At the Local Foreigner, we pride ourselves on being up to date on the newest hotel openings and most fabulous destinations worldwide, but we’ve also got opinions (strong ones!) about the less glamorous aspects of travel. If you’re gonna get us started on the relative merits of Paravel versus CalPak, I certainly hope you’ve got time on your hands. From packing efficiently to staying healthy during and after your flight, a few smart strategies can make all the difference. Here are some top travel tips to help you get you to the good part.

Packing Like a Pro

Multi-wear Clothing

When it comes to packing, less is often more. Choose clothing items you can wear more than once. Opt for versatile pieces like jeans, neutral tops, and a classic dress that can transition from day to night. Don’t be afraid to use laundry services at your destination—it’s worth it to save space and keep your luggage light.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a game-changer for organizing your suitcase. Use them for smaller items like t-shirts, pajamas, and underwear. They not only save space, but also make it easy to find what you need without unpacking your entire bag. For multi-stop trips, we also like to separate our wardrobes into different cubes, so you’re not unpacking warm-weather clothes in a cold-weather destination, or vice-versa.

Color Scheme

Stick to a color scheme, such as neutrals, white, and black. This makes it easier to mix and match your clothing, allowing for more outfit combinations with fewer items. A well-coordinated wardrobe simplifies packing and ensures you always look put together.

Charger Travel Bag

Keep all your chargers and electronic accessories in a dedicated travel bag. This prevents the frustration of tangled cords and makes it easy to grab what you need ahead of each trip, whether it’s your phone charger or an extra battery pack.

Ready-to-go Toiletry Bag

Similarly, we love to maintain a toiletry bag with travel-sized containers of your essential products. This saves time packing and ensures you’re always ready to head out at a moment’s notice.

Durable Carry-on and Versatile Shoulder Bag

Invest in a high-quality carry-on suitcase that’s both durable and lightweight. Pair it with a versatile shoulder bag that can hold your essentials and double as a day bag once you reach your destination. Look for bags with multiple compartments to keep everything organized.

Plane Rituals for a Comfortable Flight

Go Makeup-Free

Avoid wearing makeup on the plane. The dry cabin air can be harsh on your skin, so opt for a nighttime lotion instead. This provides extra hydration and protection, helping you arrive looking refreshed.

Essential Items

Pack eye masks and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the flight. The eye mask helps you sleep better by blocking out light, and staying hydrated combats the dehydrating effects of cabin air.

Entertainment Yourself

Download all your content—movies, TV shows, books, and music—before your flight. In-flight Wi-Fi can be unreliable or nonexistent, and having your entertainment ready ensures you won’t be stuck with limited or unappealing options.

Beating Jet Lag and Staying Healthy

Hydration is Key

Jet lag can be minimized by staying hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. If you’re serious about arriving with a spring in your step, you’ll want to skip the boarding champagne or the bloody mary in the lounge - alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate you and exacerbate jet lag symptoms.

Supplements

Consider taking magnesium, vitamin C, and/or a multivitamin to help your body adjust to a new time zone. Magnesium can aid sleep and relaxation, which are crucial for overcoming jet lag. We also make sure to pack a probiotic to keep gut flora balanced and healthy when introducing new foods.

Sunlight and Activity

Once you arrive at your destination, skip the nap - try to get ample sunlight and stay active. Natural light helps regulate your body’s internal clock, and physical activity can reduce fatigue and help you adjust more quickly to the new time zone.

Mental Adjustment

Change your watch and mindset to the new time zone as soon as you land. Adapting mentally to the local time can help your body follow suit, reducing the impact of jet lag.

Hive Mind: TLF Team Travel Tips