15 Essential Travel Hacks from a Frequent Flyer

Over my lifetime, I've taken hundreds of flights and picked up some incredibly useful travel tips along the way. As an experienced flier, here are 15 hacks that have saved me countless hours and headaches:

TSA Pre-Check: Breeze Through Security
Save time at security by getting TSA Pre-Check. This allows you to skip the lines and keep your shoes on when passing through security. While it only works in the USA, it's still a game-changer for domestic travel.

Mobile Passport: Zip Past Customs
Skip the 2-hour customs lines with the Mobile Passport (MPC) app. This gives you access to the same fast lanes used by diplomats and crew members when entering the USA. A must-have for any international traveler.

AirTags in Luggage: Never Lose Your Bags
Place AirTags in your bags to track them in real-time. No more worrying about lost luggage! This simple hack saves you so much money and time.

Wear Sweatpants: Comfort & Convenience
Avoid removing belts at security by wearing comfy sweatpants. Travel in style and maximum comfort.

Eye Mask & AirPods: Peaceful In-Flight Experience
Bring an eye mask and a good pair of noise-cancelling AirPods for a peaceful flight. Block out noise and light to get better sleep.

Refillable Water Bottle: Stay Hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up after passing through security. Staying hydrated on your travels is key.

Amex Platinum Card: Lounge Access & Travel Perks
The Amex Platinum card gives you access to airport lounges, earns valuable points, and provides a wealth of travel benefits. You can even add your spouse for only $195 per year.

Lounge Review App: Find the Best Lounges
Use the Lounge Review app to find the top airport lounges and check if you have access. Kick back and relax before your flight.

App in the Air: Flight Tracking & More
The App in the Air app is a must-have for frequent flyers. It tracks your flights, auto-checks you in, and provides real-time updates on your boarding time.

InDriver App: Affordable Airport Transfers
Save money on airport transfers by using the InDriver app instead of traditional taxis.

Zero-Fee ATM & Credit Cards: No Hidden Costs
Use a debit card with no ATM fees, like Chase or Charles Schwab, for international withdrawals. Decline the exchange rate and always choose to be charged in the local currency. For credit cards, the Amex Platinum, Apple Card, and Chase Reserve have 0% foreign transaction fees.

Always Carry Cash: Emergencies & Exchange Rates
Always have some cash on hand for emergencies or places that don't accept cards. Research the best exchange rates - sometimes USD cash is better than the local currency.

Fanny Pack: Easy Access & Extra Space
Keep essentials like your phone, passport, and AirPods in a fanny pack for easy access at security. Plus, it doesn't count towards your carry-on or personal item allowance.

Passport Case & Cover: Protect Your Documents
Invest in a durable passport case and cover to protect your important travel documents. This can save you a lot of hassle if your passport gets damaged.

Best Onward Tickets: Comply with Entry Requirements
Book a refundable onward flight to comply with entry requirements in some countries. This shows you have a plan to leave and can help you get through immigration.

With these 15 essential travel hacks, you'll be flying through airports and breezing through customs like a pro. Bon voyage!