Hacking your way through a new destination

By Majo de Almeida

Hacking your way through your new destination 

you read that right – call us optimistic, call us deluded, call us arrogant, call us whatever you like, but what we have for you here are all the travel hacks you’ll ever need

1. Never pay for water at the airport

Things have got rather strict with bottles of liquid recently. Doesn’t matter whether it looks as if the seal been tampered with or not, a bottle with liquid in it is a no go. So, instead of bringing a full bottle, bring an empty bottle to the airport and refill it after you’ve passed through security.

2.Email yourself a scan of your passport

You’ll thank yourself if you’re ever a victim of theft or loss. It’s also worth taking a screenshot of any journey confirmations. If you’ve booked any flights, buses or trains, whether you’re on your phone, laptop or tablet, make sure you screenshot them while you have Wi-Fi or internet access so you can access them when you’re no longer connected. So much easier than lugging around printouts. As travel hacks go, this is one you don’t want to ignore in case anything goes wrong.

3.Use ATMs/cash machines to get local currency

In this day and age it’s best to use these automated bad boys to get hold of the national currency, rather than local the currency exchange/bureau de change. Money converters usually have their own fees and rip-off exchange rates, very likely to be far worse than your bank.

4.Only unpack what you really need

If you’re backpacking your way across the universe, then it’s likely you won’t be staying in one place for too long. To save on packing time, only take out what you’ll definitely need in each hostel. This will leave you free for a quick and easy escape when you’re next on the verge of missing that bus.

It’s only jet lag, go run it off…

Apparently, a bit of exercise before your trip can stave off the jet lag and leave you feeling fresh as a daisy.