Stay Hydrated (the Right Way)

On a long flight, the dry cabin air can quickly dehydrate you, even if you don’t feel thirsty, so staying hydrated is crucial. If you want to feel better when you disembark, don’t rely on the cups of water the flight attendants pass out—water alone isn’t always enough to maintain optimal hydration levels.

Instead, stash a few packets of electrolyte drink powder in your carry-on to mix into your water and help you rehydrate more efficiently. These drinks contain key minerals such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium that help your body retain fluids more effectively.

Wear a Posture Corrector

When you’re stuck in an economy seat, it’s human nature to slump down or try to contort yourself into any position that will make you a little bit more comfortable. Unfortunately, if you spend hours sitting down while slouched over, you’ll get off the plane with neck, shoulder, and back pain that might linger throughout your trip. We like wearing Forme’s Core V-Neck Long Sleeve shirt on long flights, a comfortable shirt with a built-in posture corrector. 

Forme’s patented posture-correcting technology gently pulls your shoulders back and down, helping to open your diaphragm so you can breathe better and also reduces back, hip, and neck pain. 

Try an In-Flight Meditation or Stretch

On most long-haul flights, you’ll find a “wellness” section alongside the in-flight movies and TV shows. These short programs guide you through relaxing meditations or gentle stretches, offering a great way to improve both your mental and physical well-being during the flight. The exercises are designed to be done in your seat (think shoulder rolls instead of downward dog), so you don’t have to worry about looking strange or disturbing your fellow passengers.

Move Every Few Hours

One of the reasons you feel so cramped and sore after getting off of a long-haul flight is that you haven’t moved from a seated position in hours. Make it a point (yes, even if you’re in an aisle seat) to stand up and walk a short distance every few hours. We don’t recommend doing laps up and down the aisle or stretches in the galley, but even a quick stroll to the bathroom and back can make a big difference. Not only will this help ease muscle stiffness, but it’s also essential for reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots can form due to prolonged immobility.

Watch What You Eat and Drink

If you tend to emerge from the plane with a terrible headache or feeling bloated, the culprit might be your in-flight meal. Ultra-processed airplane meals are often packed with salt, which can make dehydration worse and lead to headaches. Too much salt can also contribute to “jet bloat,” which combined with the change in cabin pressure, leaves you feeling uncomfortable and swollen.

Take a Tried and True Sleeping Remedy

31,000 feet in the air is not the time to test a new sleeping pill. However, if there’s a remedy that you’ve taken previously and know works well for you (like melatonin or magnesium), taking it during your flight can help you get some much-needed rest. Getting some shut eye is really the best way to feel better after a long journey.

Wear Compression Socks

Hate stepping off the plane with swollen legs and feet? Try wearing compression socks on your next flight. Swelling in the legs and feet is common during air travel due to a mix of inactivity, cabin pressure, and dehydration. Compression socks gently apply pressure to improve blood flow, helping reduce swelling and potentially lowering the risk of DVT.

The post 7 Tips for Feeling Better on Long Haul Flights appeared first on SmarterTravel.

While relocating to a foreign country may seem like an impossible fantasy, it’s actually quite achievable with some thoughtful planning and a clear vision. The real challenge often lies in choosing the right destination. 

International Living just released its 2025 Annual Global Retirement Index. This report is designed to help retirees find destinations where their money goes further, offering great value in housing, daily living expenses, and overall quality of life.

The index assesses potential expat destinations across several categories, including healthcare, housing, cost of living, and ease of integration into local communities.

International Living picked Panama as the best place to retire abroad in 2025. “This year’s Index showcases safe, welcoming, good-value places where retirees can live better for less—while enjoying an adventure and finding like-minded community in surrounds that suit them,” says Jennifer Stevens, Executive Editor at International Living. “Panama’s incredible affordability, modern infrastructure, and welcoming culture have once again earned it the top spot.”

The Best Places to Retire Abroad 2025

1. Panama
2. Portugal
3. Costa Rica
4. Mexico
5. France
6. Spain
7. Malaysia
8. Greece
9. Italy
10. Thailand

The post The Best Places to Retire in 2025 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Gnome Reserve, Devon, England

You may have seen animal reserves before, but what about a home for garden gnomes? The Gnome Reserve in Devon, England, has more than 2,000 gnomes scattered free-range-style around Merry Harrier’s Garden Centre. Visitors can pose for pictures with the statues, using the provided fishing rods and gnome hats to blend in. Dogs are welcome to visit, but they must be on leashes so they don’t scare the gnomes.

Sewer Museum, Paris, France

Go underneath the beauty of Paris—deep into the city’s bowels. The Sewer Museum (Le Musee des Egouts de Paris) offers a firsthand look into the sewage system of The City of Light. Educational exhibits are located atop grated walkways, through which you can see the drain water rushing along. You will be inside a working septic system, so don’t expect it to smell like a Parisian patisserie down there.

Market Theater Gum Wall, Seattle, Washington

Often called one of the germiest tourist sites in the world, the Market Theater Gum Wall has been collecting germs and chewed gum since 1993. Theatergoers waiting in line for the Market Theater’s box office started sticking their gum on the wall here in Post Alley (some even getting creative and molding their discarded chews into sculptures). The collection has been removed and cleaned multiple times, but it keeps coming back.

Island Of The Dolls, Xochimilco, Mexico

Deep within a labyrinth of canals in Mexico lies possibly the world’s creepiest island—Isla de las Munecas. To get to the “Island of the Dolls,” you’ll have to hire a trajinera (a special wooden boat that can navigate the canals) for a two-hour trip. At the island, you’ll be greeted by hundreds of dolls, some rotted and moldy, some hanging from trees, and some that now have insect nests in place of limbs. Local legend has it that a hermit isolated himself on this isle, and that the man claimed to be haunted by a girl who had drowned in the canal. To appease her spirit, he began collecting dolls and hanging them around the island. The hermit supposedly died in 2001 in the same way as the girl—by drowning in the canal.

Karni Mata Temple, Deshnoke, India

Musophobes (those afraid of mice and rats) should avoid this temple at all costs. The Karni Mata Temple in India is a Hindu shrine built to honor the rat goddess of the same name. Worshippers believe that souls of the goddess’ devotees are reincarnated as rodents, so all of the 20,000 rats that live in the temple are considered sacred. Watch your step in here—if a rat is killed, it must be replaced with a gold or silver statue. Besides, having a rat run over your feet in the temple is considered good luck (and no shoes are allowed inside).

Avanos Hair Museum, Avanos, Turkey

Deep in the dark cavern underneath a pottery store lies thousands of disembodied locks of hair. A Turkish potter/artist Chez Galip supposedly started The Hair Museum of Avanos over 30 years ago, and the collection has grown to include more than 16,000 pieces of hair, all of which are tagged with the name and address of the donor. Leave your own contribution when you visit—twice each year, 10 pieces of hair are chosen at random from the museum. These lucky lottery winners will receive an all-expenses paid trip back to Turkey to participate in the artist’s workshops.

Memento Park Budapest, Budapest, Hungary

After the Soviet Union fell in 1991, the statues of Lenin, Marx, and Stalin went down with it. Rather than be destroyed, though, some of these monuments were saved and put on display in Memento Park Budapest. Here you can see salvaged statues as well as replicas of former monuments. To add to the eeriness, there’s also a replica of Stalin’s former parade-watching grandstand and a mock central square (to represent the real-life squares where many uprisings took place across the region).

The post The World's Weirdest Tourist Attractions appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Taco Beast, Steamboat, Colorado

You’re skiing at Steamboat when you start to get hungry, but the powder’s good, and you don’t want to stop to eat. Then, like magic, through a flurry of snow, a tricked-out snowcat appears in front of you, bearing tacos. No, it’s not some kind of mountain mirage; it’s the Taco Beast, and it’s real. This snowcat-turned food truck roams Steamboat’s slopes from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, serving up four different kinds of tacos, esquites, and drinks. 

Ski-in, Ski-Out Distillery, Park City Mountain, Utah

Need to warm up from the inside? Ski right into High West Distillery, the world’s first ski-in, ski-out gastropub distillery. Here, you can grab a glass of house-made whiskey (with plenty of varieties, including a double rye) that will leave you feeling nice and toasty before you head back onto the slopes. Just don’t have too many, lest you fall off the chairlift.

Gondola Fondue, Vaujany, France

How amazing would it be if, at the end of a long lift line, you stepped into a gondola and were offered hot, gooey fondue? At Vaujany in France, this dream almost comes true—sadly, the gondola fondue isn’t available during ski hours, but you can reserve this after-hours experience throughout the winter season. The gondolas get kitted out with tables and stocked with fondue, aperitifs, dessert, and hot beverages for riders to enjoy while the gondola traverses the mountain.

Heated Gondola Seats, Vail, Colorado

Vail’s luxury gondolas might be nicer than your hotel room, but unfortunately, you’re not allowed to sleep there. Inside, heated seats warm you up in between runs, and free Wi-Fi means you can look up a trail map or post a smug Instagram during your 7.5-minute ride.

J.E. Henry Railroad, Loon, New Hampshire

Sure, you could ski or walk between the Octagon Lodge and the Governor Adams Lodge at Loon Mountain, or you could take a train. This wood-fired, steam-powered engine runs 900 feet back and forth each winter, shuttling skiers in a unique fashion.

The post Snowcat Tacos and 4 Other Amazing Ski Resort Amenities appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Pack your bags, leave stress behind, and embark on a journey towards your best self at the world’s best wellness retreats.

Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat, British Columbia, Canada

The Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat combines a strenuous boot camp, a relaxing wellness retreat, and a pampering spa oasis into an unforgettable vacation. Set in British Columbia’s lush forest wilderness, a key part of the week-long program involves hiking in the surrounding nature for three or more hours daily.

In addition to the heart-pumping cardio hikes, participants can go on mind-calming forest bathing walks to help relax and reset their minds. The fitness journey continues in the kitchen, as you’ll be served meals designed to sustain your energy level and improve gut health. 

The Mindful Journey, Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Arizona

Build your own wellness retreat at the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, one of the most luxurious resorts in Arizona. Guests participating in The Mindful Journey, a self-guided, three-day retreat, will customize their experience to suit their personal goals. Start by meeting with a spa concierge to design your itinerary, choosing from options focused on art, nature, fitness, or community. 

The package includes access to the on-site spa, a reserved spa cabana, an experience guide, and daily gifts (like a light therapy device and plush robe). 

The Ranch Hudson Valley, New York

The Ranch’s original location in Malibu, California, is famous for attracting celebrities seeking a healthier lifestyle. The fitness-focused resort recently expanded to the East Coast with the opening of its Hudson Valley, New York location. 

Guests are encouraged to follow a 30-day pre-arrival program before their stay, which will help prepare them for the intensive itinerary at The Ranch. The active daily schedules involve morning hikes, nap time, afternoon strength classes, and restorative yoga, but there’s plenty of pampering, including a daily massage. 

The Ranch serves communal meals that are vegan, gluten-free, and without processed sugars or sweeteners to help you reset your diet to something more nourishing.

BodyHoliday, St. Lucia

Whether you want to get the whole family in on a wellness retreat or have your own solo vacation, there’s an option at BodyHoliday in St. Lucia. This all-inclusive resort has themed months, like September Solos or Spring Sail, with special activities, experiences, and celebrity guests.

No matter when you visit, your stay will include a daily one-hour therapeutic treatment, meditation, Tai Chi, and yoga classes, and all food and drink. 

Sleep Well Retreat, Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, Florida

If your New Year’s resolution is to sleep better, sign up for Carillon’s Sleep Well Retreat, a program that’s designed to reset your circadian rhythm. The 4-night stay includes accommodation in a one-bedroom apartment outfitted with a Bryte Balance Smart Bed (which uses advanced technology to maximize sleep quality), a 50-minute Pro Sleep Body Treatment, a copy of Sleep for Success! Everything You Must Know About Sleep But Are Too Tired to Ask, access to a meditation pod, and more.

ReNew Retreat, Hilton Head Health, South Carolina

A vacation is an excellent cure for stress, but the calm effects don’t always linger for long once you touch down back home. What if you could walk away from your next trip better equipped to handle everyday struggles? That’s the premise behind Hilton Head Health’s ReNew Retreat, a holistic wellness experience designed to help you manage stress and make self-care part of your everyday life. 

The retreat starts with a “life balance” assessment to set goals and design an itinerary for your stay. Fitness classes, a cooking demonstration, a custom massage, and healthy meals and snacks are also included in the program. 

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post The 6 Best Wellness Retreats to Reset Your Life appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Air Travel Secret #1: Airlines Lie About Flight Times

Ever been on a flight that’s listed on your itinerary as two hours long, yet when the pilot is about to take off, she announces that the flying time will be an hour and a half? Padding flight time estimates is an increasingly common tactic that airlines use to improve their on-time arrival statistics—that way, even if they’re late taking off, they may still technically be on-time when they land.

The Telegraph and aviation analyst OAG conducted a study which found that, “over the last couple of decades, despite new technology, scheduled flight times—ie. how long an airline estimates it will take to complete a journey—have actually increased by as much as 50 percent”.

Air Travel Secret #2: There Are Tens of Thousands of Flights in the Air Each Day

According to the flight tracking website FlightAware, an average of 27,000 airline flights take place each day, with about 5,000 flights in the sky at any given peak time (click here to see a live map of all flights). Want to travel when it’s less crowded? Avoid Thanksgiving Weekend, FlightAware says, as its forecasted that upwards of 3.2 million passengers will be passing through the terminals. New Year’s Day, however, tends to see fewer crowds at the airport than the average travel day.

Air Travel Secret #3: Airlines Don’t Have to Track Planes in Real Time

Ever wonder how entire commercial jets can go missing for years, like Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370? Following that accident, the United Nation’s aviation agency announced new regulations that would require airlines to track their planes every 15 minutes, as well as require all aircraft to be equipped with an automated tracking device that will transmit the location every minute during distress. These regulations officially went into effect in 2022.

Air Travel Secret #4: That’s Not Duct Tape Holding Your Plane Together

It can be alarming to look out your window seat and see what appears to be duct tape on the wing, but don’t worry, that’s not what’s holding your plane together. It’s a high-tech adhesive (approved by the FAA) that will stay in place even at speeds of over 500 mph, and is rightfully nicknamed Speed Tape. It’s used as a temporary fix for smaller repairs that need to be completed quickly, so don’t worry, you won’t see a roll of tape securing the engine to your plane.

Air Travel Secret #5: The World’s Shortest Commercial Flight Is a Minute Long

Don’t expect drinks service on the jaunt from Westray to Papa Westray (part of the Orkney Islands in Scotland), which is the world’s shortest scheduled passenger flight. The flight, operated by Loganair, takes just about one minute, although it has been flown in as little as 53 seconds.

Air Travel Secret #6: Airplane Air Is as Dry as a Desert

Ever wonder why you’re so dehydrated when you get off of a long flight? The humidity in aircraft cabins is only around 20 percent, which is less than in the Sahara Desert’s average of around 25 percent. This is because the air outside the plane has minimal humidity at 30,000 feet, so it has to be added back in.

Air Travel Secret #7: Air Traffic Controllers Are Highly Paid

The people on the ground responsible for making sure that planes don’t crash into each other are paid accordingly, with a median yearly salary of over $137,380. It makes sense—this job requires intense concentration while working in a semi-dark room (no slacking off on the internet allowed here), as well as weekend, night, and holiday shifts.  Air traffic control is such a stressful job that employees are required to retire at 56.

Caroline Morse Teel would love to hear your air travel secrets. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

The post 7 Air Travel Secrets You Didn’t Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Here are some tips to help you navigate an extended stay with relatives this holiday season:

Make Your Bed More Comfortable 

Relegated to a futon, air mattress, or pull-out couch during your visit? There are a few things you can do to make your sleeping arrangement more comfortable. Air mattresses get colder than real beds (the air inside cools overnight, making you chilly). Pad it with extra blankets, or use a sleep sack, which is easy to pack and provides a ton of warmth.

If possible, move the air mattress up against the wall so your pillows don’t fall off while you sleep. Also, put a blanket or a yoga mat underneath the mattress to make it less noisy when you move around. Packing an inflatable sleeping pad is an easy solution to make futons or rock-hard mattresses more comfortable.

Even if you’re staying in a great guest room, most normal bedrooms don’t come with blackout curtains like those you’ll find at hotels, so be sure to pack an eye mask that will block out light to help you sleep past dawn.

Earplugs are also essential if you’re a light sleeper (or just go to bed earlier/get up later than other people in the house). We recommend Earpeace, earplugs that are specially designed for sleeping. Or bring a travel-sized white noise machine if you really want to drown out the world.

Don’t Forget to Breathe

Getting stressed? Take a deep breath to help relax. If you’re staying in an environment you’re not used to (for example, sharing a house with smokers or pets when you’re allergic), bring a tiny travel air purifier for your room. This can make a big difference and help you breathe easier.

Get Some Quiet Time

Spending time with other people 24/7 can be challenging. But you’ll be a better guest and family member if you take some solo time to decompress each day. Take a walk, or excuse yourself to take a nap and use the time to sleep or read. If you’re coming home to a deadline-driven family, you could appear busy while carving out alone time by offering to run errands by yourself.

Stay Charged and Connected

If a big group is staying at your family’s house, the Wi-Fi may get overwhelmed quickly. If it’s important to stay online, bring along a Wi-Fi hotspot to avoid the frustration of slow internet. A travel-sized power strip can also save the day if everyone is fighting over one outlet to charge gadgets.

Work Out

There’s a reason the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot is so popular. Whether you head out in the morning for a quick run or get a day pass to a local gym, working out can give you an excuse to leave the house for a bit. Exercise is also a proven stress reducer and mood enhancer and will make you feel less guilty about eating home-cooked food.

Don’t Dominate the Bathroom

Chances are, you won’t have a private bathroom while staying with family, so don’t leave your toiletries scattered all over the sink and shower. This innovative bag is a great solution, as it lets you lay out all your toiletries on a flat surface to use; when you’re done, simply fold it up and take it back to your room.

Be Your Own Climate Control

Unlike at a hotel, you don’t get control over the thermostat when staying with family. If you know the house will be cold, pack extra layers. In shoe-free houses, travel slippers can keep you comfortable. 

House too hot? A portable fan can be a lifesaver, and also act as a white noise machine at night.

Pack Modest Pajamas and a Robe

You probably don’t think twice about what you pack for sleepwear at a hotel, but you might want something a little more modest if you’re staying in someone’s home. Don’t forget to pack pajamas and a robe you won’t be embarrassed to be seen in for those middle-of-the-night bathroom trips.

Offer to Grocery Shop, Cook, or Buy Dinner

Try to make your visit as easy on the host as possible. Just because it’s your family doesn’t mean they’re responsible for cleaning up after you and cooking every meal. Show up with a restaurant gift card to let them know a few meals are on you, or offer to go grocery shopping and cook for everyone while you’re there.

Be Appreciative

Your presence is not your present. Make sure to show appreciation to your host for putting you up. A thank you note or gift is always a nice gesture.

Some good host gift ideas include a bottle of wine and a wine chiller, a gift basket full of tasty treats, an easy-to-care-for plant, or a framed family photo.

Caroline Morse Teel is a Managing Editor at SmarterTravel. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from around the world. 

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 10 Strategies to Survive Staying with Family Over the Holidays appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Person Who Hates Flying

First, you’ll need to identify why your giftee hates flying. Are they afraid? If so, a weighted blanket has been shown to help with anxiety, and there are travel-friendly, portable ones available. Or, the book Flying Without Fear has rave reviews on Amazon from those who swear it’s helped them overcome a phobia of flying.

If they just hate being trapped in a tiny seat for hours, give them the gift of a distraction, with noise-canceling headphones or FlyTunes, a small gadget that allows someone to use their own Bluetooth headphones with in-flight entertainment.

The Person Who Hates Germs

The LifeStraw Home Pitcher is the perfect gift for people who hate germs, plastic, or both. This seven-cup glass pitcher filters out bacteria, parasites, micro-plastics, heavy metal, and more to improve the taste of your water and make it significantly safer.

Or, if you’re shopping for someone who claims to want to bathe in hand sanitizer after a particularly germy flight, grant their wishes with a case of travel-sized hand-sanitizer.

 The Person Who Hates Hotels

You can’t magically make someone’s own bed appear across the world, but you can help make hotels better with the gift of a sleep mask and earplug set.

Willing to spend a bit more to help your hater? It’s a lot harder to hate a five-star luxury hotel than a motel, so you could also treat your traveler to a gift certificate that will allow them to upgrade.

The Person Who Hates Technology

For the Luddites on your list, an instant-print digital camera will stop their complaining about smartphone photos being trapped in the mysterious cloud.

If they reluctantly embrace technology in certain situations (like a Kindle for long trips), give them an e-reader cover that makes it look like a real book.

 The Person Who Hates Chain Coffee

Too good for Dunkin’ Donuts or Starbucks coffee? Satisfy the coffee snob’s need for a fast (but good) cup with Mr. Coffee’s Single Cup Coffee Maker With Travel Mug and Grinder. This gadget takes less time than the drive-through and delivers a cheaper and better cup of coffee. With just one press of a button, the machine grinds coffee beans and brews a cup of coffee right into a travel mug.

Help them keep their to-go cup at the perfect temperature with Ember’s Temperature Control Travel Mug, which uses smart technology to keep the contents inside at the perfect temperature for up to two hours.

The Person Who Hates Checking a Bag

Give the gift of never having to be “gate lice” (you know, the people who hover competitively around the boarding gate, ready to charge onto the plane as soon as their group is called in an attempt to secure a precious piece of overhead bin real estate). Armed with a rolling suitcase that will fit underneath almost any airplane seat, your recipient can relax at the airport bar until final boarding is called, safe in the knowledge that their bag won’t be forcibly gate-checked.

 The Person Who Hates Traffic

Help your favorite road-rager achieve Zen in traffic with the Pura portable scent diffuser. This perfectly sized stocking stuffer fits in the cup holder of most cars and diffuses calming aromatherapy. Or, get them a subscription to Audible, Amazon’s audiobook service, so they can at least do something productive while stuck in traffic.

The Person Who Hates Travel Clothing

If you know a frequent traveler who shuns traditional travel clothing (think: cargo pants and hiking sandals) gift her something from Bluffworks’ brand-new women’s line. Although it’s a travel-clothing company, Bluffworks prides itself on not looking like one, so you can get normal-looking shift dresses, tops, and pants all with the travel-features you need (like hidden pockets and wrinkle-resistance).

The Person Who Hates Being Out of Touch

Know someone whose smartphone is glued to their hands at all times? Give them the present of more power, with this ultra-slim, credit-card sized portable charger for smartphones. This little device stores enough power for 2 to 2.5 charges depending on your smartphone model.

The Person Who Hates Wearing the Same Thing as Someone Else

For travelers who like to stand out from the crowd, you can’t go wrong gifting customized luggage from ROAM. Customers can choose between a standard or an expandable base model. From there, they can individually customize the front, back, zipper, lining, and trim of the suitcase, choose whether to include a front pocket, and even opt to add a monogram. With “literally millions of combinations” according to ROAM’s website, the chances of showing up at the terminal with the same carry-on as the person next to you are slim. 

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

The post Gifts For Haters: What to Buy for the Person Who’s Impossible to Shop For appeared first on SmarterTravel.

You May Regret Being Cheap While Traveling

A cheap flight, inconveniently located hotel, or minuscule rental car may save you money, but they’ll likely still cost you plenty of regret and inconvenience. Want to avoid feeling the regret of being cheap when you travel? Then avoid these mistakes:

Waiting for the Shuttle to an Off-Airport Rental Car

You just survived a long flight and are ready to get to your final destination. Too bad you booked with a shady rental car company that’s located in an industrial area far from the airport. Now, instead of hopping in a car and driving off, you’re trekking to some forgotten corner of a far-off terminal and waiting for a rental car shuttle bus that may or may not come.

Getting up Before Dawn for an Early Flight

Hovering over the “book” button, you think to yourself, “I’m saving $50! I’m so frugal! I get up early for work every day, a 6:00 a.m. flight won’t be that bad!” Until the night before your flight when you’re calculating just how early you have to wake up to be at the airport in time … and realize that you’re going to be spending the first day of your vacation sleep-deprived. Plus, if you have to be up before public transit is running, you may end up spending what you saved on the flight to take a taxi to the airport.

Lying Awake at Night Listening to Your Hostel Roommates Snore

How bad can a 20-bed room in a hostel be? After all, you’ll only be there to sleep, so why bother spending more for a private room? If one of those 20 beds is booked by a loud snorer, a sleep-talker, or someone waking up early for a flight, pretty bad—and will defeat you being in there to sleep, since you won’t get any.

Settling Into the Middle Seat in the Back of the Plane

After spending too many hundreds of dollars on a bare-bones economy ticket, it can be hard to persuade yourself to give another penny to an airline. You’ll stuff everything into a small carry-on and be willing to board last… but when you settle into the non-reclining middle seat next to the bathroom, you will be cursing your past self for being cheap and not paying the fee to select your seat.

When Your Tiny Rental Car Might Not Make It

The economy rental car option seemed like a fine idea when you were looking at it on the website and trying to cut costs, but when your budget vehicle turns out to be comically toy-sized (especially compared to those semi trucks whizzing past you on the highway), you might start to have some regrets about being cheap. See also: that heart-stopping moment when you wonder if your car is actually going to make it up a hill/down that dirt road or if you’re going to figure out how roadside service works in a foreign destination.

Dragging Your Suitcase on Public Transit

Everyone on this packed train hates me, you’ll realize as you try to squeeze your way on with your suitcase while accidentally whacking a few commuters with your backpack. As you’re dragging your luggage up and down the stairs, through crowds, and off the train or bus, you’ll rue being cheap and not just splurging on a taxi.

Stressing Over Your Flight Connection

When you’re on the first leg of a plane journey with a tight connection, every minute your plane doesn’t board, or sits on the tarmac without taking off, feels like an eternity—the flight with the 50-minute layover was the cheapest option, but does that cost savings matter if you miss it?

Waiting in Line to Buy a Ticket Instead of Paying the Booking Fee

This ticket site wants how much to book admission in advance? I’ll wait and buy it at the window, you think… until you arrive at the attraction and discover everything is sold out, or that the line is hours long. Is being cheap worth wasting your precious vacation time standing in line? If it’s a Ticketmaster-esque ridiculous fee, it can be a tough decision.

When You Reach Hour Five on the Slow Ferry or Train

The slow ferry/bus/train won’t be that much worse than the express, you think. Imagine all the scenery I’ll see. That sounds like a great, cost-saving measure until you’re trapped on an excruciatingly slow form of transport, experiencing fatigue and pain from sitting for so long, and thinking of everything you’re missing by not arriving sooner.

The post 9 Times You’ll Regret Being Cheap When You Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Light Sleeper: Ozlo Sleepbuds

The gift of a good night’s sleep is priceless, and the best way to ensure that is with the new Ozlo Sleepbuds. If you know someone who wakes up every time a door slams in a hotel hallway, a car beeps outside the window, or when the party starts in the room next door, these Sleepbuds will change their life.

Created by three former Bose engineers, the Sleepbuds are small Bluetooth earbuds that are designed to be used while sleeping, with a comfort-first design that works even for side sleepers. The slim earbuds deliver soothing noise-masking sounds throughout the night on a single charge, effectively blocking out any disturbances that would normally disrupt sleep. For the traveler who values their rest, these Sleepbuds aren’t just another gadget—they’re an investment in better sleep anywhere in the world.

The Overpacker: Airback NEXT Suitcase

We all know that determined carry-on traveler – the one who swears they’ll pack light but ends up sitting on their suitcase, desperately trying to zip it shut. Enter the Airback NEXT, an innovative suitcase featuring a built-in vacuum compression system that will revolutionize the way you pack.

This cleverly designed luggage features two compartments: one side for your soft items like clothing, which can be dramatically compressed using the included travel pump to remove excess air, and another side for rigid essentials like shoes and toiletries. 

The Adventure Traveler: Vasque Horizon 

For your friend who lives for those summit selfies, Vasque’s new Horizon boots strike the perfect balance between packability and serious hiking performance. Remarkably lightweight yet fully waterproof, these innovative boots deliver the nimble feel of running shoes while packing all the protection you need on the trail.

The responsive sole technology helps conserve energy with every step, making these boots a dream to wear, whether tackling a day hike or embarking on a multi-day adventure. With 25 percent recycled materials in their construction, they’re as kind to the planet as they are to your feet—perfect for the environmentally conscious explorer in your life.

The Skincare Stickler: Korres Greek Glow Signature Routine

Know a traveler who vigilantly maintains their multi-step nightly skincare routine, even when living out of a suitcase? Korres’ Greek Glow Signature Routine is their perfect match. This thoughtfully curated travel kit streamlines an elaborate skincare ritual into three essential steps that slip easily into any toiletry bag.

The trio includes a luxurious Greek Yogurt Foaming Cleanser, nourishing Velvet Skin Drink face oil, and hydrating Poreless Skin Cream—a perfect defense against dull, dehydrated skin that often comes with long flights and changing climates. 

The Fitness Fanatic: Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 Earbuds

If someone on your list never misses a workout, even on vacation, Jabra’s Elite 8 Active Gen 2 Earbuds will be their ultimate travel compainon. These featherweight earbuds are dustproof, waterproof, and sweatproof, making them perfect for everything from hotel gym runs to outdoor runs in unexpected weather.

Thanks to Jabra’s innovative ShakeGrip technology, these earbuds stay firmly in place through even the most intense workouts. But they’re not just for exercise—exceptional noise cancellation and wind-resistant mesh ensure crystal-clear audio whether you’re catching up on podcasts at 35,000 feet or taking business calls from a beachfront café. 

The Frequent Flyer: Bombas Travel Compression Sock and Slipper Set

Unless you’re lounging in first class, flying is an exercise in discomfort. But while you might not be able to gift that dream upgrade, you can make economy feel a little more luxurious with Bombas’ Travel Compression Sock and Gripper Slipper Set.

This clever comfort duo pairs knee-high compression socks (perfect for fighting in-flight swelling and fatigue) with cozy gripper slippers that transition seamlessly from the plane cabin to the hotel room. It’s like a little touch of business-class comfort at an economy-friendly price.

The Traveler Who Hates Being Cold: Helly Hansen Mayen Waterproof Parka

Don’t let winter weather derail your favorite traveler’s adventures—gift them Helly Hanesn’s Mayen Parka, a perfect blend of function and fashion. This sleek parka defeats wind and water while staying remarkably packable, thanks to its innovative PrimaLoft insulation, which delivers serious warmth without the bulk.

Available in eye-catching red or classic black, this versatile coat features an adjustable waist and detachable faux fur hood for customizable style. Unlike typical puffy winter wear that can overwhelm travel photos, the Mayen’s sophisticated silhouette ensures your gift recipient will look as good as they feel, no matter what the weather.

The Person Who Always Checks a Bag: Knog Scout Travel Tag

Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer for that friend who never travels light? Knog’s Scout Travel Tag reinvents the humble luggage tag for the digital age. Forget those flimsy plastic tags that vanish somewhere between check-in and baggage claim—this robust tracker attaches to suitcases with a sturdy anti-tamper bolt and braided stainless-steel cable.

Built-in Bluetooth connectivity works seamlessly with Apple’s Find My network, letting travelers keep tabs on their belongings from anywhere in the world. Instead of scribbled contact details, this smart tag features a QR code for secure information sharing. The battery lasts for 2-4 months, and can be recharged via USB-C, making it a better choice than the non-rechargeable Apple AirTag, in our opinion. 

The Foodie: Caroline’s Cakes Traditional Southern Cake

For the globetrotting gourmand who treasures experiences over souvenirs, Caroline’s Cakes offers a taste of Southern hospitality they can enjoy right at home. These delicious versions of the classic southern 7-layer cake come in a variety of flavors, from caramel to pink champagne, and even a gluten-free version for those Celiac travelers in your life. 

Each cake arrives perfectly preserved, shipped frozen with dry ice to deliver a taste of Southern hospitality right to the recipient’s doorstep. 

The Budget Backpacker: Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Backpack

Upgrade your favorite backpacker to Cotopaxi’s elite Allpa Backpack. This 42L workhorse can fit more than eight outfits and is perfect for trips of a week or longer. Despite its spacious interior, it’s lightweight and meets airline carry-on requirements, weighing in at just 3 lbs. 2 oz. 

Travelers will love the backpack’s thoughtful features, including a padded laptop sleeve, a suitcase-style full-wrap zipper for easy packing, a convenient sleeve for attaching to rolling luggage, a water bottle pocket, and a durable, water-resistant exterior. For those times when you don’t need the extra support, the hip belt tucks away, and the ergonomically designed shoulder straps ensure comfortable carrying even when the pack is full.

The post Unique Gift Ideas for Every Type of Traveler on Your List appeared first on SmarterTravel.