Khaleej Times

for hassle-free holidays

From smart packing to mobile apps, travelling is far more convenient

- » SADIQ SHABAN —sadiq@khaleejtim­es.com

Travel has become very popular over the years. People travel for fun, pleasure, business and work all the time. The emergence of cost-effective air travel has also come in as a great boon with more and more people taking to the wing. With travel becoming such an intrinsic part of our everyday life, here are some tips of how to travel easy in a fast-packed world:

Pack essentials:

Get a bag with wheels. It is better than a backpack because it helps in easy movement across airports and beyond. While packing, remember to pack chargers for electronic devices like cameras and phones. More often than not people forget their chargers, which renders their cameras and phones useless in the journey. Avoid packing clothes that require ironing. Of course everyone has clothes that require ironing but it is best to throw more easy-wear outfits in your bag and save yourself the trouble searching for a laundry as soon as you arrive to your destinatio­n.

Add convenienc­e:

It makes sense to optimise your suitcase space while packing. Small alteration­s like stuffing socks into your shoes can help save space and ensures your shoes retain their shape. Likewise, stock up on items like toilet paper as it is not easily available in several places where your travel can take you. As a safety measure make photocopie­s of your passport and leave a copy in your bag. Better still simply scan your passport and email a copy to yourself. You never know when it may come in handy.

Use technology:

Smartphone­s, with its plethora of practical apps have come as a boon for travellers. You can make use of a bevy of survival apps that provide first-aid guides and emergency phone numbers. Make sure you have Whatsapp on your phone. The service offers free texting and video messaging anywhere in the world—all you need is a Wi-fi or 3G connection. You can rely on your friends for help. The Google Translate app is another cool idea. You can translate foreign phrases by typing into a small word box, or use the speaking option. Google’s impressive selection of languages lets you translate more than 100 languages in text and hear dozens of languages worth of converted phrases.

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