Smart Travel: Upgrade Your Getaways Episode: Pack Smarter, Spend Less: How to Travel Light Without Losing Comfort Release Date: August 13, 2025 Hosts: Sally French, Megan Coyle, with Tess McLendon
Introduction
In this episode of Smart Travel: Upgrade Your Getaways, NerdWallet Travel experts Sally French and Megan Coyle, along with guest Tess McLendon, delve into practical strategies for packing efficiently to save money and enhance travel comfort. Skipping the usual introductions, the hosts jump straight into actionable tips and personal anecdotes, ensuring listeners gain valuable insights without the fluff.
News Highlights
Before diving into packing tips, the trio touches on recent travel news:
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Southwest Airlines' Free Wi-Fi Trial: Megan highlights that Southwest is testing free Wi-Fi for Rapid Rewards members on flights departing August 13th and 14th, aligning with other airlines like Delta and Hawaiian that already offer complimentary internet services [03:17].
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Alaska Airlines' New Routes: Tess shares exciting updates about Alaska Airlines launching nonstop flights from Seattle to Reykjavik and London in 2026, expanding their international footprint [04:02].
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Air Canada’s Aeroplan Program Changes: Megan discusses Air Canada's shift to awarding points based on expenditure rather than distance traveled, emphasizing the importance of transferable points with credit card partners [08:34].
These updates provide listeners with timely information on airline offerings and loyalty program changes that can impact their travel planning.
Main Content: Packing Tips to Save Money and Travel Light
1. The Ten $10 Rule [13:04]
Sally introduces her signature packing strategy, the Ten $10 Rule, designed to minimize "just in case" items in luggage. The rule states:
“If you have a just in case item, something that you might need, but you know you can buy it at your destination, it is under $10, and you can acquire it in under 10 minutes. I say don't pack it.” – [13:38]
Examples include:
- Umbrellas: Instead of packing one, rely on the availability at your destination.
- Extra Toiletries: Only bring essentials like a toothbrush, assuming you can purchase additional items if needed.
- Beach Towels: If unsure about hotel provisions, plan to buy locally rather than packing heavy towels.
2. Avoiding Checked Bag Fees [10:15]
Sally emphasizes the financial burden of baggage fees, which can accumulate to $200 for multi-flight trips with airlines like Frontier that charge for both checked and carry-on bags.
“If you really, really need to check a bag and you also need that carry-on bag, there are some ways that you can avoid these fees...” – [10:43]
Solutions:
- Co-Branded Credit Cards: Many offer free checked bags as a perk, potentially offsetting multiple baggage fees.
- Elite Status: While earning elite status solely for baggage fee waivers isn't cost-effective, it provides added benefits like heavier baggage allowances.
3. Carry-On Only Approach [12:05]
Both hosts advocate for traveling with only a carry-on to eliminate baggage fees and enhance mobility.
“If you are not doing the gallon challenge every day, my hot take is you are not hydrated enough.” – Sally on hydrating effectively by minimizing luggage [00:47]
Sally takes it a step further by switching from a roller bag to a backpack, encouraging travelers to reassess the necessity of each item:
“When all your possessions are literally on your back, you start making different decisions about what is necessary.” – [12:14]
Benefits:
- Spontaneity: Easier to move around and adapt plans without worrying about luggage.
- Efficiency: Fewer items mean less clutter and easier management during travels.
4. Utilize Hotel Amenities [18:07]
Sally advises against packing certain items assuming hotels provide them. Many hotels offer complimentary toiletries and other essentials upon request.
“I was at the Kimpton recently and they had a whole sign of, like, all the things that you could request.” – [18:38]
Tips:
- Request Items: Items like toothpaste, razors, and face lotion can be requested from the front desk, reducing the need to pack them.
- Special Kits: Some hotel chains, like Lowe's, offer specialized kits (e.g., baby kits) that cater to specific needs without adding to your luggage.
5. Embrace Laundry Opportunities [19:30]
Megan stresses the importance of being open to doing laundry during travels to minimize the number of clothes packed.
“Don’t be afraid of doing laundry... you 100% do not need to pack so many clothes.” – [19:40]
Strategies:
- Pack Laundry Pods: Small, lightweight detergent packs can facilitate on-the-go washing.
- Reuse Items: Bring versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched or worn multiple times without washing.
6. Smart Use of Plastic Bags [20:10]
Both hosts recommend carrying a plastic bag for various uses, such as storing wet clothes, shoes, dirty laundry, or extra souvenirs.
“You put them in the plastic bag as if you bought them from the airport.” – Megan [20:23]
Advantages:
- Extra Space: Helps manage additional items without exceeding carry-on limits.
- Organization: Keeps different categories of items separate and easy to access.
7. Avoiding Expensive Travel-Size Products [21:25]
Travelers are often tempted by pricey travel-size toiletries sold at destinations. Instead, Sally suggests bringing reusable containers and filling them with your preferred products.
“Mini toothpaste is more expensive than just normal toothpaste.” – Megan [21:36]
Alternative:
- DIY Travel Kits: Use prescription containers or small reusable bottles to carry essentials, saving money and ensuring you have products you trust.
8. Multipurpose Souvenirs [23:53]
Instead of packing non-essential souvenirs that take up space, opt for items you can use during your trip, which also serve as memorable keepsakes.
“It’s like a multipurpose souvenir. When you come back, you’ll always remember it.” – Sally [24:03]
Examples:
- Sun Hats: Purchase a hat at your destination that you can use immediately, eliminating the need to pack one.
- Local Clothes: Buying a unique garment from your destination ensures it’s both functional and a reminder of your travels.
Hot Takes
Sally’s Approach: Minimalist Packing
Sally champions a highly minimalist approach, advocating for only the essentials and challenging travelers to rethink their packing habits. Her emphasis on reducing "just in case" items aligns with the Ten $10 Rule, promoting a more intentional and cost-effective travel experience.
Megan’s Approach: Flexible and Functional
Megan introduces innovative ideas like using clothing rental services, which allow travelers to access a variety of outfits without the need to pack multiple clothes. This strategy not only saves space but also keeps the wardrobe fresh and suitable for different occasions during the trip.
“I was really surprised because I started doing nuuly for some of these destination weddings that I’ve been going to.” – Megan [25:01]
Conclusion
Sally French and Megan Coyle provide a comprehensive guide to packing smarter, emphasizing the importance of minimizing luggage to save money and enhance travel flexibility. By implementing strategies like the Ten $10 Rule, opting for carry-on only, utilizing hotel amenities, and embracing laundry opportunities, travelers can significantly reduce their packing burden. Additionally, innovative solutions like clothing rental services offer practical alternatives for maintaining a versatile wardrobe without overpacking.
Listeners are encouraged to adopt these tips to not only lighten their load but also to make their travel experiences more enjoyable and financially efficient. Whether planning a short getaway or an extended adventure, these strategies ensure that every traveler can maximize their travel dollars and enjoy a more streamlined journey.
Notable Quotes:
- “If you have a just in case item... do not pack it.” – Sally French [13:38]
- “You start making different decisions about what is necessary.” – Sally French [12:14]
- “Mini toothpaste is more expensive than just normal toothpaste.” – Megan Coyle [21:36]
- “It’s like a multipurpose souvenir...” – Sally French [23:53]
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