Kelly Baker
Author/Co-Author of 178 articles
Kelly resides in a cozy home in California with her husband and two beautiful cats. She loves good books, baking homemade sourdough bread, playing the piano, and spending time with her family. Kelly is proud to be a full-time content writer with published work across the web.
Personal item vs. carry-on differences explained — don’t board without reading this
Packing for a flight? Learn the difference between a personal item vs. carry on and how to pack efficiently.
What to do during a layover (and how to avoid travel stress)
Wondering “what is a layover?” Learn why they happen and how to make the most of them with tips on connection times, customs, and airport downtime.
9 Europe travel tips I had to learn the hard way
Learn the Europe travel tips I learned the hard way. Make your trip easier, less stressful, and way more fun.
How long should your luggage last? Here’s what I’ve learned
Wondering how long luggage lasts? Learn the average lifespan of budget to premium suitcases, plus tips on repairs, care, and when it’s time to upgrade.
What happens when your flight is overbooked — and what you should do
Find out why airlines overbook flights, what happens when they do, and how you can protect yourself or even benefit when a flight is overbooked.
Minimalist travel tips: How I pack light without sacrificing comfort
Learn how to travel light with just a carry-on using these 9 minimalist travel hacks, from capsule wardrobes to digital must-haves and packing cubes.
Why every traveler should pack a safety pin (it’s not what you think)
From wardrobe fixes to organizing your bag, see why a safety pin is one of the most useful travel items you’ll ever pack.
The most surprising travel camera I’ve used this year? The HOVERAir X1 Pro Max
I tested the HOVERAir X1 Pro Max, the world’s first 8K flying camera. Here’s how it performed — from flight ease to video quality.
How to pack a weekender bag (without overthinking it)
Packing for a weekend trip? Here’s how to pack a weekender bag without overthinking it. Smart, practical tips everyone should know.
The ultimate packing list for Cancun: Everything you need for your trip
This packing list for Cancun covers all the essentials, from swimsuits to bug spray, so you’re ready for every part of your trip.
How luggage is measured: A traveler’s guide to bag sizes and airline rules
Avoid surprise baggage fees. Learn how luggage is measured for airlines and what counts as carry-on, personal item, or checked bag — plus tips to measure at home.
8 air travel tips every first-time flyer should know before takeoff
8 air travel tips every first-time flyer should know to breeze through airports, stay comfortable, and avoid rookie mistakes before takeoff.
5 surprising reasons I always pack magnesium when I travel
Learn why magnesium should be a go-to travel essential for better sleep, digestion, and stress relief on the road.
This is how I always pack protein powder for air travel
Learn how to pack protein powder for air travel with TSA regulations and spill-proof packing hacks.
Do you need a visa to travel to Mexico? Here’s what to know before your trip
Do you need a visa to travel to Mexico? Learn who qualifies for visa-free travel, entry requirements, and tips to prepare for your trip.
The travel pillow hack that finally helped me sleep on a plane
This simple travel pillow trick finally helped me sleep on a plane — no new stuff required, just a smarter way to use what you already have.
Flying with golf clubs? Here’s how to avoid surprise fees and damage
Bringing golf clubs on a plane? Learn about airline fees, TSA rules, and how to pack your golf bag safely.
8 essentials for long haul flights every business traveler needs
Essentials for long flights every business traveler needs to stay comfortable, productive, and ready to hit the ground running after landing.
Mission Workshop’s new Meridian is the ultimate travel-meets-everyday bag
Mission Workshop's new launch, the Meridian backpack, blends travel-ready features with daily utility, modular add-ons, and rugged materials.
6 simple travel wellness hacks that actually make a difference
Stay energized and balanced while traveling with these 6 simple travel wellness hacks that support hydration, sleep, digestion, and stress relief.
Passport vs. visa differences explained: What travelers often get wrong
Passport vs visa: Learn the key differences and why both matter to help you avoid travel headaches before your next international trip.
How to track flights on iPhone using iMessage (no apps needed)
Track flights on your iPhone without downloading any apps. Learn how to use iMessage flight tracking for real-time maps, gate info, and baggage claim updates—right from your text messages.
5 risky vacation habits tech experts say could damage your phone
Avoid these 5 risky vacation habits that tech experts say can damage your phone, from bad chargers to unsecured Wi-Fi and sun exposure.
Have lost luggage? Here’s exactly what to do next
Lost luggage? Don’t panic. Learn the essential steps to take right away to track your bag, get reimbursed, and minimize the stress.
10 summer travel passport and visa tips every traveler should know
Planning summer travel? Avoid common passport and visa mistakes with these 10 smart, expert-approved tips.
I stopped overpacking and used the 333 method — the results surprised me
I tried the 333 packing method for a week-long trip — just 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 shoes. Here's what worked, what didn’t, and why I’d do it again.
Do Rimowa suitcases go on sale? When and where to shop
Even if you visit the Rimowa site daily and check during every holiday, you may never see a deal. Here's what to do instead to get good buys.
Yes, you’re probably overpacking — 7 travel tips for packing I swear by
Learn how to pack like a pro with 7 travel tips that save space, time, and your sanity.
What actually works when road tripping with your dog: 6 simple tips
Planning a road trip with your dog? These essential tips will help you stay prepared, keep your pup safe, and make the journey smoother, happier, and more fun for both of you.
Amex and Chase just upgraded their travel credit cards: Here’s what’s new
Discover the latest upgrades to Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum, with fresh travel perks, lounge access, and exclusive dining credits.
How to get Global Entry for free (yes, really)
How to get Global Entry for free using the perks you may already have like credit card perks, employer benefits, or travel rewards programs.
Is an airport lounge day pass worth it? Here’s what you need to know
Thinking about buying an airport lounge day pass? Discover when it’s worth it, what to expect, and how to make the most of your airport wait.
TUMI vs Away: Which luggage brand is better for your travel style?
TUMI vs Away: Discover which luggage brand offers better style, durability, price, and features to fit your travel needs and budget.
AI is quietly changing how you travel: Here’s what you need to know
Learn how AI is quietly making travel smoother, cheaper, and more personalized -- without you lifting a finger.
How to pack a carry-on like a pro (and still look good on day three)
Learn how to pack a carry-on with purpose and ease. No fluff, just real tips that actually work in today’s travel world.
Avoid the awkward: 5 basic flight etiquette rules you should always follow
Avoid midair mishaps with these essential flight etiquette rules for a smoother, more respectful travel experience.
How to plan a road trip: Tips, essentials, and real-life advice
Learn how to plan a road trip with real-life tips, expert advice, and must-have essentials for an unforgettable adventure on the open road.
The in-flight Wi-Fi mistake most travelers make without realizing it
Learn how to safely use in-flight Wi-Fi and protect your data from hackers and fake networks while flying in an airplane.
Hermès just launched $15,000 headphones (and yes, they’re as luxe as you’d expect)
Hermès unveils $15,000 headphones crafted by Ateliers Horizons, blending iconic design with high-end materials in a bold new tech statement.
5 smart things I always do when I check into a hotel room
These hotel room check-in habits help me stay safer, cleaner, and more comfortable. Learn the quick routine I always follow when I arrive.
The one piece of solo travel advice I wish I’d known before my first trip
One solo travel tip can change everything. Here’s what I wish I’d known before my first trip alone, so you can make the most of yours.
9 TSA approved items you didn’t know you could bring on an airplane
From knitting needles to frozen treats, learn about TSA-approved items you might not realize are allowed on flights.
How to survive the middle seat on a plane: 6 smart tips that really help
Stuck in the middle seat on an airplane? Try these simple strategies to stay comfy and sane on your next flight.
Do compression packing bags really work? We tested so you don’t have to
Tight on space? We tested a compression packing bag to see if it really works and if it wrinkles your clothes. Here's what happened, and what you should know.
10 road trip podcasts to keep you entertained for miles
From true crime to comedy, here are 10 binge-worthy road trip podcasts that will keep you company and make the miles fly by.
Are luggage covers TSA approved? What travelers should know before using one
Are luggage covers TSA approved? Learn this and how to use them safely without risking damage during airport security inspections.
5 genius road trip hacks you’ll wish you knew sooner
Discover five easy road trip hacks to stay organized, mess-free, and stress-free, perfect for making your next drive smoother and more enjoyable.
REAL ID deadline is almost here: What to do if you don’t have one yet
The REAL ID deadline is May 7, 2025. Learn what documents you need, how to apply, and why upgrading your license now can save you airport headaches later.
10 tips for handling a diverted plane (plus why it happens)
Learn why flights get diverted and discover essential tips to handle a diverted plane calmly, smartly, and with less stress.