Catriona Rowntree shares holy grail travel tips
After 25 years gallivanting around the world as the host of Getaway, Catriona Rowntree knows a thing or two about travelling.
She has scoped out every corner of the globe from Canberra to Canada, and Sydney to Spain, with the 51-year-old veteran travel journalist sharing some of her holy grail tips to make travelling a breeze.
Catriona sat down with TV Week to share her hacks on flying well, packing like an expert and planning your travel itinerary with ease.
When it comes to curing jet-lag, she says it all comes down to where you’re heading.
She said, “Use your phone to find out what the time is where you're going to and plan your sleep according to that. The day you leave, go for a walk, and try to get as much vitamin D as you can.”
“When you land, repeat that. Don't fall asleep until after 8pm, don't nap during the day, and avoid leaving your phone by your bed (the blue light isn't your friend).”
After being a seasoned luggage packer, Catriona said the answer to perfectly packed bags lies in preparation, as well as simple trial and error.
She says, “I prep a week before I leave: I add, I subtract, take nothing that needs to be ironed, stuff socks into shoes, stick to three colours and add a fold-out bag (like a Longchamp) in case I do extra shopping.”
When it comes to carry-on bags, Catriona has a list of essentials she will never leave behind.
“Wet Ones, a Band-Aid, Lanolips, a moisture spritzer, hand sanitiser (Bondi Wash), emery board, Panadol and magnifying mirror (Change Skincare has a light-up one), she said.”
“For [overseas], I do pack extra knickers, deodorant, Clarins' Beauty Flash Balm, socks and Cetaphil wipes. Anything to avoid the cabin loo.”
Planning your itinerary carefully is key to any successful holiday, with Catriona saying the best way to find hidden gems is through social media.
“Go to Instagram, hashtag where you're going, see what's popular, what they're wearing and what's respectful. Then look up the weather app to see what temperatures you're heading into. Boom, your phone is key,” she said.
Image credits: Getty Images