• Plan ahead and have a backup plan!
• Purchase travel insurance for big trips.
• If traveling to a cruise or to an event you absolutely cannot be late for, plan to arrive a day ahead.
• Always pack your carry-on as if your checked bag will be delayed- include travel-sized toiletries, a toothbrush, a change of clothes, PJs, medications, chargers for electronics, and copies of your travel documents.
• Use luggage tags- and also place your contact information INSIDE your bags.
• Place Airtags inside each bag and wallet for easy tracking and peace of mind.
• Download your airline/hotel/cruise line apps prior to departure.
• Download an e-book or entertainment to your phone/tablet ahead of time.
• Plan your wardrobe ahead of time- and take interchangeable pieces to limit the volume of clothing you pack. For longer trips plan to do laundry there.
• Take two pairs of walking shoes to alternate and one pair of dress shoes.
• Take sink-sized laundry detergent packets, shout wipes, and or a tide pen.
• Utilize packing cubes and roll your clothes, it really does save space. Put socks inside shoes and use every last inch you've got.
• Pack a travel steamer
• Pack an empty duffle bag to use for dirty clothes/toiletries on your return trip so you have space for souvenirs in your checked bag.

These are the apps I've found to work best for me while traveling.

CityMapper - The most reliable transportation planning I've found; available in many cities in the US and abroad.

Google Translate- I speak only one language well, and this has come in handy otherwise!

Nannybag- Luggage storage service- I've used it in the US and abroad for a few hours as well as a few days.

Whatsapp- Communication app that won't use up your texts or minutes. Preferred by many vendors internationally for communication.

Snappr- Professional Photo Shoots. I've done two in NYC with amazing results. Use code d6FA7j7z for $20 off.

Mobile Passport Control- Helpful when returning to the US from an international trip. There is a separate line at Customs for users of this app and it tends to be significantly shorter than the regular line.