What I Wish I Knew in my Early 20's: Travel Edition

After years of catching flights (and sometimes feelings for new destinations), Jane and I have learned a thing or two about traveling smarter. Whether it’s scoring free flights, skipping unnecessary expenses, or just making trips less stressful, these are the tips we wish we knew sooner.

Maximize Rewards & Savings

1. Start Earning Miles ASAP

If you don’t already have accounts with Hilton Honors, Star Alliance, or your go-to airline, stop what you’re doing and sign up. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll be racking up points for free flights and hotel stays. Future you will thank you.

2. Pick the Right Travel Credit Card

Choose a card that matches your travel habits. If you always fly Delta, get the Delta Amex. I personally have the United Explorer Card, which means free checked bags and lounge passes (which definitely come in handy on long travel days).

3. Set Flight Alerts & Book Smart

Google Flights, Hopper, Kiwi and Skyscanner are lifesavers for tracking flight prices. For the best deals, book domestic trips 1-3 months out and international ones 4-6 months ahead. And fun fact: Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to have the cheapest fares.

Budgeting for What Actually Matters

4. Prioritize Experiences Over Expenses

I’d rather spend money on a bucket-list activity than an overpriced hotel room I’ll barely be in. Save where you can so you can splurge on the things that actually make your trip unforgettable.

5. Eat Smart, Not Expensive

Food can eat up (pun intended) your budget fast. Instead of fancy tourist spots, hit up local markets, bakeries, and street vendors for authentic, affordable meals. Pro tip: Many restaurants offer cheaper lunch specials, so if you’re craving a sit-down meal, go earlier in the day.

Making the Most of Every Trip

6. Pack Light (Seriously, You Won’t Regret It)

A carry-on is enough for most trips. Packing cubes are game-changers, and if you must check a bag, throw an AirTag or Tile tracker in there just in case.

7. Avoid Tourist Traps & Crowds

Major attractions get insanely crowded by midday. Go early in the morning or later in the evening, and if you’re visiting a big site (like the Louvre or the Colosseum), book skip-the-line tickets ahead of time.

8. Leave Room for Spontaneity

Having a plan is great, but some of my best travel memories come from unplanned moments—stumbling upon a local festival, taking a last-minute day trip, or getting lost in a cute neighborhood.

Travel Smarter, Not Harder

9. Listen to Podcasts About Your Destination

A podcast on the train or flight over? Elite move. You’ll show up already knowing the cool history and hidden gems. Rick Steves Audio Europe has free self-guided tours for major cities!

10. Use Public Transport Like a Local

Before you blow your budget on Ubers, check if the city has a tourist pass for unlimited public transport. Google Maps and Citymapper make navigating super easy.

11. Skip the Overhyped "Must-Do" Activities

Not every travel list is your travel list. If you don’t care about Guinness, skip the Guinness Storehouse. Save your energy (and money) for what actually excites you.

12. Find Your Go-To Travel Outfit

Comfortable, cute, and airport-security-friendly is the trifecta. I swear by a loose black dress—perfect for flights and easy to dress up or down when you land.

Final Thoughts

The best trips happen when you balance smart planning with a little room for adventure. Travel how you want to travel, embrace the unexpected, and make some unforgettable memories.

Now go book that trip—you know you want to!!!