Toolkit

Since my first trip to Sicily in 2023, I’ve flown roughly 230,000 kilometres—give or take a few thousand.  

Here are the insights I’ve gathered.

Packing 

  • I’ve tried self-vacuum bags—pretty clever, really. They compress everything down and make packing feel like a game of Tetris. But honestly? They’re kind of bulky once packed, and they eat into the little space I usually rely on to tuck things in.
    For the last few trips, I’ve skipped them. I’ve found that a bit of strategic folding gives me more flexibility.

 

  • Packing cubes have been better for keeping things organised and they allow a bit of flexibility when you are trying to create that little bit of extra space.

Transit

Airports are interesting places.

Of all the ones I’ve passed through, Changi Airport in Singapore stands out.

  • There are couches and snooze zones tucked throughout the terminals—yes, actual Free Snooze Lounges Free Snooze Lounges: Changi Airport Rest Areas. I was one of those weary travelers curled up on a couch, holding onto my bag as I slept. I was so tired, I just had to close my eyes. I chose a spot within sight of the counter staff—somehow, it made me feel a little safer.
  • Changi also offers free Singapore tours for passengers with long layovers. But you need to book ahead. I tried the day before and again at the airport, but there were no tickets left. If you know you’ll have time, plan in advance—it’s a generous offering, but spots fill fast.  You are not able to take baggage and need to leave your carry on at a luggage storage store.
  • And then there’s Jewel. Technically part of the airport, but you’ll need to clear immigration to get there. It’s a wonderland of greenery, waterfalls, and free experiences. I didn’t make it this time, but it’s on my list for next.  Experience Wonder at Jewel Changi Airport - Jewel Changi Airport

Why booking end to end matters

  • If you can, always book your flights on one ticket with a single airline or alliance. It might seem like a small detail, but it can make all the difference when things go sideways.
  • If your flight is delayed and you miss a connection, the airline is responsible for rescheduling your remaining legs—and in some cases, even providing accommodation. Without that continuity, you could be left stranded, scrambling to rebook and cover unexpected costs.

I experienced this myself. On one return trip to Auckland, my first of three flights was delayed so significantly that I missed my connection. Thankfully, because I’d booked the entire journey with Turkish Airlines, they rebooked all my remaining flights and arranged a free overnight stay with meals and transfers in Istanbul. 

  • Some airlines even go above and beyond. Emirates, for example, offers Dubai Connect—if your layover in Dubai exceeds eight hours and you’re booked end-to-end with them, they’ll provide accommodation and meals. You need to book in advance.

Must have travel accessories - All from Temu!

  1. I absolutely love my travel scales! Gone are the days of guessing whether my luggage is overweight—these little scales are a game-changer. They cost about $5 NZD, and now they live in my carry-on wherever I go.
  2. I also travel with my compact scissors, which have passed through airport security multiple times without a hitch.  
  3. My hat clip accessory which clips to the strap of my bag - no more holding onto hats.
  4. And finally, a jacket strap - this one is a must have also.  It's all about handsfree, particularly when you have to rush.

Carry-on baggage

  • I always pack at least two changes of clothes (including underwear), a spare pair of shoes, and my essential toiletries—deodorant, shampoo and conditioner, and make-up—all in my carry-on.
  • A USB charging cable and a pen are also must-packs.
  • I always take something to eat—crackers, a sandwich, chocolate or candy, anything portable. I've landed at 1 a.m., faced a four-hour transit, and every shop is closed.
  • And here’s the thing: when you check your big suitcase on the homeward leg, you won’t see it again until your final destination.
    Once, my first of three flights was delayed so badly I missed my connection and ended up with an unplanned overnight in Istanbul. That return leg to Auckland should have been 34 hours—it took nearly 60. Trust me: a change of clothes and toiletries helps make the trip that little bit more bearable.
  • I always make sure my handbag is roomy enough for the essentials: a good book, flight toiletries (toothbrush, face cream, eye drops), and anything I might need mid-flight. This is so that I don't need to keep popping up to rummage through the overhead locker.
  • I pack a pair of soft, comfortable socks in a plastic bag and tuck them into my handbag. Once we’re airborne, I slip off my shoes and put on my ‘plane socks’—because let’s be honest, plane floors aren’t exactly pristine. Before landing, I peel them off, pop them back into the plastic bag, and they’re ready for the wash when I get home. No need to wear the same socks back into my shoes. Small habit, I love this one.

Foreign Exchange - Managing different currencies

My Travel Money Advice: Wise Card Wins Every Time

The easiest way for me to manage money while travelling is with my Wise travel card—and honestly, I love it.

I load up my NZD via bank transfer, and convert it to whatever currency I need. I watch the rates in the Wise app, set an alert for my preferable rate, and when it hits—I make the conversion. Simple.

At Changi Airport in Singapore, I wanted a coffee but had no cash so I did a quick convert from NZD, and two seconds later I had Singaporean dollars ready to tap. Magic.

For cash, I wait until I’ve landed. I find a reputable ATM (usually at the airport) that doesn’t charge withdrawal fees and take out just enough for markets and little bits here and there. Cash is still useful—especially in places where cards aren’t accepted—so I always carry some.

I’ve saved hundreds of dollars using Wise. I use both the physical and digital cards, and freeze them when I’m not travelling.

It’s easy, secure, and gives me peace of mind.

🌍 Getting to Sicily: Routes I’ve Taken

I’ve reached Sicily a few different ways over the last two years —each with its own quirks.

  • Via Dubai: Emirates and FlyDubai offer a route through Dubai, with Auckland to Dubai being a massive 17-hour direct flight. From there, it’s a relatively smooth connection onward to Italy.  Only two flights each way.
  • Via Singapore & Istanbul: Turkish Airlines takes you through Singapore and Istanbul, with two legs of around 10 hours each. It breaks up the journey nicely if you prefer shorter stretches.  Three flights each way.
  • Via the United States: This route sits somewhere in between. We flew Auckland to Dallas Fort Worth (about 14 hours), transferred internally to Philadelphia, then took an 8-hour international flight to Rome.  Again, three flights each way.

Each route has its pros and cons—timing, layovers, airline experience, and how you like to travel all play a part.

If you’re planning a trip and want to chat through the options, I’m happy to share more.

Everything I share here comes from lived experience. My recommendations reflect what’s truly resonated with me on as I go.  Take what speaks to you, leave what doesn’t.

I hope my recommendations help you make confident, informed choices—whether you’re planning a trip, simplifying your life, or just looking for tools that make things easier.

Feel free to reach out if you’d like to know more.