Experienced travellers share their top tips

“If you’re going to more than a couple of places, then booking all your accommodation on a reputable all-in-one platform like ALL.com makes life easier as, for example, you can see all your bookings in one spot and double check you have the right dates,” says Judy, whose travel resume includes 11 months of round-the-world backpacking.

“They cover reputable properties – like ibis, Novotel, Mantra, Pullman, Sofitel – and have useful search filters, like distance from landmarks, that give you confidence that you’ve booked a place that suits your needs.”

There are other perks to using ALL.com – by joining its rewards program, you can earn points for every booking that are redeemable on stays, dining, experiences and more. Plus, with the ALL.com app, you can even keep all those bookings right in the palm of your hand.

Dress for the little moments

Struggle to nail your holiday wardrobe? You’re not alone. It’s easy to fall into the trap of packing a bunch of ‘going out’ outfits… and not enough for the day-to-day.

“A tip I learnt from Amy Smilovic from [fashion label] Tibi was to remember to pack for the ‘in-between moments’ of your holiday,” says Chloe, who’s done a (very stylish) Euro summer every year since covid restrictions eased.

“That means what you wear when you need to be presentable but you’re not fully ready for the day – for the coffee run or the hotel buffet breakfast. Easy, comfortable clothes that ensure you always feel properly dressed for every moment of the holiday.”

Travel tech can be your friend

The days of incurring costly roaming fees to use your phone abroad are over. Thanks to eSIMS, you can subscribe to local phone plans without the hassle of physically swapping out your SIM card.

“eSIMS often have free trials depending on the country – that could potentially cover your whole stay in a place, giving you fast internet wherever you are,” says Jared, who relied on them during recent trips to Europe and the US.

“I swapped between trials twice in a month in the US. I had a working phone number and 4G without paying a cent”.

Pack your runners

“Wherever possible, walk – rather than taking the Subway or catching an Uber,” says Adrian, who has travelled everywhere from Iran to Italy.

“You notice more quirky things when you walk. And if you are inquisitive, you can investigate things that look interesting or unusual. Things that are accidental or serendipitous often provide the most pleasurable memories.

“Plus, you get a better feel for the neighbourhood. And it is better for your health and the environment.”

And please, don’t forget your visa

Did you know that Australians need a visa to visit Vietnam? Or an ESTA for the United States and Canada?

Lots of the most popular destinations among Aussie travellers require you to get that oh-so-small, oh-so-important piece of paper before you go. And entry requirements can change frequently. The best way to stay on top of it all?

“To get a good snapshot of what you need to know before your travel, be sure to check DFAT’S Smart Traveller website,” says Sean, whose favourite trip was 5-weeks camping in east Africa. “You don’t want to fly all the way overseas only to realise you were meant to get a visa first!”

Nature lovers, adventure seekers, food fanatics and culture enthusiasts, we can’t wait to welcome ALL the travellers in you. Find your perfect stay on ALL.com