10 Vacation Habits That Might Stress You Out. and how to stop them?

TRAVEL TIPS
10 Vacation Habits That Might Stress You Out

Vacations are meant to recharge us, but some common habits might actually be adding stress instead of relief. From overplanning to sneaking work emails, these pitfalls can turn your getaway into a headache. Here are the top 10 habits to avoid so you can truly relax and enjoy your next trip.

1. Overplanning:
Jamming every minute with activities leaves zero room to relax. Schedule some open days for spontaneous discovery and true downtime.

2. Skipping Meals:
Rushing through your day without eating fuels stress and drains energy. Pack snacks or plan meal breaks to keep your mood steady.

3. Rigid Schedules:
Strictly sticking to plans kills the fun. Embrace flexibility—some of the best memories come from unplanned moments.

4. Checking Work Emails:
Glancing at your inbox pulls you back to work-mode instantly. Unplug completely to protect your peace of mind.

5. Comparing Trips:
Scrolling others’ perfect vacations online only fuels dissatisfaction. Focus on your unique experience and enjoy your own journey.

6. Underplanning:
Doing nothing can cause anxiety too. Create a loose plan with key spots to visit, balanced by free time.

7. Ditching Self-Care:
Skipping habits like exercise or meditation upsets your mental balance. Adapt your routine to vacation life.

8. Choosing Cheapest Options:
Saving money is smart but sacrificing comfort can cause headaches. Invest where it matters to ease travel hassles.

9. Ignoring Budget:
Without clear spending goals, financial stress can hit. Plan your budget ahead and stick to it.

10. Unrealistic Expectations:
Vacations aren’t perfect. Prepare for surprises and imperfections to avoid frustration and truly enjoy your break.

HIKING
Rio de Janeiro Named World's Best City for Hiking with Over 300 Scenic Trails

Rio de Janeiro has officially been named the No. 1 city in the world for hiking, based on a global study by Sports Shoes using data from AllTrails. The study evaluated 180 cities, factoring in the number of trails, their popularity, and user reviews. With an impressive 334 trails and a perfect hikability score of 100, Rio stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The city’s trail system offers a wide variety of experiences, from rainforest hikes to beachside paths and mountain climbs. Top-rated hikes include the Corcovado Trail, offering views of Christ the Redeemer, and the challenging Pedra da Gávea, which combines hiking with rock climbing. Other popular routes like Vila do Abraão and Pão de Açúcar e Morro da Urca provide stunning natural scenery and are accessible year-round.

Beyond hiking, Rio is also known for its vibrant nightlife, iconic beaches, and world-famous Carnival. It’s a city where visitors can spend the day exploring nature and the evening enjoying music, food, and dance. Whether you're into outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Rio is a destination that offers the best of both worlds.

PASSPORT
Apple Wallet Now Supports Digital Passports—But Only for U.S. Domestic Flights

🛂 Apple has introduced a Digital ID feature that allows users to store their passport in Apple Wallet. This new function will let travelers use their iPhone or Apple Watch to present ID at TSA checkpoints for domestic U.S. flights. The feature was announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9 and is aimed at making airport check-ins more seamless.

However, the digital passport cannot be used for international travel—a physical passport is still required to board international flights. Users must authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID before the ID is shared with TSA systems. Compatibility varies: most users will need at least an iPhone 8 with iOS 16.5, while users in California and Puerto Rico may need newer models and later iOS versions.

This comes as Real ID requirements took effect on May 7, tightening ID rules for domestic flights. Apple’s digital passport offers a convenient, tech-forward alternative—at least for trips within the U.S.

WONDERING!
Why Your Suitcase Might Be Dirtier Than You Think?

A recent study revealed that suitcase wheels harbor 58 times more bacteria than a public toilet seat. Researchers tested both hard- and soft-shell luggage at a London airport and found harmful bacteria including Staphylococcus, Serratia, and Bacillus. The wheels were the worst offenders, loaded with hundreds of bacterial and fungal colonies. Soft-shell suitcases also showed extra fungal growth because fabric absorbs moisture more easily than plastic.

The study highlights how luggage can be a major germ hotspot travelers often overlook. Experts warn against placing suitcases on hotel beds and suggest using luggage racks instead. The handle was identified as a common spot for skin-related bacteria like Staphylococcus.

To stay safe, avoid rolling bags through dirty areas like puddles or toilet stalls. Wash your hands after handling luggage and wipe your suitcase down when you return home. These simple steps can keep travel germs from tagging along and reduce the risk of infection during your trip.