Top Travel Hacks for Ultimate Vacation Success

We know our Honeywell Aerospace colleagues are experts on many things. From developing new and innovated products, programs and software to making sure airline passengers are safe and comfortable every time they fly, but we had no idea how savvy our coworkers are when it comes to planning a smooth and successful summer vacation!

Throughout the last few weeks, employees from all over the world have shared their tried-and-true travel tips and tricks in our first ever Aero Travel Hacks campaign.

More than 300 employees responded with some of the most creative strategies for all types of travel including air travel, road trips, camping, cruising and just about any other kind of vacationing you can think of.

While it was hard to narrow down our favorite contributions, we think you will benefit from what these employees had to say about making this summer’s vacation the best one yet!

Organization is key.

“I make reusable lists in Excel for different types of travel like ski trips, camping trips or touristy trips. Once I return from my trip, I update the lists with things that would have been nice to have. Thanks to these detailed lists, now I rarely forget anything.” - Norm Crawford, Phoenix, Ariz., Sky Harbor site

“When you arrive at your hotel, remove all clothing from your suitcase and place it in the room's dresser and closet. After you wear clothes, put the used items back in your suitcase. Now, you're already packed for when it's time to leave.” - Brett Pichon, Tempe, Ariz.

Don’t break the bank.

“Cruise ships are very large and cell use onboard can be pricey. When traveling, it can be difficult to keep track of your travel companions so buy a set of children’s five-mile rated walkie-talkies for use on the ship or while ashore. It's a great investment!” - Christine O'Donnell, Clearwater, Fla.

“Avoid paying high prices for bottled water at hotels. Most hotel fitness centers have five-gallon water dispensers, so refill your water bottles there.” - Jayme Wenzel, Tempe, Ariz.

Keep calm and camp on.

“When camping, use old, large plastic coffee cans to store your silverware. It works best if you make a cardboard three-way divider to insert inside.” - Shawn Barber, Tucson, Ariz.

“Prepare meals that can be frozen in advance like sloppy joes, chili or spaghetti. When camping, place the frozen entrees in your cooler, they can help extend the life of your ice.” - Tom Turner, Phoenix, Ariz., Deer Valley site

“Don't bring the whole spice drawer when camping! Take what you need in Tic Tac containers to maximize space.” - Hillary Pennella, Plymouth, Minn.

Take a hike.

“When hiking, always tell someone where you are going, how long you will be gone and always carry the 10 hiking essentials. You can look these up online. But remember, none of the 10 essentials will do you any good unless you know how to use them!” - Mark Wright, Albuquerque, N.M.

Sock it to me.

“Wear compression socks when you travel. It will help reduce feet and leg swelling.” – Beatriz Valdez, Mexicali, Mexico

Make technology your friend.

“Download your basics, like maps, ahead of time, so you are not dependent on the Internet.” - Ely Gonzalez, Mexicali, Mexico

“I add and follow hashtags in Instagram of travel destinations to see what locals are doing, seeing and eating. This way I find the most interesting options to add to my itinerary. For example, try #puertorico or #puertoricoeats to find great things to do and see in Puerto Rico.” - Yari Babilonia, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

Hit the road.

“On road trips, bring an extra jacket with you. It can be used to keep your legs cool if the sun is coming through the window onto your legs. It can be rolled up for extra back support or to keep you warm if passengers want a cooler ride.” - Kayla Goodrich, Tempe, Ariz.

“Have board games, snacks and water guns ready on a road trip for spontaneous stops and rest breaks. It provides maximum fun and the opportunity to stretch and relax.” - Matthew Leopold, Redmond, Wash.

Don’t let crime ruin your trip.

“Carry a second wallet with an expired credit card, an expired driver's license, some useless business cards and a couple of dollars, in your back pocket. Carry your real wallet in a front pocket. If robbed, present the fake wallet to the robber.” - George P. Alexander, Phoenix, Ariz., 34th Street site

When all else fails, just relax.

“Have an alternate plan ready, in case of scheduling mishaps. Don't panic.” Prasanth Kumar Bysani, HTS - India

Following these simple hacks can make a difference in the enjoyment of your summer vacation strategy. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler, travel regularly for business or are getting ready to head out on your next great adventure, test out a few of these travel tricks for ultimate trip success.

Bon voyage!