38 Travel Hacks (That Will Save You So Much Money)

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Click here for links and to watch this video if you will be flying THIS SUMMER: bit.ly/2023SummerUpdates Tap here for travel essentials for 2023: bit.ly/TravelMustHaves2023Amazon bit.ly/AntiTheftGadgets Jet lag tips for 2023: bit.ly/LongFlightNOJetLag These are from my hacks: Green shirt: bit.ly/3yuyZv9 Pink beauty blender: amzn.to/40O65mm My shirt: bit.ly/MyTravelShirts Liquids bag: amzn.to/3KJF65K New tall liquids bag that opens really wide: amzn.to/3ZQTwWg My earrings: amzn.to/408p8qB Curling iron: amzn.to/3KJl23z Curling iron case: bit.ly/3UkOCiY Blue carry-on suitcase: amzn.to/3Kpz1KF Gray backpack size 15.6: amzn.to/3zNQya8 Shampoo containers: amzn.to/3KFUMXL New blush pink supportive shoes: New down jacket: amzn.to/3MpzEGD Plaid shirt: amzn.to/3mdP3iH Red vest old Star sweater: Rails brand Phone prop for tray table: amzn.to/3mdP3iH Cord travel case: amzn.to/3ZVHfQh Bedside tray for jewelry: amzn.to/3nYRQg9 Beach bag: amzn.to/3mqQgD7 New beach tote: amzn.to/3MsRmsT (similar) Shoe soles: amzn.to/3zFVcXQ Sock with hidden pocket: amzn.to/3KFVILL

[@livingweirdestherc6644]

Awesome thanks for the info

[@Macty]

😂

[@phoenixexploration3301.1]

In regards to the opening of the dressing, use your fork and poke a hole in the foil lid.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yep but pointed away from you...@@phoenixexploration3301.1

[@grizzlygrizzle]

Having an empty ziplock bag handy can be a clear container into which to empty your pockets before you get to the head of the line.

[@brenharwood7736]

Travel hack: I always bring a gallon sized ziploc bag with me and put it in the seat back in front of me. I can store my items in it during the flight and they don't get germs on them. Plus I never forget any items since they are all in the bag. Thanks for your tips! ❤

[@shellykzookzoo5922]

I have my essentials in a men’s shaving kit bag. I can keep it in the seat next to me. The last airline I flew did not allow anything to hang from the seat backs.

[@viridian4573]

You don't hang the Ziploc from the seat back you tuck the gallon size Ziploc INTO the seat back pocket to create a liner pocket so your things don't have to touch the seat back pocket itself. People put their garbage, used tissues, diapers and air sick bags into seat back pockets and it's a space airlines very rarely if ever clean.

[@misscarmen491]

Good idea to use the Gallon bag for front seat pocket!

[@jworth7203]

I just saw that idea on a video before my last trip. Put my kindle and iPad in it. Made it easy grabbing them out for security also. Loved it!

[@margodellicarpini3541]

Same!

[@acgallan]

These are great travel hacks, especially the ironing board hack!. One travel hack that I use when flying is to always wear a hoodie. The hoodie allows me to keep my hair protected from the back of the seat/headrest area. Also, when I am ready to sleep or relax, I put the travel pillow around my neck and pull up my hoodie to keep it in place. I can also pull the top of the hood over my eyes to double as an eye mask. I never travel without a hoodie anymore.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

LOVE that hack!

[@barbaralienhard3490]

What a great idea!!!

[@clairedriscoll8628]

Keep your neck warm as well On the flight

[@cherylphilipsz3835]

I've been known to wear one backwards to keep the light out of my eyes so I can sleep!

[@danandkiko]

Yes, I cover my eyes with my hoodie even at home! It helps.

[@ktfaye]

I only recently discovered this channel and I've been catching up on older videos. I just wanted to say that what I REALLY appreciate is that you get right to it and move along quickly. Yes, a brief intro is necessary, especially for new viewers - but SO many content providers will then spend the first 10 minute of a 20 minute video telling me what they are going to tell me about, before they get around to telling me about it. thank you.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yay!

[@EmmaDee]

Couldn’t agree more!! WTH is wrong with people, common sense has gone out the window

[@CIDteenie]

Agreed!

[@bettyparker3317]

Huge second! Been binging on these, with trips coming up. I’m pretty good with a carry-on, but always room for improvement-and these days you need so much just on the plane. But to the subject-all the cutesy chat and posing in so many videos means “big fail” for me. I move on fast. These are short and to the point👍 The info is presented quick and easy, which is what I want when ISO information.

[@war-painter]

I appreciate the seasoned comments and experience behind your suggestions. Many young KZbinrs have not had the requisite knowledge of travel and it’s PAINFULLY obvious! Some of us have been traveling for years…..getting advice from greenhorns is laughable…..they really have no clue and wonder why their stuff gets stolen…..

[@stephb3321]

Thank you for the info on those hotel security locks. I was thinking of buying one for our trip to NYC. I may reconsider now. Also, you mentioned about taking a picture of your hotel in case you get lost. Something my husband had done when he travels overseas (and is in a country where you can’t fumble your way through their language, like Japan): he will pick up a hotel business card at the front desk and bring it with him, so if he’s trying to get back to the hotel, he can just show the card to the taxi driver.

[@mariegarside8830]

Also take a picture of your rental car license plate. Makes locating your rental car in parking lots.

[@Linzi1947]

I went shopping once (after the third hotel nite) and simply FORGOT which darn hotel we were in that night! Seriously CRAZY!!! But it happens!!! Great tips

[@femailler22]

I have a few of the security locks that are plastic - very tough and very light, although otherwise similar to the ones shown in the video. If I were traveling alone in another country, I'd take one for sure.

[@lizrohena9391]

Does anyone know if those hotel security portable door locks are TSA approved? I have one and I'm traveling with a carry on bag but its not detailef on their "can I bring?" list.

[@BarbaraWall-ln9db]

We were in York, England when my friend fell in our hotel room. In the way out of the hotel to the ambulance, I grabbed the hotel business card. All our hotel and travel information was packed in our carryon bag. Would have had no idea, how to get back to our hotel.

[@viridian4573]

You can reuse the square plastic flip top dental floss containers from Oral-B. When you have used all the floss the spool compartment just pulls open like a clam shell. The little metal floss cutter is easy to remove.. You are left with a little plastic case that can be used to store a sorts of small items. Earrings , a few pills, a tiny sewing kit (needle, thread, spare buttons, safety pins), ear plugs, etc.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thanks so much! Love that hack.

[@denisescull4227]

I take photos with my phone of the front and back of my debit/credit cards, driver's license and passport. I email them to myself so if I lose them or they're stolen, I will have the info I need to cancel the cards and get home if I'm out of the country or need my id to get on the plane

[@texasgoddess323]

Instead of wearing and then throwing away good socks (when wearing sandals in the security line) I suggest wearing disposable shower caps on your feet, 50 for $6, plus they don’t weigh anything! And you can put your shoes in them in your suitcase. Thank you for the great tips, Laurie!❤

[@Dracomies]

My god that is genius!! I am buying some and I don't even use shower caps.

[@rebellajm]

There are blue disposable non-plastic (thus non-slippery) shoe covers that drs& nurses wear as well as painters. Dollar tree carries in the hardware section.

[@femailler22]

Although going barefoot in public places makes some people uncomfortable, your chances of actually getting any kind of illness from having bare feet for the short time on dry floor in a TSA line is pretty minimal, unless you have your hands all over the soles of your feet, and you don't wash your hands. Getting a fungal infection is a possibility, but also pretty slim, as fungi like the damp (showers in the locker room at the gym, or around a pool, for instance). So if I don't wear socks, I don't take anything extra along to cover my feet - just wash my hands once through the line. :)

[@chris...9497]

Anyone remember 'Peds'? It's those tiny foot hosiery you find at shoe stores to put a barrier between your bare feet and a shoe you're trying on. Next time you're shoe shopping, grab a couple pair. Then, slip those on your feet or socks as your shoes go through. After, toss them in a ziploc and wash them in the bathroom sink at your destination lodging.

[@texasgoddess323]

@@Dracomies Thank you! I keep them in the side pockets of my carryon backpack!🌻

[@dena-mo118]

At Dollar Tree I picked up a small bowl (same size as a product lid) from the pets area designated to give a pet some water. I love it because it collapses, and it's a bright yellow color. I use that to place jewelry or small items I might miss on a counter or table.

[@reallyrho1101]

What a great tip!

[@carolynmatthews9632]

Ooh, that's a good one

[@jodipetry5428]

Five below has a collapsible pet bowl that is just a little better quality to stand up better. I put my glasses in it at night

[@daniellecomeau2996]

I also pack a doorstop wedge and put it under the room door from the inside for extra security. Works for many situations.

[@DoReMeaCulpa]

I always pack a bandana or two, depending how long i will be away, because it is cheap, easy to get or replace at a dollar store, and has multiple uses: -tie it around the handle of your luggage or backpack as an identifier. You can even use it to tether other items to the bag. -tie the ends together and you have a small bag - great for coralling a bunch of loose items. - use as a mini tablecloth, as a napkin, or to dry your hands if no towel available. It is super easy to wash and dry later. -wet it with cold water and place around your neck, temples or even wrist (pulse points) to help you cool off on a hot day. Or use warm or hot water if heat is what you need, say for an injury. -tie each corner in a knot to make a makeshift hat. May not be fashionable, but would do in a pinch if a head covering is required or just to keep the sun off your head. I also never travel without a merino wool top, wool socks or footlets, and a thin/lightweight wool or wool blend pashmina that scrunches up small. Nothing keeps me as cozy as merino wool, as it regulates body temperature, is warm even when wet, and does not get smelly. ( Mind you, I don't travel to tropical locations where i might not need the wool to keep me warm.) Also, re the hot curling iron, i think a wool sock or piece of wool felt is a better option, as wool will not melt or scorch. In fact, wool can suppress flame.

[@dorothyyoung8231]

I wear shorts in summer. I put my bandana on vinyl seats so I don’t stick to them.

[@arlenekrause7115]

Love these ideas of things to do with a bandana!

[@mamanothing9506]

Fab video! I always bring a used plastic gift card as some international hotels (Ireland for sure) have you use your hotel key card to turn on the electricity, and you have to leave it in the slot for power. Instead, I put my old plastic gift card in the slot and leave it in. When returning to room especially at night you just flick on the room's main light switch instead of feeling around in the dark for the electricity slot! I only take my used gift card out when leaving hotel room for the hotel's housekeeping.

[@barbaralienhard3490]

What a great idea!! I live on a boat and we use our used gift cards to scrape barnacles off the boat bottom. Love hearing ideas for used gift cards!!!

[@janelacher9234]

That is a great idea!!

[@lynnbrady4193]

Great idea!

[@kristinam8309]

Now THAT is a wonderful idea! 👍

[@margolawnerd2776]

Living in the north with lots of snow and ice, we use old gift cards to scrape window ice off - works much faster than commercial scrapers!

[@tray2811]

I take a foldable, reusable grocery bag- when I’m at the airport (before I get in the security line) I take out my iPad, liquids pouch etc and put in the bag, take off my belt and put that in the bag. When I get to the trays I then put the stuff in there that needs to go in that I’ve already sorted and leave the rest in the bag in a tray. That way I’m not holding up the queue looking for things, I know where the things I took off are etc. Then when I’m gathering my stuff to repack I can put the loose items back into the bag until I’m clear of the tray area so I can repack properly, double check I have everything before I leave the security area and I have a grocery bag for on my trip that fits in the palm of my hand when it’s folded up. I get mine from the £1 shop - equivalent to Dollar Tree etc

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

That is such a great way to explain how to get organized after. Yes such great ideas!

[@SuzMcDonaldWellbeing]

Love this idea. I will definitely start doing this. Thank you.

[@suzan1mal]

Brilliant idea! I’ll try that on my next trip

[@margaretgreene1929]

👍 queue. From a fellow Brit now in 'exile'

[@carolbaerlein9209]

I have taken a roll of doggie poop bags to hold individual shoes and wet umbrellas. Thank you Lori for your fantastic tips and cheery presentation.

[@sherryschumacher1881]

Those bags are also good to have on the plane to put your trash in.

[@liss2503]

Yes. I like to have a bag for my personal trash on the plane. It’s better than stuffing in the seat back or holding it till someone comes around to take it. The doggie bag rolls are great for that.

[@jhawkins1411]

That is brilliant!!

[@fg12]

I love this tip. I will definitely use this.

[@barbaramanning337]

I use the gallon size ziplock bags as packing cubes. They easily zip closed and lie flat in my suitcase.I also use cheap trays from the dollar store when I travel to Disney-especially in Epcot. Often during the festivals, there are no outdoor tables left. With the trays, we can carry the food on the tray and then use as a lap tray. The trays fit easily in my backpack and are washable. Love your vlog and the great travel hack ideas-thank you!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Great tip!

[@rebellajm]

There are also 2 g allon size Ziplock. Dollar Tree also carries one that are not as thick. I have used my sealameal to compress & seal these.

[@eileenstickney80]

I am put the do not disturb sign caught into the door if I leave the room. This way if it if moved I know someone entered the room.

[@ashlyeg5034]

I have a sea to summit 20L dry bag that rolls up to the size of a flat ruler. I use it to wash socks, underwear, bras, etc. I put the clothes in the bag, add hot water and a small amount of liquid laundry detergent, seal the top of the bag, shake vigorously, and let soak 15+ min. You can also rub the clothes together inside the bag. Pour out the dirty water, and rinse with clean water a few times repeating the shake method. It’s like a mini washing machine, it worked beautifully. You can even hold a blow dryer at the opening of the bag to simulate a dryer. Be careful not to melt the bag with hot air. I pulled the opening of the bag around the dryer, turned on low heat, and shook the bag to speed up the drying process. When it’s time to go home, you can use that bag for wet swimsuits, dirty laundry, or even shoes. I wish I remembered where I saw this tip, but it has been life-changing; especially since I only bring a carry-on and personal item - no checked bags. ✈️🧼🚿🧳🎒👍🏻❤️

[@war-painter]

Wow. Time to buy a new one. My diver hubbie says his dry bag is thrashed, but they sell them everywhere. Such a great idea as sink stoppers are a hassle to drag around and don’t always fit the little sinks on ships. 20L DRY BAG is much more packable and convenient. Dry laundry powder better than liquid, although I usually use hotel shampoo. Or one of my ziplocks.

[@barbarast.dennis7073]

In most cases the hotel sink or cottage bucket will do as well, if slower. One less thing.

[@monainsandiego]

The 2 gal zip lock bags work pretty well as handwashing bags.

[@mjharris5999]

Hi Laurie. Love your channel. Here’s a tip so you don’t have to touch that nasty TSA floor when removing your shoes: the $ store has plastic foot booties in the home repair section of the store. We picked up a box of those for our upcoming cruise to Alaska. Thanks ❤for your stress free ideas; we are set!

[@SLynnEasler-Weald]

Trying to visualize what you mean. Do you take off your show to put in the bin and at the same time slip on the plastic foot booty? Then proceed thru the TSA check area wearing the plastic booties? Thanks

[@mjharris5999]

@@SLynnEasler-Weald yes

[@nicunurse03]

If you have a friend who works in the hospital, the floor where the Operating Rooms are will have booties to cover people’s shoes, you can slide those on, and the disposable bouffant hats are great for storing your shoes in your suitcase!

[@suzan1mal]

I bring an extra pair of socks and put them on my socked feet. Then, I go through the line and take them off, but put dirty side to dirty side and fold it inside out.

[@jocelynwashere7993]

I have severe flight anxiety. Watching your channel has really helped!! I had my flight this morning and was able to get through it fairly well. Thanks for all you do 🥰

[@heleneg525]

So glad that everything went well!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh my WORD! I am so happy for you!!!

[@stephb3321]

Good for you! I know flying anxiety is a real thing. That’s a huge accomplishment. 👍

[@imogenoliver]

I’m glad it went well ☺️

[@WAG24205]

I am the same way, so I can relate! And I fly so frequently. It is awful!!

[@obragg1]

A tip I learned (and used) recently to dry items quickly: place the item in the corner of the vanity and aim the hair dryer into the corner. It might not get totally dry, but it will speed up the process.

[@nitahandorf1547]

Definitely enjoyed reading your Travel Hacks and learned so much. Last September went to Italy for three weeks, I only took a carryon suitcase, just got back from Australia for almost three weeks, same thing only carryon suitcase. I’m so proud for being a pro traveler packer now.

[@misscarmen491]

Dear Laurie, Thank You for all you do/share to make travel easier. Just came back to CA from Philadelphia and your tips are wonderful especially regarding shoes. Also, as a nervous traveler being prepared and not over packing really eased the stress. I shopped your links and storefronts and was ready for anything. Was more confident going through TSA and boarding then ever before. I so appreciate your teachings, tips and tricks and the laughter. Thank you again.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yay I am thrilled for you that the tips helped.

[@myrall1]

One thing I have learned is instead of writing down the address of the hotel that you’re in simply take a business card from the front desk. That way or take two or three that way you can present it to the Uber Driver or Taxi driver or however you need to.

[@tammyporter7760]

Yes I have done that. However I do like taking a picture of the hotel in case you lose the card

[@monainsandiego]

Husband’s wallet was lifted at the Acadamia in Florence. He got everything back but the cash as it had been dumped into the trashcan at the university by the museum. The janitor called the number on the ‘hotel’s card’ so we raced back. Whew!! So yes keep the hotel card in your wallet.

[@summerlyric506]

Really like the bright cap for important items. We always sit our cards down and take a minute to find it. Love how you got straight into the video.

[@booksnbeaches7075]

-Make your own single use soap flakes by using a potatoes peeler on your favorite bar of soap. -bring a sarong (preferably one with no fringes). Can use as a blanket on plane, shawl, bathing suit cover up, towel that dries fast, skirt, sheet, etc. So handy for so many things. -bring small Silicone muffin holders. Can use to put jewellery in at hotel. Can use is a snack box to keep food separate . -sew a carabiner into the top inside of your day bag. Hook your valuables into the carabiner. If someone slits the bottom of your bag, they won't get the prime stuff falling out.

[@debbieworth7865]

I liked what you said about putting tape on the suitcase. What I do is get a bright color of ribbon on my handle. Tie it up in a large now, orange and purple are good choices. When my late husband and I went on a cruise for our honeymoon, I did this and we found out luggage so quickly and then got a cab to get to the airport to fly from Miami to Raleigh. Those bright ribbons were so easy to see, remember Large bows!!!!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I love that hack. I hope you are still traveling!

[@rrrosecarbinela]

Another thing you can do is sew a velcro strip onto a dollar store pot-holder to make a wrap for your handle. find the most colorful pot holder you can find!

[@brendastewart2039]

I always pack a night light to use in the bathroom at night. Some hotel rooms the light and fan are on one switch in the bathroom. This way if I do have to get up at night I can see my way around an unfamiliar room.

[@luvscifi408]

Ziploc bags in all sizes are great. The large size an be used as a compression bag, smaller size can be used for snacks and small items like ear buds, as extra protection for items that might leak etc. I use rubber bands to keep my cords neat. I use grocery bags (the kind from the produce section) for shoes. They take up less room and I always have a ton of them. I always stuff my shoes with socks.

[@maryfrances93]

A tip that always saves me money is I buy my flight snacks at dollar tree. It gets me excited for my trip!

[@user-jv5pp8pv9l]

I do this too. Especially for my son. I can have a huge variety for him and if he doesn't like something, I'm not going broke over it.

[@jenharvey3397]

Watching this again Laurie (I usually watch your videos several times), and I remembered your tip about 'throwaway' socks. Not everyone has socks they want to throw away, but whenever you go into a shoe store, they have boxes of stocking toes for trying on barefoot shoes. Stick a couple of those in your pocket, and cover your socks with them before going through security. Then throw away before putting your shoes back on. Personally, I never wear shoes without socks to fly, both for hygienic and comfort reasons.

[@moiraw1111]

I am thinking of using the hospital socks I've collected! Too bright to wear normally :)

[@SilviaRodríguez-z8v]

🎉I have a stay home like roll on shoes that are the 15:57 sole and a knit top that I put over my socks and also work to use at the hotel room

[@cherylkern3288]

I always put an empty shopping bag in my carry-on in case they make me check the carry-on. This happened to me last month, so I was able to put my laptop & some other items into the shopping bag, which went into the cabin with me.

[@rrrosecarbinela]

Same, only with a packable kid's backpack. it's a little sturdier and doesn't take up too much room.

[@texasgoddess323]

I put a box of high protein breakfast bars in my carryon backpack just in case I don’t have time to eat and to give to weary travelers who are in a hurry and haven’t eaten. I gave a couple of bars to a frustrated mom and her child. I’m sure it made the biggest difference.🌻

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

So sweet

[@cherylphilipsz3835]

I always travel with a pair of scissors, a reel of Sellotape, and a few rubber bands because you can never find them when you need them! Disposable shower caps are great for packing shoes to avoid the soles touching your clean clothes etc. I also take a clothes line for drying wet swimwear or handwashed undies. One version is an elastic cord with attached clips, the other is like an octopus with pegs on the end of its arms. They take up very little space in my luggage, but are so handy. Detergent sheets that you use in washing machines are easier to pack than liquid versions. You can tear one sheet into smaller strips if you're washing just a couple of items in your bath or washbasin.

[@jen5900]

I pack the braided cord from the $ store. Can use it for a clothes line and other uses. Plus its very light.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thanks for sharing your hacks

[@maguiwallace8078]

Just a hack- I use hair ties from the Dollar Store, like 20 /$1.00, to keep the cords of chargers, hair drier, flat iron organized.

[@carlajones6616]

I use those for phone charger, I use empty toilet paper rolls for curling irons and blow dryer

[@elizabethcanton9171]

For salad dressing and sauces, another trick is to pierce the top with your fork to release the pressure prior to opening it.

[@war-painter]

The reason I like you Laurie, is that a lot of these tried and true travel hacks are ones that I’ve discovered from years of foreign travel adventures (and advice from my Mom’s mountain travel hiking from all over the world). When it’s something that I learned that’s tried and true from years of wise experience, it gives me trust in ALL your advice. Experienced travelers are the ones to learn from, ladies. Onward and UPWARD! 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇺🇸

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hear ya; and I have tried them and made mistakes for years!!

[@wandrousvindella716]

Great vlog ! The round flat cotton pads have been a game changer for me. Kept an original round container from my "take the day off" liquid, packed the pads in & poured the cleaner over them. The freebie samples are perfect for flights, with cotton balls stuffed into the liquid. Fun video and look forward to the next one ~

[@eileenbain5692]

Brilliant hack, thanks

[@kotadawndragon]

If I’ve found some goodies that are too big or heavy for my suitcase, I like to mail them home or to the intended recipient from wherever I’m at. It’s often cheaper than fees at the airport, and if packed well you don’t have to worry about damage quite so much. Sometimes the store you buy the items at will even pack them up and ship them for you. Sure it might cost a little more, but it saves you having to schlep the heavy(ier) bag or having baggage handlers treat it like a football.

[@jamiekernc9925]

Same. I plan on shipping anything extra purchased. If the items allow, I ship home clothing from my bag. Flat rate shipping is my favorite 🙌🏻

[@jimhouck7829]

I do the same.

[@sandyk521]

The last time we stayed in a rental house, we were really short on storage space. I bought a shoe organizer that hangs over the door. Only cost about $10, and it held tons of stuff! Shoes, hair ties, toys, medicine, etc. I brought it home and stuck it in the attic for our next trip!

[@lifewithgrandmabev]

Even though I’ve been a traveler for umpteen years, I always learn something from your videos. It pays to compare with each other.

[@lindatreggett2604]

Lauri, a friend of mine gave me this tip. For the shower for non slip, use a hand towel as a mat in the shower.

[@annmodzelewski9902]

I just started watching your videos, so far I really like them! I wish you would do a video on healthy eating in the airport...

[@rubypoulson]

I always pack a pencil with duct tape/masking tape wrapped onto it justincase. In Paris our towel bar would not stay in place so I used some duct tape to hold it in place. It can be used as a suitcase repair if it gets torn etc.

[@vcjtx]

I take duct tape wrapped around an old gift card. Same idea.

[@lynnbrady4193]

Hobby Lobby (and probably other craft stores) sell duct tape in rolls about the size of Scotch tape. I always carry one.

[@susanwexler6983]

Inflatable travel hangers are great! They separate the front and back of the clothing so they dry quickly.

[@jillwolters6956]

I've never heard of those! Have to go Look them up!

[@TheWanderingWife]

Clip on earrings are also great for dressing up your shoes!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Awesome hack!

[@TheWanderingWife]

I used an old plastic gift card and wrapped several feet of duck tape around it. It’s good to have on hand for so many things, including the time my suitcase broke right before we came home. I taped it up and it made it home!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes, I have shared your hack a few times!

[@denise3587]

I wrap it around a pencil

[@rembrandt4th]

Laurie, you are not only helpful but you are fun to watch!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Wow thanks so much!

[@alisong2328]

I take a small book light with me. It comes in handy on planes as the overhead light doesn't always illuminate what I want it to. It's useful in hotel rooms - especially if you're with another person who you don't want to wake up if you need to get up in the night. I don't like having to disconnect my phone from the charger just to use it as a flashlight.

[@teresaforsyth6185]

Yes, , for me, it's always decent, but cheap, flashlight. 8:04 Perfect in my tiny airplane seat bag, but since 9/11/01, my phobia of trauma and being in the dark and unable to help myself find available resources right at my fingertips simply because it's too dark to see.

[@ruthresetar5940]

Love the suction cup idea! There are never enough places to hang swim suits or wet beach towels.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes a classic hack especially when camping or swimming

[@LadyCatherine538]

I use balloons, long skinny ones made for making animals, in all sorts of ways. They make great hangers for drying wet clothes. I partially inflate three for a DIY neck pillow in flight. Of course they can be used to entertain children at the hotel. Very versatile and dirt cheap.

[@pamw8102]

You can stick blue painters tape to itself and it unsticks easily, it works great to cover up lights (you have to double it sometimes). You can also unplug some appliances if you need to. Thanks for all the great tips, Laurie!

[@clairedriscoll8628]

I always wear an eye mask I know it's not for everybody but nothing wakes you up together with silicone earplugs

[@kyiapreziuso]

Electrical tape is great for that, and the roll is small

[@juliabuddle7927]

I use the net bags you use in your washing machine to protect delicates to pack my underwear, bras and socks to pack in my checked luggage. Firstly it keeps them all together and easy to find and secondly you can then squish the bags into corners and awkward spaces. You can also use them in your carry on for your emergency change of underwear, t shirt etc in case your checked baggage gets lost.

[@maryannpeace2133]

Me too!

[@chris...9497]

I don't need to be taking a pillow case (though that's a great tip), because I will be taking along one of those long fine-woven cotton scarves as a cold weather neck scarf and a plush jacket. My intent is to compact the soft jacket in the scarf by wrapping it. THAT will be my flight pillow. I try to take care to place identifying tape on any new bit of tech that has a cord of any kind. You can buy small rolls of vinyl tape in packs of solid color (red/green/yellow/blue/white). I fold a piece over the power source end of the cord such that it creates a little flag, then I cut a half-inch piece I place on the device, and finally (if I'm using a hub) I cut a qtr-inch piece to stick above where I usually insert the connector for power/charging. All I have to do is match up the coordinating colors. Also good to write on the cord 'flag' what device the cord goes to. I'm very minimal when it comes to jewelry, but lately I've been adding to my kitchen gadgets... Funnels now come in silicone in bright colors: yellow, red, dayglo green, etc. You can invert the funnel to make a bowl while allowing the spout to point up and out. This provides a bowl to put your watch, bracelet, necklace and earrings in while also allowing you to place your ring on the spout. And for those with an electric kettle or coffeemaker in the room among with a small dorm fridge, you can make concentrated coffee or tea and use the funnel to pour beverage and water into an empty soda bottle to chill. I'm planning a trip this spring with a five-night stay. I'm flying United - Basic Economy, so I have to be careful with packing. I'm going alone to a mostly rural area (so nearly no public transportation and very limited taxi service), and I don't drive. I've scoped out the area, and I've made reservations at a hotel with a very reasonable price. The accommodations include an in-room 'kitchenette' (dorm-size fridge, microwave, and electric kettle). I plan to take another hotel's complimentary shuttle to their facility (the driver still has to make that round, plus he'll love the extra tip) which is located 1/3-mile from a Target, where I will purchase single-use supplies, thus saving me space in my 'personal item' backpack. I can also pick up food and supplies for lunch and dinner. My hotel furnishes complimentary breakfast and has already ok'd my taking breakfast up to my room, so I'm seeing possibilities of sandwiches and stocking up on muffins and hardboiled eggs. I can see myself snacking on Target celery sticks and the hotel's peanut butter or cream cheese. I can snack on hummus and grape tomatoes from Target. I'm seriously thinking I may make microwave pizzas from mini naan, Classico pizza sauce, and shredded pizza-blend cheese from Target and spice it with herbs from home. I may also get 3 or 4 frozen entrees that should withstand refrigeration a couple days before I get around to microwaving them.

[@stevebartley628]

The drawer liner also works well to get a good grip when opening jars

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

True-

[@daniellecomeau2996]

I use pieces of it under cutting boards too.

[@barbaralienhard3490]

Good to know, I have trouble opening lids, I'm going to get some!!

[@shellykzookzoo5922]

I am going to buy some drawer liner today and cut into squares just for that purpose. Might use fancy scissors and send them with Christmas cards this year as a little gift! Love that suggestion. Made my day!

[@lynnbrady4193]

I use a square of it bedside to keep my phone and travel C-PAP from sliding around.

[@terireid651]

I pack my shoes in the purple bag that Crown Royal comes in. I also take a liquid hand soap with me and we use that to wash our hands and just toss it when we leave. The cheap kind of coarse. I also use the samples from Estée Lauder or Lancôme for day and night creams. Just keep filling them up for every trip. Love your videos. God bless.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Reuse!

[@janicew6222]

I take my pillow everywhere, I have a pillow protector under the pillow case and place my nightgown in this area, saves space in suitcase and I have it with my pillow. I also have a zippered pillow protector OVER the pillowcase to keep it clean and free of germs.

[@janeclendaniel8762]

I'm 70 years old and 29 years since I last flew. Thanks for all the wonderful tips.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Welcome back!!

[@fishandfloral]

Security in Paris tossed out my empty aluminum water bottle because it was still wet on the inside. 😢 (I had poured out the remaining water before going into the line.) And folks need to remember that having TSA precheck means nothing at an international airport. I’d also suggest packing a luggage scale if you’re a heavy packer or know you will be shopping and aren’t sure if your bag will make weight limits.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh man! Yes TSA is just in the US; in other countries it is their rules.

[@vtcs1963]

Yeah and Paris, what do you expect?

[@mjharris5999]

Next time, you could go into a restroom with a hand blow dryer & dry out your bottles; if there’s one available.

[@billytam8308]

I love the tip about packing a portable luggage scale in your bag. The scale is lightweight and the money saved from overweight fees can pay for the scale over time

[@shellykzookzoo5922]

My carry-on bags for my flight to Australia never were weighed. I wish I had known that ahead of time because the weight limits for carry-on bags were very strict.

[@clairedriscoll8628]

I always take a sandwich bag to put any residual rubbish in and then you can just hand it to the air hostess when she /he collects the rubbish. Also take your own travel cutlery, on a recent long haul flight my daughter dropped her knife and fork on the dirty aeroplane floor and the air hostess didn't come round for a long time so she was able to use my travel Cutlery to eat her meal.

[@ericahalstead8156]

I bought a fishing vest with multiple interior and exterior pockets, and will stiff all my heavy items into it while boarding then transfer it to a bag on the plane. Also will do the same with a neck pillow, and you can also layer clothing inside your jacket and carry over your arm.

[@karenkent8525]

there is a company called scottevest that makes travel vests. I bought one for our trip to europe this summer that will allow me to put in my ipad, phone, passport etc and carry it all on me, for safety instead of having it in a bag. But the fishing vest is the same idea!

[@Csquared1685]

I have a Cinch jacket with two deep inside pockets that I stuff with items until I get on the plane.

[@bettyparker3317]

LOVE the hacks for actually being on the plane. We need so much onboard with us these days (it’s either not provided or the attendants are otherwise busy with increasing work) all help is appreciated. Lol about the salad dressing opening. A couple times when I packed super minimal, I had coffee and other drinks spilled on me. But just never thought about turning the container around. Duh!!

[@catherinecritchlow8636]

I added post it notes on the motion sensors for the automatic flush toilets. My daughter was terrified of the toilet flushing while she was sitting on it.

[@marilynfields8515]

I've been doing that since my kids were little for the same reason! That, and I hate the "Poseidon's Kiss" from the auto flushing! LOL

[@margolawnerd2776]

Great tip! I remember my kids screaming when that happened! Now a great tip for the grands when travelling!

[@danabaileyvanderploeg4021]

I used your suggestion of the "Starbucks" bag for snacks (and other things) for my Spirit flight last week. I was able to go from LAX to Boca (3 days) to DC (3 days) and back to LAX using only a backpack thanks to the snack bag. Thank you!

[@texasgoddess323]

What’s the Starbuck’s bag?

[@Randilynn66]

@@texasgoddess323 I think its the small little handle bag they give you. You can put your snacks in it and carry it on with you, rather than taking food in your carry on.

[@triciarie3972]

@@texasgoddess323 I think the idea is that airlines don't count purchases you've made at the airport against what you're allowed to carry onto the plane. So check the stores at your airport and bring a bag from one of those chains if you already have one or make some purchase at one of those stores near your home to get the bag. Then you can pack a few extra things (clothes, whatever) that don't fit in your carry-on or personal item into that bag and the airline will assume it's an airport purchase and let you take an extra bag on.

[@suewolf3279]

You can also use an oven mitt for your hot curling iron, and if the oven mitt is too big for you just cut it down and do a basic sew Stitch

[@paddlegal3097]

I use a small stuff sack (camping dry bag) and pack my winter puff jacket. It compresses down to the size of a football and makes a great pillow or lumbar support. I also put a shopping bag around my backpack before stowing in on the floor under the seat in front of me.

[@takakowright9472]

Loved (and used) the hanger hack! Along with packing a handkerchief for ironing, try stuffing socks into the toes of the shoes to help keep their shape (and fill the space when packing). I've also used an old hardshell eyeglass case to hold small toilette items like clippers, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, etc.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Sounds great!

[@cherylandersen7353]

Dollar tree sells a 3 pack of the larger ‘clamp’ type clothes pin things-great for holding curtain, holding your towel on the back of your beach chair, hanging your suits….. love all these hackS!!

[@luvscifi408]

You can also bring bag Clip from home in case you need to use all your hangers

[@mvicavanagh]

I only travel with carry on luggage now, but when I used to do check luggage, I always had my name and my hotel name and address written on paper in my luggage tag. When staying at multiple hotel on an extended tour, I would do the same for all hotels and load them all. Once I arrived at the hotel, I would remove the top one ready for the next hotel. This was initially in case my airline lost my luggage. They would know where it should be delivered to. Also the piece of paper I removed on arrival, was placed in my wallet, if I needed directions back to the hotel.

[@seraswhereabouts]

Bring a blob of BluTac and use that to cover the tiny leds from the clock/TV/fire alarm(?) Also good for rattling cupboard doors/drawers when you close them but they don't align properly. So many uses and you can just keep a blob in your make up bag or even the (in)side of your suitecase/carry on. Use a small dog collar (if you have those lying around!) to clip your personal item bag (or exta bags) on your carry on handle. Like a J-hook, but without having to get that specific one.

[@vickylch]

I used a similar idea of the dog strap to hook together 2 luggage bags and strap them to a crossbody bag strap, that way I had free hands to hold other items when I used to travel with 2 bags.

[@jimkirkwood1488]

A Ziploc sandwich bag for the TV remote control is a must for me!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

That's a great hack!

[@heleneg525]

I also now pack my liquids' bag contents horizontally. Amazing how many more items it stores. Thanks!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Took me 10 years to realize that hack.

[@wandrousvindella716]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie patience "young grasshopper "

[@shellykzookzoo5922]

Those dollar store contact lens holders that Laurie recommends worked really well for my liquids and gave me more space.

[@MultiShahina]

Just bought a solid body moisturizer bar to eliminate some liquids. Can’t wait to try it out on our trip to Brazil. Christ the Redeemer is our 7th and completed Wonder of the World bucket list! 🎉

[@jahbern]

I LOVE hard lotion/lotion bars. They are a game changer if you have dry skin. I love them so much I make my own now 😂

[@MultiShahina]

@@jahbern Wowzers nice!!

[@jahbern]

@@MultiShahina have a GREAT trip! And I hope you like the lotion. Just be aware that solid lotions melt at around body temp - which, as you know, can be a typical day in Rio in the winter months. wait. Do they call Jan-Mar summer? Now I’m confusing myself. 😂 Anyway, I live in Florida, so I’ve learned to make sure to have a container that will keep everything contained. And then put it in a baggie. It would suck to travel to Brazil just to have your lotion leak on everything. 🥲

[@MultiShahina]

@@jahbern Good thinking! Thanks for the tip. I will be sure to put the container in a baggie. Cheers!

[@noreenp.9858]

If you order from Shein.. the bags are great for packing. The plastic gum cases are great for q tips, cotton balls, or makeup remover pads.

[@courtneytarpley9397]

I love your videos, great suggestions! I always travel with an extension cord. It's helpful in airports and hotel rooms because there is never an outlet close to where you need it. Also as an FYI, when traveling to Paris via London in August customs made me dump my Clear Care contact solution because it had Hydrogen Peroxide in it. Would not have happened if I went directly into Paris so just check, I think it's primarily a UK rule. I never found a suitable alternative to use while there.

[@texasgoddess323]

Me, too!🌻

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Why is LHR so strict? I do not get it.

[@Randilynn66]

That is strange. I fly with checked baggage, but we're taking the train to Paris from London and back for part of our trip. I wonder what contact lens solution I can buy? I have a small travel bottle.

[@courtneytarpley9397]

@@Randilynn66 Mine luggage was carry on and the solution was travel size so I'm not sure.

[@elisalatinasag]

Washi tape to match electronic cables with devices. Genius!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Isn't that so fun and smart?

[@gerrieriihimaki6446]

I also take a photo of my rental car with its license plate. I don’t know how many times I’ve come out to a parking lot and noticed several cars just like mine.🙂🚗

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes!!! Great reminder

[@patwong6108]

Great idea. Have rented a car with toddler and preschooler and forgot make, color, where we parked it and locked keys in it, at 6 flags atlanta. Finding such a car in parking lot with freezing wet kids is NOT fun! Wish I had a cell phone or made better note of the vehicle and parking space those decades ago!

[@tracysmith9965]

A small prescription bottle works well for moisturizers, shampoos, containers…etc.

[@mariebrown9415]

Easter Egg ( also found some at the Dollar Store shaped like clam shells) in the Easter section can use to hold small size hand soap ) carry in personal bag. The little holes dry the soap.

[@jaygeecee13]

The Amazon gift bags are great for packing blouses and shirts. I fold the pieces over shirt cardboard, then fold tissue paper over that and stack them flat in the Amazon bag and pull closed. These sit nice and flat on top of the cubes and prevent wrinkles! I also heard those plastic bags from sheets etc! So useful! Great vids, Laurie!

[@jaygeecee13]

Hoard not heard!!!!😂

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes I did not mention those.

[@Shakashack2022]

Excellent tips again Laurie! I did use your hotel curtain hack - I happened to have a bag clip, finished the potato chips, & clipped the heavy curtains together bcuz our view had a bright lamp post light.

[@shellykzookzoo5922]

I use a hair clip. I actually use a hair clip on the curtains at home too.

[@bridgetb5934]

The air in hotels is so dry, put hot water in the tub overnight to give the room some humidity, it really does help

[@tangularparham9133]

I love these videos. I don’t travel a lot like my husband does. He is retired from the army and did a lot of traveling for his job. But when I do, I use for my hot curling irons/flat iron the holders that have the heat resistant lining so you can put your curler and flat iron in even as soon as you stop using it. The best ones to buy are from Walmart or Amazon. I have gotten a couple from Sally Beauty. Even better ones are made of silicone. The silicone can handle heat up to 400 degrees so you can put them right in your suitcase also.

[@karinjcollstrup7360]

I use ziplock bags as compressioncubes. Put clothes in the bag and zip it allmost closed. Then sit on it and let all the air out and zip the last bit.

[@Blushun]

Mary Kay makeup remover is the bomb!! Excellent video with great advice.

[@jenharvey3397]

Another tip: pack your airplane snacks in a Stasher bag. That can be used throughout your vacation as a restaurant doggie bag, to keep leftovers in the fridge, to heat food in the microwave, to marinate meat, for sous vide cooking, and you can also fill it with hot water or ice cubes for back pain, sprained ankles, etc. I have the one with a carabiner hook on the top so I can hook it to my day purse, and I also have inside it a collapsible cup and a a tiny foldable cutlery set (knife, fork, spoon, chopsticks, and straw) in a little holder. The whole thing is made out of hardened wheat straw, so you don't have to worry about some overzealous TSA agent deciding it is a threat to national security!!

[@stacythomas1587]

Stasher bags are SOOOO EXPENSIVE ..... Amazon and Temu have silicone bags just as good and at a fraction of the cost.

[@jenharvey3397]

@@stacythomas1587 I have tried various cheaper ones, but they always came up short. I did not get a lot of Stasher bags, just one "mystery bundle" when they had a 40% off sale, and one "go bag" with the carabiner. The way I use them, they will last pretty much forever. And that bag with the carabiner is a game changer for me, for daily EDC and travel.

[@mjharris5999]

I really ❤️ Stasher bags; but only buy when on sale or discounted as part of a package deal.

[@melodyjoy5082]

I'm about to go Google what a stasher bag is! 😂

[@jenharvey3397]

@@mjharris5999 That is my approach to pretty much everything, I wait for a great sale. I got a "mystery bundle" at 40% off during an online sale, and one go bag (the one with the carabiner) for travel. Those are the only ones I have purchased, and they meet my needs.

[@alyssacowan5050]

9:45 you can use a quart bag for the bigger phones

[@Gevedon]

I never tire of hearing awesome tips!

[@newmoonenergetics6728]

Learned the hard way, grab a business card from reception at your hotel to show to drivers to get you home. I actually forgot the name of my hotel one time in Costa Rica! Turned out OK, was very amusing to the museum staff that helped me.

[@TheWanderingWife]

I take a picture of it so I don’t have to worry about losing the card.

[@lynnbrady4193]

Also recommended to take a photo with your phone of the sign out front.

[@WonderfulWorldOfWendy]

I recommend pre-check to get through security without having to take your shoes off. Many credit cards will reimburse you for it these days.. like AMEX. It's been great and I was approved in a day! :)

[@YoSpiff]

On a recent flight, the woman sitting next to me was doing something similar to your baggie trick. She put the air sickness bag between her phone and it's case, then used that to hang the phone from the closed tray. Not totally a travel hack, but I keep the partially used hotel soaps. I keep one of the plastic cup wrappers from the hotel room to wrap around the wet soap in my luggage. I haven't had to buy bar soap in years.

[@janelacher9234]

I love the GoToob products! For environmental concerns, I have stopped using small travel toothpaste. Instead, I fill one of the small round GoToob containers for toothpaste.

[@melissa.s.13]

Laurie, you are the best! Thanks so much for all of your travel tips. So enjoy your channel!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thank you Melissa!

[@melodyjoy5082]

It's so funny you mentioned grocery store vs super market. I'm a Minnesota native and have always said grocery store. I lived in Philadelphia for a while and they drove me nuts because they would say food store. They would even say they were going food shopping instead of grocery shopping. I have so much fun with these little regional language differences. 😂

[@barbaralienhard3490]

That's so true, and I lived in Pennsylvania, just north of Philadelphia and I'd say I'm going to the grocery store to do my food shopping. Now I'm in Florida and pretty much call the grocery store by name, I'm going to Publix instead of saying I'm going to the grocery store - but I'm still going food shopping. 😂😂

[@shellykzookzoo5922]

We always say grocery store here in Michigan too.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

Another MN native here, now living in WY, and I've never called it a supermarket - I know it's probably a regional/generational thing, but I legit hate it when people call it that, and the only reason that I know what they're talking about is because we had a really old computer game when I was little that called it that. I've never called it anything but a grocery store and grocery shopping.

[@reallyrho1101]

I’m Canadian and we say supermarket mainly.

[@catbraunwell6450]

I am from eastern Canada Quebec area and we definitely say grocery store. Not sure if it’s true across Canada or not. I think in BC they sometimes called the market

[@finkelisb5754]

I have an old school rubber door stop. It's light weight and works for almost all door heights, on carpet or tile.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

That is a fantastic hack especially for hotels.

[@ahchappell]

I always turn my TSA trays over before stacking to be sure nothing is left in it.

[@janelacher9234]

Forgot to retrieve my black Grip6 belt in the TSA tray (had a wooden buckle so am not sure why I had to remove the metal free belt). This idea would have prevented that loss. Thanks for the idea!

[@malaika2940]

I bought clothes hanger clips from Amazon (needed extra skirt and trouser type hangers). Maybe those clips could could be useful as I’ve noticed not all hotels seem to have such a variety of clothes hangers. Just an idea. Great idea for keeping curtains closed!

[@jenharvey3397]

I have sets of those as well, both the straight type and the pants/skirt clip ones. Even if there are sufficient hangers in the hotel (a rare occurrence), they are useful for hand washing the day's top and unmentionables in the sink at night.

[@briannab5296]

Most places I've stayed at have hangers that have a round hook around the clothes rod so they can't be taken off and stolen. Couple of binder clips work fine.

[@michellehumphries300]

I take clothes Pins every where I go. I use them for Chip clips, closing curtains, hanging up wet clothes. Most of the time if their is any in the closet at all they usually only have 2 pants Hangers.

[@mariegarside8830]

I buy laundry soap in sheet form which means it's not a liquid. One sheet washes a load of laundry. So one sheet can be cut into smaller sizes for doing laundry in the hotel sink.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Those were awesome!

[@renferal5290]

When I was in Florence, I was staying in an Airbnb. I was in the bedroom when someone opened the locked door and came in. Really startled me. Turned out to be a couple my host was renting to that entered the wrong flat. They were meant to be in the one next door. Thankfully, they were very nice

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

OH my word!

[@jerikontogeorgis555]

The small clear Nalgene bottles are the best for liquids and lotions, they never leak and they’re cheap!

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

Really hard or even impossible to squeeze, though. Guess it really depends on what you put in it.

[@femailler22]

Travel hacks are so much fun. I appreciate your videos and your enthusiasm. :) If i'm going to stay in a rental house, I usually travel with a little mesh zipper pouch I call my "tinker bag." I put in a tiny roll of duct tape, a couple of small binder clips, some big safety pins, a small sewing kit, a little multitool with a tiny screwdriver (without a knife), a mini sharpie, some twist ties, some small zip ties, a couple of silicone rubber bands, a small pair of scissors, etc. I can't tell you how many times I've needed a screwdriver, or to fasten something to something else temporarily, and the kit fits in the smallest of the "Travelon" mesh pouches. Never had a problem getting it through TSA.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Love that tool!

[@debs4389]

Love all your videos, but this travel hacks video is the best.