“Please make sure all electronic devices are turned off or in airplane mode…”
You’ve heard the announcement countless times—but do you know why it matters?

Let’s break it down, plus share pro tips for using your phone wisely in the skies.

📵 What Does Airplane Mode Actually Do?

It disables your phone’s wireless signals:

• No calls, texts, or cellular data

• No Bluetooth (unless you manually turn it back on)

• No automatic Wi-Fi connection (though you can re-enable it afterward)

✅ You can still use offline apps, take photos, play downloaded music, and set alarms.

Bonus: It saves your battery.

🛫 Why Is It Required on Planes (in the U.S.)?

• Safety first: Phones emit signals that could interfere with aircraft navigation and communication systems.

• It’s the law: FAA rules say all cellular phones must be turned off during flight in U.S. airspace.

Europe allows some in-flight 5G, but it’s on different frequencies and under stricter controls.

🤔 What If You Don’t Use Airplane Mode?

No, your phone won’t crash the plane.
But it might cause:

• Static in the pilot’s headset

• Unwanted interference as phones reconnect during landing

• A lot of annoyed flight crew

Bottom line: Don’t risk distracting your pilot mid-landing.

📶 Can You Use Your Phone on a Plane?

Yes—just switch on airplane mode, then enable Wi-Fi if it’s offered onboard.

🙄 Should You Use Your Phone During the Safety Speech?

Not really. Be respectful and at least pretend to listen. You might learn something new.

🔋 Can You Bring a Power Bank on a Plane?

Yes—but only in your carry-on bag.
Lithium batteries are fire risks. In the cabin, flight attendants can respond quickly if one overheats.

😱 Phone Died Before Boarding? Don’t Panic!

If your mobile boarding pass vanishes with your battery, ask a gate agent for help—they can print a paper pass.

🧠 Smart tip:

• Screenshot your boarding pass and documents

• Use battery-saving mode

• Bring a portable charger

• Lower your screen brightness

⚠️ Is Airport Wi-Fi or Public Charging Safe?

Wi-Fi: Mostly yes—just avoid shady network names. Use a VPN if you’re extra cautious.
Public USB charging stations? Risk is very low for “juice jacking,” but it’s not zero. Prefer your own charger when possible.

🔒 How to Protect Your Phone While Traveling

Plan like you’ll lose it (just in case):

• Back up photos and documents

• Sign out of sensitive apps

• Use “Find My Phone” or similar tools

• Enable travel mode on your password manager

• Carry hard copies of documents

• Save backup codes for 2-factor logins

💼 Bonus: Travel insurance may cover a stolen or lost phone if it's part of a baggage loss claim!

Bottom Line:
Use airplane mode. Stay savvy. And travel smart with a phone that works for you—not against your pilot.

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The stolen backpack. The missed train. The double booking. The scraped rental car.

Most seasoned travelers can recall a moment when a seemingly small mishap turned into a surprisingly costly ordeal. While some travel blunders are just part of the adventure, others can be avoided with a little foresight, planning, and protection—especially when you pack travel insurance alongside your passport.

Here are six of the most expensive travel mistakes—and how to steer clear of them.

1. Cutting It Too Close with Your Travel Plans

Nobody enjoys long layovers, so it’s tempting to trim your schedule as tightly as possible. But flight delays are common—over 21% of U.S. flights experience delays, and 1–2% are canceled entirely. If your itinerary leaves no wiggle room, missing a connection can throw your whole trip into chaos—and force you to shell out big bucks to get back on track.

If you’re traveling for a special event, experts recommend leaving at least a 24-hour cushion—or 48 hours for major, once-in-a-lifetime occasions like weddings, cruises, or the Super Bowl. As travel columnist Seth Kugel warns, "No airline will reimburse you for football tickets you couldn’t use or the emotional damage from missing your sister’s wedding, no matter how outraged a message you send them.”

Travel insurance tip: Trip delay benefits can help reimburse expenses for eligible delays—but only if the cause is covered by your plan. Know what your policy includes.

2. Relying Too Heavily on Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

Websites like Expedia, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor are great for research and comparison—but not always ideal for booking. When you use an OTA, you're adding a middleman. If anything goes wrong, resolving it can be a nightmare.

One traveler, for example, tried to book flights through an OTA. The transaction failed repeatedly—until he found out he'd been charged twice, to the tune of over $15,000, without receiving a confirmation. It took 10 months to resolve.

Booking directly with airlines, hotels, or cruise lines is usually safer—and often comes with perks like loyalty points, flexible policies, or special discounts.

3. Falling for the Timeshare Sales Pitch

The promise is tempting: a free resort stay, theme park tickets, or a fancy dinner in exchange for sitting through a quick presentation. But many travelers regret accepting that offer.

Timeshare sales reps are trained in high-pressure tactics—shouting, shaming, withholding IDs, separating spouses, and pushing contracts before you’ve had time to read. The result? Some end up locked into costly agreements they barely understand.

If you’re genuinely interested in a timeshare, do your homework and shop on your terms—not under pressure on vacation.

4. Not Double-Checking Your Travel Documents

You think your flight home is on 11-12—meaning November 12. But at the gate, you realize your itinerary uses DD-MM format… and your flight was actually December 11.

Mistakes like these are more common than you'd think. Always take time to read your documents carefully—and print them for clarity. Double-check the following:

• Travel dates and formats (watch for international DD-MM vs. U.S. MM-DD)

• Departure and return airports

• Visa and entry requirements

• Passport expiration date (many countries require 3–6 months of validity)

• Your travel insurance coverage and exclusions

5. Delaying Travel Insurance Purchase

You book your dream scuba trip to Belize—flights and resort locked in. You plan to buy insurance... eventually. Then you break your leg before you get around to it. The trip’s a no-go, and you’re out thousands of dollars.

Waiting too long can cost you big. Travel insurance can only protect what it knows about—so if you haven’t bought coverage before an incident happens, you can’t claim it later.

Pro tip: Buy insurance right after booking to lock in the longest possible coverage period.

6. Skipping Travel Insurance Altogether

No one wants to use their travel insurance—but having it can be the difference between a minor hiccup and a financial catastrophe.

Imagine falling seriously ill overseas without coverage. You could face:

• $20,000 to $200,000+ for an emergency medical evacuation

• Thousands in upfront hospital costs (foreign hospitals often require prepayment)

• The cost of repatriation to return home

• All your lost trip expenses, with no reimbursement

A solid travel insurance plan can cover these costs—giving you peace of mind when it matters most. For frequent travelers, an annual travel insurance policy offers year-round protection with one easy purchase.

Bottom Line:
Travel mistakes are bound to happen—but the most expensive ones don’t have to. Plan ahead, double-check everything, and protect your investment with travel insurance. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.

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A cruise is the ultimate all-inclusive vacation. With meals, entertainment, and accommodations all provided aboard your floating resort, it’s easy to assume you don’t need to bring much else.

But seasoned cruisers know the truth: a few smart additions to your packing list can take your vacation from simply enjoyable to truly unforgettable. Whether it’s your first sailing or your fiftieth, these 10 surprising cruise essentials can enhance your trip in ways you might not expect.

1. Peace of Mind (aka Travel Insurance)

Think 24/7 assistance. Protection against trip delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more. That’s more than just one item—it’s a travel insurance plan. A solid policy, like one from Allianz Global Assistance, gives you financial backup and on-the-go support, from finding a pharmacy at port to vetting excursion providers. It's your cruise safety net—read the fine print to understand what’s covered.

2. Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer

Veteran cruisers swear by this hack. Hang a transparent shoe organizer on your cabin door to keep track of small, easy-to-misplace items like sunscreen, lip balm, room keys, chargers, and travel docs. It saves precious counter space and keeps everything accessible.

3. Plenty of Small Bills

Planning to tip? You should be. While many cruise lines allow you to prepay or auto-charge gratuities, cash tips offer a personal touch. A good guideline is $10–$12 per person, per day. Small bills make it easy to thank your stewards, porters, and bar staff directly.

4. Bungee Cord

A small bungee cord with hooks is surprisingly handy. Use it to secure luggage together or prop your balcony door open to let in the ocean breeze. It’s a multi-purpose tool that takes up almost no space.

5. Post-it Notes

In a world with limited cell service at sea, these low-tech lifesavers let you leave quick notes for your cabinmates. “Gone to karaoke on Lido Deck!” is much more helpful when scribbled and stuck to a mirror.

6. Duct Tape

It’s the MacGyver of cruise accessories. Patch a broken sandal, fix a suitcase zipper, or lint-roll your dinner outfit. A small roll can solve a surprising number of problems onboard.

7. Thermal Coffee Mug

Cruise ship coffee cups are notoriously tiny. If you love a generous morning jolt (or want to keep your iced drinks cool poolside), bring your own insulated mug.

8. Small Waterproof Bag

Don’t leave your valuables behind at the beach or pool. A waterproof pouch worn around your neck or waist will keep your money, ID, and room key dry and safe while you’re splashing around.

9. Clothespins and a Travel Clothesline

You probably don’t plan to do laundry—but swimsuits and beachwear need drying space. A compact clothesline and a few clothespins make it easy to hang wet items. Bonus: clothespins also help hold curtains shut or towels in place on windy decks.

10. Antibacterial Wipes

Cruise ships are clean, but germs can still travel faster than the ship itself. Norovirus is no joke. Keep wipes handy for wiping down surfaces in your cabin and sanitizing hands throughout the day.

Smooth Sailing Starts With Smart Packing

Packing these overlooked essentials can make your cruise smoother, safer, and even more enjoyable. A little extra preparation goes a long way when you’re out at sea!

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A passport isn’t just an official government document—it’s your golden ticket to adventure. With one in hand, you can explore the world, experience new cultures, and leave the country without sneaking aboard a freighter. Whether you’re applying for your first passport or renewing an old one, getting started early is key.

Processing times for passports can range from 6–9 weeks for routine service to 3–5 weeks if expedited. Stay up to date with current timelines and potential delays by checking the U.S. Department of State’s website.

And here’s some good news: applying has gotten easier. You can now take your own photo, and many people can renew by mail—no passport office visit needed. Once you’ve got it, your passport is valid for 10 years (for adults) or 5 years (for minors). Let’s break down the process step by step.

✈️ First-Time Passport Applicants: What to Do

Traveling to Canada, Mexico, or beyond? You’ll need a passport. And starting May 7, 2025, you’ll also need one (or a REAL ID or military ID) to board domestic flights or access federal buildings. Learn more about REAL ID requirements.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Schedule an Appointment at a Passport Facility

First-time applicants, children under 16, those replacing a lost or stolen passport, or anyone needing expedited service must apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility (such as select post offices). Some locations allow walk-ins, but an appointment is strongly recommended.

2. Gather Required Documents

You must provide:

• Proof of identity (e.g., valid driver’s license, military ID, naturalization certificate).

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate, expired passport, certificate of citizenship, or consular report of birth abroad).

Bring both the original and a photocopy of your citizenship document. Only physical documents are accepted—no digital copies.

3. Take or Provide a Passport Photo

Your photo must meet strict government standards. Some facilities will take it for a fee, or you can bring one with you. (See photo guidelines below.)

4. Complete Form DS-11

Fill out the form online or download a PDF to complete by hand. Print it and bring it with you—but don’t sign it until instructed by the passport official.

🧒 How to Apply for a Child’s Passport (Under 16)

Even newborns need a passport for international travel! The application process is slightly different for minors:

• Use Form DS-11

• Provide an original or certified birth certificate

• Submit a compliant passport photo

• Both parents must appear in person with the child (or provide a notarized DS-3053 consent form if one cannot attend)

• If one parent has sole custody, bring the appropriate legal documentation

• A parent or guardian must sign the passport on the child’s behalf

For teens ages 16–17, a parent doesn’t have to be present, but “parental awareness” must be shown—either by accompanying the teen or providing a signed statement and ID copy. If a parent objects in writing, the passport will likely be denied.

⏱️ Need a Passport Fast?

If you’re traveling in less than 6 weeks, expedited service is your best bet. Pay an extra $60 to receive your passport in 3–5 weeks.

In a true time crunch? You can request an emergency appointment by calling 1-877-487-2778—but this is only for travel within 14 days or life-and-death emergencies.

To qualify for emergency issuance, you must provide:

• Proof of a qualifying family emergency

• Travel documentation

• All required passport application materials

Appointments are non-transferable and in short supply, so act fast.

📸 How to Take a Passport Photo

You can have your photo taken at most pharmacies and shipping stores, or take it yourself at home. Either way, make sure it meets these rules:

• Must be in color, taken within the last 6 months

• Use a white or off-white background

• Face the camera directly with a neutral expression

• No glasses, hats, headphones, or filters

• Photo must be 2" x 2" with proper proportions (1”–1 3/8” from chin to top of head)

• Print on photo paper if submitting by mail

Check your photo using the State Department’s photo tool.

💵 Passport Fees (as of 2023)

TypeAdult FeeMinor Fee

Passport Book $130 $100 

Passport Card $30 $15 

Book + Card $160 $115 

Execution Fee (new apps only) $35 $35 

Add $60 for expedited service and $18.32 for optional 1–2 day delivery.

Payment methods vary by location. Typically, you’ll need a check or money order made out to the U.S. Department of State.

🔁 How to Renew Your Passport

Eligibility for mail or online renewal:

• Passport issued in last 15 years

• You were 16+ when it was issued

• No name change (unless you can prove it)

• Not damaged, lost, or stolen

Renew by Mail:

• Complete Form DS-82

• Include your current passport, a passport photo, and the fee

• Use a flat envelope (no folding)

• Mail to the appropriate address (listed on the form)

Renew Online:

As of March 2023, online renewal has been paused—but it’s expected to return. When available, it’s convenient but note that your old passport is immediately invalid upon submitting the renewal.

🌍 Final Thoughts

Now you know the ropes. Whether you're preparing for your first trip abroad or simply dusting off your passport for another adventure, following the correct steps will save you time and stress. With a valid passport in hand, the world is yours to explore—no stowaway strategies required.

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Smart strategies to protect your stuff—and your peace of mind.

Let’s face it: thieves love tourists. Why? Because travelers often carry cash, gadgets, passports, and other valuables that are easy to grab and hard to trace. Whether you're strolling through a crowded market, checking your bag at the airport, or catching some sun at the beach, you’re a prime target.

But here's the good news: you can outsmart the bad guys. All it takes is a little awareness, a few creative tools, and the right habits. Think of it as travel prep for your peace of mind.

We’ve gathered some of the most effective, tried-and-true methods for keeping your valuables safe on the road. Use them all, or mix and match the ones that fit your travel style. Either way, you’ll be a much tougher mark—and far more relaxed knowing you’ve taken precautions.

Oh, and one more thing: even with the best hiding spots, stuff can still go missing. That’s why a travel insurance plan that covers lost, stolen, or damaged belongings is your real MVP. It’s the safety net that makes the rest of this plan bulletproof.

How to Protect Valuables in Your Luggage

Let’s start with a golden rule:
Never, ever pack valuables in your checked baggage.

Seriously. Not cash, not your passport, not your expensive camera or laptop. Checked bags go missing, get pilfered, or wind up in the wrong country more often than you’d think. Luggage theft isn’t always about someone sneaking into your hotel—it can happen at the airport, right under your nose.

What should you do instead?

• Carry on your essentials – Anything you can’t live without should stay with you.

• Use a tracking device – AirTags, Tiles, and other trackers are lifesavers. In one real-world case, an AirTag helped recover $16,000 in stolen luggage from a rogue airline subcontractor.
  (Important note: let law enforcement handle the recovery—you’re not James Bond.)

• Invest in anti-theft bags – Brands like Pacsafe and Travelon make gear with slash-resistant straps, lockable zippers, and RFID protection for your cards and passport.

• Lock your zippers – Even a simple combo lock or clip can deter casual thieves.

Traveling light? Even your personal item (like a backpack or tote) should be hard to mess with. Look for options that let you anchor your bag to your chair or seat during layovers or long rides.

How to Hide Money on Your Body

The safest place for your money? On you—but hidden well.

The goal is to divide and disguise. Think like a squirrel: stash small amounts in multiple places. That way, if something does go missing, it’s not everything.

Start with this trick:
Bring a dummy wallet. Load it with a few small bills and expired cards. If you’re pickpocketed or mugged, you can hand it over and walk away with your real stash still safe.

Then try one or more of these body-friendly options:

• Money belts (the real kind) – Designed to look like standard belts but with a zippered slot on the inside for cash. Ideal for folded bills.

• Neck wallets and waist pouches – Wear them under your shirt for stealth storage of passports, extra cards, and emergency funds. Bonus if they’re RFID-blocking.

• Security socks – “Stash socks” have zippered compartments for small items. Perfect for a card and a bill or two.

• Travel underwear with hidden pockets – Yes, it’s a thing. It’s surprisingly secure—but let’s hope you don’t have to dig for cab fare in public.

• Bra wallets – These tuck into your bra or strap, letting you keep cash or a card close without a visible bulge.

• Shoes with hidden storage – From flip-flops with compartments to foam insoles like Storage Soles, your footwear can moonlight as a safe.

• Hair roller hack – Stick a few bills in a roller, pin it in your hair, and voilà: fashion and function.

A quick tip: Try not to access your hidden stashes in public. That’s a surefire way to draw attention. Instead, keep a small amount handy in a front pocket or purse for daily expenses.

How to Hide Valuables at the Beach

This is the ultimate travel conundrum:
You want to enjoy the waves, but you also brought your phone, hotel key, and maybe even your wallet. What now?

Start by not leaving valuables loose in your bag. Instead:

• Tie your bag to your beach chair or table. A simple deterrent can buy you enough time to spot a would-be thief.

• Use a lockable beach bag – Some brands come with retractable cable locks so you can secure the whole thing to a pole or tree.

• Try a waterproof pouch – Wear it like a necklace or clip it to your swimsuit. Some are phone-compatible, so you can snap ocean selfies while staying secure.

• Stash items in decoy containers:

  • An empty, wide sunblock bottle (clean and cut open to slide things in).

  • A used food container or Tupperware buried in your tote.

  • A zip-lock bag under your towel (though not super secure—it's more of a “better than nothing” option).

  • And yes... the diaper trick. Wrap your valuables in a clean diaper, seal it shut, and leave it on your towel. Thieves typically won’t touch it—though do make sure no one tosses it by mistake!

Bonus tip: If you’re traveling with friends or family, take turns swimming so someone is always watching the gear.

Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay Safe

Thieves don’t look for the hardest targets—they go for the easiest ones. With a few smart precautions and clever products, you can become the traveler who’s just not worth the trouble.

Here’s your checklist:

• ✅ Never put valuables in checked luggage.

• ✅ Spread your cash across multiple hiding spots.

• ✅ Invest in anti-theft gear.

• ✅ Use decoy containers and dummy wallets.

• ✅ Stay insured, just in case.

With your valuables secure, you can finally do what you came to do: relax and enjoy the journey.

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Think you’ve got your travel packing list down to a science? Think again.

In 2021 alone, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confiscated nearly 6,000 firearms at airport security checkpoints. That’s not counting the occasional chainsaw, cleaver, or can of bear spray passengers tried to sneak onto planes.¹ ² And while most travelers would never attempt to carry such items in a carry-on, it’s surprisingly easy to pack something questionable—or downright dangerous—in your checked luggage without realizing it.

From everyday items that pose hidden hazards to seemingly harmless souvenirs that could land you in hot water, here’s what you need to know before zipping up your suitcase. The TSA doesn’t mess around, and neither should you. Let’s take a look at 20 things you should absolutely never pack in your checked bags—and why.

❌ Items That Are Prohibited in Checked Luggage

1. Aerosols (With Exceptions)

Only aerosol sprays for medicinal or toiletry use are permitted (e.g., hairspray, deodorant, insect repellent). They must have protective caps. No spray paint, cooking spray, or air fresheners allowed.

2. Devices Containing Lithium Batteries

Lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries can overheat and catch fire. Devices like:

• Laptops

• Smartphones

• Tablets

• Vape pens

• Portable chargers

• Drones
  ...should go in your carry-on instead.

3. Bug Spray

Skin-applied insect repellent? Fine. But aerosol bug killers or foggers? Not allowed in checked luggage.

4. Christmas Crackers

These holiday favorites contain tiny explosives that create a pop when pulled apart. Cute? Yes. Allowed on planes? Definitely not.

5. Compressed Gases

Including oxygen tanks, SCUBA tanks, propane, butane, and similar items. If it’s flammable or pressurized—leave it out.

6. Corrosive or Oxidizing Chemicals

Think: bleach, paint stripper, hair dye, drain cleaner, chlorine. These substances are dangerous and strictly prohibited.

7. Cremated Remains

While TSA may allow it, airlines often don’t. Carry these in your carry-on in a container that can be X-rayed. TSA won’t open urns—even if you ask.

8. Emergency Beacons (EPIRBs)

These distress-signal devices may interfere with aircraft systems. Always check with your airline before bringing one.

9. High-Proof Alcohol

Any alcohol over 70% ABV (140 proof)—like grain alcohol or overproof rum—is banned from both carry-ons and checked bags.

10. Firearms

Permitted only if unloaded, packed in a locked hard-sided case, and declared at check-in. Follow airline-specific rules to the letter.

11. Fireworks

Yes, that includes sparklers, poppers, smoke bombs—all of it. TSA treats them the same as explosives.

12. Hazardous Materials (Hazmats)

Radioactive, toxic, flammable substances are all banned—whether for work, science, or curiosity.

13. Live Fish or Coral

Oddly specific, but true: live fish and coral must go in carry-ons, in water. Lobsters, however, can go in checked bags. (Contact your airline first.)

14. Matches

You’re allowed one book of safety matches in your carry-on, but zero in your checked bag.

15. Medical Marijuana

Even if it’s legal in your state, it’s illegal under federal law. The only exception: hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% THC or FDA-approved items.

16. Mercury Thermometers/Barometers

Unless you work for the National Weather Service, these aren’t permitted.

17. Paint or Paint Thinner

Most spray paints and flammable paints are prohibited. Nonflammable artist paints are typically OK—check labels and airline rules.

18. Explosive Replicas

Even fake bombs, grenades, or toys that resemble explosives aren’t allowed—neither in checked nor carry-on luggage.

19. Tear Gas

A small container of pepper spray (under 4 oz) may be checked, if it has a safety mechanism. But tear gas is always banned.

20. Torch Lighters

These high-heat lighters (often used for cigars or cooking) are not allowed—even in checked luggage.

⚠️ Items You Can Pack, But Really Shouldn’t

Even if the TSA allows these in checked bags, it’s smarter to keep them close. Checked luggage can get lost, delayed, or damaged—so anything important or valuable should go in your carry-on.

Keep these items with you:

• ✅ Prescription medications

• ✅ Passports and travel documents

• ✅ Electronics (laptops, tablets, gaming systems)

• ✅ Cameras and camera film (ask for hand-inspection to avoid damage)

• ✅ Jewelry and other valuables

• ✅ Sentimental items (like family photos or heirlooms)

• ✅ Irreplaceable clothing (e.g., wedding attire or cultural garments)

• ✅ Medical or personal items that are hard to replace while traveling

✈️ Pro Tip: Check Before You Fly

This list is a great start—but not exhaustive. For anything questionable, check the TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” page or message @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook.

And if you’re traveling internationally, keep in mind that local laws and airline policies may be even stricter.

When in doubt? Leave it out—or carry it on.

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