How to Travel Comfortably: Lessons from 20 Years on the Road

As a European, traveling has always been a significant part of my life. I remember my first flight when I was just five years old—it was just me, my mom, and my dad. Back then, traveling felt so easy and carefree, just the three of us exploring the world together. But as our family grew and I started traveling on my own, I realized how stressful it could be if you weren't prepared.

Now, after 20 years of exploring, I’ve learned the secrets to making travel as comfortable and stress-free as possible. From choosing the right airlines to picking the perfect luggage and planning the small details, let me share what works best for me.

The Best Airlines: What You Should Know

Airlines can make or break your travel experience, but I’ve found a few simple rules to make it easier:

1. Flights Under 3 HoursFor short flights, it honestly doesn’t matter much. Budget airlines like Ryanair or Wizz Air are often the best choice because the difference in comfort between cheap and middle-tier airlines (like Lufthansa or Air France) isn’t that significant. Why pay extra for a snack or a few extra inches of legroom on a two-hour flight?

2. Flights Over 3 HoursWhen the journey gets longer, comfort becomes crucial. This is where premium airlines like Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Saudi Airlines shine. From spacious seating to superior meals and entertainment, these airlines make long-haul flights feel like part of the adventure rather than a chore.

3. The Middle Ground: 3 to 5 HoursFor flights in this range, middle-class airlines like Lufthansa or Air France can be a good compromise. They offer more comfort than budget airlines without the premium price tag of luxury carriers.

The Perfect Luggage and Travel Bag

A key part of comfortable travel is having the right gear. After years of trial and error, here’s what I’ve learned:

1. Durable LuggageA good suitcase is an investment. Look for brands known for durability, lightweight design, and smooth spinner wheels. My top picks include:

   • Away Bigger Carry-On: Stylish, tough, and includes a built-in USB charger.

   • Samsonite Omni PC: Lightweight and affordable, yet incredibly durable.

   • Rimowa Essential Cabin: A high-end choice with unmatched durability and elegance.

2. The Perfect Travel BagYour travel bag is your lifeline during travel, so choose one that combines practicality and style. You’ll need enough compartments to keep your essentials organized and easy to access.

   • Tumi Voyageur Tote: Perfect for staying organized.

   • Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody: Ideal for peace of mind with built-in security features.

   • Mercurius Tech Bag: This one’s a standout. Its sleek design and functionality make it the ultimate travel companion. It’s stylish, durable, and includes smart compartments for gadgets, essentials, and more. Plus, it comes with built-in packing cubes, so staying organized has never been easier.

Travel Hacks: Learn From a European’s Perspective

1. Choose Airports Wisely

   • Flights Are Cheaper from Amsterdam than Frankfurt: Even if it means a slightly longer flight, Amsterdam Schiphol often has better deals and more flexible flight options than Frankfurt Airport.

   • Milan Airports: Always pick Malpensa over Linate—it’s more convenient for international flights and connections. And if you’re visiting Milan, avoid Bergamo Airport unless you’re on an ultra-tight budget. The savings from flying into Bergamo often disappear once you factor in the extra time and money spent on buses and trains to reach Milan.

2. The Transit Game

   • A 7-hour transit in Singapore (Changi) or Doha (Hamad International) is a breeze. These airports are designed for comfort, with lounges, gardens, shopping, and even spas. Time will fly by before you know it.

   • On the other hand, a 3-hour transit in Milan, Rome, or Paris can feel like a nightmare. These airports are often crowded, poorly signposted, and lacking in amenities, which makes every minute drag on.

   • Frankfurt Airport Warning: Planning a 1-hour transit here is risky. It’s one of the largest airports in Europe, and navigating from one gate to another can take 30+ minutes, even with the help of the train system. Missing your flight is a real possibility.

3. Book Strategically

   • Midweek flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are often cheaper than weekend departures.

   • Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to spot trends and find the best deals.

4. Pick the Right Transit Hubs

   • Some airports make connections seamless. Singapore Changi and Doha Hamad International are fantastic options with great facilities. On the other hand, crowded hubs like London Heathrow or Paris Charles de Gaulle can be stressful, so plan longer layovers if you must transit there.

Additional Tips for Comfortable Travel

Here are a few more tricks to make your journey seamless and enjoyable:

1. Plan Your Itinerary Thoughtfully

   • Avoid tight connections to reduce stress. A layover of at least 1.5 to 2 hours gives you time to navigate unfamiliar airports.

   • Use apps like FlightAware or your airline’s app to monitor your flight status and gate changes.

2. Dress Smartly

   • Wear loose, breathable clothing and bring layers. Airplane cabins can fluctuate between freezing and stuffy.

   • Slip-on shoes are perfect for security checks and comfort during the flight.

3. Stay Hydrated

   • Airplane cabins can be incredibly dehydrating. Bring a refillable water bottle and hydrate before, during, and after the flight.

   • Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, which can make dehydration worse.

4. Snack Wisely

   • Pack healthy snacks like nuts, protein bars, or dried fruit. Airplane food isn’t always reliable, and having a snack on hand can save you during delays or long transits.

5. Prepare for Delays

   • Keep essentials like toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes in your carry-on. Delays or lost luggage can happen, so it’s best to be prepared.

6. Streamline Your Packing

   • Use a dedicated travel checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything important. Overpacking can lead to stress and excess baggage fees.

   • Invest in a universal adapter for electronics—it’s a must-have for international travelers.

7. Maximize Airport Comfort

   • Look into lounge access through credit cards or one-time passes. Lounges offer a quiet space to relax, recharge your devices, and enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks.

Stress-Free Air Travel: My Top Hacks

Even with the best preparation, flying can be tiring. Here’s how I manage:

• Noise-Canceling Headphones: They block out engine noise and crying babies, making the flight much more relaxing. I recommend Bose 700 or Sony WH-1000XM5.

• Travel Pillow and Blanket: A memory foam travel pillow and compact blanket make long-haul flights far more comfortable.

• Entertainment Downloaded: Always download movies, shows, or podcasts in case the in-flight system doesn’t work or Wi-Fi is patchy.

Conclusion

Traveling doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation—choosing reliable luggage, knowing when to splurge on a luxury airline, and packing thoughtfully—you can make every journey smooth and enjoyable. After two decades of trial and error, I’ve found what works, and I hope these tips help make your next adventure as comfortable as possible. Happy travels!