The 5 Best Holiday Travel Hacks!

Holiday travel is the worst. And even though it will always be a hassle, there often is a better way.

Here are five essential travel hacks that’ll help you get to where you’re going in one piece!

Book your tickets incognito
any airline and travel websites use cookies to track how many times you’ve visited and then they alter the prices. Use Google Chrome Incognito to make sure you’ll be safe to book your tickets with no jacked up prices.

Don’t get stuck in a no-window seat
Yes, the airline will let you pick your seat, but SeatGuru takes it to the next level. Before you book, type in your airline and flight number and you’ll be able to see the layout of the exact plane you’ll be flying on. Here you can choose your ideal seat.

Wrap wisely
Did you know airport security can open your gift-wrapped packages? In other words, do not travel with wrapped presents. Instead, either ship your gifts to your destination or pack them unwrapped and then wrap them when you arrive.

Endless battery life
Everyone in the whole darn airport will be looking for a charging station. Fortunately those big TVs that are at just about every gate have USB ports. All you have to do is sneakily plug your phone into one.

Bring yourself some libations
When you’re sitting on the plane listening to that screaming baby, you’re gonna need a drink! This is where the Carry-on Cocktail Kit comes in. This adorable little kit comes with a mini bottle of alcohol, the perfect mix-ins, and a little spoon too!

Just arrived at the Airport and need a shuttle service to your accommodation? Contact Airport Shuttle today and we can get you to or from Cape Town International Airport comfortably and safely!

You should NEVER pack these 7 things when you Travel

You’re on your way to Paris, but dragging your giant suitcase to baggage check is basically breaking your body in half. Leave these 7 things out of your suitcase when you're planning your next holiday - they're just not worth it.

SHOES THAT HURT YOUR FEET
That huge pair of wedges that almost caused you to break your ankle? Those pumps that are way too small for your feet, but look so cute? Leave them at home! You'll be thankful in the long run.

HARDCOVER BOOKS

Heavy, hardcover books make it easy for your luggage to go over the carry-on limit. Find something else to read, preferably something lighter and save the 800-page novel for when you’re at home.

A BATHING SUIT YOU DON'T FEEL CONFIDENT IN
If you’re feeling unsure in front of your bathroom mirror, there’s no way you’re going to love that suit once you’re actually on the beach. Leave the skimpy number at home if you don’t feel comfortable and rather pick out one that is more flattering.

TOO MUCH DENIM
Your favourite blue jeans don’t dirty that easily, in fact experts recommend washing them once a month! This means you can get away with packing just one or two pairs and re-wearing from day to day, instead of packing your whole wardrobe.

TOILETRIES
Most hotels provide shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, razors, mouthwash and more. Call ahead to double check what they offer and then you can decide on what to bring and what to leave at home.

HAIRSTYLING TOOLS
Same deal as the toiletries – Call ahead to be sure the hotel has them, and if the answer is yes, leave your heavy hair dryer at home!

SNACKS AND WINE
We all want our snacks and wine and sometimes it can be a bit pricey when you’re traveling, but unless you’re going to a remote island, just visit the local grocery store – done and dusted.

Do you want to visit the Mother City for your big trip? Get to and from Cape Town International Airport quickly and easily with Airport Shuttle! To book your shuttle use our easy online booking system - Please contact us directly on +27 (0)21 551 8785 or +27 (0)82 951 3646 or info@asct.co.za if you prefer personal contact in making your booking.

4 Signs that you have a Packing Problem

Whether you are travelling on a quick business trip away for the weekend or taking a long family vacation with the family, packing for your trip can cause quite a lot of problems as well as stress.

To make sure your trip goes smoothly and to avoid any potential crises, look out for these packing problem signs and use these easy, effective solutions…

       1.       Wrinkled Clothing

Do you really want to spend your time ironing your clothes in your hotel room? If your clothing comes out of your bags looking like they’ve been lying on the floor for 3 months then it’s time to learn how to pack properly!

Solution – Stick to wrinkle-free clothing and roll your items up instead of folding them.

      2.       Damaged Goods

There is nothing worse than opening your suitcase and finding your precious souvenirs are damaged. If you’ve ever had an item destroyed, you may need to take some extra care when you’re packing.

Solution – NEVER put breakable items in your checked luggage, rather wrap them up in newspaper or bubble wrap and carry them with you.

      3.       Too much Baggage

Does it take three people plus a heavy lifting champion to pick up your carry-on bag? If you answered yes then it’s time to lighten the load – no one wants to deal with access baggage fees for packing too much.

Solution – It is a good idea to check the weather beforehand so you don’t over pack or pack anything you do not need.

      4.       Pre-Trip Panic

Do you find it hard to sleep before you go on your trip because you stress that you have forgotten to pack something important? The trick to avoiding unnecessary stress is to give yourself time to pack and stay organised.

Solution – NEVER pack an hour before your trip, rather make a list and make sure to go through it while you are packing.

If you think your suitcase-stuffing strategy needs a bit of work, then remember to use these easy solutions before you go on your trip, nothing can ruin a holiday faster than a silly packing problem.

Smart Packing Hacks that will make Travelling so much Easier

Travelling during the festive season can be difficult, especially with all the Christmas presents and party outfits you’re trying to squash into your suitcase.

Here are a few nifty little tricks to help you stay calm and travel with ease...

Roll your clothes: Rolling your clothes doesn’t only compress them, but if you roll them in a pillow case it’ll also keep them wrinkle-free.

Use gift bags instead of paper: Your delicately wrapped presents can easily get ripped open while in your suitcase. Rather use Christmas gift bags to be safe.

Pack necklaces into a straw: This is a tried and tested way to make sure your chains won’t tangle together on the way to your destination.

Put the heavy stuff at the bottom: Your arm will thank you for balancing out the weight and packing your heaviest item at the bottom of your suitcase.

Smart show packing: That means putting your shoes into a shower cap. No more dirty dresses!

Clothing with pockets: Try to wear clothes or a jacket with pockets, this way you won’t have to keep searching for your ID or ticket.

Stay calm – holiday travel can be a breeze if you just use these clever packing hacks...

Airport Shuttle can get you to or from the airport comfortably and on time! Book your shuttle today and beat the Christmas rush!

7 holiday travel hacks you should know!

Holiday travel is the worst. And even though it will always be a hassle, there often is a better way.

Here are seven essential travel hacks that’ll help you get to where you’re going in one piece!

Book your tickets incognito

Many airline and travel websites use cookies to track how many times you’ve visited and then they alter the prices. Use Google Chrome Incognito to make sure you’ll be safe to book your tickets with no jacked up prices.

Don’t get stuck in a no-window seat

Yes, the airline will let you pick your seat, but SeatGuru takes it to the next level. Before you book, type I your airline and flight number and you’ll be able to see the layout of the exact plane you’ll be flying on. Here you can choose your ideal seat.

Wrap wisely

Did you know airport security can open your gift-wrapped packages? In other words, do not travel with wrapped presents. Instead, either ship your gifts to your destination or pack them unwrapped.

Endless battery life

Everyone in the whole darn airport will be looking for a charging station. Fortunately those big TVs that are at just about every gate have USB ports. All you have to do is sneakily plug your phone into one.

Bring yourself some libations

When you’re sitting on the plane listening to that screaming baby, you’re gonna need a drink! This is where the Carry-on Cocktail Kit comes in. This adorable little kit comes with a mini bottle of alcohol, the perfect mix-ins and a little spoon.

Packing hacks according to what’s in your bag

Packing everything for your next trip can be a bit scary – what should you take? What shouldn’t you take? However the destination and type of holiday makes it easier to plan and determine the contents to take with. Master the art of packing with these helpful packing hacks!

Beach Bum
All your necessities can be narrowed down to good swimwear, high-quality sunscreen, slip slops, sunglasses, a hat, towels and a waterproof camera. Pack in some baby powder to get rid of sand easily and don’t forget Ziploc bags to protect your valuables.

Camping Enthusiast
Planning to spend a long weekend in the wilderness? Make sure you take the right equipment with you, such as a decent tent and sleeping bag. Enjoy easy, convenient breakfasts amongst the trees with sachets of instant coffee and always keep your eggs in a plastic bottle. Did you know that you can make lamps out of jars by placing candles inside, or use deodorant as an insect repellent? Give it a try!

Urban Explorer
Always avoid anything heavy or restricting, so wear your camera around your neck and keep all your valuables, gadgets and tickets in a small bag. A good way to stay hydrated is to buy a refillable water bottle and always keep it with you.

Happy Hiker
Firstly, consider lining your backpack with bin liners to make it waterproof. You can also reduce the weight of your bag by sticking to dehydrated food and placing anything heavy such as water bottles on top. All your necessary clothing should include; robust footwear, a good jacket and make sure you have plenty of pockets.

Pro Traveler
If you are planning a backpacking trip, it can be difficult to pack your whole life into one suitcase, but it is possible! Write a list of all the necessities you won’t be able to live without, and with some simple tricks you can fit everything in. Save space by rolling your clothes, pack all your socks into your shoes and keep a roll of duct tape on hand – it can be used for literally anything.

Whether you’re a beach bum or an urban explorer, these packing hacks will have you covered!

Cant find accommodation in Cape Town? 808 Cartwright Corner is the perfect self-catering apartment, with amazing views of the Mother City! Contact us today and book your stay!

You should always pack these items when you go on a business trip!

Packing for a holiday is easy and exciting, just throw in a few swimming costumes and flip flops and you’re ready to go! But, packing for a business trip is a completely different story. What should you bring and what can you expect??

Here are the items you should ALWAYS pack for a business trip:

1. Business Cards
This one is obvious, you should always pack a few cards at the ready when you are away on business.

 

2. Breath Mints
Don’t let potential clients walk away with your business card and a foul smell in their nose. Always carry breath mints to chew on regularly.

3. Antibacterial Gel
This is a necessity given all the people you’ll meet and all the hands you’ll shake.

4. A Name Badge
Create and laminate a badge for yourself, that way you know you’ll always have one.

5. A Pencil and Pad
This is an obvious item, but you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to forget! Make sure your writing utensils are always close at hand.

6. Pants, Jacket and Shirts
In some circumstances you may need strict business attire.

7. Two Pairs of Shoes
You should always bring a comfortable pair of shoes for walking and a slightly more dressy pair for important dinners.

8. A Charger
You’re definitely not going to forget your cell phone, but make sure you always have a charger.

9. Your Laptop
Your laptop, iPad or tablet is something that you need to have. You shouldn’t rely on the computer or operating system a business centre provides.

10. USB Flash Drive
Keep all your presentations at reports at your fingertips by keeping a handy USB flash drive in your pocket.

Remember that a business trip is a very important time; you need to be prepared for anything! Keep this list close at hand and make sure your trip goes exactly as planned.

Looking for a self-catering apartment with amazing views of the Mother City? Book in at 808 Cartwright Corner for your business trip.

10 things you should never forget on a trip

Is it about time for you to take that holiday you’ve been waiting for? Or maybe you just have to go on a business trip. Either way, all you have to do is throw some clothes in your suitcase and make your way to the airport!

Not so fast. Packing for your trip is important and you need to make sure you don’t forget the essentials.

1. Phone Charger – The good news is that you’ll be able to find a replacement phone charger at the airport. The bad news is that it’ll cost you an arm or a leg.

2. Laptop Power Cord – This is a must have item if you’re bringing your laptop along for the trip.

3. Meds and Potions – Bring enough medication for your entire stay to avoid having to get your prescriptions refilled and make sure you have some handy medications, like headache pills, just in case.

4. Sunglasses – You probably won’t have trouble finding a new pair of sunglasses, but why waste money on a new pair when you can just bring your own.

5. Long-sleeved shirt – Have you ever had goose bumps during the summer because a place decides to put their aircon on full blast? That’s why you should always pack a long-sleeved shirt.

6. Bandages – It’s better to be safe than sorry.

7. Passport or Driver’s License – Don’t risk missing your flight because you have to run back home to fetch your identification.

8. Hand Sanitizer – You’ll feel a lot better knowing you have hand sanitizer when everyone is coughing and sneezing around you in the plane.

9. Extra Cash – You can avoid all ATM fees at your destination by withdrawing enough cash and more before you leave.

10. Snacks – Pack some yummy snacks in your carry-on so you don’t get overcharged at the airport.

No one wants to spend the start of their holiday or trip shopping for all the things they left at home. Be organized ahead of time, make a packing list and enjoy your trip!

For an affordable, luxurious self-catering apartment, book in at 808 Cartwright Corner today!

Travel Hacks that will make your life so much easier

When it comes to travel and advice, there is no such thing as too much. If you love travelling, here are 21 travel hacks that will help you have the best trip ever!

Hack 1: Travel by land
Traveling by land allows you to see more of the country. It is also generally a lot cheaper than flying. Visiting Cape Town? If you find that you’d rather take a shortcut and fly there, contact Airport Shuttle and we can take you to or from Cape Town International Airport – quick and easy!

Hack 2: Leave guidebooks at home
Why lug them around when you can get to know the locals? It is a good way to sharpen your language skills too.

Hack 3: Pack less
Do you really need to pack all that stuff? Be honest with yourself and only pack the items that you need. You will have a lot less to carry around and more space to fit souvenirs.

Hack 4: Go vegetarian on the flight
By going for the vegetarian option, you will get a fresher and healthier meal. This can have a positive uplifting effect, plus it can also help with jet-lag.

Hack 5: When searching for flights browse privately
Many travel companies use cookies to monitor your browsing so that they can raise prices. You can get cheaper flights by setting your browser to private ort using another internet connection.

 Hack 6: Bring a hoodie
This item of clothing has multi-purposes. A good example if to fold it up and turn it into a comfy pillow!

Hack 7: Dummy wallet
Take a spare wallet with old bank cards and a bit of cash. This is a great way to get the better of muggers and turn them into dummies.

Hack 8: Eat like a local
Not only will you avoid the over-the-top tourist prices, but you will generally get better quality food and have an authentic cultural experience.

Hack 9: Get a room on the second floor
The second floor of your accommodation is optimum. It’s more difficult for people to try break in and you will have much better views of the scenery. Book in at 808 Cartwright for an affordable self-catering apartment with amazing views of the Mother City.

Hack 10: Use a local Sim card
Roaming costs are extortionate! By using a local simcard in your smartphone, you will save so much money.

Hack 11: Smart sandwich bag
If you are going to visit the beach, store your smartphone in a sandwich bag. This is a smart way to protect your phone from sand and water.

Hack 12: Fragile
If you luggage is labelled as fragile, people will be more likely to handle it with care. This means one less headache for you.

Hack 13: Save space
Roll your belt into your shirt collar and put all your socks and underwear in your shoes, these nifty tricks are a great way to maximize luggage space.

Hack 14: Depart on a Tuesday or Wednesday
Save yourself some money. Research shows that flights are generally cheaper on those days.

Hack 15: Learn the best way to pack
There is an art to packing. Master it and you will get rid of any suitcase headaches forever.

Hack 16: Weigh your luggage
Avoid the nightmare of being told your luggage is too heavy. Way it before you leave and guarantee yourself a smooth check-in.

Hack 17: Pack necklaces in straws
Bringing your favourite necklaces along? Put them inside drinking straws, this is a great way to prevent them from becoming tangled up.

Hack 18: Take advantage of free WiFi
Don’t go and pay crazy internet café prices. Simply find out the WiFi hotspots and check your emails for free.

Hack 19: Pack an empty bottle
Don’t pay rip-off airport prices for mineral water, take an empty bottle with you and fill it up with water on your own.

Hack 20: Charge your phone
If you’ve broken or lost your charger, this is a great way to keep your smartphone powered up. All you need is a USB cable that connects to your device.

Hack 21: Dryer sheet in your suitcase
This will keep your clothes smelling nice and fresh on all those long journeys.

Knowing the tricks of the trade and mastering these inside skills will always get you a lot further, plus you will have the best experience ever.