Lost bags can take days or even weeks to locate again, but following some simple steps could reduce the risk of them getting misplaced.

There’s nothing more exciting than that first step off the plane when you arrive in a different country – arguably one of the best things about a holiday.

But things can get stressful very quickly if you arrive at the dreaded baggage carousel only to find that your luggage hasn’t quite found its way to you.

Lost bags can take days or even weeks to find again, and it can put a real sour mood on your holiday. But there are certain things holidaymakers can do to reduce the risk of luggage being misplaced.

Travel whizz Anthony Collias, co-founder of luggage storage service Stasher, said: “Despite taking every precaution, luggage can occasionally go astray,”

“Ensure you’re covered with suitable travel insurance that includes provision for lost or delayed luggage.”

He also recommends keeping valuable items in your hand luggage: “This includes crucial documents, money, jewellery, electronic devices and medications.”

And if you’re travelling with others, consider dividing your belongings between your bags: “This means that if one bag gets lost or delayed, both of you will still have access to some of your items.”

Here are Anthony’s tips for the best chances of keeping your luggage safe on holiday.

Tag your bags

You should always make sure to have current ID tags on your luggage, as well as the tags the airline gives you at check-in.

“These should detail your name, mobile number, and email address,” Anthony said.

“For security reasons, it’s best to leave off your home address.”

Attach a tracker

Electronic tags such as the Apple AirTag, Tile and DynoTag are really popular at the moment. Starting from around £15, they help provide travellers with peace of mind.

“These devices, utilising GPS or Bluetooth technology, enable you to keep track of your bag’s location,” Anthony explained.

“Through a mobile app you can conveniently track your luggage with real-time updates.”

Take photos

It’s worth snapping a picture of your bags prior to checking them in for your flight, as it could help to identify them if lost.

“These pictures can prove invaluable if your luggage is misplaced and you need to describe it to the airline or insurance firms,” said Anthony.

Stand out from the crowd

Brightly coloured or distinctive bags aren’t just for making a fashion statement – they serve a useful purpose.

“It simplifies the task of identifying your bag on the carousel and minimises the risk of another passenger mistakenly picking it up,” said Anthony.

But try to avoid designer bags covered in logos, as these can be targeted by thieves.

Check in early

One of the reasons bags don’t make it to the right destination is because they don’t make it into the airplane hold on time.

“Endeavour to check in your luggage as early as you can,” Anthony suggested.

“This provides airline staff with ample time to load your bags onto the aircraft.”

Choose direct flights

To really reduce the risk of misplaced luggage, try avoid booking flights with stopovers.

Anthony said: “Where feasible, select direct flights to minimise the risk of your luggage being misplaced or delayed during transfers.”

Is it possible to rank the world’s best beaches? Of course not, as preferences will differ from traveler to traveler, based on amenities, accessibility, swimming & water sports options, safety, sense of place, relaxation, and scenery. Nevertheless, being well-traveled and having put my feet in the sand of numerous beaches around the globe, I hereby present you my list of the 10 most spectacular beaches in the world. From coral to sandy and long to enclosed, it should come as no surprise that most of these beaches are located in the world’s best beach destinations. Unfortunately, these beaches are no secret (anymore) and you will have to share their incredible beauty with many others travelers. If tranquility is a must, you may consider swapping the beaches listed below for one of the world’s most beautiful (semi-)private hotel beaches or opt for a stay at one of the world’s most exclusive private island resorts.

10. TULUM, RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO

What sets Tulum apart is its proximity to some of the most stunning Mayan ruins in all of Mexico: it is here that one of the world’s best cultural destinations meets one of the world’s best beaches. Tulum’s ruin is an ancient walled city sitting on rocky cliff that overlooks a spectacular beach. With hordes of tourists visiting every day, the area is not exactly private, but the broad stretch of white sand and mesmerizing turquoise Caribbean waters more than make up for it.

9. NAVAGIO BEACH, ZAKYNTHOS, GREECE

Navagio beach is an isolated yet strikingly beautiful sandy cove on the Greek island of Zakynthos. It is often referred to as the Shipwreck Beach because it is home to the wreck of a ship called Panagiotis that is believed to have been a smugglers ship. The area is defined by its sheer limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, and clear blue water, which attract thousands of tourists yearly. The strip of beach is accessed only by boat, but you can see it from above if you stand on the high side of the surrounding cliffs.

8. GRACE BAY, TURKS & CAICOS

The Turks and Caicos comprise 40 islands and cays, of which Providenciales is the main tourist centre. It’s here, on the northern shore, that you’ll find Grace Bay, a 19km (12 miles) paradise-perfect mix of sugary sand and transparent water, fringed by a coral reef system with fabulous snorkeling and diving. Unfortunately, an increasing number of resorts and condo hotels have sprung up along the shore in recent years, so you may be better off these days on the more private hotel beaches of Amanyara or Parrot Cay.

7. WHITEHAVEN BEACH, QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA

Whitehaven Beach is protected by the Whitsunday Islands National Park, and is located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Australia’s most famous beach stretches for 4,4 miles (7 km) and is washed by swirls of turquoise, blue and green water. The sand is 98% pure white silica, which gives it a brilliant, near luminescent color. You can reach the beach via a helicopter or seaplane, or you can sail to Whitehaven Beach with one of the many yacht excursions in the area.

6. BAIA DO SANCHO, FERNANDO DE NORONHO, BRAZIL

Baio Do Sancho is situated on the remote island of Fernando de Noronha, an active volcanic archipelago of 21 islands in the Atlantic Ocean, located approximately 220 miles (350 km) off the coast of northeastern Brazil bay. Sparkling emerald water and soft white sands are surrounded by vegetation-covered 250 ft (75 m) cliffs. The beach can only be reached by boat or by foot on a dirt trail through a crack in a rock wall with a few dozen uneven, slippery-sandy steps. The beach is perfect for snorkeling and spotting rays.

5. LONG BEACH, VANCOUVER ISLAND, CANADA

It are not only tropical beaches whose breathtaking beauty can make one speechless. The best example is Long Beach, the longest sandy beach on Canada’s Vancouver Island, which offers eye-popping scenic views and an unmatched maritime wilderness. Located within the boundaries of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve between Tofino and Ucluelet, its 10 miles (16 km) of pristine sand are backed by lush rainforests and washed by a cool pounding surf. Twenty-thousand grey whales migrate up this coast each spring and summer.

4. MAYA BAY, KOH PHI PHI, THAILAND

Maya Bay is a stunningly beautiful, sheltered bay on Thailand’s Koh Phi Phi. With a ring of white sand surrounded by mangroves and towering limestone walls blanketed by dense foliage, it’s easy to see why director Danny Boyle chose this beach for cult-favorite The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The main beach within the bay is around 200 m (650 ft) long and features silky soft white sand, with underwater colorful coral and exotic fish in exceptionally clear water.

3. CAMPS BAY, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

Cape Town tops my list of the world’s most beautiful cities, not least because of the magnificent beaches on its doorstep. Camps Bay is not only Cape Town’s most popular beach, but also the only urban beach to make it into my top 10 list. Boasting blinding white sand set against the majestic backdrop of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and Table Mountain, Camps Bay’s water is a bit cold, due to the currents in the Atlantic Ocean, but that will not distract you from the amazing surrounding scenery and world-famous sunsets.

2. POLIHALE BEACH, HAWAII, USA

Polihale is hands-down the Hawaiian archipelago’s most breathtakingly beautiful beach. This seemingly deserted 11 km (7 mi) stretch on the western end of Kauai, one of the world’s most scenic islands, is several miles from the nearest town and holds a vibe of enchantment and mystique, still alive on Hawaii today. The beach can only be reached via a poorly marked, dirt sugarcane road, making a four-wheel drive vehicle preferable (check with your rental car company for restrictions before heading out).

1. ANSE SOURCE D’ARGENT, SEYCHELLES

One of the most photographed beaches in the world, the blinding white sands of Anse Source d’Argent unfurl across La Digue, one of the 115 island that make us this paradisiacal archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The beach sparkles against a backdrop of enormous granite boulders, worn by time and weather. An offshore reef provides protection from ocean waves, making the turquoise water an ideal spot for swimming. Keep an eye out for endangered birds and giant tortoises!

Whether you’re a seasoned train traveler or a first-timer, these hacks will transform your journey into a seamless and memorable adventure.

Train travel can be a convenient and enjoyable way to reach your destination. To make the most of your journey and minimize stress, it’s essential to plan ahead and take advantage of some handy travel hacks. Check out some essential tips and tricks to ensure a stress-free train travel experience.

Book your tickets in advance: To avoid last-minute hassles and secure the best fares, it’s advisable to book your train tickets well in advance. Many railway companies offer early bird discounts, so planning ahead can save you money and ensure you have a confirmed seat.

Choose the right seat: When booking your tickets, take a moment to consider your preferences for seating. If you prefer a quiet journey, opt for a seat away from busy areas such as the entrance or restrooms. If you enjoy scenic views, choose a window seat.

Pack light and smart: Train travel allows for more baggage compared to air travel, but carrying too much can still be a hassle. Pack only the essentials and try to travel light. Consider using a backpack or a wheeled suitcase that is easy to maneuver in train stations and onboard.

Bring entertainment and essentials: Long train journeys can sometimes become monotonous, so be sure to pack some entertainment. Bring a good book, download movies or TV shows on your device, or prepare a playlist of your favourite music. Also, carry essential items like a neck pillow, earplugs, and a sleep mask for added comfort during overnight trips.

Stay organized with a travel kit: Create a small travel kit with items like hand sanitizer, wet wipes, tissues, a small first-aid kit, and any medication you may need. This kit will come in handy during the journey and ensure you have easy access to essential supplies.

Research your destination: Before reaching your destination, take some time to research local transportation options, nearby attractions, and the layout of the train station. Having a general understanding of your surroundings will make it easier to navigate and reduce any last-minute confusion or stress.

Snacks and hydration: While most trains have dining cars or food service, it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and water. Pack some light, non-perishable snacks like nuts, granola bars, or fresh fruit to keep you energized throughout the journey. Staying hydrated is important, so carry a refillable water bottle that you can fill up at stations.

By implementing these train travel hacks, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable journey. Remember to stay organized, take breaks, and make the most of the adventure that train travel offers. Happy travels!

There are very good reasons why you might be looking at destinations where you can travel without a passport.

Maybe you are skipping out on international travel this year to save money. You might have been a victim of the current passport processing delays and have no choice but to stay stateside. Or, perhaps you’ve decided on a whim that you need to feel the sun on your face and your toes in the sand as soon as humanly possible.

Regardless of the reason, here are four places you can visit without a passport.

Where can you travel without a passport?

The U.S. currently has five permanently inhabited territories and three freely associated states in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. These islands are self-governed, but because the land is controlled by the U.S. government, some are accessible to U.S. citizens without a passport.

According to USAGov, U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel between the U.S. and the following U.S. territories and freely associated states:

• Puerto Rico
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

U.S. citizens may be able to visit Guam without a passport. USAGov’s website states that this is on a case-by-case basis, but Guam’s official tourism website states that U.S. citizens 18 years of age or older traveling to Guam need only a “Real I.D.; or a valid U.S. federal or state-issued photo I.D. and an original or certified copy of their birth certificate.”

Because of the conflicting information, we recommend you verify which travel documents you will need before traveling to Guam.

US Virgin Islands

The three islands that make up the U.S. Virgin Islands – St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix – are beautiful year-round, with sparkling turquoise waters and soft, sandy beaches surrounded by lush green forests. It’s the perfect spot for adventurous water sports or lazy days on the beach.

Each island hosts its own Carnival celebrations throughout the year, with parades, colorful costumes, music, dancing food, and more that honor Caribbean heritage and culture.

Visitors can also explore the Danish forts and plantations to gain a deeper awareness of slavery and colonialism in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

With a year-round tropical climate, it’s always warm in the U.S. Virgin Islands, though there is a higher risk for rainfall and hurricanes between July and October. A springtime or early summer visit is your best bet for sunny skies and lower crowds after the snowbirds have returned to their homes.

Puerto Rico

If your soul is in need of a quick tropical getaway without a full day of travel time, look no further than Puerto Rico. Nonstop flights from eastern cities like Miami, Orlando and Atlanta can have you in San Juan in under four hours, just in time to enjoy a full afternoon in the sun.

In addition to its year-round beach weather, Puerto Rico is known for its dynamic culinary scene, arts districts (including vibrant street art in trendy Santurce) and biodiverse ecosystem.

The island is home to three of the world’s five glowing bioluminescent bays, with Mosquito Bay being known as the brightest. You can also hike or zip-line through tropical rainforests, snorkel amongst marine life in calm cays protected by barrier reefs or relax on one of Puerto Rico’s idyllic beaches.

You’ll never be far from delicious food, but if it’s your first visit to Puerto Rico, you must try the traditional mashed fried plantain dish, mofongo. Puerto Rico’s history as a purveyor of rum dates back hundreds of years, so it’s no surprise that it’s also the birthplace of the pina colada (if you need something to wash down the mofongo, that is).

Puerto Rico is also one of most affordable Caribbean islands to visit, offering diverse accommodation options ranging from eco-friendly mountain lodges to luxurious beachfront resorts.

Guam

Guam is the only island on this list located in the Pacific Ocean. Because of its location, the easiest way to get there is via Honolulu. The Hawaiian capital offers limited nonstop flights via United Airlines, though you can also find availability from major Asian destinations like Tokyo, Osaka and Seoul.

Once on the island, you’ll be treated to mile after mile of beaches to explore, along with a storied history that includes Spanish forts, World War II battle sites and relics from Guam’s pre-colonial culture. A visit to the Guam Museum is a good jumping-off point, followed by Guam’s Spanish Forts and the educational outdoor adventures at the Valley of the Latte.

When you are ready for some fun in the sun, head for the beaches in and around Tumon for calm, crystalline waters or hike to a more secluded spot like Sharks Cove Beach or Tanguisson Beach for snorkeling.

Just be aware that the guidance on whether or not you will need a passport to enter Guam is somewhat ambiguous. Check – and double-check – entry requirements before your visit.

Cruises that don’t require a passport

In addition to these land-based destinations that don’t require a passport, there are certain places you can cruise without a passport, as well.

Because of an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, U.S. citizens traveling on certain cruise itineraries can use their government-issued photo identification and proof of citizenship (like a birth certificate or certified copy of a birth certificate) as acceptable documentation. In some cases, a passport card may work in lieu of a photo ID and birth certificate.

This includes round-trip cruises departing from U.S. ports to destinations like Alaska, the Caribbean, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Mexico and Canada.

You may be limited to what cruise excursions you can choose without a passport and you would be stuck without the option to fly home from a foreign country should any unexpected issues arise if you cruise without a passport, but it is not required by law on certain cruises.

Bottom line

Even without a passport, you will need valid government-issued photo identification to visit each destination. You may also need a birth certificate (or certified copy), so be sure to read up on the specific requirements before you visit. When the Real ID requirements go into effect in 2025, you’ll need to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant driver’s license. If you have a passport, we still recommend you travel with it as a backup plan, but it’s nice to know your next tropical getaway is within reach, even without a passport.