Losing your passport while traveling abroad is stressful enough—but not having a backup copy can make the process of getting a replacement even harder. That’s why one of the best travel safety tips is to securely store photos of your passport (both the ID page and barcode) on your iPhone. But here’s the key: you need to encrypt them. This guide shows you how to encrypt passport photos on your iPhone using the Notes app —no third-party apps needed. This method is fast, free,

I debated even sharing this travel tip — because when something good becomes overused, it loses its magic. But when done sparingly and sincerely, emailing your hotel before a special trip can transform an ordinary stay into a lifelong memory. When my daughter turned 12, we took a one-on-one trip to New York City. Before our stay, I sent a short email to the hotel manager letting them know it was her birthday and asking if they had any suggestions to make her stay extra specia

Traveling for less starts with one crucial skill: being flexible . While booking flights can often feel overwhelming, learning how to find the best deals and set flight alerts can help you score the best fares for your next family adventure. In this post, I’m going to show you how to use smart tools like Google Flights , Skyscanner , and ITA Matrix , and teach you the art of being flexible to find cheaper options. Let’s dive in! 1. Why Flexibility is Key When Booking Flights

Beginner's Guide to Earning Free Travel with Credit Card Points Your Quick-Start Strategy for Opening New Credit Cards and Racking Up Points Why Use Credit Cards to Earn Travel Points? When used wisely, credit cards with welcome bonuses are one of the fastest and smartest ways to earn nearly-free flights, hotel stays, and unforgettable adventures for your family. Instead of slowly earning 1 or 2 points per dollar on everyday spending, welcome offers allow you to instantly rac

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you book through my links. I only recommend products and services I personally use and love. Thank you for supporting my work and helping me continue to share travel tips! Renting a car can be one of the most frustrating parts of trip planning. Prices fluctuate daily, different rental companies have their own unique policies, and unexpected fees can sneak up on you. That’s

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you book through my links. I only recommend products and services I personally use and love. Thank you for supporting my work and helping me continue to share travel tips! When planning a trip, one of the trickiest parts can be finding the perfect place to stay—somewhere comfortable, well-located, and within budget. There are so many booking platforms out there, but one I

The Ultimate Guide to Deciding on Travel Insurance: Domestic vs. International When planning your next vacation, travel insurance might not be the first thing on your mind—but it should be! The right policy can save you money, reduce stress, and provide peace of mind. Whether you're traveling domestically or internationally, the purpose and benefits of travel insurance can vary greatly. Below, we’ll break down the key differences and help you decide if travel insurance is the

Navigating airports can be challenging, especially when dealing with long security lines. Reserve by CLEAR is a free service that allows travelers to reserve a time slot at the security checkpoint, helping you skip the standard line without paying for a membership. Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to using Reserve by CLEAR and everything you need to know to make the most of this service. What is Reserve by CLEAR? Reserve by CLEAR is a complimentary program designed to

Flying can be exciting, but let’s be honest—being confined in a metal tube with strangers for hours can also be stressful. The good news? A little courtesy goes a long way! Whether you're flying internationally or just hopping to the next state, these airplane etiquette rules will make the skies friendlier for everyone. 🛫 Let’s dive into these 13 fun but essential tips so you can breeze through your next flight like a pro! 1. Recline Responsibly Reclining your seat is your

When planning an international trip, selecting the right layover duration is crucial. Connecting flights in a different country add complexity beyond domestic layovers, with requirements such as navigating customs, passport control, rechecking luggage, and clearing security. A poorly timed layover could lead to stress, missed connections, and unnecessary headaches. This guide will explore why a layover of three hours or more is ideal for international flights, explain the pr

Layovers can make or break your travel experience, especially when traveling domestically. Choosing the right amount of time for a layover can mean the difference between a relaxed journey and a stressful sprint through the airport. When planning your domestic flights, it's crucial to understand what makes for an appropriate layover time, whether you're navigating a sprawling major airport or a smaller regional hub. In this blog post, we’ll cover the essentials of timing a do

Close to the Source: Why Your Seat Choice Matters at the Gate Airports, with their maze of terminals and conveyor belts, can sometimes feel like a scene from a sci-fi movie where time travel is just a boarding pass away. Amidst the hustle and bustle, there's a secret weapon for savvy travelers: the gate agent desk. Not only does it hold the key to a stress-free journey, but it's also a front-row seat to the drama, comedy, and occasional chaos that is air travel. So, buckle u

Jet lag – the nemesis of every traveler, and when it comes to jet-setting with kids, the challenge multiplies. Parents, fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore a trove of invaluable tips to dodge the dreaded jet lag and ensure a smooth transition for both you and your little adventurers. Understanding the Challenge: Jet lag occurs when our internal body clock, or circadian rhythm, clashes with the new time zone. For adults, this can be disorienting, and for child

*** It's crucial to note that at the time of writing this review it is entirely unsponsored and impartial. We hold no affiliation with Flytographer, making this an authentic account of our experience. UPDATE: as of February 2024 we are now an affiliate with Flytographer and are excited to refer our friends to have an incredible experience like we did. Embarking on a family adventure in Budapest, we sought to capture the essence of our travels in a unique and professional wa

***It's crucial to note that this review is entirely unsponsored and impartial. We hold no affiliation with T-Mobile, making this an authentic account of our experience. We will continue to use T-Mobile for our phone provider so we can continue CHASING MEMORIES with ease. In an era where staying connected is not just a convenience but a necessity, T-Mobile has emerged as a game-changer for international travelers. The freedom to use your phone as you normally would in count