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Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Daily Mail
Warning issued to travellers over common over-the-counter painkiller - it could get you ARRESTED
Holidaymakers have been warned not to take certain popular painkillers to popular summer hotspots, as they could land themselves in jail abroad. According to travel experts, packing medications containing codeine, such as Nurofen Plus, without prior approval, could get you detained at customs in countries like United Arab Emirates (UAE). Meanwhile, Japan and Thailand consider codeine and tramadol controlled substances, requiring you to seek prior permission from embassy officials to bring them. In a new alert, travel experts frrom the advice service Which warned of 'serious consequences' of travelling with drugs that are banned or restricted in the country you're visiting. 'You could be questioned or have your medication destroyed, and some holidaymakers have even ended up in jail,' the report said. Other medications that require permissions or are banned in some nations include sleeping pills, anti-anxiety medication (including diazepam), ADHD medication and cannabis oil, Which warned. Many countries have strict regulations on these medications, but bringing a prescription, doctor's letter and keeping them in original pharmacy packaging could reduce the chance of being detained, according to experts. The Government advises the rules will depend on the type of drug, length of your trip and the amount that you take with you. In many cases, particularly for those bringing syringes or EpiPens, the country will require a letter of proof from a doctor, a personal license, or other evidence. Greece, Japan, Mexico and the UEA have particularly strong rules on medications, the travel experts warned. If you're travelling to Greece, you're allowed up to five different prescribed medications for personal use, but no more than two boxes of each. Those with more may be required to ask for permission from the Greek National Organisation for Medicines upon arrival. The UK Government warned: 'Pharmacies across Greece stock a good supply of medicines, but there are strict rules around dispensing certain medicines, including antibiotics'. Meanwhile, if you're bringing more than a month's personal supply of non-narcotic medicine to Japan, you need to get a certificate before you travel. Those bringing drugs Japan classifies as narcotics, of any amount, need to get permission from the relevant Narcotics Control Department. A narcotic is a drug that affects mood or behaviour and is consumed for non-medical purposes, often illegally. Drugs they consider narcotics include codeine, diazepam and pseudoephedrine, an ingredient that's found in some nasal decongestant sprays like Sudafed. If you're travelling to Mexico you can bring any medication for personal use, but there is a fair bit of paperwork involved. This includes a letter from your GP stating total amount you need during your stay, the daily dose, and a prescription that must be translated into Spanish. The UAE is thought to have the strictest regulations regarding medication. It is important to check their Ministry of Health website and seek permission to bring in any medication on its list of controlled drugs. This includes the stop-smokin mint lozenges NiQuitin. Oils containing CBD, codeine, and even poppy seeds are on the list. It comes years after a British woman was jailed in Egypt for three years after being found guilty of taking prescription drugs into the country in 2017. Laura Plummer, 33, from Hull was arrested after she was found to be carrying 290 Tramadol tablets in her suitcase, a painkiller legal in the UK but banned in Egypt. Her family, who have described her as 'naïve', said she was taking them for her Egyptian partner Omar Caboo, who suffers from severe back pain. But judge at a preliminary court sentenced her to three years' imprisonment and ordered her to pay a fine of 100,000 Egyptian pounds (£4,205). Ms Plummer's family went on TV and revealed she was struggling to cope in jail—describing her as looking 'unrecognisable'. Eventually, the young woman, who at one point faced the death penalty, was freed from the Egyptian jail in 2019, after serving 13 months of her sentence.
New York Times
10-06-2025
- New York Times
The Secret to Finding the Best Travel Bargains
To save the most on travel, resist the mainstream. Instead, think in every way — including where to go, how to go and when to go — like a contrarian. I call this frugal secret the off-travel mind-set, a willingness to chart your own course to savings and possibly a better experience. The following are a few off-travel strategies I rely on. Off-Peak Travel Off-peak travel, or going when everyone else isn't, generally gets you the best prices on costs that change with demand, including flights and accommodations. Kayla DeLoache, the U.S. travel expert for the travel search site Kayak, said midweek flights tend to offer the best value while Fridays and Sundays are the most expensive thanks to the weekend surge. 'Tuesdays, Wednesday and Saturdays are generally where we see airfare around 20 percent cheaper than other days of the week,' said Katy Nastro, of a membership service for cheap airfare. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Daily Mail
09-06-2025
- Daily Mail
I'm a travel expert - how paying extra for lounge access could actually SAVE you money at the airport
Airport expenses can quickly blow through travellers' budgets before the trip has started - from inflated food and beverage costs, parking and drop-off charges, and even terminal user fees. But according to travel experts at eShores, you could be forking out more on one meal and drinks in the terminal than on a single pass for lounge access. The specialists say holidaymakers are wasting money on 'unnecessary' flight add-ons, including early boarding and seat selections. Instead of splurging on costly add-ons, they advise travellers to instead splash out on extras that will improve their travel experience, such as lounge access and fast-track security. From pre-booked airport transfers to seat selection fees that might not be worth the extra cost, here's what holidaymakers should prioritise when catching flights this summer. The travel add-ons to buy 1. Lounge pass According to experts at eShore, many travellers spend an eye-watering amount on a main meal and a couple of drinks at the terminal, which averages just over £38 at Heathrow. According to travel experts at eShores, you could be forking out more on one meal and drinks in the terminal than on a single pass for lounge access. However, access to an airport lounge typically costs around £30 to £45 per person - with some providers offering luxe for less from just £26. Holidaymakers who are partial to an airport coffee, meal and drinks can save a substantial amount by investing in a lounge pass - and enjoy extra perks, such as free-WiFi, charging points and snacks, too. 2. Fast track security Fast-track security is a dedicated, private lane that offers a reduced wait time at security checkpoints, allowing passengers to make their way to the departure lounge quicker. During peak summer travel, security queues at major UK airports, such as Heathrow or Manchester, can cost travellers 45 to 60 minutes of their time. At Manchester Airport, travellers who invest in fast-tracking security can reduce their wait time to under 10 minutes for around £7 per person, which is especially beneficial for those flying with young children or during school holidays. 3. Day trip excursions Booking organised day trip abroad, especially in nations with close borders, offers several benefits, such as the opportunity to visit multiple destinations for less. Access to an airport lounge typically costs around £30 to £45 per person - with some providers offering luxury for less from just £26 Some guided tours start as low as £50 and can include meals and transport, which offers a way to experience another country without forking out on separate accommodation and flights. 4. Pre-booked airport transfer Pre-booking airport transfers saves time, money, and hassle, as it offers fixed pricing, guaranteed availability, and peace of mind. In major European cities, a taxi on arrival can exceed £100, while pre-booked options, whether it's a shuttle or public transport, can cost around £5 to £15 per person The travel add-ons to ditch 1. Early boarding According to eShore experts, early boarding 'rarely' offers a real advantage, as holidaymakers are essentially shelling out up to £10 per person to sit on a stationary plane for longer. They add: 'Early boarding doesn't guarantee faster departure times; you'll still disembark in the same order. 'Unless you have mobility needs or are travelling with very young children, it's money better spent on your actual holiday.' 2. Seat selection Budget airlines can charge up to £25 to choose where you sit on the plane - but these fees are one of the many ways low-cost carriers make money while keeping flight fees as low as possible. Some airlines will make a conscious effort to seat people on the same booking together, but others may randomly place travellers on near-opposite ends of the plane unless they cough up the cash. They added: 'But for short-haul flights under two hours, for many people, being separated isn't the end of the world (and might even mean a bit of quiet time). 'Unless you're flying with young children or sitting with your travel companion is a must, this is an easy cost to skip.' 3. Checked bag for short breaks For days-long trips or weekend breaks, paying £25 to £50 for checked baggage is likely to be a waste. In fact, many travellers will find they overpack for short breaks and end up paying for luggage they don't really need. The experts add: 'With smart packing techniques (think compression cubes and versatile outfits), everything you need for a long weekend or week-long city break can easily fit in hand luggage.' It comes after.
CNET
06-06-2025
- CNET
Need to Book a Flight This Summer? Google Can Tell You the Cheapest Time to Buy
Google Flights has the data on the best time to book your flight without breaking the a vacation is stressful and it can get pricey fast, especially if you're traveling during high-traffic seasons like the summertime. The good news is our CNET experts have compiled and explored a ton of travel tips on how to find affordable flights and properly prepare like a travel pro. This exploration includes reviewing key Google Flights data to help you make smarter decisions when reviewing airfare. Google Flights has released a robust travel report after aggregating four years of airfare data and trends to provide US travelers with an overarching guide on finding the cheapest flights and the best times to book them. I have reviewed this report thoroughly and highlighted the most important take-aways below to help you find a flight in your budget and let you relax while traveling instead of stressing about money. For more key travel tips, explore these travel essentials you need for every vacation and then take a look at this travel checklist. You should also review CNET's roundup of the best headphones for travel. How to Use Google Maps Like a Pro How to Use Google Maps Like a Pro Click to unmute Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Skip Backward Skip Forward Next playlist item Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:00 Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 Share Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. How to Use Google Maps Like a Pro What days are the cheapest to fly? CNET If you're planning to book a flight, you're likely trying to find the most budget-friendly option. According to Google Flights, the cheapest flights are available when flying on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, with Tuesday being the cheapest day, according to the historical flight data. Flying early- to midweek can save travelers 13% to 20% on airfare compared to flying on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, with Sunday the most expensive day to fly. Do layovers on flights save you money? It may come as no surprise that flights with layovers are cheaper than nonstop flights but you may not realize just how significant those savings can be. The Google Flight data shows that travelers can save 25% by booking a flight with a layover instead of a nonstop flight. Which day of the week is the cheapest for booking flights? There are certainly cheaper days to fly, there aren't really cheaper days to book. "There's not much benefit to buying your tickets on a certain day of the week," according to the Google report. Google Flights does state that Tuesdays are typically the cheapest day of the week to book, according to the data, but Tuesday bookings are only 1.3% cheaper than the most expensive day, Sunday. Is it cheaper to book flights far in advance? To wait or not to wait? According to Google, it's better to book your travel far in advance, especially if you need to fly on a specific day or time. There are some patterns you can analyze to decide whether it's better to wait for lower prices or book now based on specific scenarios, destinations and dates of travel. For domestic flights, the prices are generally at their lowest between 21 and 52 days before your trip -- with 38 days before departure being the cheapest day to book on average. For international flights, the prices are generally lowest between 50 and 101 days before your trip, but it's generally best practice to book as early as you can. According to Google, "Average prices don't meaningfully drop anytime before departure but they usually do start to rise within 50 days of the flight itself" for international travel from the US. Never miss out on the cheapest airfare again./Gianmarco Chumbe/CNET When is the best time to book a flight in every season? Here's what Google says about the best times to book holiday flights and vacation trips to certain popular destinations. Summer break: The cheapest domestic flights in July and August are usually available 13 to 43 days in advance, with 21 days before departure being the cheapest day on average to book. Thanksgiving: The cheapest domestic flights over the Thanksgiving holiday are usually available 26 to 59 days in advance, with 45 days out being the cheapest -- meaning it's best to book Thanksgiving flights in early October. Christmas: The cheapest domestic flights over the winter holidays are usually available 36 to 72 days in advance, with 58 days out being the cheapest. It's best to book Christmas or holiday travel in the latter half of October. Spring break: The cheapest domestic flights in March and April are available between 33 to 59 days in advance, with 44 days before departure being the cheapest time to book on average. When is the best time to book a flight to Europe? International flights to Europe from the US are usually cheaper 50 or more days before departure, with 94 days out being the cheapest day to book on average. As with all international travel, it's generally best practice to book as early as you can. When is the best time to book a flight to Mexico or the Caribbean? International flights to Mexico and the Caribbean are the one exception to the broader international trend, according to Google. That's because flights are generally at their lowest between 26 and 68 days in advance, with 44 days out being the cheapest. For more, check out CNET's picks for the best travel credit cards in 2025. You can also explore the 12 travel essentials you always need to pack and the worst airlines for flight delays and cancellations.
Forbes
05-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The Best Kids Luggage, According To Parents And Travel Experts
My three kids adore rolling their luggage through hotels and when they're excited about their bags, our travels tend to go more smoothly. The best kids luggage is durable, correctly-sized for your kiddo and visually appealing to them. It's also helpful when the luggage has extra useful features for kids, like ride-on capability or storage compartments for organization. With its abundance of features—including organizational compartments, a laundry bag and a TSA-approved lock—the Away Kids Carry-On is our top pick. The best kids luggage is durable and kid-friendly so they'll actually want to use it. My own kids and I have personally used many of the suitcases on this list, and we spoke to frequent traveler parents as well as two travel experts to help narrow down our list. My kids also played with them extensively, the ultimate test of durability. After thorough research, combined with real-world testing, here are our picks for the best kids luggage. Away Dimensions: 19.1 x 12.8 x 8.9 inches | Weight: 6.4 pounds | Colors: 5 colors | Warranty: Limited lifetime warrantyI've been testing the new Away Kids Carry-On since its release, and I've been impressed with the overall quality and abundance of features. The thoughtfully designed luggage includes interior compression, a laundry bag, a silicone luggage tag, a TSA-approved combination lock and multiple interior pockets. These features can make it easier for kids to not only pack everything they need but to keep it organized, too. In addition to the fun, bright colors the suitcase comes in, you can also add personalization, which is exciting for young kids who are learning to recognize their names. It's really easy to maneuver with 360-degree spinner wheels, which roll really smoothly in my experience. An adjustable trolley handle that has multiple positions makes it easy for kids of any height—and their parents—to pull the luggage. The suitcase comes with a cleaning sponge similar to a Magic Eraser so you can keep it looking nice. However, I found that it scuffed a bit easier than some of the other suitcases I've used. We still think it's the best overall thanks to its smooth maneuverability and wide variety of features, but if you want something that will still look new after multiple trips, you might want to try one of our other picks. Amazon Dimensions: 13.6 x 9.5 x 20.9 inches | Weight: 6.8 pounds | Colors: 5 colors/patterns | Warranty: Optional 3- or 4-year protection plan at additional cost Older kids may not want a cutesy suitcase, and they probably need a little bit more room than most traditional kids' luggage offers. We like the Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner because it's a true carry-on they can continue to use for years to come. It also comes in a few aesthetic colors like rose gold and orange, so they don't have to stick to the more muted colors of most traditional suitcases. The suitcase has multiple interior pockets for easy organization. It also has multi-directional wheels and a telescoping handle so kids can easily maneuver it. Even though two of my kids tested this as toddlers, they had no problem maneuvering it, and there was more than enough room for all of their clothes and other items. In addition to testing this suitcase with my kids, my husband has taken it on quite a few business trips, proving it's an option that will grow with kids as they transition to adulthood. Forbes Vetted deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala has also used this suitcase with her kids, and says it has held up well on several long trips, including a cross-country flight. The scratch-resistant hard shell helps keep it in good shape through various trips and it's expandable, giving them that extra room they need as they grow. July Dimensions: 21.3 x 14.17 x 9.65 inches (when expanded) | Weight: 4.9 pounds | Colors: 9 colors/patterns | Warranty: Lifetime warranty on defects Any concerns about your kids being able to maneuver their luggage are gone with the incredibly lightweight (it's less than 5 pounds) July Carry On Light Expandable. The 360-degree spinner wheels help the whole thing glide effortlessly. Most kids don't need a sleek suitcase like this, but if that's your priority, it's the best choice. It's an investment, but its expandable design, true carry-on size and generous lifetime warranty ensure it will be around for years. I've been using the similar July Carry On Essential with my kids for about a year, and it's one of my favorite suitcases. Extra features on the light expandable suitcase include a TSA lock and zipper compartments to help keep small items like socks and underwear easy to find. Kids will like personalizing their luggage and choosing from nine colors, including navy and blush pink. Pottery Barn Kids Dimensions: 13 x 8.5 x 19 inches | Weight: 5 pounds | Colors: 10 colors/patterns | Warranty: 30-day return window Pottery Barn Kids is known for their backpacks, lunchboxes and other kids' items that are beautifully designed and personalizable. The Mackenzie Hard-Sided Luggage is no exception; it's available in 10 kid-friendly colors and patterns that you can personalize with names, initials and even some graphics. You can also find matching accessories like duffle bags and water bottles. The suitcase has a waterproof and weather-resistant exterior to keep their belongings dry and the exterior looking fresh. The sleek, rounded design looks less utilitarian than other suitcases and may be more appealing to kids than traditional suitcases. Witg an adjustable handle and 360-degree spinner wheels, it's easy for kids to maneuver. Regrettably, there isn't a warranty for this suitcase, only a 30-day return window. State Bags Dimensions: 18.7 x 13.4 x 9.45 inches | Weight: 6.4 pounds | Colors: 7 colors/patterns | Warranty: 1-year warranty for material or manufacturing defects Some parents may worry about soft-sided luggage being less durable, but after personally testing this suitcase for over a year, it has held up really well. Forbes Vetted editor and family travel writer Esther Carlstone agrees: 'They still look great after dozens of travels over three years,' she says of the multiple State Logan suitcases she owns. The exterior is water-resistant, and while we wouldn't recommend leaving it out in the rain, it will easily keep things dry while briefly walking in wet conditions, if necessary. In addition to taking it on trips, my kids also play with it at home, and it's still in great shape. The Logan is recommended for kids ages 6 and up, and there's a mini version for kids ages 3 to 5 if you're looking for something a bit smaller. The suitcase boasts lots of helpful features like exterior straps for water bottles or other items, a front pocket with pencil holders, various interior pockets, an adjustable handle and 360-degree spinner wheels. 'My kids are obsessed with the fun designs and kid-friendly compartments like the 'stuffy straps' as my youngest calls it. I love how much it fits inside and how durable they've been,' says Carlstone. It has top and side carry handles, too, so you can grab it whichever way is easiest. With seven fun colors and patterns including a thunderbolt pattern and pink and silver, there's something for every kid. Amazon Dimensions: 12 x 19 x 18 inches | Weight: 5 pounds | Colors: 13 colors/patterns | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty My kids and I have been testing this luggage set for a couple of years and it remains their favorite, largely thanks to the kid-friendly design. Though it's a more cost-effective option, it has also proved very durable. We took it on a cross-country road trip, packing and unpacking repeatedly, loading and unloading the car nonstop—and the luggage held up beautifully. It hardly has any scratches and is still in great condition. It also garnered many comments from fellow travelers about how adorable it was to see my kids pull their own luggage. The luggage set includes a suitcase, a backpack, a lunch box, a luggage tag and a neck pillow in 13 designs, including 'cool dog' and ice cream. Inside, there are a few different pockets to help your kids organize their belongings. Given the fun designs and its compact size, it's best for toddlers or preschoolers. It also tips over relatively easily, which isn't something that typically happens with higher-end suitcases. Amazon Dimensions: 14 x 11 x 19 inches | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Colors: 8 colors/patterns | Warranty: 5-year warranty It doesn't get much more kid-centric than the Rockland Jr. Kids' My First Hardside Spinner Luggage, which comes shaped like various animals, including a frog, shark or turtle. The details of the thoughtful design include a matching luggage tag and functional zipper pulls. The rubber grips help kids independently open and close their suitcase. The suitcase is on the smaller side, making it ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. With 360-degree spinning wheels and an adjustable handlebar, they can maneuver it easily. To help little ones organize their bag while they're packing, there's a zipper compartment as well as elastic straps. Amazon Dimensions: 7.9 x 15.4 x 18.5 inches | Weight: 6.6 pounds | Colors: 6 colors | Warranty: 2-year warranty A suitcase kids can ride on that also transforms into a bed on the plane? Sign me up. The Stokke Jetkids Bedbox comes with a mattress that helps transform the suitcase into a bed, and all of the parts nest inside the suitcase. Parents who are concerned about safety will be happy to learn that kids can wear their seatbelt while using the bed, even in the lying down position. Both experts we spoke to recommend the Stokke Jetkids Bedbox. 'It's sturdy and easily maneuverable by both kids and parents, so it eliminates the need to also take a stroller for kids that are old enough to sit on the suitcase,' says Marianne Perez Fransius, the CEO of Bébé Voyage, an online community for traveling families. It also comes with stickers so kids can personalize their luggage. The fun and unique features make getting to the destination almost as fun as being there. Both Perez Fransius and Lindsay Myers, a travel expert and Access Hollywood contributor, tout it as a durable option. It's 'strong, durable and gives them a fun ride,' says Myers. Perez Fransius explains that the top opening makes it easy to get items out mid-flight. After testing this suitcase, I definitely recommend it as a carry-on due to the airplane-friendly features and because there's limited room inside the suitcase. Rather than think of this as your kid's sole suitcase, think of it as a tool to make air travel easier and to pack in-flight essentials, but plan on another suitcase or extra room in your own luggage for your child's clothes and other belongings. At Forbes Vetted, the baby and kids gear team spends countless hours testing and researching products, from the best travel cribs to the top baby travel essentials. To find the best kids luggage, we took suitcases on various trips with our kids. Curating a list of the best luggage for kids required a lot of thorough research and real-world testing. We also compared specs such as size and weight. As with anything, kids will like their luggage more when they get to pick out a fun color or design. 'If they don't like the color or if it's too heavy for them, then you're going to get stuck carrying their suitcase (and maybe them),' says Perez Fransius. Whether it's their favorite character or color, or even personalizing the exterior with their name or initials, a kid-friendly design can increase their chances of wanting to use their suitcase. To ensure your child actually wants to use their luggage, look for prints and colors that excite ... More them. 'The last thing you want is for your kid to have a meltdown in the airport because a wheel popped off their suitcase or the zipper doesn't close properly,' says Perez Fransius. You also don't want the contents of your child's luggage spilling all over if the zipper splits or the material comes apart. Look for luggage that is made of high-quality materials and consider how long the warranty is so you can address any issues that may arise. When considering the size, think both about the size of your child and how much they need to fit in their suitcase. You want something that they can easily manage but also has enough room for all of their belongings. Some luggage designed for kids is pretty small and is best for toddlers and preschoolers, while other options like full-size carry-ons have more room. 'Think small and mobile but fits all the 'emergency-while-in-the-air items,'' says Myers. 'This is going to be items like stuffed animals, snacks, books and tablets.' Pockets and separated compartments can help your child keep their belongings organized in their luggage so you don't have to pull everything out to find one thing. Many suitcases have zipper compartments inside, and some have extra features like exterior pockets and compression straps. There are two main factors to consider here: wheels and handles. The best kids luggage options have a telescoping handle and 360-degree spinner wheels. Both of these factors make the luggage easier for kids (and parents) to maneuver, which can prevent meltdowns and help travel go more smoothly. What Is The Best Luggage For Kids? The best luggage for kids is durable and has a kid-friendly design. We like the Away Kids Carry-On because it has intuitive features like a laundry bag and TSA-approved lock and it comes in fun bright colors kids will like. Is Hard-Sided Or Soft-Sided Luggage Better For Kids? Both types of luggage can work for kids, provided they're durable. A high-quality softsided suitcase can be just as durable as a high-quality hardsided suitcase. Ultimately, it's more important to consider things like organization, maneuverability and whether your kid will actually like the suitcase or not. What Size Luggage Is Best For Kids? When it comes to size, you want something that can hold your child's belongings but that they can also wheel around themselves. For older kids, a regular carry-on will likely be the best size. For younger kids, look for suitcases that hold around 20 liters.
