11 Hacks To Travel Light

Travelling light gives you extra freedom and flexibility that you just don’t have with heavy luggage. You can move quickly through airports and train stations and it’s so much easier to take public transport with a small bag. You’ll save money by not having to check your bags in on a plane and you can keep your luggage close when you’re on trains and buses. You’re also less likely to lose things when you travel light because it’s easier to keep track of your belongings. Below are 11 Hacks To help you to Travel Light. Hope you enjoy them :-)

1. Carry a lightweight case

Use a small suitcase or backpack so you can’t possibly fit too much in it. Don’t be tempted to get a case that’s slightly too big because you will fill that space with unnecessary stuff.

2. Minimise toiletries

If you’re staying in a hotel you can guarantee you’ll be provided with shampoo and shower gel so leave these at home.

3. Pack just 2 pairs of shoes

Shoes can often be the bulkiest items in our bags so never travel with more than 2 pairs. Wear your bulkiest pair on the plane and an easy to carry pair in your bag.

4. Use packing cubes

Not only do they keep your bag organised but they help make the most of your space and stop you overpacking. I tend to travel with four packing cubes. One for tops, one for bottoms, one for underwear and one for evening clothes. Once each packing cube is full you can’t possibly squish anything else in so you’re forced into packing light whether you like it or not.

5. Wash your clothes while you are travelling

No matter where in the world you’re travelling, it doesn’t need to be expensive to get your clothes washed. Laundrettes and apartments with washing machines will become your best friend if you’re travelling for a few weeks or more.

6. Audio books

Instead of packing heavy books which you will end up finishing and carrying around with you even though they no longer have any use; download a few audio books on your phone or iPad in order to save space and weight.

7. Style properly

Pack clothes that are interchangeable. Ensure you are able to mix and match all pieces of clothing you bring. This is in order to be able to wear ALL clothing as often as you need. This will save you from bringing unnecessary clothing.

8. Dry laundry bar

If you have no access to a washing machine, by bringing a dry laundry bar, you are able to hand wash any pieces of clothing such as socks and underwear and maintain clean and fresh throughout your trip.

9. Roll Roll roll

Roll all your clothes up into burritos in order to save space. By doing this you will able to fit much more in your case that you would if you folded them normally. You will also be able to see everything you packed at a glance by stacking them next to each other, saving you time and frustration.

10. Limit those “just in case” items

We all like to bring items we MIGHT need on our trips, but most of the time will not end up using them. Try to limit those items in order to save space; if you really need an item such as an umbrella, you can always purchase it when you need it.

11. Bottoms at the bottom

Pack your trousers, shorts, etc at the bottom of your case as they are more bulky and can be squashed down by the rest of your items.

By Nicole Fernandez Medina

TOP 10 TIPS FOR FEMALE SOLO TRAVELLERS

More and more people are travelling solo as a way for self-discovery and character development. It's fantastic to explore and see what the World has to offer, but its important to stay safe out there. We know that for some of you, this may be your first time travelling to another country alone. Just to help you out, here are our top 10 tips for female solo travellers. Enjoy! :-)

(1) Only use Official Taxis

Check with the information point, the airport officials or hotel information point and find out where the official taxis are. Do not go into a taxi that you have not called for.

(2) Arrive in the daytime

Arrive in the daytime; there will be a lot more people walking around that can help you.  Also, trying to find your way around a city you have never been to is a lot less scary in the daytime.

(3) Learn the places to avoid

Research the city or country you will be visiting in advance. Find out which parts of the city are safe to stay in. Do not compromise your safety just to save money. Make sure you have travel insurance, take the taxi instead of walking at night. Be very vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

(4) Photocopy your travel documents

Losing your passport or flight tickets is a common problem and can ruin your vacation. To avoid this, make sure to have photocopies of your passport, flight tickets and any other important documentation. Put a copy, in your bag, in your purse, in your hotel room or have it saved in your phone. You never know when you might need it.

(5) Avoid giving away personal information

While travelling solo, you will meet a lot of interesting people. Remember to be vigilant and do not let strangers know what hotel you are staying in. Also, do not tell the person you are alone.

(6) Check out travel alerts

Check for any travel alerts in the country you will be visiting and look out for any alerts on wars or any other state of emergency situations. In addition, research the common crimes and scams in the country so you are well prepared and watchful.

(7) Dressing Requirements

Some countries are a lot stricter than others in terms of dressing. Before you travel check on the dressing requirements for that country or city and dress accordingly.

(8) Listen to the Locals

If locals or hotel staff tells you to not go to a certain area because it is dangerous. Do not go. In more nuanced situations, always follow your gut.

(9) Act Confident

Even though you may be unsure of yourself at times. Always act confident and assertive, it will make you less of a target.

(10) Let people know where you are

Visiting a new country or city is very exciting and you can get so caught up in the fun that you forget to update your

TOP 5 PLACES TO TRAVEL IN 2017

As we are heading into 2017.  We have been hearing that most people's New Year resolutions is to travel more. Here are a few of the destinations that we think will be very popular in 2017. Click the images to find out more. Enjoy! :-)

(1) CANADA

Get ready to explore cities such as Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, and Ottawa. They all have something unique to offer and there is something for everyone. In 2017, it will be Canada’s 150th birthday. So there will be festivities all year long. In addition to the celebrations, there will be free Discovery passes that will give anyone (especially tourists) free entry into all of the national parks in 2017. This will give visitors the opportunity to explore Canada’s various habitats. Also, its National Heritage sites will be free to all. Canada is truly a budget friendly destination. These are just a few of the perks that will be available to tourists visiting in 2017. 

(2) JAPAN

If you want to party and explore different cultures and interests, Japan is the place to be in 2017. There are so many festivals happening in Japan. You won’t have to wait until spring and summer for the partying to start. In January there will be The Internet Cat Video Festival, the Ice Waterfall Festival, Sapporo Snow Festival and many more. There’s also an opportunity to see a sumo tournament, which is held at the prestigious Ryogoku kokugikan. There are also a lot of attractions such as the Todai-ji Temple, the Fushimi Inari taisha shrine and many more. 

(3) CUBA

In recent months many restrictions have been lifted, and an increasing number of people now have the opportunity to visit Cuba. For the first time in 50 years it will be easier for Americans to go and legally spend money there. It is amazing that Cuba has come a long way. It is now a new frontier in tourism open to learn from and explore.

Cuba has relatively been untouched by globalisation and the country gives you the feeling of stepping into a time capsule surrounded by old cars from the 1950s and old buildings. Cuba is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are so many things to see and do, such as The Malecón, Old Havana, Varadero Beach, Playa Paraiso just to name a few. You can even visit the home of Ernest Hemingway, which is now a Museum. 

(4) BOTSWANA

Botswana is the destination to visit if you want to get up close and personal with nature and rare wildlife. You should visit the Savute Reserve (Choba National Park) and see the elephants chilling and doing their thing. You can also check out the Rhinos at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary. After that, you can get a history lesson at the Three Chief Statues Monument in Gaborone. Also by stepping into a dugout canoe you can explore the Okavango Delta and every now and then you will a see a hippo.

Botswana has a reputation for offering a luxurious experience for its visitors, so it's definitely a great place to check out in 2017.

(5) PORTUGAL

In recent months Portugal has increasingly become a popular holiday destination for tourists and it shows no signs of slowing down. It has the perfect blend of adventure, amazing beaches and vibrant cities. Portugal is also known for its delicious wine. It also has a reputation for providing affordable luxury for its visitors. According to the US News Rankings, Lisbon is one of the least expensive cities on the European continent, so this means you can explore without worrying too much about your pockets.  Places to check out are Algarve, The Azores and many more.  At this rate Portugal is definitely going to be even more popular in 2017.