When you mention you’re a travel blogger, the first question people usually ask is, “What’s your favorite place?” The second is often, “What’s your top travel tip?”

While it’s tough to pinpoint a favorite place, we can definitely share our best travel tips. Here are The Travel Hack’s ultimate travel tips:

Monica: Embrace the Staycation
My top travel tip is to appreciate staycations and not overlook places close to home. Many of us jet off to faraway destinations but forget to explore nearby attractions. Since having a baby, I’ve found staycations to be more convenient and affordable. They can be just as relaxing and enjoyable as traveling far. The UK has a plethora of beautiful spots, like the Isles of Scilly and Swansea Bay, which boasts one of the world’s best beaches. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, just bundle up and make the most of it.

Hayley: Use Travel for Self-Improvement
Travel isn’t just about checking off landmarks; it can also be a path to self-improvement. Before planning your next trip, think about what you want to enhance in your daily life. Whether it’s getting fit, learning a new language, or volunteering, there’s a destination that fits your needs. You’ll come back not only with new experiences but also with fresh skills and connections with like-minded people.

Amy: Keep a Journal
Writing a few lines every night during your trip can create a priceless keepsake that’s unique to you. I love looking back at old journals; they often capture the essence of my travels even more vividly than photos. It’s a great way to remember the humorous, unbelievable, and unforgettable moments that you might otherwise forget. Your journal doesn’t need to be perfect; it’s for your eyes only.

Elle: Find Your Own Travel Style
Don’t let others dictate your travel style. What works for someone else might not be right for you. Skip the “must-see” attractions if they don’t interest you, and don’t avoid attractions you like just because they’re labeled as tourist traps. Discover and embrace your travel preferences. Travel in a way that makes you happy, and don’t let anyone tell you it’s wrong. Travel is a unique experience for everyone, and that’s what makes it so special.

Claire: Take a Weekend Trip Once a Month
Dedicate one weekend each month to going somewhere new. It doesn’t have to be far away; it could be a hotel in your town or a B&B in a neighboring village. It’s easy to let work consume your weekends, but taking time off to recharge, unwind, and explore is crucial. Weekends are for rejuvenation—use them to see more and do more, putting yourself first for a change.

Char: Just Do It. Go on, Now…
Dream big and make it happen. Stylish and luxury travel doesn’t always have to be expensive. When I talk about my trips, people often say, “I wish I could do that.” But you can! For example, I’ve stayed in amazing hotels for under £50 and gone on unique adventures like snowmobiling at sunset. Expensive doesn’t always mean unattainable. Do your research, read blogs, and look into what you want to do. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Anne: Travel Hack!
Take advantage of credit card deals to earn airline rewards. It may seem daunting at first, and people worry about their credit score, but as long as you pay your bills on time, it won’t be an issue. This year, my husband and I have earned thousands of points through sign-up bonuses alone, enabling us to save significantly on flights.

Jenny: ‘Pack Half the Clothes and Twice the Money’
Lay out all of the clothes you think you need for a trip, then remove half. You won’t miss them! As for money, start saving a bit more before your trip. Having extra funds ensures you won’t miss out on any activities or experiences.

Mollie: Put Your Phone Away
Experiences are meant to be lived, not just documented. We often get distracted by our phones and miss the moments happening around us. My best memories are phone-free. Next time you travel, leave your phone in your room or let the battery die. Focus on making memories, and save sharing them until you get home.

Do you have any more ultimate travel tips to add? If you’d like more travel advice, check out these posts:
– 10 unnecessary items every traveler packs (but I never used)
– How to get free hotel stays using reward schemes
– Easy health and fitness tips for holiday preparation
– A beginner’s guide to travel hacking and collecting AVIOS points
– How to dress up for nights out without overpacking
– How to be an organized traveler