Whether you’re on a budget or not, if you pay attention to the details then you can always travel in comfort and style.
1. What to wear
Travelling unfortunately means hauling luggage around and sitting in cramped spaces for long periods of time. But you can make your trip as smooth and hassle-free as possible by decking yourself out in the right clothing. Instead of putting on a comforting thick jumper, which will only have to come off again when you’re in a heated interior, try layers of soft material such as jersey accompanied by a warm cashmere wrap or pashmina. Wide-leg trousers will keep their shape no matter how long the journey, and forget about heels, try comfortable but glamorous ballet pumps or slip-ons which can be kicked off easily.
2. Arrive looking your best
It’s strange how bedraggled you look after travelling, considering you’ve just been sitting down. This is generally because you become tired and dehydrated after long journeys. Counter the effects of dehydration by drinking water, naturally, but also by carrying a good quality lip balm, moisturiser, soothing facial wipes and under-eye serum. Bedraggled hair can be fixed if you carry a touch of leave-in conditioner and a comb, and you’ll get a lift if you keep a pocket version of your favourite perfume with you and apply as you arrive.
3. Luggage and packing
Good quality luggage is one thing it’s worth investing in, not just so you can look glamorous, but also to protect your clothes in-transit. Everyone has a preference, but a soft case with a rigid durable structure will take all kinds of rough treatment but be kind to clothes. Take time to pack well – that means folding things properly – and unpack and hang your clothes up as soon as you arrive.
4. Smooth off the rough edges
Make things easy on yourself when travelling to the train or plane. If you avoid taking a taxi or express train to the station or airport it can be a false economy, as the stress of missed or slow public transport will spoil the beginning of your holiday. Build in plenty of buffer time so you’re not rushing to check in and if you’re a pre-boarding shopper, plan what it is you want first, get it, then sit down and relax. If you’re lucky enough to be able to afford access to a business lounge then get there early, hide out in it and take advantage of the free massages and beauty treatments.
5. On arrival
You’re here! Hurray! What do you want to do now? I bet it’s not wandering around a city centre with a guidebook. Take the stress out of it and plan your first evening and the next day beforehand, and if you want to eat and relax in a nice restaurant, choose it first and book it. And remember to change your currency before travelling so you can have a welcome cocktail as soon as you arrive.
Byline: This is a guest post written by Hannah Smith, a travel writer for thetrainline.com the UK’s leading independent retailer of cheap train tickets
