For many, the journey itself is the most challenging part of any holiday. As American author Fran Lebowitz once quipped, the appeal lies in being in different places, not necessarily in the act of getting there. Long airport queues, unreliable Wi-Fi, and last-minute scrambles for adapters are universal frustrations that can overshadow the excitement of a trip.
Whether you're planning a Bali getaway with friends, a European tour, or an African safari, a smooth experience begins long before you board the plane. For travellers from Perth, a bit of foresight can transform a potentially stressful journey into a seamless adventure. Here are five practical hacks to help you save time and reduce stress on your next overseas holiday.
Stay Connected Effortlessly with an eSIM
In today's world, staying online is no longer a luxury but a necessity. This is especially true when venturing beyond Australia's standard roaming partner zones. Modern eSIM technology from providers like Yesim offers a smart solution for Perth travellers.
It strikes a perfect balance: it's more cost-effective than international roaming packages from Australian carriers, more convenient than purchasing local SIM cards at every destination, and far more reliable than depending on spotty hotel or café Wi-Fi. By setting up your eSIM profile before you leave Perth, you guarantee consistent connectivity the moment you land, whether you're checking into a traditional ryokan in Kyoto or navigating the bustling streets of Lisbon.
Power Up and Communicate with Ease
Anyone who has fought over a single power outlet in a hotel room knows the struggle. A simple, travel-friendly power board can be a game-changer, allowing you to charge your phone, camera, tablet, and other devices simultaneously.
Communication barriers can also cause unnecessary stress. Instead of relying on charades to find a bathroom, download a translation app like Google Translate or iTranslate before you depart. Ensuring you have the offline features ready means you'll have a lifesaver in your pocket, even without an internet connection.
Prepare for the Unexpected and Plan Your Arrival
Minor mishaps can derail your travel plans. A compact, personalised first-aid kit containing plasters, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, and motion sickness tablets is a must-pack item. Toss it in your day bag, and a scraped knee or headache won't ruin your itinerary.
Finally, consider your arrival and departure. Nothing beats being able to check into your accommodation early after a long flight, avoiding the crowded lobby. Similarly, a late check-out can make your final morning much more relaxed. Most hotels are accommodating if you communicate your needs in advance, making this a simple hack with a significant impact on your comfort.
While travel will always have an element of chaos, being prepared with the right gear and a solid plan makes the journey far more enjoyable. Perhaps with these hacks, even Fran Lebowitz might find the act of travelling a little less disagreeable.
Yesim partners with over 800 local operators globally, automatically connecting users to 4G or 5G networks. For multi-country trips, they offer flexible data packages: a Global Package for 80+ countries, a Global Plus Package for 140+ countries, and a Pay & Fly option for 170+ countries where you only pay for the data you use.
