Travel Hacks Nobody Talks About
Tired of the same old travel tips? Discover hidden gems that seasoned globetrotters swear by. From packing tricks that maximize space to genius ways to make your trip comfortable, these under-the-radar travel hacks will transform your next adventure.
Traveling is something everyone gets excited about, but it can sometimes be overwhelming, especially when you have to take a long flight. While the internet is full of standard advice on packing light and booking early, there’s a treasure trove of lesser-known tips that can truly elevate your travel experience.
![A man with a luggage bag at an airport | Source: Unsplash](https://cdn.amomama.com/3acb2b074b6bd7e01ea398eb23e64d1fc329387e455c00b958cda47d438448be.jpg)
A man with a luggage bag at an airport | Source: Unsplash
These secret hacks, favored by frequent flyers and travel experts, can help you navigate the complexities of modern travel with ease and confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler looking to refine your techniques or a novice eager to start your journey on the right foot, these hacks will provide valuable insights to enhance your travel experience.
So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for takeoff as we explore these game-changing travel hacks that nobody talks about. Your journey to becoming a travel pro starts now.
![A woman packing her clothes | Source: Pexels](https://cdn.amomama.com/ee50e8bc0dc1e471b6124bc64de7b6d0381eb36d5da37ee95f38751956c922cf.jpg)
A woman packing her clothes | Source: Pexels
1. The Water Bottle Trick
Are you one of those people who always carry a water bottle wherever they go? Do you wish you could take a filled water bottle through airport security? Worry no more.
With this water bottle hack shared by @gracietravels on TikTok, you can take a full bottle of water through airport security without breaking any rules. All you need to do is fill a bottle with water and put it in the freezer the night before your flight. Take it out right when you’re leaving the house.
![People going down an escalator at an airport, as seen in a video September 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@gracietravels](https://cdn.amomama.com/bc1b62ce04355260b2203581fcec48d9c9bd3fb48afa3fb1f668a45784f79b5a.png)
People going down an escalator at an airport, as seen in a video September 12, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@gracietravels
Now, since the water has turned into ice, and it’s not liquid anymore, it’ll easily pass through security checks.
The ice will slowly melt as you wait for your flight, providing you with refreshing water. Just remember to drink any melted water before going through security to avoid issues.
This trick works best with sturdy, leak-proof bottles. For longer flights, consider freezing only half the bottle so you have some liquid water right away.
![A close-up shot of a water bottle | Source: Unsplash](https://cdn.amomama.com/75b222a2d2e6a8d29c33a6e95ce77a32c2606389e9178f4c7e4b48d8f3f496ea.jpg)
A close-up shot of a water bottle | Source: Unsplash
Many people commented on the TikTok video, sharing what they experienced. One netizen said she always takes a water bottle with ice and fills it after the security check. Another netizen confirmed the water bottle hack has worked for her several times. She always drinks the melted water before her bottle goes through the security check.
2. The Strand of Security: A Hair-Raising Hotel Hack
Ever felt uneasy about the security of your hotel room? This subtle trick might just put your mind at ease. TikToker @gracietravels shared this hack with her followers.
![A hotel corridor | Source: Unsplash](https://cdn.amomama.com/28bda1a4605d19b07c5f2075d063c0e8f506972e609f8e9ae1dea57d94daf682.jpg)
A hotel corridor | Source: Unsplash
Before leaving your room, pluck a single strand of long hair and carefully tape it across the bottom of the door frame. This nearly invisible sentinel will stand guard while you’re out exploring.
Upon your return, inspect the hair. If it’s intact, your room likely remained undisturbed. But if the strand is broken or missing, it could indicate an unexpected visitor.
While this technique is not entirely foolproof, it can offer an extra layer of awareness about your room’s privacy.
![A woman putting a sign on a hotel room door | Source: Pexels](https://cdn.amomama.com/b35d471c2e9eaa8ea512ec45127cb6ed53e3993e034f890b74aa3003e3f545ce.jpg)
A woman putting a sign on a hotel room door | Source: Pexels
Remember, this hack works best for those with longer locks. So, if you’re someone with long hair or your travel partner can lend you a strand, then you can definitely try this hack to keep your hotel room safe.
3. The Last-Minute Luxury
Not all of us like to spend money on expensive business-class tickets, but that doesn’t mean we have to compromise on comfort. This clever hack shared by @gracietravels on TikTok might just allow you to get an entire row of seats all to yourself.
![A view of the economy class section of an airplane | Source: Unsplash](https://cdn.amomama.com/911928649b004a3b6a600cdf1a62d42577a4a9aaf776f26369aea479ad299d8d.jpg)
A view of the economy class section of an airplane | Source: Unsplash
Instead of rushing to board, become the last passenger to enter the plane, and request for an aisle seat when you’re checking in.
This gives you the flexibility to scope out the cabin as you walk down the aisle. As you board, keep your eyes peeled for any rows with multiple empty seats.
In case you spot one, politely ask the flight attendant if you can switch. They’re often accommodating, and you might get an empty row of seats if the plane isn’t full.
![A man talking to a flight attendant | Source: Midjourney](https://cdn.amomama.com/9279c337112587b2e76c73ac1e73b5bf9a0411b894b35a5563a451402da0009e.png)
A man talking to a flight attendant | Source: Midjourney
This strategy increases your chances of scoring a makeshift lie-flat seat without the business-class price tag. Remember, timing is everything. Arrive at the gate early enough to ensure you don’t miss the flight, but late enough to be the final boarder. Sweet dreams at 30,000 feet might be just a smart move away!
4. The Luggage Lifesaver
Say goodbye to luggage anxiety with this high-tech travel hack posted by Katarina Mogus on TikTok. Before zipping up your suitcase, slip an Apple AirTag inside.
![Katarina Mogus holding an Apple AirTag near her luggage bag, as seen in a video June 27, 2022 | Source: TikTok/@katamogz](https://cdn.amomama.com/8bc9be5f32f1e9e01c3765077da316ea60315cc27de384c5260f5ccd283003b2.png)
Katarina Mogus holding an Apple AirTag near her luggage bag, as seen in a video June 27, 2022 | Source: TikTok/@katamogz
This tiny tracker becomes your luggage’s personal GPS, allowing you to monitor its journey from your smartphone. As you wait at your destination, you’ll know exactly when your bag is approaching the carousel. No more staring blankly at the conveyor belt!
But the real magic happens if your luggage decides to take an unplanned detour. With the AirTag, you can pinpoint its location, making it easier for airline staff to reunite you with your wayward belongings. It’s like having a secret agent working for your suitcase.
![A suitcase on a luggage belt | Source: Unsplash](https://cdn.amomama.com/403a6950f41fae6aebc99f4ea2f7ccb563c726b82720cc434add461cdb51e095.jpg)
A suitcase on a luggage belt | Source: Unsplash
Just remember to check the battery life before each trip and be aware of any local regulations about tracking devices. With this hack, you’ll travel with peace of mind, knowing your belongings are just a tap away.
A few TikTok users confirmed they had tried this hack and it worked for them. “Been doing that for the last 6 months,” said one user, while another wrote, “So true. I did this.”
![Luggage bags at an airport, as seen in a video June 27, 2022 | Source: TikTok/@katamogz](https://cdn.amomama.com/f15ca81bd96b1b09748c28021ff96c40895322f5461818575b96a03f6396ee73.png)
Luggage bags at an airport, as seen in a video June 27, 2022 | Source: TikTok/@katamogz
5. The Ultimate Power Move
Imagine settling into your cozy Parisian hotel room, only to find your phone battery dwindling and no way to charge it. TikToker @gracietravels shared a game-changing hack that’ll save you from this travel nightmare.
Always pack a universal power adapter in your luggage. This small device is a traveler’s best friend, capable of converting various socket types worldwide into a familiar plug for your devices.
It’s not just about keeping your phone alive.
![A phone charging | Source: Unsplash](https://cdn.amomama.com/4ee55865880819a9879c2f2799c52327eee2bde3ef508c06d44abd5848198614.jpg)
A phone charging | Source: Unsplash
It’s about ensuring your camera captures those breathtaking views, your laptop stays ready for impromptu work sessions, and your e-reader is charged for lazy beach days.
So, don’t learn this lesson the hard way and make the universal adapter your non-negotiable travel companion.
6. Plan Your Outfits
Say goodbye to suitcase chaos with this TikTok-approved hack from Courtney Shields. Plan your outfits in advance, bundle them in Ziploc bags, and label them. This method not only keeps your clothes organized but also helps you resist overpacking.
![Courtney Shields packing her outfits in Ziploc bags, as seen in a video June 10, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@courtney.shields](https://cdn.amomama.com/320c3133134eb742697c031f7b9501aa9b288fc453a73c404d96a47575f74be9.png)
Courtney Shields packing her outfits in Ziploc bags, as seen in a video June 10, 2023 | Source: TikTok/@courtney.shields
Each bag becomes a ready-to-go outfit, saving you time and stress during your trip. It’s like having a personal stylist in your luggage!
7. The Rolling Revolution
Packing for a trip often feels like a frustrating game of luggage Tetris. But EF Ultimate Break’s TikTok hack might just be the secret to winning.
Forget stacking because it’s time to roll! By simply folding clothes in half and rolling them tightly, you can dramatically increase your suitcase’s capacity.
![TikToker EF Ultimate Break rolling her clothes and putting them in a suitcase, as seen in a video March 10, 2023 | Source: TikTok/efultimatebreak](https://cdn.amomama.com/d0939d796a2cfd1e3072055a6ed543016ffc9336183bd14a62092a80738b12c1.png)
TikToker EF Ultimate Break rolling her clothes and putting them in a suitcase, as seen in a video March 10, 2023 | Source: TikTok/efultimatebreak
This method isn’t just about squeezing in extra outfits; it’s about creating a more organized, wrinkle-resistant wardrobe on the go.
The TikToker showed how she was able to fit two extra shirts and two pairs of pants into her suitcase with this hack.
In the comments section, another user suggested combining rolling with packing cubes for maximum efficiency. These fabric organizers compress your rolled clothes even further, creating neat, stackable blocks that make unpacking a breeze.
![A woman organizing her luggage | Source: Pexels](https://cdn.amomama.com/5baea4d2841c8bc12dd350adb0afefde579bb2a50acc0f3cb278992721c37681.jpg)
A woman organizing her luggage | Source: Pexels
With this technique, you’ll have room for souvenirs, that extra pair of shoes, or maybe even a travel pillow. Say goodbye to sitting on your suitcase to close it because the rolling revolution is here!
8. Free Upgrade
Who doesn’t dream of stretching out in first class without the hefty price tag? TikToker @coraatheexplorer shared a hack that might just make that dream a reality. The secret lies in the art of polite persuasion.
Start by checking in early. This gives you a head start on available upgrades.
![TikToker @coraatheexplorer sharing her experience, as seen in a video April 23, 2024 | Source: TikTok/@coraatheexplorer](https://cdn.amomama.com/66b59009f014890ecfe2735621f5e1864557a21ea4fc21103d8363b10eb92691.png)
TikToker @coraatheexplorer sharing her experience, as seen in a video April 23, 2024 | Source: TikTok/@coraatheexplorer
Then, engage the check-in agent with genuine warmth. A simple “How’s your day going?” can work wonders.
Next, inquire about the flight’s capacity. If it’s not full, that’s your cue to politely express interest in a seat change or upgrade. The key is to be friendly, not demanding.
This approach has yielded impressive results for this TikToker, with most attempts resulting in free upgrades. Remember, a little kindness can go a long way.
![A woman sitting in a business class seat | Source: Unsplash](https://cdn.amomama.com/06a264b90d830c78c459fa1b7fd18a581fefff38ffadd66262a6d05d3df02253.jpg)
A woman sitting in a business class seat | Source: Unsplash
9. The Pillow with a Secret
Travel pillows are a dime a dozen, but Flavia’s TikTok find is in a league of its own. At first glance, it looks like any other neck pillow. But a hidden zipper reveals its true superpower: extra storage space!
This ingenious design allows you to stuff the pillow with soft items like clothes, effectively giving you an extra carry-on without raising eyebrows at the gate. Imagine fitting ten additional items into what looks like a simple travel accessory.
![TikToker Flavia showing how she fits clothes in her neck pillow, as seen in a video July 9, 2023 | Source: TikTok/latinatraveler](https://cdn.amomama.com/86d3c29a9de7382e10913c9d7bfba0e6a7720b18f145739d5a66eade19ad2f2c.png)
TikToker Flavia showing how she fits clothes in her neck pillow, as seen in a video July 9, 2023 | Source: TikTok/latinatraveler
It’s perfect for those who struggle with baggage limits or just want to keep essentials close at hand during the flight. Plus, it still functions as a comfy neck support.
So, which of these hacks did you like the most? Have you tried any other travel hacks that have worked for you? Share them with us on Facebook.
If you enjoyed reading this compilation about hacks, you might like another one about safety lifehacks that might save you from getting into trouble.