21 Genius Travel Hacks We Learned from Instagram

A classic pair of flat-sole flip flops are a necessity for a girls trip. They're great for trekking to the beach or slipping into when those sexy stiletto heels cause your feet to ache after a couple of hours.

Stoney Clover Lane Travel Case ($88)

Alongside your makeup, you'll probably also have your cell phone charger(s), headphones, and backup batteries. This case, complete with removable dividers, makes sure everything is protected and organized in a cute way.

If you plan to bring a lot of items you can't bear to leave at home, this set of packing cubes will see you through. You can even go the extra mile by labeling them, keeping everything in its proper place.

Solid & Striped Polaroid Go Camera (White) ($99)

The idea of lugging your laptop around so you can upload and edit your vlog might be fun at home, but having a portable Polaroid camera to capture instant moments is adorably nostalgic and even more convenient.

Solid & Striped The Wategos Sunglasses ($99)

Make a pistachio green statement with this pair of sunglasses by Solid & Striped. You can wear these while sitting at the bar on the beach, sipping a yummy cocktail — tequila mockingbird anyone?

Sold & Striped The Beach Towel (Pacific Blue/Marmalade/Buttercup) ($25)

When's the last time you actually invested in a towel that didn't get ruined by wet sand? If you've had your fair share of experiences with sand getting trapped in places you weren't expecting, this beach towel can help eliminate the chance of that happening again.

Rue De Verneuil Tote M Palais Royal ($267)

This tote is the perfect beach bag! It's stylish enough to serve as a purse, but durable enough to deal with all the beachy elements. It's also got soft canvas inside so you don't have to worry about scratching your sunnies when you toss them inside.

Red Dress Jumping In White Multi-Print Bag ($44)

Are you the friend who over packs or at least makes sure everyone will have what they need? Then you need this versatile, trendy bag from Red Dress. It's large enough to fit snacks, a few drinks, and that extra sunscreen you most definitely need in it.

Lisa Says Gah Cupid Sunglasses ($155)

Go retro with this pair of cute, classic sunglasses from Lisa Says Gah! While you may not be able to star in Grease, you can still invoke some modern The Pink Ladies energy.

Lisa Says Gah The Oasis Hat (Tan) ($149)

Beat the heat with this wide-brimmed straw hat from Lisa Says Gah! Made of sisal hemp with a fedora shape, the sun won't stand a chance against this hat.

Clare V. Red with Navy Checkered Passport Sleeve ($115)

Encase your navy passport in this red and navy checkered passport sleeve. Not only is it easily recognizable (in case you happen to lose it in your bag), it's functionality makes it worth the buy.

If you and your friends plan to fly to your destination, you may be worried about it getting lost in the sea of other bags at the airport's baggage claim. To quell your fears, this red and navy checkered luggage tag from Claire V. lets you more easily spot your suitcase.

Show Me Your Mumu Lido Sarong ($44)

Your swimsuit sarong just received a colorful upgrade with this vibrant sarong. You can wear a nude bathing suit, or opt for warmer tones like SunKist orange or hunter green.

Not everyone likes a mini sarong. Some prefer a little more coverage, like this Show Me Your Mumu Kiran Sarong, and that's perfectly fine! When paired with a white bikini and wide-brimmed straw hat, you'll look beach-ready.

Remember what we said about storing extra drinks in your tote bag earlier? Well, this tumbler is sure to keep you cool and refreshed, regardless of what you're drinking!

Since you and your girls will be probably be in and out of the sun, wearing a full face of make-up might not sound appealing. Instead you can wear Rare Beauty's Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer. It contains SPF 20, so not only will your skin be protected from the sun, you'll also have a radiant complexion while you're at it.

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask ($49)

Jet lag is very real and can cause your skin to look and feel dull. To help combat that, Summer Fridays formulated a mask filled with ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to calm your pores while putting moisture back in your skin.

Looking for a lightweight sunscreen that feels as smooth as a serum does, but is also full of rich antioxidants that helps protect your skin from sun damage? Summer Fridays' ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen has you covered — literally.

Sun Bum Texturizing Sea Spray ($17)

Are you looking for something that gives you effortless, "I just walked out of the water" hair? Try Sun Sum's Texturizing Sea Spray that's made with sea kelp. Your hair will thank you later.

Cute carry-on bags do exist — just ask Beis. Their The East To The West tote is made of recyclable material and has various compartments that can house items like your Stanley Tumbler, or your passport if you're traveling out of the country.

The oversized beach towel of your fantasies just arrived in the form of this pistachio and cream towel. You'll feel like you're sitting on a treat due to being made of Turkish long fiber cotton. Seriously, it's the ultimate soft beach towel.

Sunday Supply Black Sands Beach Chair ($152, was $169)

If sitting or lounging on a beach towel sounds like the last thing you want to do, try bringing your own trendy beach chair. This one is portable and doesn't take up a lot of room.

If you're feeling nostalgic, you'll love carrying around a disposable camera to have developed at your local CVS.

CALPAK Silk Travel Set ($38, was $95)

To speed through the length of time it takes to get to wherever you're going, try investing in a neck pillow and matching eye mask. You won't have to worry about having a sore neck the next time you fall asleep on your long car or plane ride.

If you don't want to risk your tumbler spilling in your tote bag, this waterproof water bottle holder will ease your worries. It has a shoulder strap in case you don't feel like holding it with your hands and it's completely insulated.

What is TSA Precheck?

TSA PreCheck is an airport security program designed to make flying a breeze, allowing participants to bypass long security lines while minimizing inconveniences like taking off shoes, belts, light coats, and removing laptops for screening. It's available at most major U.S. airports and is included with Global Entry/NEXUS membership packages.

TSA Precheck allows travelers to breeze through airport security faster by bypassing traditional screening processes. Membership costs $78 annually and lasts five years.

Approved participants receive a Known Traveler Number that must be entered when booking flights; this will display a TSA PreCheck indicator on their airline boarding pass, providing access to expedited lanes.

Travelers looking for TSA Precheck can apply either online or in person at one of the many enrollment centers like Staples. Usually, the process is quick and painless; however it may take longer during peak times; most people receive their approval within weeks.

Citi AAdvantage Executive credit cards offer reimbursement of Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fees (up to $100 every five years). Service members in uniform automatically enroll, while civilians must add their Known Traveler Number when making leisure travel reservations or frequent flyer programs to ensure it appears on boarding passes. It's possible to reapply six months before your current membership is set to expire.

How much does TSA Precheck cost in 2023?

TSA PreCheck costs $78 to apply for and is valid for five years, payable by credit card, money order, company check or certified/cashier's check — some travel credit cards even reimburse application fees! Once an applicant submits an application they can schedule an interview at one of 350 TSA PreCheck enrollment centers around the country.

Interviews for TSA PreCheck typically involve a brief and straightforward background check process, along with fingerprinting and photographs being taken of applicants. Successful participants receive a Known Traveler Number which they enter when booking flights and is used by TSA security checkpoints to identify them as well.

What's the difference between TSA Precheck and Global Entry?

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both trusted traveler programs through the Department of Homeland Security that facilitate expedited airport security screening. Both require a background check, interview, and fee to enroll; enrollment centers include airports, Staples stores, and an increasing number of IdentoGo locations.

Once approved, you'll receive a Known Traveler Number which can be used when booking airline flights. In some instances, airlines will automatically assign this number when you book or check-in for your flight.

Global Entry differs from TSA Precheck, as it expedites your customs experience when traveling internationally. You can find more information, such as eligibility requirements, on their websites. Typically, U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents are eligible to enroll; children aged 12 or younger may use their parents' memberships.

Is TSA Precheck right for me?

Let's weigh the pros and cons. TSA PreCheck is available at many airports and allows travelers to skip regular security lines, providing them with a quicker experience using dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes without needing to remove shoes and belts; members also can keep electronics and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in their bags without worry of removal by security officials.

On the downside, the TSA PreCheck application process can take some time, and the initial application and renewal fee of $78 every five years might seem a bit steep. However, many credit cards offer reimbursement for this expense and your membership lasts for five years.

Even if you only fly a few times a year, the time-saving benefits make TSA PreCheck totally worth it in our book. TSA PreCheck remains an attractive solution for frequent flyers looking to ease their travel experience. Global Entry may offer greater value as its membership includes both PreCheck and Global Entry membership for one price tag, though.

What are other time-saving travel hacks I should know about?

1. Mobile Passport: Say goodbye to those tedious customs and immigration forms with the Mobile Passport app. It lets eligible travelers complete their paperwork electronically, so you can skip the regular lines when you arrive in the United States. More time for exploring, less time waiting!
2. Clear: Picture this: you effortlessly glide through security like a VIP. That's exactly what Clear offers. As a Clear member, you can breeze through designated lanes at participating airports, leaving those long security lines in your rearview mirror.
3. Priority Boarding: Why wait in the line when you can waltz right onto the plane? Take advantage of priority boarding, available for frequent flyers, elite status holders, and those lucky ducks in premium cabins. Getting settled in your seat without the hustle and bustle of the general boarding crowd? Yes, please!
4. Online Check-In: Skip the hassle and queues by checking in online before you even set foot in the airport. Online check-in lets you bypass the check-in lines and head straight to security or bag drop-off, depending on your needs. It's the smart way to start your journey smoothly.
5. Pack Smartly: Let's lighten your load, shall we? Efficient packing is key to saving time. Travel light or use some cute packing cubes and follow the airline's baggage rules to avoid any hold-ups during check-in or at baggage claim. And don't forget to check the TSA guidelines to pack like a pro, without any security surprises.
6. Non-Peak Travel Times: Want to dodge the crowds? Opt for non-peak travel times, like early mornings or late nights. This savvy move means less congestion and shorter lines at the airport. Smooth sailing from check-in to boarding. Ah, the sweet serenity of travel during quieter hours.
7. Airport Lounges: Upgrade your pre-flight experience with a little VIP treatment. Airport lounges are havens of comfort and tranquility. Enjoy amenities like Wi-Fi, snacks, and cozy seating. It's the perfect place to unwind, recharge, and make the most of your downtime. Bon voyage, stress!
8. Research the Airport: Before you take off, get the inside scoop on your departure and arrival airport. Knowing the layout, facilities, and shortcuts can make navigating a breeze. From check-in counters to restrooms, be the master of airport navigation. Knowledge is power, my friends!
9. Plan Ground Transportation: Let's keep the travel momentum going. Don't waste time figuring out transportation on the fly. Plan ahead by booking ride-sharing services, rental cars, or airport shuttles. Smooth transitions from the airport to your destination? That's how we roll!

1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

1. "Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
2. "We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
3. "We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

1. Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
2. Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
3. Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
4. If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
5. Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
6. A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

1. Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
2. Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."