People seek different things when they travel, depending mostly on personality and the current situation that they are in. Some travel because they want to learn more about the culture and history of places they have not been to, others may want to go on an impromptu trip just to unwind from the pressures of work or school.

Whatever reasons they may be, it is important to be sufficiently prepared for your trips because no one wants to be stuck in a foreign land with no accommodation for the night or waste precious time researching on places to go only when you are there.

Therefore, it is important to find the right balance between a strict itinerary and going directly without a plan. No clue on how you should do that? Our guide on how to create the perfect travel itinerary will help you get started.

#1 RESEARCH FOR INSPIRATION FIRST

No two travelers want the exact same experience so it is important to do some research on what you would find interesting at your travel destination. Are you someone who is into arts, culture and tradition? Or perhaps you prefer the exhilarating city life and happening night scenes?

Asking yourself these simple questions will give you a clearer direction of what you want. Social media platforms are the best when you are looking for up-to-date events and activities. If you need more information for touristy places, the country’s official tourism website and printed guide books are usually more detailed. 

#2 ORGANISE YOUR TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Important documents such as travel tickets, passport, accommodation bookings and restaurant reservations should be placed neatly together and stored in your bag.

It helps to keep them organised as you wouldn’t want to end up digging frantically for them when you are there.

#3 GATHER ALL NECESSARY INFORMATION

Even for those who enjoy going with the flow when it comes to traveling, it is still crucial to have the necessary information such as your flight numbers, maps and exchange rates of the countries you will be going to.

Something else to know beforehand are the cultural etiquettes of the country you are visiting. Dress modestly at places that hold deep religious beliefs, learn a few basic words in their local language and find out if tipping is expected in certain countries.

#4 KNOW YOUR BUDGET RESTRICTIONS

Unfortunately, not all of us own a limitless credit card so we have to be aware of our expenditure. Figure out a rough estimation for places that are on your must-visit list and set aside a sum of money for it. You should also know your priorities—are you more willing to spend on accommodation, food or activities?

Those who are on a tight budget can check out on discounts that are usually given to students or on certain periods of the year.

#5 LEAVE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPONTANEOUS PLANS

Frequent travelers will know that the perfect itinerary is not one which is filled with places you MUST see but rather, to have a few ideas on places that interest them and be open to opportunities that open up there. You may just stumble into a few hidden gems along the way!

#6 BE REALISTIC

Expect to bump into some challenges along the way because life ain’t perfect like that. There will be unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather conditions that will prevent you from commuting or the restaurant forgot to book your reservation.

Remember, having the expectation that things will definitely go your way will only lead to disappointment and frustration.

Travelling has evolved a lot since our adolescent days. Visiting touristy attractions were possibly the main agenda back then, but most of us now are no longer satisfied with the mere act of ticking off these iconic sightseeing places.

Instead, an increasing number of travellers are craving for an authentic local experience and immersing themselves in the lives of natives.

Perhaps the need to “escape” is no longer present for we now feel the need to educate ourselves with foreign cultural experiences – which really isn’t a bad thing. From living in a local town, partaking in cooking classes, sampling street food to walking whenever possible, here are 13 ways to live like a local while one is on a vacation.

#1 AIRBNB

For a true-blue experience of living like a local, rent either an entire apartment or private room from the locals. We highly recommend rent lodging website Airbnb for some local hosts provide the most amazing dining recommendations!

This enables travellers to get a taste of life as a local and explore surroundings of a foreign destination’s local neighbourhood like never before.

#2 COOKING CLASSES

Regardless of whether it is a half-day class, one-week workshop or a month-long course, cooking classes are a great way to learn about a destination’s culture and cuisine.

It is also during these interactive activities that you will pick up some lingo, make friends and also learn precious skills of replicating local delicacies.

Check out 7 Cooking Classes in Ubud (Bali) That Are Worth Travelling For.

#3 DITCH THE GUIDEBOOK

While a destination guidebook’s primary purpose is to facilitate one’s travels, we have also realised that most recommendations are geared towards touristy ones. To avoid tourist traps, we suggest you avoid over relying on the guidebooks and try an alternative route instead i.e. ask the locals you encounter for suggestions.

#4 DRESS UP LIKE THE LOCALS

Instead of sticking out like a sore thumb with very touristy outfits, why not do some research in advance on your designated destination and try to dress up like the locals?

Fake it ’till you make it! Avoid wearing tacky straw hats and floral printed shirt or else you might end up attracting pickpockets and scammers.

#5 EXCHANGE HOMES

There are several online websites such as Home Exchange and Love Home Swap that allow travellers to temporarily exchange their houses.

For those not in the know, it essentially means that you get to live in someone else’s home and the other party gets to live in yours. It’s a win-win situation and you get to save up.

#6 MAKE FRIENDS WITH NATIVES

You never know what striking up a conversation at wherever you are could lead to. Humans are inherently good by nature and chances are, your new friend could bring you to the coolest places in town.

Of course, always trust your gut instincts and never befriend someone whom you think is potentially dangerous.

#7 MOBILE APPS

Thanks to the advancement of technology, we now have access to the insider’s news at the tip of our fingers. Some app would feature only locally-owned restaurants while some provide tips on cities by locals themselves.

#8 PICK UP THE NATIVE LANGUAGE

Picking up a foreign language from scratch with no prior knowledge is tough, but it goes a long way when you know the key basic words.

Alternatively, why not take it to a whole new level by learning it from a language center? Your new lifelong skill could definitely help you heaps to blend in when travelling around.

#9 READ LOCAL PRESSES

For the most up-to-date information, browse through the newspaper stands and local hipster cafes for brochures and magazines. It is through these local presses that you will uncover a trove of information on the city’s upcoming events, hottest dining destinations and more.

#10 SAMPLE STREET FOOD

It is time to step out of your comfort zone and start sampling local street food on the streets itself!

This might be a daunting experience for the reserved, especially when the specific dish is particularly funky. But it is through food that you get to learn about a destination’s history, geography and demography.

#11 VISIT LOCAL GROCERS AND MARKETS

Visiting different local grocery stores and markets is an eye-opening experience. These places pose a great opportunity for travellers to check out the local communities and catch a glimpse of their livelihoods.

You are also bound to chance upon many products that you have never seen in your own hometown.

Source: Easy Tour China

#12 VOLUNTEER

Volunteering vacations are extremely common these days. If you have the time and energy to spare, why not join one of these service-based vacations where you can join the locals to build homes, teach kids or sort food donations etc.

Volunteers get to make a positive difference and meet new local friends.

#13 WALK WHENEVER POSSIBLE

While taking a private taxi could potentially save time, walking in between point A and point B (assuming it isn’t too far) could actually reveal many hidden gems you would have otherwise not known about.

Most local eateries are tucked away in small obscure streets and would be easily missed if you are driving or on a car.

Here’s a piece of news to travel lovers —you do not have to leave your full-time job to pursue your innate wanderlust. Let’s face it, not everyone can afford to abandon their families and financial securities to chase their travel desires. Having said that, we want Singaporeans to know that they can still travel, even when working full-time.

When it comes to travelling, full-time workers in Singapore will find that time is the number one issue they face. Yet, there is a significant group of savvy travellers who are still constantly travelling despite the dedication to their established careers. It is no secret—they have great time management skills, make no excuses and plan in advance! And so should you, especially with 9 long weekends in 2019.

Before you complain about the impossibility of travelling due to your limited annual leave, read our 7 tips on how you can still travel with a full-time job.

#1 OPT FOR NEARBY FOREIGN CITIES

Going to a far away country might not be feasible with limited annual leave on hand. Instead of wasting several hours onboard a plane, why not choose a nearby foreign city to explore? Singapore’s proximity to numerous Southeast Asian destinations will allow you to reach another country within a two-hour car, ferry and even flight journey.

#2 MAXIMISE YOUR WEEKENDS

While this travel option might seem hectic, it is actually do-able! Flying off on a Friday night right after work will give you an entire weekend to travel. If flights are too much of a hassle, you can even take a coach to Malaysia or board a ferry to one of the many Indonesian islands. All you have to do is return to Singapore by Sunday night or even Monday morning for work.

#3 TAKE ADVANTAGE OF LONG WEEKENDS

If weekend getaways are insufficient for your overseas adventures, it is time you work your travel plans around Singapore’s public holidays that fall on either a Friday or Monday. There will be 9 long weekends in 2019 so do take advantage of that for a longer trip! You can even take annual leave on days before/after the public holiday for an extended trip.

#4 PLAN IN ADVANCE

You should recognise the fact that most of your colleagues are probably after the same period of annual leave. Depending on your job scope, some firms may or may not allow you and your colleagues to overlap your off days. This means you will need to strategise your travel plans way in advance to maximise your time for travelling.

#5 TAKE UNPAID LEAVE

If you have used up your annual leaves but still itching for a getaway, perhaps you could request for unpaid leave. In the event where your unpaid leave is granted, it would be best to coincide them with the weekends or public holidays so that you have more time to travel with your loved ones and visit further destinations.

#6 EXTEND YOUR WORK TRIP

Some working executives do get to travel from time to time for business trips. Instead of going there just for work, why not discuss with your bosses and request for permission to stay for the weekend? You probably will have to fork out your additional accommodation and dining expenses, but it is still a great opportunity to travel since you are already abroad!

#7 OPT FOR COMPANY TRANSFERS

While this option is usually only applicable for multinational corporations, working professionals can actually request for a long-term transfer or a short term assignment. Do ask around in your local office and see if there are any available roles and/or assignment in your dream city that matches your capabilities. As the saying goes, you never know until you ask!

If all the above-mentioned tips do not work for your case, you can still travel around Singapore! There is always something new and exciting for Singaporeans to check out. Rediscover the Lion City and you will be surprised by how much there are for you to explore! Staycations are also a great alternative way to escape temporarily from the hectic workload.

Travelling is good for the soul. Travelling brings about many realisations on top of invaluable experiences. Travelling is something that we all should do.

While it is common to save our annual leave and money for trips with our loved ones, travelling solo can also be interesting. We may be visiting the same places and sampling the same food as our friends, but because we view the world through different lenses, what’s significant to one may not have as profound an impact on someone else.

Travelling solo isn’t as easy. Loneliness is real, and being alone in a foreign land may often be intimidating. We won’t have someone to help us get out of a knotty situation; we won’t have someone to fall back on. But just as well, because we get a different exposure and more often than not, solo trips will change you for the better.

We’ve taken a couple of solo trips ourselves and we’ve found them to be enriching, and if you haven’t taken one, we strongly encourage you to do so. Here are some of the ways a solo trip will change you for the better.

It’s exhilarating to experience that feeling of complete and utter freedom on a solo trip. You are your own person; only you yourself can dictate where you go and what you do… and guess what? There’s nothing stopping you from unleashing your inner adventurer.

No one to stop you if you want to bungee jump off a cliff with the wind in your face, no need to feel the pressure of having someone wait for you while you shop, dine anywhere you like without worrying about someone’s else tastebuds… You are in charge, you are holding the reins, and you’ve got the final say.

1. THE REVELATIONS YOU DISCOVER ABOUT YOURSELF ARE NOTHING SHORT OF AMAZING

It goes without saying that, since you are on your own in a foreign land, you will probably spend a good deal of time alone. And that’s nothing to be afraid or ashamed of. Ditch technology and learn to rely on yourself.

Do a bit of self-introspection, roam around with no agenda and strike up conversations with strangers. Basically, take a step out of your comfort zone to do what you normally wouldn’t do (unless it’s, well, life-threatening) and even take time to reflect on your life back home—it might just strike you that your troubles pale in comparison to what’s going on around the world. Or you might surprise yourself with newfound social skills. Just don’t stand by the sidelines – challenge every single one of your fears, insecurities and misconceptions.

2. IT’S ONE OF THE FEW TIMES IN LIFE WHEN THE SKY’S THE LIMIT

You are not constrained by deadlines, time restrictions, rules or travel companions whining about everything under the sun. The scent of freedom is absolutely intoxicating. No one’s breathing down your neck about eating your veggies or going to bed before the sun rises.

Munch on chocolate for breakfast or wear crazy mismatched clothes – just because you can. Jot down your bucket list and start checking boxes. If you’ve got even the slightest amount of interest in something, as long as it’s within the realm of basic common sense, just do it. Because no good travel story ever started out with:  “that one time I stayed in the hotel room…”

3. YOU’LL COME ACROSS ALL KINDS OF PEOPLE, WHO JUST MIGHT SURPRISE YOU BY BECOMING LIFELONG FRIENDS

But first, you’ve got to toughen up and resist the temptation to hide out in your room. Who cares about the stares of judgment you might get? You’re probably just imagining them, anyway. The only way you’ll meet new people is if you make an effort to reach out and open up. Don’t be too quick to turn down an invitation to hang out, or better yet, do the inviting.

You may not speak the language, but a smile is a universal greeting – just take it from there. This might surprise you, but people will actually strike up conversations with you more often because you are by yourself—you are not as intimidating as tourists in pairs or groups.

4. THERE’S A WORLD FULL OF BREATHTAKING CULTURE AND LIFE-ALTERING EXPERIENCES THAT LIES AHEAD.

So you prefer to trek through off-the-beaten-path locations instead of the latest hotspot that everyone’s heading to? Hop on a plane and go for it. Don’t let the lack of a travel companion or others’ hectic time schedules distract you from your own fulfilment.

Explore gorgeous ancient ruins, scale the heights of great mountains, admire iconic landmarks across the globe, or attempt adventurous stunts for an adrenaline rush. There’s nothing stopping you from holding all these stunning memories except yourself.

5. YOU WILL RETURN HOME A WHOLE NEW YOU

When you muster up the courage to undertake a solo trip despite your friends’ confused looks and your parents’ (or other half’s) worry, you leave home one person and come back another. It’s pretty much guaranteed.

Confidence is one of the great things you’ll gain – because not many people can say they’ve navigated the intimidating waters of the unknown and come back (mostly) unscathed and even rejuvenated. There’s so much to learn: fresh perspectives, boldness in the face of failure, a new love for solitude, recognition of your inner strength, a greater appreciation for the little things, feeling more than comfortable in your own skin… It sounds clichéd to say this, but it’s honestly truly rewarding.

When going on an overseas or interstate vacation, the bulk of your money would usually be allocated to lodging. But did you know that with the right hacks, you can actually save a significant amount? Having said that, do also bear in mind that a cheaper rate also means the need to compromise certain traits. For instance, do not expect to stay in a 5-star hotel for free.

Some of us do not mind staying at a simple place so we can better spend our money for entertainment, food and other experiences that we otherwise do not get to see in our country.

For budget travellers who are thinking of ways to cut down on accommodation costs, we came up with a guide to help you score cheaper accommodation for your next holiday. You are very welcome!

#1 BE FLEXIBLE AND CONSIDER A DATE CHANGE

Certain hotel rates are cheaper on selected days and that is primarily due to the lack of demand. Do expect a surge in prices during peak travel periods. Some hotels do provide an overall view of the different daily rates and you will realise that weekdays are typically cheaper. Most hotels also offer early bird rates—so do be flexible about changing dates!

#2 COMPARE PRICES ACROSS WEBSITES

The general rule of thumb is to NEVER settle for the first rate you are offered. Do compare your prices across various online booking platforms such as Agoda, Booking.com and the hotel’s official website. Tally the total prices—inclusive of taxes—and you will be surprised. Some differences could be negligible or significant.

#3 OR TAKE A GAMBLE AND BOOK IT LATE

Here’s the interesting thing—certain hotels do offer slashed rates when you make a last-minute booking. For instance, mobile application HotelQuickly allows hotels to push out unoccupied rooms at discounted prices. Some discounts are massive and can be up to 40%! Of course, you would probably have to compromise on the room of your choice.

#4 OPT FOR HOME RENTAL SITES

If a particular city’s hotel rate is way over your budget, then consider home rental sites such as AirBnb where you can book an entire place, a private room or even a shared room! Prices on AirBnb are usually cheaper and what you get in return is a much more spacious area. Yes, AirBnb lodging gives you more bang for the buck—especially when travelling in a group.

#5 BUY OVER SOMEONE ELSE’S BOOKING

Travel mishaps are bound to happen and sometimes travellers book accommodations that cannot be refunded. This is when Roomer and Cancelon come in handy. These platforms allow travellers to post listings of their booked hotel rooms and the public can buy these bookings off them at discounted rates. Talk about a win-win situation!

#6 STAY IN LESS FANCY HOTELS NEXT DOOR

Reputable global hotel brands are usually located right smack in the city centre. The location is ace but the price tag can be scary. Instead of resigning to fate, this is what you can do—consider the less fancy hotel next door which will offer you an equally superb location but less glamorous amenities. It’s all about a case of compromising.

#7 JOIN MEMBERSHIPS TO ENJOY PERKS

Certain hotels give you special discounts if you sign up for their newsletters or join their membership programmes. However, note that the latter usually involves a fee which might or might not work in your favour in the long run. However, registering as a user with Agoda and Booking.com is completely free and gives you access to exclusive special daily rates. What are you waiting for?

There are many cost factors to consider when you are planning for a holiday—be it accommodation, food or transport. Sure, it is possible to compromise on comfort to save some money but what if we tell you that travelling the world for free or next to nothing is not just a dream?

No, we are not kidding. People have done it and so can you!

All you need is an open mind, some planning skills, a hard-working personality and some tips from us. Here are 6 Ways You Can Travel The World (Almost) For Free.

TRAVELLING WITH BFF: The Expectations vs. Reality When You Travel With Your Best Friend.

Photo Credit: United Nations

#1 VOLUNTEER

If you have an outgoing personality and are passionate about making a change in this world, then this is the option for you. Non-profit organisations that require specific professional skills such as the UN and Peace Corps offer all expenses paid travel programs when you volunteer with them.

Those who do not mind getting their hands dirty can opt for Wwoofing, a program that provides travellers with the opportunity to volunteer at organic farms in exchange for free accommodation.

Photo Credit: The Dubizzle Blog

#2 STAY FOR FREE

Ditch the hotels and stay with the locals! CouchSurfing is a website that connects the traveller with a local host who is able to spare you a couch or bed overnight. Check out the reviews left by previous guests so you know what to expect when staying there.

House Sitting is another way of saving on accommodation fees. Guests are expected to look after the house or take care of their pets while the owners are gone for the weekend.

It is also possible to loan out your apartment by swapping it with someone else when you advertise on home exchange websites. However, do keep in mind that it is important to coordinate the dates with your home swapping partners.

Photo Credit: Cruiseline

#3 WORK

Getting paid to travel is a dream job for many of us but what options do we have? Apart from being an air stewardess, you can also work on a cruise ship as an entertainer, service crew, engineer or event manager.

Other jobs that will take you to faraway lands include journalists, travel writers, language teachers, translators, event coordinators and those working in hospitality industries.

Read: 11 Tips On How To Save Money To Travel The World.

Photo Credit: Ski Japan

#4 APPLY FOR SHORT-TERM STINTS

To offset any extra cost, apply for short-term jobs such as a camp instructor, au pair or overseas internship. Some companies provide wages, accommodation, wifi and even meals.

Summer jobs such as fruits picking and amusement park crew are popular among teenagers. In winter, many try out seasonal work at ski resorts where they also get a chance to learn skiing for free.

It is best to start researching and applying for jobs ahead of your travel schedule.

Photo Credit: NPR

#5 FREE TRANSPORT

Besides accommodation, transport is one of the biggest reasons why travelling comes with a heavier price tag. A common practice in the US is hitchhiking whereby you flag down cars passing by for a free ride. Of course, it is important to exercise caution when doing so.

Collecting airline miles is a great way of earning yourself a free plane ticket. You can accumulate airline miles by staying in international chain hotels, converting hotel points into miles and using credit cards that let you accrue miles.

Getting bumped off your flight sounds like an awful inconvenience but if you volunteer to get bumped, you are likely to receive upgrades, flight vouchers or cash in return.

Photo Credit: Runner Bean Tours

#6 JOIN FREE ACTIVITIES

Learn more about the country when you participate in free walking tours organised by locals who are able to bring you to the best places for meals or hidden gems within the city that are unknown to tourists.

Before you complain about the impossibility of traveling due to your limited annual leave, read our 7 Tips on How You Can Still Travel With A Full-Time Job.

Those who have taken a solo trip often describe it as a life-changing experience that they will never forget. When you are alone, you get to discover not just new cultures and traditions but more about yourself too. You might find yourself picking up a new language or hobby that is not common in your home country.

Of course, things can be very different when you are out there alone without your family and friends to fall back on. It takes plenty of courage to blend into a completely new environment that you are not familiar with.

Going solo means that there are also many opportunities for things to go wrong but with some preparations done beforehand, you minimise the chances of getting into an unexpected and unnecessary predicament. If you have been thinking of planning a solo trip for yourself, here are 8 Tips For Planning Your First Solo Trip.

Read: 5 Ways A Solo Trip Can CHANGE YOUR LIFE.

#1 DECIDE ON THE DESTINATION OF YOUR TRAVEL

If this is your first solo trip, chances are you may feel uncomfortable to step out of your comfort zone. It helps if you choose a destination where you are able to speak the native language of the people there. Not only will you be able to understand what is happening around you, you can also ask for help from the locals directly.

#2 CONVINCE YOUR PARENTS WITH A PLAN

It’s great if your parents are supportive of your decision to travel alone! Female travelers may face the issue of parents who are unwilling to let their daughters travel alone. Understand that your parents are concerned about your safety and you should share your plan with them to assure them that you know what you are doing.

Give them a rough idea of your route, have the emergency contact numbers of the host country saved into your phone and let them know who you will be meeting up with over there.

#3 PLANNING FOR YOUR ACCOMMODATION

We cannot emphasise how important it is to choose your accommodations wisely. With plenty of options from hotels to Airbnb and guest rooms, you may find it a trouble to read through the reviews. However, it is a necessary procedure if you do not want to end up staying in a shady place located in a dark alley, or with questionable hosts.

Do not simply go for the cheapest hotel you can find as the location may not be ideal. Instead, choose to stay somewhere near the main road where it is safer and closer to eateries.

#4 PACK LIGHT

It is going to be a hassle to bring your luggage around if you are travelling to more than one city during the trip. If possible, carry just a backpack on your shoulder. Otherwise, choose to pack only light weight clothes and do not bring unnecessary valuable items such as jewellery as they add weight.

You should look for travel-size toiletries to bring along.

#5 SIGN UP FOR GROUP ACTIVITIES

There are plenty of interest groups you can take part in or one-day tours that you can sign up for. Check out their social media accounts or web pages which will provide you with all the information you need.

This is how you get to meet like-minded travellers along the way who can share more about their experience and journey with you. Also, it may be safer for you to travel in groups in certain places you are not familiar with.

Be confident to strike up a conversation and introduce yourself as most people will be delighted to make a new friend.

“A solo trip doesn’t necessarily mean a lonely trip. You may be traveling by yourself, but there will be a whole bunch of fellow globetrotters and locals you can hang out with if you just put yourself out there and be open to whoever comes across your path.”

#6 KEEPING IN TOUCH

Always make it a point to call or drop a text to your family from time to time. It is only natural for your parents to worry when they are not able to receive a response from you to indicate that you are safe.

It can be something simple like snapping a photograph of the food that you are enjoying at the moment and sending it to your parents or letting them know that you are back in the hotel at the end of the day.

#7 DRESS APPROPRIATELY

Places of worship are deemed as holy grounds that are very much respected by the locals. It is offensive to wear revealing clothes in these places or generally in countries that hold deep religious views. Always be sure to research on the appropriate dressing you should be wearing so you wouldn’t stand out like a sore thumb. When in doubt, go for long pants and skirts with tops that cover your shoulders.

A key to staying safe is also in your dressing. One way to blend in with the locals is to dress like them to avoid the attention of thieves or even rapists.

#8 STAY STREET SMART

Stay vigilant throughout your trip and be well-informed about the place. Carry your guide book with you so you can refer to it in times of doubt; or even better if your phone has data so that you stay connected.

If you need to ask for help from a stranger, seek from a family or people working in a restaurant. This is also the time to trust your gut feeling. If you have a bad feeling towards someone or a place, walk away to a crowded street. Be smart and don’t fall for tourist scams.

Ready for a new year of travels and adventures? Here is the list of Singapore’s Long Weekends in 2017 should you want a break without utilising your annual leave.

About the writer:
Julee is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She is an advocate of travel and hopes to visit Iceland someday. She enjoys having a good conversation over tea and a slice of cake. There are two things in the world she cannot live without—food and humour.

It is always a good feeling to be pampered while on holiday, but then the bill comes in, and suddenly you don’t feel that good after all.

This is reality. So you’ve got a budget to work with? Most of us do. Luxury holidays sure don’t happen every day, or month. Or even year.

The trick is knowing when to spend and when to hold back, and it all depends on what is most important to you. Comfort, safety, cleanliness, and all the other kinds of experience you’re looking for all factor into your decision-making process. Here is our ten cents worth.

Transportation

If you can afford business or first class on an airplane, then by all means, go for it.

But the truth is most of us are always struggling between budget and regular plane carriers to begin with. First, start by weighing the pros and cons of each option before making your booking.

Maybe you need a comfier seat for better rest during the long flight, or maybe you are perfectly fine with going budget for a few hours. Then again, budget carrier may not always be the cheapest option because you have to factor in check-in baggage fees and meal add-ons.

As for domestic trips and traveling within a country, it is more often than not more economical to go by train, bus or even a rented car. You don’t really need to spend on airfare and go through the hassle of checking your bags in and waiting for security checks.

Accommodation

How much time will you be spending in the room, really? If you are at a beach resort to chill out, then spend that extra tens or hundreds of dollars and put yourselves up at a more comfortable accommodation. The “investment” will bring great mileage to your holiday, surely!

But if you are heading to a place where you plan to shop your heart out and explore every nook and cranny, then consider saving money on accommodation with hostels, rented apartments, home stays or smaller, not-so-lavish hotels. After all, you just need a basic space to sleep and shower in.

Another train of thought is that it can be lodging at a very convenient location. The “top-up” may mean you can save on transportation within the city/ country.

Think about where your expensive hotel is located at – if it is just another high-end chain in another city that can be replicated anywhere else in the world, then maybe you might want think twice before splurging.

Bed and breakfasts, hostels or boutique hotels can provide you with an experience more unique to your destination, as well as more exposure to the locals and their non-tourist trap suggestions.

Food

Fine dining can be an indulgent treat, where you get all dressed up and pamper yourself for a day. Everything is clean and shiny, the service is impeccable, the food’s pretty darned great, and you get to brag about all the Michelin-starred restaurants you experienced. If that is the type of experience you are hankering for, the world is your oyster and lots of amazing meals await.

But fine dining can also burn a hole in your wallet and leave you wanting more. Or maybe lavish meals on big plates just ain’t your thing. Then we say make the trek to hole-in-the-wall bars, small eateries, local joints and even roadside stalls for more quintessential experiences!

Other activities

We don’t know about you, but as much as possible, we steer clear of spending a bomb on touristy city tours, cruise ships or anything that includes souvenir shopping and random photos against a green screen. Souvenirs all look the same, and no one really appreciates them anyway.

Know what works for you, do your research and ask around – then you can map out an itinerary that suits you better than any pre-planned tour.

If you are dying to try out an activity that is pretty costly, ask yourself if it can be done anywhere else, and if you will regret not doing it when you get home.

Sometimes, money doesn’t matter in the face of these once-in-a-lifetime experiences. It is the precious memories that are invaluable, right? And so, we often splurge on such intangibles despite being on a budget – but we’ve never regretted.

On an extremely tight budget that there’s really nothing left to spend? Go for free or low cost activities. There are aplenty around the world; depending on where your holiday is at, of course. You can visit historical and cultural places like museums, parks and galleries, or get in tune with nature at rainforests, beaches or waterfalls.

Most travellers succumb to checking in their belongings and as a result, they lose a significant amount of precious time waiting at the luggage carousel and are unable to take public buses or trains with their bulky baggage. It is honestly hard to convince people to ditch the idea of check-in baggage but trust us, the privileges on travelling without check-in bags are awesome.

From saving money on budget carriers to the ease of changing flight itineraries, here are 7 Practical Reasons On Why You Should Not Check In Your Luggage the next time you go on a relatively short trip under 10 days.

You will feel beyond liberated with less on your hand and you will never want to check in your baggage again after understanding its perks.

#1 AVOID THE HASSLE OF LOSING IT

We are not promoting paranoia but losing your baggage is actually a very frequent occurrence in all airports. Even though it might be insured or eventually returned to you, the process of actually waiting for your checked-in luggage is utterly painful. So why not reduce the risk altogether by bringing along only what you need onboard?

#2 FLIGHT ITINERARY CAN BE CHANGED EASILY

When experiencing an unfortunate connecting flight cancellation or some unforeseen delays for a flight, the most unfortunate thing would be that you are now stuck with the original flight as you have already checked in your luggage. However, if you didn’t do so, you could ask to be transferred to other partner airlines or purchase other tickets etc.

#3 LEARN TO LIVE WITH LESS

Packing everything into a carry on baggage will force travellers to scrutinise what they really need to bring along. When every tiny space matters, you would not be cramming in unnecessary items. This analogy also teaches you on how to live with less baggage in life, literally.

#4 RID OF UNNECESSARY ATTENTION

Upon reaching a foreign destination, all eyes will be on you (and not the light traveller who can walk easily with just one mini baggage) as you struggle with your bulky luggage and other bags etc. While humans are inherently good by nature, there will be lurking pickpockets, robbers and touters that would want to take advantage of you.

#5 SAVE MONEY FOR BUDGET CARRIERS

If you are flying with a budget airline, chances are that you actually have to top up additional amounts to check-in your baggage. You could save a fair bit of money by ticking off the option to check-in your luggage. In the long run, that sum of money would tally to a significant amount.

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#6 SKIP THE WAITING TIME

Every traveller can relate to the annoying procedure of waiting seemingly forever at the luggage conveyor belt. Watching every baggage pass by and yours just seems to be the last of the last. That is when you start envying those with zero check-in baggage, traversing pass you like a breeze. A lot of time is lost waiting for your baggage and remember, time is money.

#7 YOU CAN TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Most people with large check-in baggage will skip public transport options as it just doesn’t seem too feasible. But with just one light carry-on, you could easily take the public bus and/or train when exiting the airport. Sometimes taking the train is the best option to beat the traffic – and more often than not, cheaper too. It’s a win-win situation.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

The biggest setback most travellers face is usually finance related. But did you know that there are many ways you can cut back on the seemingly hefty amount? All you need is to channel a little more energy and you will be surprised by how the amount of money you can save!

From buying unwanted tickets at heavily discounted prices to getting free accommodation, travelling is now made so much more affordable than before. We want to share with you useful travel tips on how you can still board the plane to your dream city.

So without further ado, here are 7 Useful Travel Costs Reduction Tips That You Probably Did Not Know About!

BUY UNWANTED TICKETS FROM REAL PEOPLE

Many frequent travellers have made the impulsive terrible mistake of purchasing a plane ticket, only to realise he/she could not make it on the date. Depending on the airline’s terms and conditions, some may or may not be allowed to change the dates.

This is when Jump Flight comes in handy, where you can actually purchase plane tickets off these unlucky people. It’s a win-win situation to be honest, where you get a discounted ticket and the other party gets the bulk of his/her money back!

REGISTER FOR FREQUENT FLYER MEMBERSHIPS

Signing up for a Frequent Flyer Membership with your preferred airline is worth it, especially when you do fly pretty regularly. Accumulate your miles and you can eventually redeem plane flights and/or other awards!

Most Frequent Flyer Programs are also in partnership with other airlines, hence ensuring you clock up your miles almost effortlessly. For Singapore Airline’s Kris Flyer, members get to collect miles when flying with other collaborating airlines such as Silk Air, Virgin Atlantic and 28 other Star Alliance Airlines.

YOU CAN EARN MILES WITHOUT FLYING

Most people tend to think that the only way to earn miles is via flying but they are absolutely wrong! This common misconception is a huge savings barrier for regular travellers. Using of relevant credit cards actually allow you to convert your expenditure into qualifying miles.

For example, ANZ Travel Visa Signature Credit Card offers S$1 = 1.4 air mile for local spending and S$1 = 2.8 air miles for expenditure in Australia and New Zealand, while American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Gold Credit Card offers 1 Kris Flyer mile for every S$1.60 spent. There are many credit cards with contrasting annual fees, different conversions, varying privileges, so do your research and choose what is best for you.

GET ALERTED FIRSTHAND ABOUT LOW AIR FARE

Don’t you hate it when you were planning to purchase plane tickets at a particular value, only to find that it has risen tremendously overnight? Worse still, finding out that the tickets you bought is on a 30% discount the day after!

Here’s a piece of news to travel lovers – you do not have to leave your full-time job to pursue your innate wanderlust. Here are 7 Tips on How You Can Still Travel With A Full-Time Job.

As savvy travellers, we should be well informed but stalking the airline’s booking engine every hour is just not feasible. This is where Air Fare Watch Dog, Sidestep and Yapta comes in handy. These websites will notify you firsthand when your desired airfare has fallen in value. How brilliant!

HOW TO SAVE ON ACCOMMODATION

Besides the hefty costs of plane tickets, travel expenditure usually racks up easily with accommodation. For those who prefer staying at hotels, be sure to register as a member with hotel booking websites and enjoy their exclusive limited period members-only special discounts!

But why splurge on luxurious 5-star hotels when you can save the money and enjoy free lodging at Couch Surfing or House Sitting? The latter will require you to take care of a home and in exchange you get accommodation! You can look up House Carers, Luxury House Sitting, and Trusted House Sitters if that idea appeals to you.

If you are not a fan of Couch Surfing, staying at an Airbnb apartment/room is probably your best option. While we love our huge beds and fluffy sheets of commercialised hotels, we enjoy blending in to local cultures and truly experience living like a local. Which is why we have been such believers of Airbnb.

Airbnb is offering all ladyironchef readers S$36 travel coupon to book your next holiday accommodation. Simply click on this link, sign up and get S$36 on your first booking on Airbnb.

VOLUNTEER OVERSEAS

If time is your only luxury and you have nowhere in mind to go, why not consider volunteering in exchange for complimentary food and accommodation? World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) and United Nations Volunteers (UNV) are two great goodwill organisations to start with.

CUT EXPENDITURE WITH WIFI

Upon arriving at a foreign destination, most of us are usually given a myriad of options for prepaid SIM cards. Drop those packages with international/local calls! With the advancement of technology, one can easily make a Skype call and WhatsApp call by simply tapping on the data usage.

If you want to skip the hassle of queuing, purchasing and changing your SIM card altogether, why not opt for Changi Recommends’ Wifi Router? The router is extremely reliable and the best part is that it connects 8 devices at a go, starting from S$5/day!

Illustrations for ladyironchef by Kaeting.

Here’s a piece of news to travel lovers – you do not have to leave your full-time job to pursue your innate wanderlust. Let’s face it, not everyone can afford to abandon their families and financial securities to chase their travel desires. Having said that, we want Singaporeans to know that they can still travel, even when working full-time.

When it comes to travelling, full-time workers in Singapore will find that time is the number one issue they face. Yet, there is a significant group of savvy travellers who are still constantly traveling despite the dedication to their established careers. It is no secret – they have great time management skills, make no excuses and plan in advance!

Before you complain about the impossibility of traveling due to your limited annual leave, read our 7 Tips on How You Can Still Travel With A Full-Time Job.

#1 OPT FOR NEARBY FOREIGN CITIES

Going to a far away country might not be feasible with limited annual leave on hand. Instead of wasting several hours onboard a plane, why not choose a nearby foreign city to explore? Singapore’s proximity to numerous Southeast Asian destinations will allow you to reach another country within a two-hour car, ferry and even flight journey.

#2 MAXIMISE YOUR WEEKENDS

While this travel option might seem hectic, it is actually do-able! Flying off on a Friday night right after work will give you an entire weekend to travel. If flights are too much of a hassle, you can even take a coach to Malaysia or board a ferry to one of the many Indonesian islands. All you have to do is return to Singapore by Sunday night or even Monday morning for work.

#3 TAKE ADVANTAGE OF LONG WEEKENDS

If weekend getaways are insufficient for your overseas adventures, it is time you work your travel plans around Singapore’s public holidays that fall on either a Friday or Monday. There will be six long weekends in the year of 2016 so do take advantage of that for a longer trip! You can even take annual leave on days before/after the public holiday for an extended travel.

#4 PLAN IN ADVANCE

You should recognise the fact that most of your colleagues are probably after the same period of annual leave. Depending on your job scope, some firms may or may not allow you and your colleagues to overlap your off days. This means you will need to strategise your travel plans way in advance to maximise your time for traveling.

#5 TAKE UNPAID LEAVE

If you have used up your annual leaves but still itching for a getaway, perhaps you could request for unpaid leave. In the event where your unpaid leave is granted, it would be best to coincide them with the weekends or public holidays so that you have more time to travel with your loved ones and visit further destinations.

#6 EXTEND YOUR WORK TRIP

Some working executives do get to travel from time to time for business trips. Instead of going there just for work, why not discuss with your bosses and request for permission to stay for the weekend? You probably will have to fork out your additional accommodation and dining expenses, but it is still a great opportunity to travel since you are already abroad!

#7 OPT FOR COMPANY TRANSFERS

While this option is usually only applicable for multinational corporations, working professionals can actually request for a long-term transfer or a short term assignment. Do ask around in your local office and see if there are any available roles and/or assignment in your dream city that matches your capabilities. As the saying goes, you never know till you ask!

If all the above mentioned tips do not work for your case, you can still travel around Singapore! There is always something new and exciting for Singaporeans to check out. Rediscover the Lion City and you will be surprised by how much there is for you to explore! Staycations are also a great alternative way to escape temporarily from the hectic workload.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

With a strong innate desire to explore, wanderlusters are lured by the thrills of discovering new places and will seize any travel opportunities presented to them. These explorers have been bitten by the travel bug and have an insatiable desire for more travels.

Do you find yourself constantly making plans for your next overseas getaway while everyone else is busy arranging activities for the weekend? Are you often on the hunt for the next flight out of your current city of residence and spending all your savings on travels?

#1 DIFFERENT CURRENCIES IN YOUR WALLET

Finding a myriad of currencies such as Singapore dollar, United States Dollar, British Pounds, Thai Baht, Ren Min Bi, Vietnamese Dong and more, is not uncommon. You probably were too busy with your travels to separate the currencies.

#2 YOU PRACTICALLY LIVE OUT OF A SUITCASE

You find yourself away from your hometown most of the time. You might be actually be in your home country only for a quarter of the time and friends always seem surprised that you are actually even in town.

#3 YOU PACK AT A SPEED OF LIGHT

People start packing days or even weeks before a trip but you are comfortable with packing at the very last minute. After all, you have returned home for only a day and only unpacking just to pack for your upcoming travel (which is usually the next day or on the very same day). What jet lag?

#4 YOU SPEND MONEY ON EXPERIENCES

As a sucker for travel, new destinations will always excite you more than owning the latest gadget or trendiest handbag. You would rather spend your money on a trip to a foreign city than buying that branded luxury good.

#5 YOU GET RESTLESS AT BEING STATIONARY

You just returned home from a country far, far away and probably already have other flights lined up within the next week. The idea of being stationary irks you and you simply want to be out exploring other cities whenever you can.

#6 YOUR FRIENDS LIVE ALL OVER THE WORLD

You have friends that live in New York, London, Tokyo, Shanghai and other cities. You guys have memories in various different countries and probably became friends in the most unimaginable places away from home.

#7 TRAVEL IS YOUR FAVOURITE GENRE

You tend to skip all other genre of magazines and head straight to the travel section. While on the plane, you find yourself tuning into the in-flight entertainment’s travel TV series segment.

#8 YOUR INSTAGRAM IS DEDICATED TO TRAVEL

While everyone is posting a selfie or outfit of the day, your instagram feed is all about the amazing view from the plane, the exotic street food you just ate and a foreign city’s iconic infrastructure. The people you follow on instagram happen to be avid travelers like yourself too.

#9 CORPORATE JOBS SCARE YOU

One of your greatest fears includes working at a corporate office and being restricted to a limited annual leave. Being stifled by your career’s schedule frightens you and you would rather opt for a flexible job that allows you to be as free as a bird.

#10 YOU ARE THE TRAVEL GURU AMONGST FRIENDS

Family, friends and even acquaintances know that you are the go-to person for travel advice and recommendations. They trust your knowledge wholeheartedly and appreciate your enthusiasm in sharing your favourite attractions and cafes.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Travel Made Different has really made our travels different. Are you tired of skimming through lengthy online travel reviews to pick out the best recommendations there are to check out? Do you find yourself scrolling through Instagram and/or Pinterest to gain inspiration for your next vacation?

With the launch of NTUC Income’s new online platform, Travel Made Different, travellers can now plan their upcoming holidays in Pinterest style and export their visual itineraries to their smartphones.

These days, travellers are no longer satisfied with mundane touristy activities. Instead, they are looking for local experiences and hidden gems during their travels. More than these, planning the itinerary is part of the fun of the holiday itself.

And that is why Travel Made Different embraces this trend, and should be everyone’s go-to platform when we plan our itineraries.

WHAT IS TRAVEL MADE DIFFERENT ABOUT – THE NEW AGE WAY OF PLANNING YOUR ITINERARIES

We are not going to complicate things. Just think of Travel Made Different as a fine hybrid of Instagram and Pinterest.

Travel Made Different’s comprehensive hub of photos reduces the hassle of planning and enables travellers to effectively explore the road less travelled. And the platform is super easy to use! Have a try – hop over to www.travelmadedifferent.com, key in some searches and gather inspiration from people who have already been to your destination(s) of choice.

The exposure to a daily bombardment of advertisements has drastically reduced the attention span of modern age civilians. The preference for visuals over words is evident with the rise of pictorial apps Instagram and Pinterest. After all, a picture speaks a thousand words!

Travel Made Different is all about stirring your inner wanderlust. Make an itinerary for your next trip on Travel Made Different. We love looking at all the photos of everyone’s favourite eating places and hidden gems around the world.

AND WHO ARE BELIEVERS OF TRAVEL MADE DIFFERENT?

The community is a large group of like-minded individuals who are passionate travellers. These tech-savvy cultured holidaymakers are always on the lookout for intriguing experiences, and are ever eager to share their voyages on Instagram with the hashtag #TravelMadeDifferent.

Be inspired by fellow travellers; explore underrated places and appreciate the local way of life. Those who have had recent first-hand experiences are always generous with sharing their respective escapades and travel moments with all on the Travel Made Different portal.

LET’S GET STARTED

Whatever you want to research for your travels, simply search based on the hashtag (e.g. #, #, # ) and all the relevant and tagged photos will appear for your browsing.

Browse through travellers’ recommendations based on activities, cities, food, travellers’ recommendations and other interesting themes (e.g. #BucketList, #BeOurGuide, #SSBD). The images are updated in real-time and you will always be updated by the most recent travel discoveries.

It is a piece of cake – simply create a travel log at www.travelmadedifferent.com and accumulate valuable travel resources from a series of curated Instagram images.

A most beneficial feature of Travel Made Different would be the ability to effortlessly create your own personalised itineraries and exporting them into pdf files. And these logs can be easily accessed from your mobile for references during your travels; gone are the days when we find ourselves lost in a street and not knowing what to do next.

WALK THE PATH WE HAVE TAKEN

Last month, we took a trip to New York City and spent two weeks exploring the amazing Big Apple. Despite the 23-hour flight, New York City is slowly becoming a favourite destination among Asian travellers. There is so much to discover in that concrete jungle where dreams are made of.

We promised to showcase the highlights of our trip, and so, we tagged our Instagram photos with the ‘Must Sees’, ‘Must Dos’ and ‘Must Eats’ of New York City coupled with #TravelMadeDifferent. It made sharing our travel log with our friends so much easier!

Tag #TravelMadeDifferent on your Instagram photos and share them with us. And follow Travel Made Different on Instagram for more travel inspirations.

This post is brought to you by NTUC Income.

So many places to visit, so little time. Ugh, we feel you. First world problems, right? The world’s your pearly little oyster and you feel your wanderlust starting to tickle, but you have absolutely no idea where to next.

Should you fly halfway across the globe to immerse yourself in the bright lights of glittering cities? Or put on your adventure cap for a nearby journey to see some of nature’s finest?

You could just make a list of your top few destinations and then narrow them down from there… But what should you take into consideration? Which elements carry more weight than others? We’ve got tips at hand for you to zero in from endless possibilities to the one.

#1 IT DEPENDS ON WHO YOU ARE TRAVELLING WITH

Firstly, ask yourself: who are you travelling with? Your companions can and will make things more complicated – someone might love winter activities, while the other hates piling on the layers; one person might abhor anything more strenuous than walking (or shopping), while the other is the epitome of an adrenaline junkie.

The more people you travel with, the tougher it is to make a decision, so pick and choose your travel buddies wisely. You’ll want to explore the globe with someone who has similar interests and habits, so you can agree on a destination without conflict.

#2 DO YOU GO BACK TO YOUR FAVOURITE CITY OR DO YOU WANT TO CHECK OUT A NEW AREA?

Are you the type who likes scouting out new areas or do you prefer to acquaint yourself intimately with your favourite destination? Bali may be your second home, but why not broaden your options and try someplace further away and perhaps more exotic?

Cheesy as it sounds, follow where you heart wants to tread – if you’re a culture vulture, seek out areas that are chock full of museums, galleries and fascinating architecture; if you’re more of the laze-on-the-beach-and-do-naught type, find yourself the most pristine stretch of sand with crystal clear waters and settle on that.

#3 SIT DOWN AND FIGURE OUT HOW MUCH YOU CAN AND WANT TO SPEND

Budget woes will always have a say in your holiday choices, unless you’re one of those billionaires with five private jets. So before you start getting excited, sit down and figure out how much you can and want to spend.

If you want to fulfil your globetrotting dreams without breaking the bank, read on for the top 20 tips on how to travel on a budget.

Factor in everything – from transportation and accommodation to meals, shopping and activities – and if the price is way over budget (because it usually is), try to slash expenses by choosing cheaper places to stay or flying at non-peak periods.

#4 HOW MANY DAYS ARE YOU PLANNING TO GO?

How much time you’re allotting yourself for the vacation can also play a part in the decision. If it’s only a 4-day long weekend trip, don’t waste half of it on the plane. There’s nothing worse than arriving home after a holiday even more exhausted than you were when you left.

#5 CHECK AND SEE IF YOU’VE GOT ANY FRIENDS LIVING OVERSEAS

Flick through your list of Facebook friends (or your email contacts) to see if you’ve got any long-lost pals living overseas. What better way to get to know a country than with a guided tour by someone in the know? Plus there’s the added bonus of reconnecting with old friends and perhaps even free room and board.

#6 DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFOREHAND

Make sure you’re well informed about the weather situation before you book those tickets. You don’t want to be stuck in the room at Boracay during monsoon season, watching the rain wash away all your beach-y dreams; neither do you want to be in Disneyland during the school holiday period, swarmed by shrieking, unruly kids.

However, the best weather usually means peak period and high prices – so if you don’t mind taking the risk of the odd bad weather day, try visiting at other times.

A trip to Europe is always an exciting one to look forward to. Make your trip a fruitful one with these 10 things to note before travelling to Europe.

#7 LOOK OUT FOR EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

Some people plan their trips based on when their fav festival rolls into town, so check the calendar of that particular place you’ve been eyeing to see if there’s anything interesting or big happening in the year. And depending on your disdain or love for crowds, decide when is the best time for you to visit.

#8 THINK ABOUT WHAT EXPERIENCES YOU’D LOVE TO HAVE

If you’re on the quest to learn something new every time you get on a plane, think about what experiences you’d most love to have, then locate the countries best known for them. Maybe you’d like to try your hand at surfing? You could probably do that in Australia or California. Or perhaps you always wanted to speak French. Well then, that narrows things down for you.

About the writer:
Alicia Lee is a dessert junkie with a serious (and probably incurable) case of wanderlust. Never one to pass up on retail therapy, she loves a great bargain and can usually be spotted on weekends browsing through quirky shops or chillaxing at a quiet cafe.

Europe is an extremely popular continent to travel to, and whenever we think of taking a big holiday, Europe is the top-of-mind destination.

Whether you are looking to plan a shopping trip at Paris and London or an Italian escapade, or anywhere else in that fascinating continent that has so much history, cultures and lifestyles to offer, planning a big trip may not be easy. There may be hidden costs that you never knew of, or miscalculations of supposed savings.

For first-timers to Europe, this guide will help you make more efficient and effective planning. If you have been traveling to Europe, can you resonate with these points and could you have saved more if you abided by these cost-saving tips for a holiday to Europe?

#1 LOOK OUT FOR AIR TICKET SALES FROM TIME TO TIME

We often score deals from our constant stalking. Follow your favourite airlines on their social media platforms, because that is where they will shout-out about their sales. They are more often than not early bird specials, and they can be as wonderful as a whopping 50% discount.

Let us paint you an example: a regular return ticket to London Heathrow Airport (out of Singapore) on Singapore Airlines will easily cost mid-S$2000. A promotional return flight can be as attractive as S$1,300 after taxes and fuel surcharges.

Other times can be dump rates, where last minute deals are offered simply because they need to fill up a flight. Impromptu holidays are always fun, yes? Book your sale tickets today, and fly tomorrow.

There is no fixed pattern per se. They all depend on several variables – season, demand, carrier, length of stay…

#2 CHECK YOUR OPTIONS FOR RETURN FLIGHTS – YOU NEED NOT FLY BACK FROM THE SAME CITY YOU FLEW IN TO

Yes, it is safe to say that it is mostly cheaper to fly in and out of the same city. Open-city tickets are typically more expenisve, but that does not mean you are spending more. In fact, the price difference may bring about more cost savings.

Say you are starting your holiday at Paris, and you fly in to Charles de Gulle (CDG) airport. Your last stop is Rome, which probably means you have to do an inter-city transfer back to Paris to fly out from CDG airport. That amount you are going to pay for your domestic flight ticket or train ticket may well cost more than the price difference we spoke about. The opportunity cost would of course be the time wasted on the inter-city transfer, when that time could have been better invested in more sight-seeing.

Check both prices – the return flights from the same city and the open-city option – then check your inter-city transfer options. Work your sums before you secure all your tickets.

#3 DON’T BE TOO OVER-AMBITIOUS AND CRAMP TOO MANY DESTINATIONS IN YOUR ITINERARY

Now, this is arguably the most important lesson we’ve learned from multiple trips to Europe. On our first, we were overly eager and psyched about the sheer idea of taking a big holiday. And naturally, it is human’s nature that when you invest this much money on air tickets and large amount of time on a holiday, you’d want to clock more destinations and go to as many cities as you can.

Sure, that is not wrong. But logistically and realistically, it won’t work out. Being over-ambitious when planning your itinerary will bring about fatigue, frustrations, and rat races. The frequent mistake we hear of (as with our own on our first Europe trip) is allocating only 3D2N per city. And why is this wrong? Let us illustrate.

You arrive at your first destination, you take some time to administrate your check-ins and to freshen up with a hot shower, you settle down with a first proper meal. By the time you are set to sight-see, your day might well be over. That leaves you with the next and only full day to tick off whatever you want to do in that city. Because the third day is your last and you are supposed to move on to your next destination, which only means you’d have to pack up and process your check-out, then make your way to the airport/ train station. Even if your flight/ train is at night, your tour is limited because there is only so many things you can do when lugging your suitcases.

‘Being over-ambitious when planning your itinerary will bring about fatigue, frustrations, and rat races.’

And the pattern goes on for your subsequent destinations. So you see, if you do a 3D2N per city, or even a 4D3N, your time per pit stop is very limited and please do not forget the possibility of unforeseen circumstances, such as unexpected long queues, unannounced one-day closure of a place/ restaurant for whatever reasons, rain and harsh weather conditions etc.

From our experience, it is ideal to map out your priorities when you plan your itinerary. Allocate more days for cities that you have a lot to clock, and have a list of must-sees and can-do-withouts so that you’d know where to head to first. Leave some breathing space for yourself; chasing flights are not fun, so is walking a mile to an attraction and having only ten minutes for photos before rushing off to your next point.

#4. THERE ARE MORE ACCOMMODATION DEALS THAT AWAIT YOU BEYOND PAGE ONE OF YOUR SEARCH

Of course, the top few searches are always your best bets. But for all you know, you may find steals if you would just scroll past the first page of your search results. Speaking from real experience, we promise. The ones that we end up staying at are often the ones that we found from much scrolling and filtering.

Also letting you in is the fact that the web will display results they want you to see and act on. Of course, that may mean the site is commissioned to displaying those “deals” as the top few. Don’t be fooled by those instigating messages like “Only for 1 day” and “1 room left”. You don’t know how infuriating it was for us when we fell for those, only to go back to the site a week later and realize that the supposed last room we paid for is still available – sometimes even cheaper!

#5 BOOK YOUR STAYS WITH AIRBNB

In case you don’t already know, we are huge fans and believers of Airbnb – especially when we take trips to Europe. There will always be apartments that fit our budgets, no matter big or small.

And they make better accommodations because European hotels tend to be small and cramped and leaves you with no space to walk after you open up your suitcase, but Airbnb apartments usually offer more space. And that’s more bang for your buck!

Stay where the locals stay, breathe in the neighbourhood and learn from the locals on where they wine and dine; Airbnb stays are always more atmospheric and charming. Sign up for your Airbnb account via our link and enjoy S$34 off your first booking.

#6 DO NOT STINGE ON YOUR ACCOMMODATION AND COMPROMISE ON THE LOCATION

We are done with compromising on locations just to save a few more euros at a farther hotel/ apartment. Nope, not gonna do that anymore.

Stinge on your accommodation and you get a lousy location that will have you walk for what seemed like eternity before you reach the nearest bus stop. Or it may also mean you have to change a hundred buses plus walk for a century before you get to the main shopping street/ attraction.

‘Airbnb will always be apartments that fit our budgets, no matter big or small. And they make better accommodations because European hotels tend to be small and cramped.’

Waste of time, waste of money on multiple trips and long taxi rides, and waste of energy. Pay a bit more to stay next to the train station, or of walking distance to the areas that you will be going to a lot. You will be thankful to have parted with that extra amount of money.

#7 THERE MAY OR MAY NOT BE A NEED TO BUY UNLIMITED TRANSPORT PASSES

Many cities offer passes for unlimited bus and train rides. Those can be pretty value-for-money, especially if you know you are going to travel within the city quite a bit to get to your many points. But you may not need it too, if where you are putting up at is strategically located within the main areas.

We can’t say for sure when you would or would not need one, so don’t rush into buying one. Study your itinerary, do simple calculations on the number of trips you would need to take on the bus/ train, then decide if you need one.

#8 MUSEUM PASSES AND FAST PASSES, TOO

Some cities offer passes of such that grant you unlimited museum visits and/ or fast passes. They may not come cheap, so be sure to decide on the attractions you intend to visit before you make a commitment to buy these passes.

But more often than not, they bring about cost savings – both literal and opportunity costs. For example, a Roma Pass costs approximately €30. It includes two museum entrances and fast passes. What do you know? We skipped the crazy snaking queue of 2 hours to enter the Colosseum!

#9 INTER-CITY TRAIN TICKETS MAY BE ON SALE

If you are headed to various cities by train, check out the website regularly prior to your trip. Don’t book the first one you see, because for all you know, there will be a half-priced ticket for the same fleet when you check back again three days later.

Same as air ticket sales, there is no fixed pattern. But all you need to do is to spend a minute every day to try your luck on the booking sites, and the moment you see a significant “dip” or an unheard of price, then you know that is the ticket for you.

Well, spontaneity may also bring about cost savings. And risks. We tried buying tickets for the same day travel at the train station itself, and some had us paying a premium, while some saw savings of almost 50%.

#10 PREP YOURSELF WITH CONNECTIVITY BY SECURING TRAVEL WIFI DONGLES OR PREPAID DATA CARDS

Another important point to note is the availability of travel wifi dongles and/ or prepaid data cards at wherever you are going to. Some cities offer really good deals with immediate activation, while places like Paris would require a painful 3-day activation – which means you might end up paying for nothing because by the time your card is activated, it is time to kiss the City of Love goodbye.

You know what? Place your trust in Changi Recommends. Their travel wifi is a life-saver and it is completely hassle-free. Just make your booking prior to your departure, pick it up at the terminal you are flying off from, and activation is immediate upon landing.

#11 BRING MORE CASH TO SHOP

Simply because credit cards’ exchange rate are usually not favourable and you will end up paying more for that Chanel 2.55. No biggie for small items, but if you are already planning for your luxury shopping, then have the cash ready. Sounds oxymoronic, but shop with cash to save more!

#12 DO YOU REALLY NEED A CAR?

Lastly, if you fancy driving overseas, think again – do you really need a car? Would it incur more costs instead? Parking in Europe is not cheap, and that is to say the least. Some historic places and protected areas forbid parking altogether, so you might end up spending another sum on taxi or public transport to get to the attraction.

Do your research and have a better understanding of the parking costs and availability before you decide on whether to rent a car or not.

A trip to Europe is always an exciting one to look forward to. From jaw-dropping landscapes to majestic structures, each holiday there feels like a unique adventure. So make your trip a fruitful one with these 10 things to note before travelling to Europe.

A trip to Europe is always an exciting one to look forward to. From jaw-dropping landscapes to majestic structures (seriously, I can never get how detailed some of the buildings are, especially when they were built without the technology we’ve got today), each holiday there feels like a unique adventure. So make your trip a fruitful one with these 10 things to note before travelling to Europe.

#1 DO YOUR RESEARCH

Watch clips of each country you’re visiting to get a feel of what it’s going to be like. Note which way the traffic in each city goes, as different countries abide by driving on different sides of the road (obviously).

And, this is one thing you may learn through experience, but here’s this: each city has its own rules when it comes to crossing the road. Germans may wait patiently for the green man to flash, but in Italy, be careful, even when there’s a traffic light. Its drivers go pretty fast, so make sure they come to a complete stop before making your way across the road.

#2 LOOK FOR CHEAP ACCOMMODATION

Hotels in Europe don’t come cheap, especially if you’re hoping to get a good night’s rest. We recommend using apps like Airbnb, where you get to rent rooms or apartments from locals. Other options include couchsurfing or hostels, but it really depends on how adventurous you are.

Read: Here are the top 10 reasons why we love Airbnb.

#3 DOWNLOAD THE NECESSARY MAPS BEFORE YOU GO

It always helps to know where you’re headed to, especially if it’s your first time in a new city. And, instead of calling attention to the fact that you’re a tourist with your printed maps and guidebooks, let your smart phone do the job instead.

You can download the map of the area you’re looking for via Google Maps. Just type in ok maps in the search bar, and wait for it to load. Evernote, a popular notetaking app is also useful when it comes to clipping receipts and other paperwork such as your documents.

#4 SKIP THE GUIDEBOOKS

They may be useful, but why spend a couple of dollars on it when you can download information for free online? There are plenty of travel apps online which has guides for major cities such as London, Rome and Copenhagen and Paris can be useful when it comes to getting information on the site that you’re going to be visiting.

Also, Google Translate is your best friend, if you don’t speak the language of the city. You may not be an expert in the field, but all you really want, is to get your message across. Right?

#5 TRAVEL DURING OFF-PEAK SEASON

It really depends. Summer’s usually the high season for travellers in Europe. That’s also when most of the stores and tourist attractions are open. But if you’re a winter person, you’ll face less crowds and shorter queues… and lesser stores will be open.

For example, if you’re headed to Cinque Terre or the island of Capri (both in Italy) in winter, you’ll find an empty town, as most of the stores are closed. But if you’re there for the sights and photographs, you’ve got more time to admire the scenery!

#6 STRETCH YOUR DOLLAR

Focus on your priorities and determine what you’re going to spend on. Are you going to indulge in gourmet food in Europe, or would you rather save it on covering as many sites as possible? Is having comfortable accommodation important to you, or would you rather spend it on shopping? These are questions you should ask yourself, so you can set aside some money for each aspect of your trip.

#7 HEAD TO THE LOCAL TOURIST OFFICE

It varies from each city, but you may find useful tips, as well as discounts, free passes to attractions or public transportation and fun events you may want to suss out.

#8 DO AS THE LOCALS DO

The locals know best. Don’t be afraid to ask them for their recommendations. You’ll never know where they may lead you to. But of course, keep your eyes peeled. If you feel uneasy about a situation, please get away from it as fast as you can.

#9 PACKING TIPS

Make a list of essentials you must have. They include: international adapters, chargers, comfortable footwear, a formal outfit (in case you’d like to visit a fancy restaurant or something), toiletries, and the list goes on. But our point here is, pack light.

Read: Here are the top 10 essential travel items and accessories that will make your life that much easier, as well as save time and money.

Chances are, you’re going to be there for two weeks or more, and you need to save space for shopping! Bring clothes you can mix and match easily such as separates that are easy to work with. Think of the outfits you’re likely to wear each day, and plan from there.

#10 KEEP YOUR VALUABLES SAFE

It’s so obvious, but we can’t stress this enough, especially in larger cities like Barcelona, Rome, Paris and Athens, where pickpockets are prevalent. Look out for them (don’t stereotype – the person who looks least like it may clean out your pockets if you’re not careful), try not to look lost, and don’t flash your valuables about.

Read: How to avoid tourism scams – be smart and not fall for these old tricks. 

Don’t keep all your valuables in one place, and invest in a money belt or a hidden pouch for your cash and travel documents. It may look (and feel) unglamorous, but it’s worth it. Also, don’t forget to make photocopies of your passport, papers and itineraries, as well as email them to yourself in the event it gets lost or stolen.

About the writer:
Amanda Tan has written pieces for several publications, which include stories on food, lifestyle and beauty. She believes life is too short for regrets, and hopes to live in London (just for the experience). She is also a self-professed cake addict, and can never resist a slice, at any time of the day. If you’d like to share life hacks, travel tips and general advice, you can drop her a note at scented19@gmail.com.

New to a particular country? Don’t let the possibility of being hustled burst your bubble of excitement. Con artists have upped their game in recent years, from expert pickpockets to cabs who stealthily zoom off with your valuables to swindlers who offer you free stuff… and then demand you pay a hefty price.

Sometimes it’s tough to climb over the language barriers and familiarise yourself with the cultural differences, so you end up falling prey to shrewd thieves and their sneaky schemes. Sadly, this is a problem that won’t go away anytime soon, so the best thing you can do is get savvy and guard yourself against tricks of any kind.

Here are some tips to help you steer clear of tourist rip-offs.

#1 IF IT SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBABLY IS

If it sounds too good to be true, well then, it probably is. No, you’re not the luckiest person in the world to win a free night’s stay or a complimentary taxi ride just ‘cause the person throws a couple flowery words and charming smiles your way. Nothing – or hardly anything – is free in this world, especially when you’re obviously a tourist in a foreign land. So don’t encourage them or show any interest if you’re not genuinely keen – keep your hands to yourself, avoid accepting anything they hand to you, and walk off before they can stop you.

#2 SCAM ARTISTS CAN APPEAR IN ALL KINDS OF SHAPES AND SIZES

Keep in mind that scam artists can appear in all kinds of shapes and sizes. That pitiful child beggar might actually be who he says he is, or he might be part of a bigger criminal organisation. So be smart when you’re meeting people – sudden nearby commotions could be designed to distract you, helpful natives could be kleptomaniacs in disguise, smart-looking policemen could be totally phony, and fellow tourists claiming to be lost could be locals waiting to pick your pocket.

#3 PAY IN SMALL BILLS, AND DON’T FORGET TO COUNT YOUR CHANGE

This one’s pretty obvious, and yet most people can be careless when it comes to cash – pay in small bills, be sure of what you’re paying for before your money changes hands, and don’t forget to count your change.

It’s usually safer to fork out cash, but even then, get accustomed to the local currency and pay attention to what the cashier is doing – they could be talking rapidly to distract you or counting money slowly so you’ll be in a rush to leave and forget to tally up your change.

#4 THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN YOU ARE TAKING PUBLIC TRANSPORT

When taking public transport, always check to make sure the meter is on before you take off, or negotiate a fixed price with the driver so he doesn’t end up overcharging you. Some cabbies may accidentally-on-purpose drop your change and then give you similar-looking cash with less value, or they could offer to unload your bags, conveniently ‘forget’ one and then speed off before you even realiSe what happened.

They could even convince you your hotel is closed and bring you to an overpriced alternative, or take you to the wrong place with the exact same name.

#5 ALWAYS CLING TIGHT TO YOUR VALUABLES, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU ARE IN THE MIDDLE OF A HUGE CROWD

Street performances and markets are always fun, but don’t forget to cling tight to your valuables when you find yourself squashed in the middle of a huge crowd. The entertainer may have pickpocket accomplices disguised among the crowd or someone could bump into you and quickly empty your pockets before you notice anything’s gone.

#6 BEWARE OF FAKE ROOM INSPECTORS, PHONY FRONT DESK CALLS…

You may think you’re safe when you’re finally snuggled on your bed at the hotel, but sometimes that’s not the case. Beware of fake room inspectors, phony front desk calls that ask for your credit card details or even bogus takeaway food menus that charge exorbitant amounts to your card after you’ve ordered some food (that you’ll never see).

About the writer:
Alicia Lee is a dessert junkie with a serious (and probably incurable) case of wanderlust. Never one to pass up on retail therapy, she loves a great bargain and can usually be spotted on weekends browsing through quirky shops or chillaxing at a quiet cafe.

You’re probably tired of hearing this travel buzzword, but bear with us for a minute. First of all, what does off the beaten track actually mean to you? For some, it could be traveling to world famous destinations but forgoing iconic landmarks in favour of searching for hidden shops and hole-in-the-wall bars or chasing after whispers of locally-loved restaurants not mentioned in any guidebooks.

For others, it could be scrapping popular vacation spots completely and hunting down the most secret, isolated places that could very well land you right smack in the middle of nowhere – miles away from any annoying traveler and ridiculously expensive tourist rip-offs.

Whichever way you choose – despite transport inefficiencies, language barriers and any other obstacles you might encounter – you’ll often discover an enriching experience waiting for you when you venture away from the footsteps of others and pave your own way.

Here are 5 reasons why you should veer off the well-trodden path.

#1 YOU WILL TRULY IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE LOCAL CULTURE

Locals who live near typical tourist locations are often immune to the swarms of chattering (and at times, ignorant) travelers, sometimes going out of their way to avoid getting too near to tourist traps. And restaurants, bars and cafes around these places have evolved to cater to a mostly tourist crowd, which means you’ll experience less authenticity and more of a watered-down version of the local culture and tradition.

To really delve deep into a country’s heritage, journey away from big cities to small towns (that are often overlooked) – locals here tend to be friendlier, which makes it easier to connect with them, and you can head into the local coffee shop to get a guide of the area from the experts themselves.

#2 YOU WILL RETURN RELAXED AND REJUVENATED

Of course, there’s plenty that can go wrong when you stray away from the five-star hotels and touristy spots that are engineered to accommodate groups of rowdy tourists. But you’ll also get to experience a slower pace of life that’s quite calming and soothing in itself.

Turn up for local events, enjoy Mother Nature with hikes or fishing trips, or just put on your most comfy pair of walking shoes and explore your surroundings. It’s less stressful, knowing you won’t have to deal with a tour group every few steps, and more peaceful and private, as these relatively untouched places still retain much of their natural beauty without the ugly stamp of trash left behind by tourists.

#3 YOU WILL GET MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK

It’s no secret that a trip to popular cities like Paris, London, Sydney and Tokyo can burn a hole in your wallet. These destinations are popular, and they know it; they can charge whatever they want, and the crowds will still come flocking. But when you travel to lesser-known regions, many attractions have small businesses that offer more attractive prices and discounts; plus, you don’t get as much competition when you’re trying to book lodging and activities, and you can even try out B&Bs and private home rentals for a more unique stay.

#4 YOU WILL FIND YOURSELF CHALLENGED IN MANY WAYS

Vacations are for relaxing, sure. But sometimes it’s nice to engage in a challenge instead of spending all day mindlessly lounging by the pool. Chow down on bizarre, never-before-seen dishes, or try and make your way through the area while reading signs in another language – speaking of that, you’ll also have to learn a few basic sentences of the native language (if they don’t speak English or your mother tongue). It’s tough to pick it up in just a few days or weeks, but the locals will sure appreciate your effort (and maybe throw in a few freebies for you at the shops).

#5 YOU WILL BE ABLE TO ACTUALLY UNPLUG FROM THE WORLD

If you’re looking for an escape, this is the best way to do it. Small towns, secluded beaches and tiny communities may not have the best amenities when it comes to internet and electricity, which may sound like a nightmare right now, but it could turn out to be a good thing. Nothing feels better than disconnecting from the worries and stresses of life and genuinely living in the moment, floating off on your travels without a single care in the world.

About the writer:
Alicia Lee is a dessert junkie with a serious (and probably incurable) case of wanderlust. Never one to pass up on retail therapy, she loves a great bargain and can usually be spotted on weekends browsing through quirky shops or chillaxing at a quiet cafe.

Upon returning from Melbourne, my friend recounted to me over dinner how the long awaited graduation trip with her good friend turned out to be a letdown because of their extremely different travelling styles.

Such stories of disappointing holiday trips are not uncommon. As we travel more in the company of friends nowadays, many of us have come to the unfortunate realisation that not all good friends make good travel partners. Understanding that different people have different travelling styles and habits goes a long way in helping us to pick the right travel partners and ensuring our trips go as smoothly as possible.

Here are 5 things to note when choosing your travel partner.

#1 THE GET UP AND GO, OR LIE DOWN AND NO

Some of us fall into the latter category of laid-back travellers. When we indulge in a holiday, winding down from our hectic schedule back at home is our top priority. A morning lazing in our lush queen-sized hotel bed? Perfect. Spending our entire afternoon on the beach’s daybed with our favourite read? Now that’s more like our cup of tea.

Travelling with the former group of people may then prove to be problematic. Unlike the laid-back ones, the busy travellers love their itineraries packed full of activities. From trekking in the morning to visiting 5 museums in the afternoon and a night full of shopping, such a travelling style may leave laid-back travellers gasping for air and frustrated.

Whether you are a busy or laid-back traveller, it is best to pick someone who is similar in travelling style.

#2 THE NEAT FREAK, OR THE MESSY MONSTER

When we travel with a partner, we are bound to expose a little more of ourselves (not literally, of course). We all have bathroom habits. Some of us need only 15 minutes to shower, others, an hour.

Does uncapped toothpaste tubes set off alarm bells in the morning? What about the navigating through your travel partner’s field of scattered cosmetics?

If these bathroom pet peeves tie a proverbial knot in your robe strings (or literal), we suggest talking to your travel partner about them prior to the trip. Communicating these expectations in an amicable manner would prevent you from brushing your teeth with that tube of concealer. The key here is to also understand that different people possess different habits. Try not to fret over these personal differences and the trip will be a more enjoyable one for both you and your partner.

#3 THE ADVENTUROUS FOODIE, OR THE SAFE DINER

It cannot be denied that food is the one thing that brings people together and often a huge reason why people travel to a country (think Bangkok and Hong Kong). However, the glorious quest for food is not for everyone – divisions can happen if one traveller is a foodie and the other is not.

We all know that one person who wants to put a live octopus tentacle in his/her mouth and wash it down with a cup of crushed crickets deep fried to perfection just moments before. However, while some of us have the industrious palette of Bear Grylls, it is important to remember that not everyone has the same taste. Some of us are much safer diners – we prefer to stay within our comfort zones and going for familiar food choices.

Remember that not everybody shares the same sense of curiosity in food, and that if you are a foodie who is out to seek out a culinary adventure, it is best to bring along someone who’d appreciate a good food hunt. Finding out and deciding how far one is willing to travel for that sumptuous, glistening bowl of udon is the key in this situation. Nothing spoils a trip more than an unwilling party.

Things other than the cuisine can sour the meal as well. For example, splitting the bill evenly down to the last decimal point may scratch the inner OCD itch in some of us, where others prefer not to deal with the nitty-gritty.

#4 THE ZEN BEN, OR WHINY NELLY

Murphy’s Law states that what may go wrong, will go wrong. Sadly, this particular adage won’t be far from the truth especially in any travelogue. When travelling to a new place for the first time, the possibility of getting lost, boarding the wrong train or missing that ticketed ferry-ride are all very real nightmares.

This is when having a travel partner who possesses a calm and composed character, coupled with the ability to think rationally in unexpected situations, helps. The last thing anyone would want when lost in a foreign land is a travel partner complaining and whining about the whole situation without offering any solutions.

#5 THE WIDE-EYED, OR THE UNIMPRESSED

It is often said that the journey is less important than the destination, and for good reason. Compressing a part of your life into a suitcase and carting it off to a destination unknown is all about taking the paths you would not usually travel.

Travelling with someone who has an inescapable sense of wonderment makes even the most mundane and routine tasks, such as catching the bus to the stop nearest to your hotel, a real joy. Such wide-eyed travellers make for good companions for someone who shares the same enthusiasm for travelling. On the other hand, if your travel partner is one who lacks any sense of intrigue and is blinkered to the joy of discovery, it can be quite a dampener.

Making a careful choice of who to travel with helps to make your much-anticipated holiday more enjoyable. However, as John Steinback aptly puts, “A journey is like marriage. The certain way to be wrong is to think you control it.’’ It is important to realize that we cannot control everything and things do go wrong when we travel.

In a trip as such, travel partners need to give each other a bit of room for imperfections and flaws, and be a little more accommodating to our travel partner’s idiosyncrasies. The best thing we can do for ourselves is to take things in our stride, and try to make the best out of our holiday vacation.

About the writer:
A person who enjoys what life has to offer, Leanne prefers to count her blessings and endeavours to make the best out of whatever that comes her way. She loves to travel and believes that it is the best way to learn about people and places – and in sharing her experiences, it just makes it all the more meaningful.

So you love to travel, but you hate packing. We get it. Sometimes it can be quite a hassle – especially when you can’t decide what to stuff into your already-overflowing suitcase and what to reluctantly leave out. Plus, it gets worse when you start to experience that nagging feeling that you’ve forgotten something of absolute importance. Obviously, passports, travel documents and cash are a no-brainer – but to be prepared, take full advantage of the limited space you have.

So here’s our checklist of top 10 essential travel items and accessories that will make your life that much easier, as well as save time and money.

1. NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES

Drown out the shrill screams of crying infants, the pounding beats from the nightclub next door and all other disruptive noises (especially on the plane, where you can’t escape) with this genius invention, which gives you a much-needed good night’s rest – whenever and wherever. It can mean a world of difference between a cranky or cheery you the next morning.

Here’s an idea: quit. Then pack your bags, and go travelling. Yes, make that drastic decision, be a little daredevil – you won’t regret it. Let us tell you why you should quit your unhappy job and travel.

2. PORTABLE DIGITAL LUGGAGE SCALE

Unless you’re one of those who can magically approximate the weight of your bags just by lifting them up, this simple little gadget is essential for you to retain your sanity. Nothing is worse than lifting your bulky suitcase onto a tiny bathroom scale, only to realise you can’t see the reading at all. So invest in this and save yourself the trouble (and embarrassment) of re-packing and rearranging your stuff in front of the entire airport.

3. ZIPPER STORAGE BAGS

These are amazing lifesavers – they’re inexpensive, they don’t take up much space (or weight), and they’re ridiculously useful. Use these waterproof babies to store toiletries, sandy clothes, wet swimsuits, dirty shoes, cosmetics, detergent powder, important documents… and the list goes on.

Travel is the best education there is out there. The lessons you discover about yourself, others and the world while traveling are incomparable to what you learn while sitting in a classroom. Here are 5 things you’ll learn while traveling that classes in school won’t teach you.

4. DUCT TAPE

Just like the above-mentioned, this multi-purpose product can come to the rescue in almost any situation. Ripped a hole in your bag? Want to remove lint from your clothes? Discovered a tear on your worn-out shoes? Your flip-flops broke apart just as you stepped out of the hotel room? You know what to do – tape ‘em up.

5. PORTABLE POWER PACKS AND UNIVERSAL MULTI-PLUG ADAPTERS

Because you don’t want to be stuck with the realisation that the country you’re in has completely different plugs than what you’ve got. Neither do you want to sacrifice precious beauty sleep to wake up every few hours and switch chargers for your various gadgets.

Traveling is exciting and fun – you get to discover a whole new world out there – but it’s also costly and can burn a hole in your pocket pretty fast. If you want to fulfil your globetrotting dreams without breaking the bank, read on for the top 20 tips on how to travel on a budget.

6. MEDICATION AND GERM ELIMINATORS

This is especially for trips to developing countries – trust us, you don’t want to spend half the vacay burning up or puking your guts out. It’s not a pretty sight. So arm yourself with simple meds like aspirin or charcoal pills, and take precaution with hand sanitisers, antibacterial wipes or mozzie repellent.

7. TRAVEL CARE KIT

Packed with travel-sized toiletries (so you can bring your fave brands), a hair brush, a toothbrush and toothpaste, a compact mirror and a hydrating spray, this is just the pick-me-up you need to look fresh and presentable after spending hours cramped on a plane.

Don’t let your savings account be an obstacle to your wanderlust – holidaying doesn’t need to be an expensive affair. Check out these 11 tips on how to save money before, during and after you travel.

8. SAFETY PINS

Functional in countless ways, this nifty travel tool can repair or prevent any wardrobe malfunctions, like when you use it in place of a missing button. Plus, it acts as a temporary luggage lock (by fastening both zips together), helps to pin two items together (like socks, gloves or curtains) and even serves as a makeshift clothes peg (for you to dry your stuff on the clothesline).

9. INFLATABLE PILLOW

You’re probably thinking you’re too young for this, but neck pillows can immerse you into a world of comfort you never knew existed in the economy cabin of a plane. You’ll wake up without any terrible kinks in your neck and start your trip on a great note.

10. COMPARTMENTALISED BAG INSERT

This handy organiser is great for arranging stuff in your carry-on, so you don’t have to waste time rummaging through packets of tissues or tangled up earphones just to find your passport – especially when there’s a long line behind you at the security checkpoint. With this inserted into your bag, it’s so easy to access or locate anything you need, you’ll begin to wonder why it took you so long to get one.

About the writer:
Alicia Lee is a dessert junkie with a serious (and probably incurable) case of wanderlust. Never one to pass up on retail therapy, she loves a great bargain and can usually be spotted on weekends browsing through quirky shops or chillaxing at a quiet cafe.