Seven out-of-the-ordinary travel hacks that actually work

Travelling can be an exciting adventure, but the stress of packing, navigating unfamiliar places, and dealing with airport hassles can often dampen the experience. Luckily, there are plenty of clever tricks to make your journey easier and more enjoyable – here are seven unusual travel hacks to help…

1. Store your money in a lip balm tube

One of the more creative travel hacks to hide emergency cash is by rolling up bills and placing them inside an empty lip balm tube.

Pickpockets are unlikely to check such a mundane item, giving you an extra layer of security in case your wallet is lost or stolen.

2. Photograph your luggage

Before checking your luggage, snap a quick photo of it on your phone. This could be a real time-saver if your bag ever goes missing.

Having this photo makes it much easier for airline staff to locate it, giving you peace of mind in the chaotic world of baggage claims.

3. Use a shower cap for dirty shoes

After a long day of hiking or walking around the city, your shoes might not be the cleanest. Instead of letting them dirty your clothes, pack an inexpensive shower cap or use the one your hotel provides.

4. Bring a power strip

If you’re travelling with multiple devices (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), a power strip can be a lifesaver. Airports, cafes, and hotel rooms often have a limited number of outlets, which can be a problem if you’re trying to charge multiple gadgets.

With a power strip, you can plug in multiple devices at once, ensuring everything is fully charged and ready for your day’s activities.

5. Use a binder clip as a razor protector

Razor blades can be a hazard when packed carelessly in your luggage. To prevent accidental cuts and keep your razor sharp, use a binder clip to cover the blade.

6. Mark your hotel on google maps

As soon as you arrive at your destination, drop a pin on your hotel’s location in Google Maps.

You’ll always know how to get back, even if you wander far from the hotel or don’t speak the local language. It’s a simple but effective way to navigate foreign cities with confidence.

7. Pack a pillowcase, not a pillow

Travel pillows can take up valuable space in your luggage, but here’s a smarter solution: pack an empty pillowcase instead.

You can stuff the pillowcase with your sweater or jacket, creating an instant pillow. It’s a space-saver that gives you control over how soft or firm you want it to be. You could also use the pillowcase over pillows at hotels if you’re worried about cleanliness.