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

How to Avoid Pickpockets in Bali

Considered one of the most Instagramable places in the world, Bali has become one of the top tourist destinations. However, in order to successfully post those jaw dropping photographs; taking precaution for pickpocketing when sightseeing is a must. Here are a few ways to avoid pickpocketing in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.

1)    Although most of us have the notion that pickpockets strike at night, in busy tourist spots or on any form of transport, the reality of it is that they can be found anywhere. One place you must take special care with is when visiting places where money is being retrieved or exchanged such as banks, currency exchange booths. Of course, popular pickpocket zones also include plazas, festivals and places where there are large crowds. In order to avoid pickpocketing, keep your money close to you, avoid keeping it all in one place such as your bag or wallet; and always, always close your bag properly.

2)     Avoid conversation. The majority of the time, pickpockets will create distractions to catch tourists off guard. Although you may think all pickpockets are of older age, the reality is that they may be disguised as children. Don’t be fooled into their cuteness; while they are luring you in, one may be slipping their tiny hands into your pocket or bag. If a group of children or adults seem to be approaching you, avoid eye contact and move away as quickly as possible.

3)    Whatever you do, do NOT keep your phone or wallet in a vulnerable place such as your back pockets, jacket pockets and especially not in the front pockets of your backpack. If you must keep your wallet or purse in your trouser pockets, keep them in the front as they are harder to access. Another tip is to attach a chain or rubber band to them in order to minimize retrieval.

4)    Yes, it’s hard not to show off that new luxury jewellery you just purchased, but in order to avoid it being stolen, store it in a secure place such as a safe provided by the hotel. It’s best not to flash your status in order to avoid calling attention to yourself.

5)    Lastly, avoid carrying any unnecessary baggage. By packing only the essentials, you avoid pickpockets attempting to steal form the large quantity of bags you are travelling with. If you must carry a backpack, ensure it is an Anti-Theft backpack with no outer compartments for the pickpocket to target. Alternatively, you can carry a small cross body bag for easy storage and access of your smaller valuables.

So overall, be smart, follow this guidance, think practical and have a most of all, have a fantastic time on your holiday!

Nicole Fernandez Medina

Barcelona Travel Guide

Barcelona, Spain is a wonderful city.  It is full of life, culture and full of sun.The locals speak Catalan. They also speak Spanish. So to get a taste of the local lifestyle, remember to greet locals by saying ‘Bon dia’ (Good Morning), ‘Bona tarda’(Good Afternoon) or ‘Bon vespre’ (Good Evening).  These greetings are sure to start things on a positive note when interacting with the locals.

In Barcelona, there is so much to do. It’s the place for shopaholics, football fans, creatives, designers and architects. It has something for every body. If you are a true shopaholic you have to check out Passieg de Gràcia. It is one of Barcelona’s prominent shopping and business areas. It has all the top global brands and designer brands. The area has a lot of wonderful architecture and culture. It is said to be the most expensive street in Spain. Another shopping hotspot is Barri de Gracia. In this cool urban location there are small fashion boutiques, if you are looking make a few unique purchases.

If you are a football fan you have to make some time to catch a football game at Camp Nou. It doesn’t matter what football team you support at home. It is truly a great opportunity to experience The Barcelona Football Team and enjoy the epic atmosphere in the stadium.

If you want some design inspiration you should make time to visit Basilica of the Sagrada Familia.  No trip to Barcelona is complete without making a visit here. It is still under construction, but seeing the structure in real life is truly breathtaking. If you want avoid waiting in long queues for hours you should get a ticket online and this will fast track you to gain access. Another famous building to check out is the Casa Batlló in the center of Barcelona. Antoni Gaudí redesigned it. Throughout Barcelona you will see more amazing buildings designed by the famous architect, such as the Casa Milà and many more.

La Pedrera

In addition, you should check out Las Ramblas. It is so vibrant, full of energy and there is so much to see and do. Also, definitely explore Mercat de la Boqueria it’s a super cool market, full of fresh produce and it is a wonderful opportunity to try some Catalan cuisine.

Barcelona

Pickpocketing Hotspots in Barcelona

When it comes to being a victim of pickpocketing. We believe prevention is better than the cure. So we wanted to share the pickpocketing hotspots so you are vigilant, prepared and two steps ahead. Please be aware that pickpockets change their location from time to time. But from our experience we have managed to find the common hot spots where pickpockets operate in Barcelona.

Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is a huge tourist location. The street is buzzing with noise, activity, crowds and movement. It is very easy to get lost in the distraction and become a target for a pickpocket. When in Las Ramblas be very vigilant or better still you can bring your High Spirit backpack with you for extra security for your belongings. The backpack with zips against your back will prevent any pickpockets from stealing your possessions. This will enable you to fully be care-free, especially in places where large crowds gather and there is a lot of entertainment going on.

Sagrada Familia

Pickpockets have been known to operate in this area. Due to the fact that it is a famous tourist attraction, pickpockets will be waiting around to take advantage of their target. In addition, they have been known to target people waiting in queues, so make sure you have your belongings stashed away in your High Spirit backpack or leave your more important items locked in the hotel.

The Metro

Millions of people travel through the Metro, but there have been many pickpocketing incidents in the Metro stations in different locations across the city. As it is a crowded and enclosed place remember to stay vigilant throughout your metro travels.