Flying tips

If you’re flying long-haul, pre-book yourself into an airport lounge. There’s an up-front fee, but it provides a quiet environment with complimentary drinks, food, magazines, newspapers, WiFi etc. When you leave the lounge, take a few big bottles of water. It’s a cost effective and relaxing way to start your journey. Philippa Waygood, Skyscanner Training Co-ordinator

If silence is golden, then ear plugs are worth their weight in platinum. Being able to sleep in a noisy plane or hotel room is a very valuable skill, not to be underestimated whilst travelling. Laura Wilson, Skyscanner Search Marketing Manager

You get fed before anyone else, you avoid anything too greasy and stodgy (helps the jetlag allegedly) and I’m convinced the more niche meals are much better quality as they’re made in smaller batches. Victoria Baillie, Skyscanner PR Manager

They may have become the uniform of unruly ASBO-teenagers, but hooded tops make excellent travel garments. Just slip up your hood to retreat from the world of noise and light when you want to sleep on a flight/airport seat/bus. Sam Baldwin, Skyscanner Travel Editor

Travelling all by your lonesome might seem daunting at first, but it gives you a chance to really immerse yourself in the travel experience. I’ve met friends for life, learnt a new language, and had amazing experiences by travelling solo. More: 10 tips for travelling solo Victoria Bailie, Skyscanner PR Manager

Staying in a hotel when you’re on holiday is not the only option. Or in a hostel for that matter. Apartments or rooms in private homes are where the savvy travellers rest their heads these days. Sam Baldwin, Skyscanner Travel Editor

Whenever you get up to leave somewhere, be it a chair at the airport, a café, or a bar, always turn round and make sure you haven’t left anything behind. Suzanne Morrison, Skyscanner Project Manager

If you are in a country where it is unsafe to drink the water, keep your mouth shut in the shower. Suzanne Morrison, Skyscanner Project Manager

If you really, really want to get off the beaten track, buy the Lonely Planet guide, then avoid everywhere featured in it. Sam Baldwin, Skyscanner Travel Editor

Have an open mind and don’t sweat the small stuff; travel can be frustrating but you will look back and remember it forever. Dave Boyte, Skyscanner Market Development Manager, Australia