Bonang Matheba is renowned for her glamorous travel style.
Image: X
Travelling can be excruciating - long hours confined to small spaces… and even smaller if you’re travelling economy - which, let’s face it, is the case for most of us.
But many of us work all year to be able to afford a holiday, so why not make the most of it and travel wisely.
Our very own as well as international A-list actors and globe-trotting musicians and other famous individuals have honed their travel routines to perfection.
So, we did a deep-dive digital search on them to find you some of their best tips for making every journey seamless and unforgettable.
Pack smart, pack light
Victoria Beckham, known for her impeccable style, swears by packing light. She once revealed that she travels with a carefully curated capsule wardrobe, focusing on versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Her advice? Stick to a neutral colour palette and invest in high-quality, wrinkle-resistant fabrics.
Similarly, Gwyneth Paltrow recommends rolling clothes instead of folding them to save space and avoid creases. She also suggests packing a small, reusable bag for laundry, so you can keep your suitcase organized throughout your trip.
Prioritise comfort without sacrificing style
Beyoncé is a master at balancing comfort with glamour. She often travels in chic yet cozy outfits, like oversized sweaters, leggings and stylish sneakers.
Her secret? Layering. A lightweight scarf or jacket can elevate your look while keeping you warm during chilly flights.
Stay hydrated and healthy
Jennifer Aniston emphasises the importance of staying hydrated while traveling. She always carries a reusable water bottle and avoids alcohol and caffeine on flights to prevent dehydration. Aniston also packs healthy snacks like nuts and fruit to avoid relying on airport junk food.
Meanwhile, South African media personality and businesswoman Bonang Matheba is known for her glamorous travel style. Her secret to looking flawless on the go? A well-stocked beauty bag. Matheba never travels without her favorite skincare products, a portable steamer to keep her outfits wrinkle-free and a pair of statement sunglasses for instant glamour.
Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron, born in Benoni, is a frequent traveler due to her Hollywood career. She prioritises wellness while on the road, often packing a small kit with essentials such as vitamins, moisturiser and her favourite South African rooibos tea. Theron believes that maintaining a routine, even while traveling, helps her feel centered.
Use technology to your advantage
Elon Musk, a frequent traveler, relies on apps to streamline his trips. From flight tracking apps to language translators, technology can make travel smoother and more enjoyable. Musk also recommends downloading entertainment in advance, so you’re not reliant on spotty in-flight Wi-Fi.
Kim Kardashian on her private jet.
Image: X
Kim Kardashian takes it a step further by using her phone to document every detail of her trips. She’s a fan of travel apps that help her organise itineraries, store boarding passes and even track her luggage.
Choose the right accommodations
Oprah Winfrey believes that where you stay can make or break a trip. She always researches accommodations thoroughly, opting for places that offer a blend of luxury and local charm. Oprah also recommends booking rooms with a view - it’s worth the extra cost for the added inspiration.
George Clooney, on the other hand, prefers boutique hotels over large chains. He loves staying in places with character and history, which often provide a more authentic travel experience.
Embrace the local culture
Anthony Bourdain, the late chef and travel documentarian, was a firm believer in immersing yourself in the local culture. His advice? Skip the tourist traps and eat where the locals eat. Bourdain famously said: "Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. But it’s always worth it."
Travel with a positive attitude
Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, sees travel as an adventure, not a chore. His top tip? Embrace delays and disruptions with a smile. Branson believes that a positive attitude can turn even the most stressful situations into memorable experiences.
Trevor Noah is a frequent traveller.
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Stay grounded
Trevor Noah, the globally renowned comedian and former host of “The Daily Show”, stays grounded by connecting with locals. Noah often shares how his upbringing in South Africa taught him the value of human connection. He recommends striking up conversations with locals to gain insider tips and a deeper understanding of the culture.
Noah also emphasises the importance of flexibility. “Travel plans will go wrong,” he says. “But sometimes, the best memories come from the unplanned moments.”
Family-first travel philosophy
Siya Kolisi, South Africa’s Rugby World Cup-winning captain, believes that involving his kids in the planning process - like choosing activities or destinations - makes the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
He also stresses the importance of downtime. “Traveling can be exhausting, especially with kids,” he says. “I always make sure we have a day or two to just relax and enjoy each other’s company.”
Music-fueled travel hacks
Internationally acclaimed South African DJ Black Coffee spends much of his life on the road, performing at venues around the world. His travel tip? Create a playlist for every trip as he believes it sets the tone for the journey.