6 Genius Travel Hacks You Haven’t Thought Of Yet

Upstyle Trends
by Upstyle Trends


Smart, Simple Solutions to Make Travel Easier & More Enjoyable




Ah, travel—the season of crowded airports, packed cars, and overflowing suitcases. But don’t worry! With the right travel hacks, you can avoid the stress and focus on what really matters: enjoying your journey.


Whether you're heading to see family, chasing the sun, or escaping to a winter wonderland, these tips are about making travel smarter, easier, and even a bit fun.


Let’s dive in.


Disclosure: Upstyle may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

How to pack efficiently for long trips

1. Use a Pillowcase for Dirty Laundry

An extra pillowcase is a versatile travel item—use it to separate your dirty laundry from clean clothes. Once you’re home, simply toss it into the wash along with your laundry.

Organizing dirty laundry while traveling abroad

Amazon Basics Standard Pillow Cases Set of 2

If you’d rather use something designed for the job, a lightweight laundry bag can be a fantastic option—compact, durable, and perfect for keeping your clothes organized while on the go.


2. Repurpose a Mint Tin as a Mini First Aid Kit

An empty mint tin is the perfect size for travel essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, tweezers, and a small roll of medical tape. It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to tuck into your carry-on or day bag.


Prefer something ready-made?

Image Credit: Amazon

DMI Mini 20-Piece First-Aid Kit, All-Purpose Use for Minor Cuts and Scrapes

You could also invest in a mini travel first aid kit as an alternative to a mint tin. It offers pre-packed essentials in a durable case to keep you prepared for any minor mishaps on your journey.


Keep earrings together by threading them through a button

3. Store Earrings in a Button

Thread small earrings through buttonholes to keep them secure and together. It’s a space-saving and simple way to prevent losing your favorite studs.



Need a larger case to store all your jewelry?

Check out this travel-friendly jewelry pouch—perfect for keeping your accessories organized and secure on the go!

Image Credit: Amazon
A 'First Day' kit ensures a smooth start to your trip without the chaos of unpacking

4. Create a “First Day” Travel Kit

Pack a small bag or packing cube with all the essentials you’ll need for the first day of your trip (e.g., travel documents, a travel toothbrush, snacks, and any essential medication).


This will keep you organized and reduce the stress of digging through your luggage when you first arrive.


Travel light: Contact lens cases are perfect for small amounts of liquid essentials

12 Pack Colorful Contact Lens Case Box Holder Container Soak Storage Kit

5. Use a Contact Lens Case for Liquids

Don’t need a full bottle of moisturizer or foundation? A clean contact lens case is the perfect size for small amounts of liquids. It’s compact, spill-proof, and TSA-friendly.


Stay Fresh on the Go: Hydrating Skincare Essentials

If you're traveling for longer than a few days but still don't want to lug large skincare bottles, why try this hydrating travel skincare set and keep your skin in tip-top shape while traveling

Image Credit: Amazon
Top packing tips

6. Turn Your Scarf into a Travel Pillow

No need to pack a bulky travel pillow; use your scarf instead!

Double-duty: Your scarf isn’t just stylish—it’s the perfect makeshift travel pillow.

Roll up your scarf and wrap it around your neck for a cozy, supportive alternative.


Perfect for cold-weather travelers.


Budget-friendly travel essentials for frequent flyers

3 Extra Travel Tips

Traveling can be unpredictable, but these practical tips will keep you prepared for whatever comes your way:


1. Snap a Picture of Your Packed Bag

Before zipping up your suitcase, snap a quick photo of the contents. If your luggage gets lost, you’ll have proof of what’s inside for insurance or the airline.



2. Always Carry a Portable Phone Charger

A dead phone can be a travel disaster. Keep a portable charger handy to stay connected, find directions, or call for help in an emergency.



3. Pack a Foldable Bag

A lightweight, foldable bag is a lifesaver for unexpected shopping sprees or souvenirs. Just pop it into your suitcase, and you’re ready for anything.


Image Credit: Amazon

BAGSMART Tote Bag for Women, Foldable Tote Bag With Zipper

Simplify your next trip!

Discover The Best Travel Hacks for Holiday Trips for a seamless holiday adventure!

Holiday Packing Hacks: Practical Ideas for Stress-Free Travel

Holiday travel doesn’t have to be a hassle when you’ve got these clever hacks in your toolkit.


From leak-proof toiletries to fresh-smelling shoes, these tips make your trip more organized and less stressful.


What’s your go-to travel trick? Share it in the comments—I’d love to learn from you!

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2 of 12 comments
  • Ali105123025 Ali105123025 on May 29, 2025

    I carry a large ziploc bag for anything damp…or dirty.

  • Doris Holtry Doris Holtry on May 29, 2025

    My husband and I each have our own suitcase. Once we reach our hotel, we unpack, putting clothes in dresser and closet. We then put all dirty clothes as we wear them into one suitcase, and when we pack to come home, everything else goes into the other one. We put damp clothes in a plastic bag and lay on top. At home, all the dirty clothes are easy to find, sort and wash.

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