always have something to read! Upgrade Your Travel Pillow Ditch that hefty travel pillow for a more compact option. I recommend three alternatives: an inflatable pillow, a stuffable pillow you can fill with a down jacket or hoodie, or the amazing TRTL travel pillow that wraps around your neck like a scarf, offering head support just where you need it. Smart Luggage Choices When it comes to luggage, think strategically. You don’t need a giant suitcase alongside a hefty backpack. I recently used the TomToc 9 litre sling as my personal item, which was spacious enough for my laptop, iPad, and essential gadgets while remaining sleek for airport navigation. Everything was accessible at my seat—no more rummaging in the dark! Rethinking Your Passport Cover Now, let’s discuss passport covers. Are they necessary? Many countries have scanner systems, which can complicate your journey through immigration. Instead, designate a specific pocket in your bag or use a slim wallet that keeps everything handy without fuss. Minimalist Wallet Strategies The wallet is often a cherished item, but do you need a bulky one? I used to carry a beautiful pink Tiffany wallet, but I’ve now switched to a minimalist zip pouch. Recent trips reminded me that I can easily store essentials in my cross-body bag. With options like Apple Wallet and minimal cash needs, my wallet requirements are decreasing! I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Conclusion As we prepare to land, gear up for your next long-haul flight by checking out my video on achieving first-class comfort! Share your favourite travel hacks in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more travel insights. Until next time—safe travels and happy flying! Bye for now! Helpful links Amazon links are affiliate links. Liquid hand sanitiser – https://geni.us/GZl4 Sanitiser wipes – https://geni.us/85Om8M Travel toiletries – https://geni.us/idcKk https://geni.us/gNxd1kj Contact lens cases – https://geni.us/TxQzkYY USB A to C converter – https://geni.us/CRbKWH USB C to C cable – https://geni.us/a3fU USB A to C cable – https://geni.us/uyVr Plug in charger – https://geni.us/BOI64Fs iWalk power bank – https://geni.us/AIKIO8 NiteCore power bank – https://geni.us/81BhBsI High-capacity power bank – https://geni.us/rcw4 Yeti water bottle – https://geni.us/QE2zPF Collapsible water bottle – https://geni.us/77Cu7vJ Pill organiser – https://geni.us/T2I1w Zip lock bags – https://geni.us/FHXI8 Kindle – https://geni.us/0kZe iPad – https://geni.us/vaw0qtA iPhone – https://geni.us/qXmGW eBook – https://geni.us/Gh23dFg Inflatable pillow – https://geni.us/us0sAn Stuffable travel pillow – https://geni.us/Wrj51 TRTL travel pillow – https://geni.us/ABZPEl TomToc sling – https://geni.us/GiXGu Backpack – https://geni.us/fZZiOAb Rollaboard – https://geni.us/SqA6oMX Mimco Classico travel duo gold – https://www.mimco.com.au/classico-travel-duo-pouch-60290317-3718 Bellroy travel wallet – https://geni.us/fIyj4j Other links When we travel, we use the following (may be affiliate links): Phone data: AloSIM eSIMs. Use code 7NBZZYI and click https://alosim.com/ to set up your account. Data and device security: NordVPN https://refer-nordvpn.com/TzKdKQRYawt Tours and tickets: Viator https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00213240&mcid=42383&medium=link Away luggage. Get $40 off and we get a commission if you use this link: https://referrals.awaytravel.com/away988654 Air Tags have helped us find lost luggage: https://geni.us/BJvW Mardi’s favourite toiletry bag: https://geni.us/sfNf5 Larger containers to decant toiletries into: https://geni.us/qnwvty Philips Hue 2 can be used as a sunrise lamp: https://geni.us/3KW0C Philips Sunrise alarm clock: https://geni.us/QguI Suction hooks for additional hotel storage: https://geni.us/lkS7N Packing cubes: https://geni.us/kLH6D0 Folding lighted makeup mirror: https://geni.us/l4zFp Handheld fan for warmer climates: https://geni.us/RKrn We use this hanging jewellery organiser as a travel medications organiser: https://geni.us/8uILo2D Airfly allows Bluetooth headphones to connect to in-flight entertainment: https://geni.us/A7ytd
Ten Tips For First Time Visitors to New York
Arriving in Style: Whether you’re budget-conscious or seeking convenience, consider the LIRR from JFK for a seamless transit to midtown Manhattan. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) not only offers a fast ride—taking about 35 minutes to reach Penn Station—but also provides a comfortable and reliable option for travelers who want to avoid the stress of traffic. Make sure to check your train schedule ahead of time, as frequencies can vary. Once you arrive at Penn Station, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Manhattan, with easy access to the subway, buses, and a range of taxis that can take you to your final destination. Taxi Tales: Opting for a taxi? Remember, fixed fares from JFK to Manhattan ensure a smooth ride without the fare surprises of ride-shares. Taxis provide a classic New York experience as you cruise through the bustling streets, passing landmarks along the way. One of the perks of taking a taxi is the ability to easily transport luggage, which can be awkward on public transportation. Just keep an eye out for the yellow cabs, and be prepared to tip your driver as a courtesy for their service, typically around 15-20% of the fare, depending on the quality of the ride. Times Square Truths: Dive into the Times Square frenzy but beware, nothing comes free amidst the glitz and glamour. While the bright lights and the vibrant atmosphere are a must-see, be mindful of street performers who often expect tips for their shows. Additionally, many of the attractions in the area come with a hefty price tag, so it’s wise to plan your budget accordingly. Instead, consider visiting nearby spots like Bryant Park or the New York Public Library for a more relaxed experience, which offer plenty of photo opportunities without the chaos of Times Square. Navigating Crowds: Respect the New York hustle; avoid halting abruptly for photos and selfies to keep the pedestrian flow unhindered. New Yorkers are known for their fast-paced lifestyles, so when you’re walking in busy areas, stay to the right and keep moving whenever possible. If you want to take pictures, look for designated areas or quieter streets nearby where halting won’t disrupt the flow of foot traffic. This simple courtesy will make your visit more enjoyable and help you blend in with the local rhythm. Lodging Logistics: Midtown may be pricey; consider cozy apartments for longer stays or explore alternatives in downtown or Brooklyn. Platforms like Airbnb and other vacation rentals offer a more localised experience, where you can have access to kitchens and living space, making your trip more comfortable. Additionally, staying in neighbourhoods like Williamsburg or Park Slope in Brooklyn provides a chance to experience different cultures and local dining – plus, it’s only a subway ride away from the main attractions. We do stay in midtown, but our choice is not a hotel. We’ve been staying at the AKA Times Square since 2010 and it is ideal. As you would know, Mardi is neurodiverse and I am vision impaired. So a strategy we use is familiarity. Midtown and the AKA gives us that. It is very easy to navigate away from midtown using a number of subways stations nearby and it allows me to independently travel. Plus the AKA is just awesome. We’ve stayed with them in Washington DC as well and on our recent trip to London we stayed at the AKA Marylebone Check them out here. Check out my five tips on travelling with a vision impairment here. Feast Like a Local: You don’t need to eat at a sit down restaurant every night. New York is expensive. Skip pricey eateries and savour the city’s flavours at bodegas, delis, and food carts across Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. Each borough boasts its own culinary gems, and Queens, in particular, is known for its incredible diversity. From authentic ethnic cuisines to mouthwatering food trucks, exploring these casual dining options not only saves you money but also allows you to taste the true essence of New York City. Make sure to try iconic foods like bagels, pizza, and the famous halal carts for a truly local experience. Tipping Etiquette: Tips made simple—double the tax for a hassle-free dining experience and beware of pre-included gratuities. In addition to dining, remember that tipping is customary for various services, including hotel staff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. It’s a way to show appreciation for good service. For larger groups, always check your bill for any automatic gratuity fees, as some restaurants include it when you have a certain number of guests—a detail that can save you some confusion when calculating your total bill. Statue of Liberty Sneak Peek: Embrace the iconic symbol of freedom for free aboard the Staten Island Ferry—no tickets needed. This iconic orange ferry runs every 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty as it glides across New York Harbor. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride; it’s as much about the journey as the destination. While you won’t be able to step foot on Liberty Island without a ticket, you can still appreciate one of the most recognizable landmarks from the comfort of the ferry. Smart Subway Moves: Embrace convenience by paying for subway rides with your phone or watch, eliminating the hassle of metro cards. This modern feature allows you to easily tap your device at the turnstile, making it a time-efficient way to navigate the city. Familiarize yourself with subway maps and apps that can direct you on the quickest routes to your destinations. Additionally, remember to check for platform signs that indicate if your train is local or express, which can save you valuable travel time. Comfort First: Pack comfy shoes to seize every moment in the city that demands exploration on foot, uncovering hidden gems with every step. New York City is best experienced by walking, where the sights, sounds, and smells create an unforgettable atmosphere. Consider choosing
How to Step Away from the Crowds in New York
Today, we invite you to step away from the hustle and bustle of Times Square and delve into the authentic, lesser-known attractions that truly embody the spirit of New York City. So buckle up and get ready for an adventure that reveals the real NYC!
Top Five Travel Essentials for Long-Haul Flights
Picture this: You’re staring down the barrel of another long-haul flight. The dread creeps in, but fear not! I’ve got your back. With years of jet-setting under our belts (thanks, Australia, for being so far away from everywhere!), I’ve compiled the top five items to take on board with you to make your journey a breeze. Stick around till the end, because trust me, you don’t want to miss out on the game-changer waiting for you at number five! Welcome aboard the Linke Lifestyle Express! Buckle up, fellow travellers, as we take you on a whirlwind of travel experiences, insider tips, and a sprinkle of entertainment magic along the way. I’m Mardi, joined by my partner in crime, Michael, and together, we’re here to revolutionise your travel game! The Five Travel Essentials for Long-Haul Journeys Imagine this: a throbbing headache, a blocked nose, or aches and pains creeping in. It’s a nightmare! That’s why I always bring an emergency medication kit. My go-to lifesavers include: I keep these organised in handy zip lock bags for easy access and peace of mind. Why let minor discomfort ruin your flight? In the world of long-haul flights, hydration is your best friend. Whether the airline hands you a water bottle or not, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got your trusty companion by bringing your own reusable water bottle onboard. Stay refreshed, stay hydrated, and hey, it’s perfect for washing down those painkillers too! The secret to surviving the dry, recycled air of the cabin? Always have lip balm and a moisturiser! Keep your lips soft and your skin glowing with your portable arsenal. I recommend using a sample-sized bottle of moisturiser or transferring it into a tiny pot to save space while keeping your skin replenished throughout the flight. When the cabin feels like a sauna, you need a cool down companion! Beat the heat with your trusty handheld fan. Compact and USB-chargeable, this multitasking champ not only keeps you cool but also provides charging for your devices. Say goodbye to stuffy flights and hello to a breath of fresh air! In-flight entertainment is your savior for those endless hours, so say no to uncomfortable airline headphones and embrace the cozy comfort of your own over-ear headphones. I love my Bose QuietComfort headphones. Immerse yourself in your favorite movies or shows with their outstanding noise-canceling feature. For added convenience, consider pairing them with an AirFly for a seamless entertainment experience. Conclusion Thanks for journeying with us today! If you have your own go-to travel essentials, share them in the comments below. And hey, if you’ve enjoyed this adventure with us, hit that subscribe button and join our ever-growing travel tribe. Let’s spread our wings together and explore the world in style! Until next time, safe travels and happy adventures! Paracetamol/Acetaminophen Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4bpv7wB Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cLxZ82 Melatonin Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4elQz8u Amazon Australia: Not available Tylenol PM Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4b2Q0xw Amazon Australia: Not available Zyrtec Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4cLrgLm Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cLrgLm Chewable antacid tablets Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eJm9xd Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RSbHtg Little zip lock bags Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3XKxJ52 Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cGGJfK Collapsible water bottle Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eo3J4H Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3z2NnhY Lip balm Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3xK6SeT Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RPkagZ Moisturiser Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4cACQsO Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/45MNvOG Travel skincare pot Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RQoj48 Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4eEmi4S Handheld fan Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RsuVFD Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RrncYu Bose QuietComfort headphones Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RtxYgX Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3KJHOaH Airfly Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3xjl2Du Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4aYeW9q
Traveling with Low Vision: Five Essential Tips
Sometimes our eyesight lets us down. In my case, my vision has been a challenge since I was born. For over 50 years, I’ve experienced low vision, and through extensive worldwide travel and experience, I’ve developed five tips that have helped me navigate the world. I’m confident they can assist you as well. Is Traveling Difficult for You? Do you find it challenging to read departure and arrival boards at airports? Are the indicator boards at train stations and bus terminals hard to decipher? Have you struggled to locate a restaurant where you’re meeting a friend or arrived late for a sporting event or concert you’ve been eagerly anticipating? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then these five tips are for you. 1. Do Your Research Before heading to your destination, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research. Whether you’re traveling to Japan, New York, or somewhere in Europe, familiarise yourself with the area. Find out the locations of the shops, shows, or museums you want to visit, and understand the transportation options available. For instance, during my recent trip to Japan, I wanted to buy a quality Japanese knife for cooking. I researched knife shops in Tokyo and Kyoto to find a couple of promising options. I searched their websites, located their addresses, and explored public transport routes to get there from my hotel. I noted how long it would take and their opening hours. By doing this research, I was able to easily and stress-free get to the knife shop and purchase the knife I wanted. 2. Book Meet and Assist Services My second tip is to utilise “meet and assist” services, which many airlines and airports offer. Whenever I’m traveling to an unfamiliar airport, I always book this service, even at familiar ones. My wife, Mardi, is autistic, and mixed with low vision, airports can be overwhelming. Consider major international airports like Frankfurt, JFK, or Heathrow, which can be particularly confusing. The meet and assist service alleviates the stress by providing an escort from check-in to your gate or on to the aircraft. Upon arrival, they can guide you through immigration, customs, and baggage claim. For example, the Quant team took wonderful care of us in New York, making our experience easy and stress-free. 3. Pre-Book Tactile Tours The third tip is to plan ahead regarding experiences you want to enjoy, such as concerts or museum visits. Call or email ahead to inquire about accessibility features for individuals with low vision. Ask if they have audio guides, large print materials, or tactile experiences available. When I visited Lord’s Cricket Ground in St. John’s Wood, London, I had the opportunity to feel the grass and walk on the pitch because I reached out ahead of time. A similar experience occurred at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., where I sat in the cockpit of a space shuttle. Many venues are more than willing to provide assistance to people with disabilities when you simply ask. 4. Allocate Extra Time The fourth tip is to allocate extra time for your activities. As someone with low vision, I often find that things take longer than expected. Therefore, I make sure to build additional time into my schedule so that I don’t miss out on exhibits, experiences, or connecting transportation. For instance, when traveling from our hotel on 44th Street to a concert at 34th Street, Google indicates it’s a 12-minute walk. In reality, navigating large crowds, traffic lights, and locating concert hall entrances can extend this time significantly. By allowing 10 to 15 extra minutes in your itinerary, you reduce the chances of disappointment and give yourself flexibility to enjoy your surroundings even if you arrive a bit early. 5. Bring Your Accessibility Tools Finally, my fifth tip is to pack your accessibility tools. At home, I use various magnifiers, but on the road, I prefer more portable options. I carry handheld and pocket magnifiers to assist me while traveling, especially when I need to read a menu on a train or airplane. In addition, I always have a monocular handy to help me spot landmarks if I get lost. For example, if I find myself stuck in a grid like New York City and need to identify street signs, my monocular serves as a useful tool. I recommend visiting websites of vision agencies to discover accessible magnifiers that suit your needs and to pack several for your travels. Here’s my favourite: www.visionstore.com.au Bonus Tip: Don’t Underestimate the Cognitive Load of Travel Travel can add significant cognitive load, especially when navigating airports with low vision. It’s essential to be aware of the extra stress that comes with travel and to adopt at least one of these tips to reduce that burden. By preparing properly, you’re more likely to have enjoyable and rewarding travel experiences. I’ve travelled the world and enjoyed countless opportunities, many of which are enhanced by my commitment to preparation and accessibility. I’d love to hear your tips on traveling with low vision or any other disabilities. What strategies have you found effective in making your travels easier? Drop a comment below! Thank you for reading, and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more tips and insights from Linke Lifestyle. Safe travels!
Five things to avoid when flying long haul
Do you dread long-haul flying as much as we do? Living in Australia, we’ve had to endure our fair share of marathon flights. Trust me, traveling often means lots of long-haul flights. But over the years, we’ve picked up some crucial tips. Today, I’m going to share with you five things you should ALWAYS avoid on these journeys. Stick around for the most important one—number five—because you’ll definitely want to know about it! Long-haul flying can be tough—physically and mentally. And with airlines planning longer flights, like Qantas’s Project Sunrise starting in 2026, which is going to be over 19 hours without stopping, you need to be prepared. Last year, we flew nonstop from Auckland to New York—nearly 17 hours in the air. To survive these flights, here are five things you need to avoid: Dehydration The dry cabin air and high altitudes can quickly dehydrate you, causing fatigue, headaches, dry skin, and digestive issues. Not how anyone wants to feel on a long flight! To combat dehydration, drink plenty of water. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. I also keep Hydralyte sachets handy to replenish minerals and electrolytes. Skip the caffeine and alcohol as well as salty snacks—they’ll only dehydrate you more. And don’t forget your skin! Use hydrating facial mists or moisturisers to keep your skin feeling fresh! Stay hydrated, and you’ll arrive at your destination feeling so much better. Overeating Even though it’s tempting to indulge in all those in-flight meals and snacks, overeating can make a long-haul flight even more uncomfortable. Overeating causes bloating, indigestion, and discomfort, especially when confined to a plane seat. I’m prone to boredom eating, so this is a big one for me! Heavy meals can cause acid reflux and heartburn, and possibly even contribute to deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Stick to lighter, easily digestible meals and say no to excess snacks. If you suffer from acid reflux, keep chewable antacid tablets in your in-flight essentials. A heavy meal can also disrupt your sleep patterns, making it harder to relax and rest. To ensure a restful flight, avoid high-fat, heavy foods so your body can settle down. You might have seen in my video on “Five Tips to Make Long-Haul Flying More Comfortable” how crucial rest is—check it out here (point up with left hand)! Finally, avoid salty and sugary foods. Excess salt and sugar are often found in airline meals, as they add to dehydration, which I covered in the previous tip. So, be mindful of your food intake—it can make a significant difference in how you feel during and after the flight. Too much screen time Staring at screens for hours—whether it’s your phone, tablet, or the in-flight entertainment system—can strain your eyes, cause discomfort, headaches, and even blurred vision. To prevent this, take regular breaks and focus on distant objects to give your eyes a rest. Blue light from screens can mess with your sleep-wake cycle, so reduce screen time before bed and use blue light filters or night mode on your devices. Prolonged screen use can also lead to neck and shoulder pain. Maintain good posture and use a neck pillow for support. Too much screen time can cause mental fatigue as well. Give your brain a break with activities like reading a book, listening to music, or simply gazing out the window. Unless you have to work, don’t sign up for the in-flight Wi-Fi—treat your flight as a break from the world. By balancing screen time with other activities, your long-haul flight will be much more pleasant. UV exposure Did you know UV radiation is stronger at higher altitudes? On a flight, you’re closer to the sun and exposed to harmful UV rays. If you’re by the window, the sun can hit one side of your face and body. Applying sunscreen before your flight is crucial. Combine the dry cabin air with UV exposure, and your skin can suffer. Use a moisturising sunscreen to keep your skin hydrated and protected. And here’s my top beauty tip, which isn’t just for flying days: wearing sunscreen daily (even in winter) helps prevent premature aging—a much better investment than any expensive serum. I always use SPF50+, even in winter, because we have extremely harsh sun in Australia. So, when packing for a long-haul flight, include sunscreen in your essentials. Your skin will thank you! Too much time sitting in one position Sitting in one position for hours can really take a toll on your body. It increases the risk of developing DVT, a serious condition where blood clots form in your veins. Move around and do simple leg exercises while seated to improve circulation and reduce this risk. Prolonged sitting leads to muscle stiffness and discomfort, especially in your back, neck, legs, and shoulders. Regularly walking up and down the cabin or doing gentle stretches helps alleviate tension and keeps your muscles flexible. To prevent back pain, perform back stretches, adjust your seating posture, and use lumbar support. If you’re not given a pillow during the flight, roll up a hoodie for support. Incorporating movement and stretching not only addresses physical discomfort but also supports overall health and well-being. It boosts energy levels, reduces stress, and enhances your travel experience. Next time you’re on a long-haul flight, remember to avoid sitting still too long. Listen to your body and prioritise your comfort and health! Are you ready to take flight? Subscribe to our YouTube channel and our email newsletter for more travel insights and exciting content. Your support means the world to us as we embark on this journey together. Here’s to smooth skies and happy travels ahead! Hydralyte Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3zdwQaM Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4ehnF9H Collapsible water bottle Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eo3J4H Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3z2NnhY Hydrating facial mist Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eK2JIu Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/45QuR8D Chewable antacid tablets Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eJm9xd Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RSbHtg iPad Amazon US: https://amzn.to/45SAvan Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4653OqB iPhone Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4cpAbT9 Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cEw1Hf Samsung Phone Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eJqxMF Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cjQJf8 Galaxy Tablet Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RTP5ZE Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cqGlSO Kindle Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4bwTk46 Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/45Vz9fe Facial sunscreen Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4cN1Ddl Amazon
Five Ways to Make Long Haul Flying More Comfortable
Are you dreading your long-haul flight? Let’s face it, those endless hours in the air can be a real challenge. But fear not, because I’ve got five essential tips to help you say goodbye to discomfort on long flights, so you’ll feel first class! Stick around till the end because tip number five is an absolute game-changer. Picture this: you’re on a never-ending flight, feeling sick, tired, and anxious. Sounds familiar, right? Well, worry no more because I’ve cracked the code to stay refreshed and ready to conquer your destination. First things first, let’s talk clothing. Your outfit can make or break your comfort level during a long flight. No one wants to end up feeling like a hot mess at the end of the journey. I’ve got a fail-proof flying uniform strategy that ensures both style and comfort. Research is key – choose clothing that suits the weather at your departure and arrival locations. Layering up with a loose-fitting dress, leggings, a cardigan, and sometimes a long-sleeved t-shirt is my go-to formula. And always opt for familiar, comfy clothes to avoid any mid-flight wardrobe malfunctions or discomfort! I also take a pair of loose, lightweight tracky pants and a comfy t-shirt to change into on the plane, and a pair of thongs – flip flops not underwear – or hotel slippers to slip into when leaving my seat. Next up, it’s all about entertainment. Flying can be stressful for many, including myself. To unwind and relax, bring along your favourite distractions! Obviously, having a massage or a warm bath isn’t going to be possible! Whether it’s diving into a good book, indulging in some soothing music, or binge-watching your preferred streaming series, make sure you have your entertainment essentials ready to soothe your nerves. Now, let’s tackle the sleep factor. A good rest during the flight is crucial for a smooth journey. Set the stage for sleep by staying comfy, cool, and well-hydrated. Establish a pre-sleep routine with light skincare, layered comfortable clothing, and perhaps some gentle sleep aids if needed. Remember, a well-rested traveller is a happy traveller. If I don’t sleep, I not only end up tired and cranky – watch out Michael – but I also feel nauseated, anxious, and hung over– and that’s without even having the fun of drinking the alcohol! Hydration is key! Keep yourself hydrated throughout the flight to feel fresh, cool, and energized. Ditch the alcohol for a while and opt for hydrating fluids to keep your skin and body in top shape. Some airlines will have a bottle of water at your seat when you board. If your airline doesn’t provide a bottle, make sure you take on your own bottle that you can get them to fill. Last but not least, seat selection matters. Choose your seat wisely based on your preferences and needs. Whether you crave extra legroom or crave peace and quiet, find the perfect spot that complements your style of travel. If you haven’t flown on this airline or type of plane before try googling “best whichever-class-you-are-in seat on airline aircraft”. You might find discussion boards or Reddit threads that can help you find that great seat the airlines don’t tell you about! Utilise tools like Seat Guru to score the best seat in the house and breeze through your flight with ease. I’ll put a link in the description below. It will tell you the nitty gritty details of the seats on your plane! So there you have it – five essential strategies to elevate your long-haul flight experience. Thank you for tuning in! If you found these tips helpful or have some of your own to share, drop a comment below. Get ready to transform your next long-haul trip into a comfortable and unforgettable adventure! Ready to take flight? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more travel insights and exciting content. Your support means the world to us as we embark on this journey together. Here’s to smooth skies and happy travels ahead! Stay tuned for more in our long-haul flying series. Bye for now! 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Nine amazing hotel room hacks
Do you find it hard to settle into a hotel room, even though you love to travel? I’ve stayed in many hotels over the years, and I have some tips and tricks to make you feel more at home. Even if you are one of those people that lives out of a suitcase, I think you’ll find something interesting here. Stay tuned to the end when I’ll give you my best hack for making your hotel room feel like home – a warning though, it’s controversial! I love my home and I love spending time there, where I have everything the way I like it. But I also love to travel and when I first started, I always felt a bit unsettled and on edge. So how do I now travel without that anxiety? One thing I’ve realised is that I need to hack my hotel room to make it more like home. I’m not talking scented candles or photos of my pets; this is about how I live in that room as if it is my home. Set up I feel best when there’s a place for everything, and everything is in its place. When I first arrive in my hotel room, before I even start unpacking, I look for places to set up stations. The stations I set up are: Having these makes me feel organised, in control, and I don’t have to hunt around for a well-lit spot for makeup, or to find my phone or rings. Organisation I like to keep small items sorted out and kept together. I bring small foldable trays to keep things together. I have two travel trays that are flat but use press studs to form trays. I always take the small one no matter how short the trip – its flat and smaller than my makeup mirror so I keep it slipped inside the protective bag for the mirror (along with the mirror’s charging cable!) I use this either for things on my bedside table or my jewellery when I take it off, depending on which needs it most. The other tray is larger, and I only take it on longer trips – say a week or more. I either use it in the bathroom to hold all those little bottles I’ve decanted skincare products into, or perhaps snacks that we have in our room. Snacks and drinks Make it a priority to buy some snacks and drinks. Having something in the room to nibble on when you return from a busy day out makes you feel more at home. Michael and I love to drink sparkling water and I always have a bottle by my bed to drink during the night. Depending on the length of our stay we also buy some packets of chips or chocolate. Just don’t overdo your purchasing so you end up having to take it all home with you! Suction hooks Some things need to be hung up in the bathroom! I have my shampoo bar, which I keep in a mesh bag that needs to hang up in the shower. I use suction hooks for this. I bought my hooks from Muji years ago, but you can get them in hardware shops or Amazon. Travelling pharmacy I wasn’t a boy scout (well obviously) but I like to be prepared, so I always have a range of medication and other health or comfort items. There’re painkillers – paracetamol and ibuprofen – antacid tablets, hay fever tablets, decongestant spray, diarrhea medication, hydrolyte, motion sickness pills, band aids, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, you name it, if you can buy it over the counter in a chemist shop, I pack it. I used to stuff it all in a toiletry bag, but I’d have to dig through when I needed something and of course, that’s always in the middle of the night when I don’t want to turn the light on and wake Michael! So now I have a hanging jewellery organiser and I put each product in different pockets. I hang it in the wardrobe, or on a suction hook, or even behind the bathroom door. Get ready to go out I always designate a spot for anything that might be needed to leave the room for the day. My handbag, sunglasses, umbrellas, keys, hand sanitiser, folding shopping bag – I don’t want to be running around as we are trying to leave gathering my stuff. Bedtime routine I replicate my going to bed routine. I don’t know about you but sleeping in a strange place can be tough. When I’m at home I have a certain routine – clean my teeth, wash my face if I haven’t done it earlier, take my medication, use a pillow spray, put on lip balm and hand cream, read for a little while then put on some going to sleep sounds. When I am travelling, I bring the products that I need to replicate this. Now, I’m going to have my toothbrush and skincare with me but I also bring a small pillow spray, and an extra lip balm and some hand cream I can leave by the bed so I don’t have to go and dig them out from somewhere else. For the sleep sounds I use an app on my iPad called Pzizz. I use this at home and since my bedtime reading is always done on my iPad, I can use it while travelling too. Small luxuries We like to travel light, but if I’m going to be away from home for more than, say, ten days I make sure I have some room to pack a couple of extra things that bring me home comfort. I like my tea HOT but I drink it slowly. At home I have an Ember mug, which I love, and I have been known to pack it for long trips where we won’t be staying in more than one hotel. For other trips I have an insulated mug.
