Downsizing

How to downsize without leaving the suburb you love

If you find yourself rattling around in a home that now has too many rooms to clean, and you’d prefer to spend more time doing things you love rather than household chores, it might be time to downsize. Not only can downsizing your property simplify your lifestyle, it has the potential to free up some funds as well. If you manage your ‘empty nester’ status well, it can become a profitable nest egg! But downsizing to a smaller home can be a daunting process. You may not be ready for the close proximity of a retirement village, nor are you keen to leave the neighbourhood you love. You have great neighbours, you’re close to family, and you have all the amenities you want nearby, but your house just doesn’t suit your lifestyle anymore. So, what are your options? There are in fact a couple of great alternatives to packing up and leaving everything you’ve known behind: building a dual occupancy home or a knockdown rebuild on your existing block of land. What is a dual occupancy development? A dual occupancy home design, also known as a ‘duplex’ or ‘multi-dwelling’, can come in a variety of layouts: either two attached dwellings side by side, where both properties have street frontage, or one behind the other, where there’s a driveway down one side of the property. A dual occupancy home is a great consideration for those who: <ul> <li>Want to remain in the same area but don’t need as big a house.</li> <li>Want a low maintenance lifestyle.</li> <li>Have a large block in an area where land prices are increasing.</li> <li>Want to realise some of the equity in the land.</li> <li>Want to create an ongoing income stream through an investment property.</li> </ul> Unlocking wealth with a dual occupancy home design The Australian property boom has made many people many millions. But the fact is that the wealth lies in the land not in the dwellings themselves. Many people who have owned a slice of the Aussie Dream for more than 10-15 years are sitting on potential gold, however all their equity is tied up in the land beneath their house. For empty nesters that are ready to downsize, this offers enormous opportunity. It’s no surprise that dual occupancy house designs are increasing in popularity. There are a number of ways you can capitalise on this opportunity: <ul> <li>Live in one house and sell the other.</li> <li>Live in one house, then rent the other one. This provides a potential income stream and is particularly great if your property is in an area where rental supply is low.</li> <li>Sell both houses and live somewhere else. This option works well in areas where housing stock is low and demand is high – and when you’re prepared to find somewhere else to live!</li> </ul> There are some design limitations when it comes to building a dual occupancy home due to the somewhat restricted footprint, and a number of things to consider such as the size of your block, street frontage, driveways and council approvals. Thankfully however, experienced homebuilders such as Metricon have the expertise and know-how to provide you the guidance you need to make the most of your asset. Knockdown rebuild – build a brand-new home, wherever suits your lifestyle “Don’t move your life, improve your life!” is a fitting motto for those looking to take advantage of their great location by building a more suitable home for their life stage. If you really love where you live but your home just isn’t right for you any more, then there are two likely options: a renovation or a knockdown rebuild. A knockdown rebuild is especially a great option when you are looking to downsize – such as replacing your double storey home with a more suitable single storey option. Perhaps you are weighing up the option of moving but also hoping to build new. Let’s explore your options. To renovate or rebuild? Before jumping on the renovation bandwagon, assuming it is an easier option, there are a few factors to consider that may ultimately influence your decision. These can include: the extent of your renovation, the comparable costs between renovating and rebuilding, and the expected increase in value of your property. Other factors such as the condition of your home (some old homes can’t cope with structural changes), and ongoing expense (a new home is typically cheaper to maintain than an older home), may preclude you from renovating. Renovating can often result in unforeseen cost blowouts and uncover previously hidden or undiscovered faults. There’s also the hassle of shifting furniture, isolating rooms, living in only part of your home or moving out completely during the renovation. A knockdown rebuild however, may be easier and deliver a more satisfying result than you think: a brand-new home where everything is clean and reliable, in a floorplan that matches your desired lifestyle perfectly. Re-locating and building new If you’re looking for a complete lifestyle change when downsizing, perhaps weighing up the options of a sea or tree change, you can have the best of both worlds and build your dream home to perfectly suit your new location. Images: Getty

Downsizing

5 key things you need to consider before downsizing

Retirement is a time of change, and it can be a change of address too. Many pre-retirees consider making a sea change or a tree change and make the decision to move into a property that better meets their changing lifestyle needs. Often the move is out of a larger family home into a smaller house, an apartment, or a retirement village. Of course it doesn’t need to be a change of suburb, it might be something smaller in the same area. Like all decisions, your own goals about moving homes should be front and centre. There is a financial planning opportunity associated with a decision like this and it’s one that many Australians are making. It’s called the downsizing contribution strategy and it allows you to use superannuation to help you fund your retirement lifestyle using proceeds from the property sale. The good news is that you don’t have to use all of the proceeds from the sale of the family home into a superannuation downsizer contribution. You get to choose how much you’d like to contribute, up to $300,000 for singles and $300,000 each for couples. There are 5 key things you should consider before you make a decision to use the downsizing contribution strategy. 1. What type of property and which suburb will you downsize to? Many people approaching retirement don’t want to be rattling around in a larger family home. So if you do look for something smaller, what type of property and which suburb will you move to? Some key considerations may include: · Proximity to family and friends · The distance to essential services you use, shopping and medical services · Availability of public transport · Accessibility of lifestyle activities such as golf, tennis courts, swimming · The type of property itself, perhaps single level with no stairs Many city dwellers who choose the sea or tree change often take what they have for granted so if you’re moving to a region, make sure you do your homework to ensure you will have everything you need. 2. Check your eligibility to ensure this strategy is open to you In addition to finding your next home, you should also make sure you understand and follow the rules the government has set out about using the downsizer contribution strategy. There are always rules! Check the eligibility requirements to make sure it’s available to you, including completing the right paperwork at the right time. Originally this was only open to those aged 60 or over from 1 July 2022, however the government has now lowered the accessibility age to those aged 55 and over from 1 January 2023. Other conditions apply too so ensure you meet them to ensure you’re eligible for this financial planning strategy. 3. Make the most of your contribution options. The downsizer contribution allows an individual to make a $300,000 contribution to your super. And if you’re a couple, you each can make a $300,000 contribution. With the focus on getting money into your super to fund your retirement life, remember that you may also make a non-concessional contribution of up to $330,000 (total super balance permitting). This way you can maximise the base from which a tax free income stream may be commenced or equalise the value of accounts if one member is over the transfer balance cap. Remember that you can also make a downsizer contribution if you have reached your transfer balance cap of $1.7 million. 4. Ensure the strategy is considered with Centrelink. For many Australians, Centrelink provides an important source of income for their retirement and it makes sense to consider this strategy in the context of your eligibility for that income. The money you receive from the sale of your family home will be considered when determining your entitlements. Your new home however, the one you downsize to, becomes exempt once you have purchased it. This is because it becomes your primary residence. 5. Don’t forget about the other ways you can contribute to super. The downsizing contribution strategy is just one way you can contribute to super. There are other ways you can contribute too. An example is making a personal deductible contribution to super. Through this type of contribution, you make your contribution, and you claim a tax deduction when you get your tax return completed. Downsizer super contributions don’t allow you to claim a tax deduction. Make sure you consider all of your options when making super contributions and assess the pros and cons of each. There is a lot to consider when making the decision to downsize your family home and it’s not just about where you want to live next. The downsizer contribution strategy is a great way to get extra money from the sale of your family home to fund your retirement lifestyle. Make sure you understand your financial planning options though, before making a decision, to be more confident that you will achieve the outcomes that you’re seeking. No one likes surprises around unexpected outcomes, so do your homework and seek advice from a licensed financial planner if you need help. Luke Smith is a licensed Australian financial planner and author of the new book, Smart Money Strategy – Your Ultimate Guide to Financial Planning (Wiley, $34.95), published by Wiley. Luke is also the host of the popular podcast ‘The Strategy Stacker – Luke Talks Money’ and appears every Friday afternoon on Canberra’s 2CC. Found out more at <a href="http://www.thestrategystacker.com.au/">www.thestrategystacker.com.au</a> Image credit: Getty

Downsizing

How to downsize without leaving your suburb

Image: Readers Digest The kids are long gone, you’re tired of never ending cleaning and expensive utility bills, and your large property is now more of a hindrance to your lifestyle. Whether you want to simplify your life or start a new stress-free phase, downsizing your space offers many benefits. The only problem is, when most of us think of downsizing, we think of leaving behind the family home and moving into a smaller place, which can often mean saying goodbye to friends and family. If that thought makes you anxious, don’t worry. Downsizing doesn’t mean you have to sell up and move out. If you want to stay put, in a home that better meets your lifestyle needs, here are two things to consider: Save stress with a knockdown rebuild If you love where you live, but you don’t want to have such a big space anymore, a knockdown rebuild is a great way to build a new home, without having to leave your comfort zone. With a knockdown rebuild you have a blank canvas to work with, so you can design a home that you love from scratch, choosing the size and style to suit your later years. One of the biggest benefits of a knockdown rebuild is that it may be a lot more cost effective than renovating. It can even be less time consuming, and less stressful! If you live on a large block that has the potential to subdivide, you can even knock down your current home, build a smaller one on part of the land, and sell off the other part. This might help you to recoup some of the costs of the rebuild as well. Split your home with dual occupancy If you’re living in an outdated home with plenty of yard space, a dual occupancy home could be the solution. Why not knock your home down and build two homes, live in one and rent out the other? By doing this, you’ll have less space to worry about, and you’ll also be receiving income for the other half of your property. This might also free up some of the equity you have in your current home, and there are a number of tax bonuses as well. If renting the other home isn’t your goal, you might choose to keep family members close, using the second dwelling for them. Many Dual occupancy homes also have the added benefit that if you do choose to sell at any point, you can sell them separately, which could double your sales income! Do your research and find out what’s possible on your block and keep an open mind. Talk to a professional builder and do what’s right for you, and your future. This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Metricon. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/home-tips/how-to-downsize-without-leaving-your-suburb">Reader’s Digest.</a> For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA87V">here’s our best subscription offer.</a>

Downsizing

Meet the couple who moved into a new retirement village apartment...without visiting it first

A decision by a NSW couple to buy a retirement village apartment - without physically inspecting it first - has illustrated how COVID-19 has transformed the downsizing real estate market. In late June 2020, John and Rosemary Gooch moved 500km from Mudgee in the NSW central-west to <a href="https://www.downsizing.com.au/property/sale/11035/queens-lake-retirement-village">Stockland Queens Lake</a> at Laurieton on the State’s mid-north coast. Although Ms Gooch knew the Laurieton area well, having previously lived near there, neither she or her husband had actually been inside their future one and half bedroom apartment. A Stockland salesperson gave the couple several online tours on her mobile phone, and also helped by taking measurements of key areas. “I’d looked at the apartment so many times (online), I knew it backwards,” Ms Gooch said. “I knew every room, every little bit, so we knew it was going to be good. “The sales person did a video of it, and walked us through, and we had a floor plan. Because we had seen it so much, we knew how beautiful it was. “When we actually arrived, it was actually better than what we thought. It is bigger than what we thought, it is a beautiful location and it’s quiet.” Dea Gardner, sales professional at Queens Lake Retirement Village, said it was important to make the customer feel comfortable and confident when making the big decision to move, especially when it comes to downsizing. “I just kept in regular contact and made sure I had a lot of information to help them (the Goochs) understand any concerns or questions they had,” Ms Gardner said. “I made myself available to them entirely, having several conversations on what from their furnishings would or wouldn’t fit, and happily took measurements for them so they knew as much information as possible before moving. I think this relieved a lot of their stresses.” The Goochs said they were happy to make the purchase after taking part in virtual tours, given this meant they avoided a 500km trip during a time of COVID-19 restrictions. The couple purchased the apartment for $245,000. More retirement living operators are turning to virtual tours and open days to market their properties, either in response to government restrictions or because potential buyers may be keen to avoid travelling. Downsizing.com.au has <a href="https://www.downsizing.com.au/news/739/New-online-events-promotion-is-the-key-to-sales-success-with-downsizers">launched a new initiative</a> which supports clients being able to showcase virtual tours and online events, along with traditional in-person events. Find out more information about the <a href="https://www.downsizing.com.au/property/sale/11035/queens-lake-retirement-village">Queens Lake retirement village here</a>

Downsizing

“Hunk of junk”: Mum’s overly honest caravan ad has internet in stitches

Glastonbury mum Katie Perkins has obviously had enough of the 27-year-old caravan taking up space on her property. So, in a fit of fury, she took to Facebook Marketplace to try and find a prospective buyer – but soon turned her post into an opportunity to vent a bit of pent-up rage at the “monstrosity” that had been plaguing her for so long. The UK woman was definitely a little too honest in her expletive-laden ad, and the post quickly went viral due to her astonishingly blunt descriptions. “It is a tin shed on wheels,” she wrote. “It is f***ing hot in the summer. It is f***ing freezing in the winter. It even grows icicles on the inside.” She adds that the oven and fridge are equally rubbish, but the microwave is “pretty decent.” “Get this hunk of junk off my f***ing land,” she pleads. “I’d love to say it’s beautiful, but I’d be lying. I’d love to say I loved living in it, but I’d be lying.” The listing has been shared more than 1,000 times and racked up hundreds of comments as people commended her for the refreshing honesty, calling it the “best ad ever”. Check out the images of the caravan in the gallery below, and here also is the full (slightly cleaned up) post in all its glory: “YES IT'S STILL AVAILABLE - I WILL. REMOVE ONCE IT HAS GONE. IT IS AN ANCIENT 27 YEAR OLD CARAVAN. 32FT x 10FT, 2 BED STATIC. IT HAS BEEN LIVED IN BY A FAMILY OF 7 (WE WERE A FAMILY OF 4 🤰⚠️) FOR 7 YEARS ONSITE WHILST BUILDING OUR DREAM HOME, WHICH TURNED INTO A F***ING NIGHTMARE. IT IS NOT PRISTINE. IT IS NOT PRETTY. IT IS A TIN SHED ON WHEELS. IT IS F***ING HOT IN THE SUMMER. IT IS F***ING FREEZING IN THE WINTER. IT EVEN GROWS ICICLES ON THE INSIDE. IT COULD DO WITH FULL REPLACEMENT OF CARPETS. IT NEEDS A GOOD BLEACH CLEAN THROUGHOUT. IT HAS A SHIT OVEN. IT HAS A SHIT HOB. IT HAS A SHIT FRIDGE. KIDS WERE POTTY TRAINED IN IT. DOG WAS POTTY TRAINED IN IT. IT HAS BEEN USED AS STORAGE FOR THE LAST 9 MONTHS. NEXT STOP THE F***ING CHICKENS ARE GOING IN IT. IT DOES HAVE A PRETTY DECENT MICROWAVE, ALBEIT CHEAP MORRISONS ONE. IT ALSO HAS EXTRAS! COUPLE OLD SHOES IN THE WARDROBE. ABSTRACT ART, ONE OF A KIND, COURTESY OF THE CHILDREN. OLD BOTTLES OF BOOZE UNDER THE SINK. PRETTY SURE THERE'S EVEN A SLOW COOKER THAT WAS ONLY USED ONCE? BEDS THAT HAVE BEEN DESTROYED AND I CANNOT BE F***ED TO REMOVE. I’M SURE IF YOU ARE LOOKING AT IT YOU CAN USE IT FOR SOMETHING, I DON'T GIVE A F**K WHAT. I WANT OFFERS.....I DON'T EXPECT ALOT BUT SOMETHING WOULD BE NICE. F**K IT - IF YOU TRUELY WANT THIS F***ING MONSTROSITY THEN I WILL TRADE IT FOR A COUPLE BOXES OF HUBBY'S FAVOURITE RED WINE - JAMMY RED ROO OR JAM SHED. GET THIS HUNK OF JUNK OFF MY F***ING LAND. I'D LOVE TO SAY IT'S F***ING BEAUTIFUL, BUT I'D BE LYING. I'D LOVE TO SAY I LOVED LIVING IN IT, BUT I'D BE LYING. I'D LOVE TO SAY I'D LOOK FORWARD TO A CARAVAN HOLIDAY, BUT GUESS WHAT...? I'D BE LYING.” … and if you’re still game to read the real thing, take a deep breath, be warned, and click <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/332595611252474/" target="_blank">here</a>. Images: Facebook Marketplace

Downsizing

The best holiday packing tips

Thinking about packing and unpacking can be a real point of stress for all travellers. So, the best way to beat the stress when you land is to pack right. These are among the best packing tips we have grown to love. 1. Your carry-on and your checked bag should carry different types of items. To some, this is obvious, but to others, this little tip can mean the difference between a carry-on stuffed with socks and one with items that need quick-access. Your carry-on bag will turn into your day-pack once you arrive at your destination. So, to make the transition easier, include personal items like wallet, passport, pen and paper, hand-sanitiser, maps and city guides, books, camera, headphones, and your mobile phone + charger. You’ll avoid lots of stress while flying by having these types of items readily accessible during flight. 2. Roll your clothes. When you are unpacking, you will notice that rolled clothes often come out of the bag with fewer creases. Also, by rolling your clothes, you will often be able to pack more into your suitcase (psst…see tip #5 below). 3. Pack your suitcase in sections. Standard rectangular suitcases are easy to mentally divide up into sections. Depending on what is right for you, divide your case into 2, 3, or 4 parts. Each part should only contain similar items. For example, keep all tops in one section, bottoms in another, and under garments + bathing suits in yet another. Or, if you like to pack outfits together, consider packing fair weather outfits in one section, cold weather outfits in another, and shoes + accessories in another. And remember, re-section your bag as you start to accumulate clothes that need washing. Keep those clothes separate to keep things simple. 4. Fill your shoes. When packing shoes with any structure (ones that can’t be flattened), ALWAYS take advantage of the space inside your shoes. Pack socks, trinkets & extra breakable souvenirs bought while abroad, or (depending on how smelly your shoes are) clothes and other items. 5. Over pack. (Yes, you read that right!) When it comes to a semi-full suitcase or a jam-packed one, what’s really the difference? Most of us use rolly-suitcases anyways, so as long as your bag still meets flight weight requirements, pack the extra pair of shoes, gloves, pants, or sunglasses! Having just want you want with you while you are on holiday can be a relief and a give you an added sense of comfort when exploring! Written by Luray Joy. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/packing-for-holiday-tips/">MyDiscoveries.</a>

Downsizing

How do you help grandchildren adjust when they’re moving?

When our children move house, we’re often asked to help store their clutter so their home is looking at its best during marketing. However, looking after grandchildren is sometimes added to the list of our desirable contributions when children are moving. And, given that moving home can be particularly stressful for young children and teenagers, there are a few tips to consider – before and after they move. Routines are understandably disrupted in major ways during moving and sensitive planning can help all family members, but especially young children, to better cope with the impending changes. One of the problems is that busy parents, hectic professional lives, and the necessities of an extremely competitive real estate market can mean little thought is given to the effect moving has on young children and teenagers, both of whom respond differently. Certainly no thought is given to the advice grandparents might need when asked to look after children in the middle of the moving process or how to deal with what comes up afterwards. Firstly, kids need time to get used to the idea of moving, so parents should give them as much advance warning as possible. It is important for other family members such as grandparents provide them with as much additional information as possible about why the family is moving and what they can expect in their new home and suburb. Before the move Here are some tips that should help smooth the process of looking after kids when they are in the process of moving suburb, interstate or overseas: Ask grandchildren to share their feelings with you: Although you’ll undoubtedly be going through your range of emotions, experts say open discussion is very important so your grandchildren can voice the feelings they’re encountering. Listen to what they have to say and assure them that you understand any concerns. Talk to them about your moving experiences and reassure them about life’s journey, and how change can often opens doors to new and exciting chapters and friends. Don’t take their reactions personally: Children can have problems adjusting to a move, or the idea of moving, and can blame a parent or parents for causing it. Don’t fall into the trap of defending a parent’s decision making if this happens. Explain that sometimes big decisions can’t be avoided and reinforce some of the positive outcomes that are possible from a move. Make them a part of the process. Ask your children to help very young grandchildren pack some of their favourite items as their house is being packed up. It can help them understand that although the family will be moving to a new home, their belongings will be moving with them. Personalise their boxes with labels and stickers. Perhaps even ask them if they would like some of their belongings to holiday at your house, during the move.  Be cautiously optimistic. It’s important to be positive and optimistic because your grandchildren’s attitude will largely mirror yours and that of their parents. However, don’t insist everything is going to be wonderful. Even if the new house is fantastic, it’s normal for it to take some time to adjust.  Help grandchildren to explore the new neighbourhood on the Internet: If they’ll be moving to a new suburb or town, use Google Street View, Google Earth, maps, tourism information websites, local council websites and Wikipedia pages from your new local council or the Internet to explain where you’ll be living. Explain any differences in weather and geography and talk about any nearby attractions that may be interesting, such as moving closer to the beach or to a park.   Try to keep a routine: A child’s world is based on routine and it’s important to try and keep some semblance of normalcy throughout the process. We suggest sticking to a set time for dinner every evening, no matter how chaotic things seem to be, and to regular weekend activities the family enjoys. For younger children and toddlers, it can be useful to speak to your doctor about issues such as a new diet or the start of toilet training. It may be better to put any further new experiences on hold until you’ve settled in to the new home. With teenagers, the most prevalent concerns revolve around the loss of peer groups, friends and what to expect from a new school. It’s vitally important not to invalidate their feelings but to openly acknowledge their fears and discuss the importance of keeping a sense of proportion and context. Moving house can be exceptionally challenging for teenagers but also an important, strengthening, life experience when handled sensitively. After the move After your grandchildren have moved, there’s bound to be a settling in period – perhaps for you as well. If they’ve moved some distance away, you may feel just as heartbroken as them. In fact, it can be doubly difficult for grandparents because you may be experiencing considerable anxiety about the loss of regular visits to your children as well as your grandchildren. There are a few things you can do to make the separation less arduous: <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">If you’re not particularly tech-savvy, or if you’d like to teach your grandchildren the art of snail mail, make a folder with some paper for very young grandchildren to write notes or draw pictures of their new neighbourhood and friends on. Include some addressed, stamped envelopes (taking account of any looming postal increases) and encourage them to snail mail you at any time.</li> </ul> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Set up a Skype account or try out Facetime with the kids before they move. It’s a great way of providing a fun and reassuring way of them keeping in touch whenever they like.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Create a photo album or a framed photo collage with all the great times you’ve shared.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Give your grandchildren a special possession for safekeeping and to remember you by.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Provide the recipe for one your grandchildren’s favourite treats or meals.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Finally, it’s important to let children know that they’ll always be in your heart and in your thoughts, that their future holds exciting new adventures that will also include you, and that you have a pact to find ways to stay in contact and strengthen your bond until you see each other again next time.</li> </ul> Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/property/how-do-you-help-grandchildren-adjust-when-they%E2%80%99re-moving.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a>

Downsizing

5 genius packing tips from flight attendants

Taking the time to plan what to pack before you fly can save you time, money and hassle. “How many times do you pack a lot of stuff, but never wear half of it?” asks flight attendant Michele Radon. “Lay it out before you pack it. You may find that you’ll be able to wear a pair of pants with two different tops.” It’s also OK to wear the same thing twice, adds flight attendant Abagail Valencia. When it comes to handbags and dress shoes, choose just one and wear your bulkiest items such as coats, suit jackets and boots, when you travel. Mix and match your go-to travel outfits. A favourite top, blazer and tailored pants can be mixed and matched for both casual and unexpected dressier occasions. The following useful tips will help make your next trip a breeze. 1. Pack “double duty” clothes If you want to travel light, simplify your travel wardrobe to include items that can serve more than one purpose. A comfortable jumper or pashmina wrap, for example, is essential, says Radon. Airlines don’t always give out blankets, so you can use it as a blanket or a ‘pillow’ when on the plane and then wear it. Pack one pair of jeans and one pair of black pants that can be dressed up or down, suggests Valencia. A couple of T-shirts is all you need for casual wear, and one dressy shirt will suffice when going out at night, she says. If you need dressier attire, add a black dress, scarf and heels, while a smart blazer should work for men. 2. Streamline your toiletries bag When travelling light, streamline your getting-ready routine, explains flight attendant Jane Frilicci. If you’re not dedicated to a certain brand, just use the shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion the hotel supplies and use the hotel’s hairdryer. Be careful of taking bulky glass aftershave and perfume which can break or is not allowed in hand luggage on international trips. Consider using up sample size atomisers or refillable sprays, roll or cream perfume instead. Take the opportunity to use up those sample size products you’ve been storing or fill your favourite product in travel size storage. If you’re going to a remote place or a resort area, prices may be high and you may not be able to buy whatever you need, so taking enough to last the trip makes sense. Frilicci recommends getting a clear travel bag so you can see all of your toiletries when going through security and on your trip. 3. Compress and protect Bulky items such as puffy coats for colder destinations that take up a lot of room in your suitcase can be managed by using compression cubes. If you have to travel with bulky items, compression space bags can easily compress your clothes, says Valencia. They save room in your suitcase and protect your items from dirt, moisture, odours and allergens. 4. Keep kids occupied and other passengers happy Parents need to be prepared when travelling with kids, says Frilicci. “People get bent out of shape when there is a screaming kid, especially when they’re trying to sleep.” To keep kids and passengers happy, Frilicci suggests packing a new toy, not an old one. Some parents make gift bags for the passengers seated next to them – including packaged sweets, earplugs and a note that says something like “Hi, I’m Jake, I’m three months old, and I’m not the best traveller so you might hear my loud voice.” 5. Keep useful items in your carry-on bag “Keep a separate carry-on bag with all of your essentials that you need to access during the flight – things such as a toothbrush, make-up, passport and a pen,” Frilicci says. Written by Kim Fredericks. This article first appeared in <a href="http://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/flights/8-genius-packing-tips-flight-attendants">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRN93V">here’s our best subscription offer</a>. <img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" />

Downsizing

6 essential items you need to pack for your river cruise

You may think river cruises are similar to ocean ones if you have never travelled down the stream before – but they could not be anymore different. River cruises are a lot more focussed on frequent stops and minimal lounging onboard – afterall, the spectacular experiences that come with travelling through small towns and beautiful cities are once in a lifetime opportunities. Here are a few items to take on your river cruise. 1. Walking shoes You won’t be in your cabins a lot and walking from the start of your cruise vessel to the end will not be the only exercise you can expect while on holiday. There are many sights to see, so pack a good pair of shoes that are sturdy, reliable and can go the distance. 2. Comfortable clothing Comfort is an important part of your holiday, so bring a practical wardrobe in which you can explore the great sights by foot, bike or even train. For evenings aboard your vessel – or even for the small town restaurants – bring smart casual pieces. 3. Medication Take all the medication you need – unlike ocean cruises, trusty shops are not located on your vessel and it can be frustrating to have to walk through the gorgeous cities you paid thousands of dollars to be in, just to find some headache tablets or allergy pills. Bring a mini first-aid kit just in case, as well as travel-sized bottles and hand sanitiser. 4. Adaptor Remember, European adaptors differ from our own ones, so bring the cords you require and all your electronics can be charged for another day. 5. Exercise clothes Many river cruises have gyms and swimming pools, so pack some exercise gear and swimmers in case they offer classes. 6. City Guidebooks, phrase books and currency calculator For a seamless trip with minimal challenges, bring a city guidebook so you don’t miss out on all the sights to see. Phrase books can be helpful too if you are in a country where the common tongue is not familiar to you. A currency calculator can also be extremely helpful if you want to keep a close eye on your spending habits by converting all your money.

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The 4 things you will ALWAYS find in a cruise expert's suitcase

1. Highlighter Believe it or not, a highlighter on a cruise is not that common to come across – so pack one! Cruises always hand out programs, itineraries and other handy pamphlets and it will be easier to highlight things of interest to you. All the papers you receive really add up, so while this tip may seem silly – it WILL help! 2. Ziplock bags / plastic bags Snacking is a common occurrence. If you’re travelling with children, they may get peckish while on the islands, in the rooms or by the pool so pack a few little snacks in a ziplock bag at the buffet so they never need to leave your sight. Plastic bags are also a big help for any wet clothes or towels you don’t have the chance to wash or dry out while on your cruise. 3. Refillable water bottle This tip is a must as water bottles cost a lot on the ship! While water itself is free as well as some juices, having a water bottle will be the lifesaver you didn’t know you needed while lying underneath the sun or while on the islands. 4. Lanyard Lanyards are very handy when you’re onboard as the whole ship is cashless – you will have to pay for everything with a cruise-given card. So instead of paying $8-10 at the cruise shops, bring your own (it is a lot cheaper if you’re a big group). What are some of the little things you pack in your suitcase for a cruise? Let us know in the comments below.

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Packing cells will change how you travel in 2019

Packing cells – people either love them or think they are a huge waste of money. We’ve detailed the pros and cons of packing cells so that you can make your own mind up. 1. What are they? Packing cells are little cubes or zippered bags of various sizes that act as removable compartments for your suitcase or backpack. 2. How do you use them? Packing cells allow you to organise your suitcase. You sort the items you need into individual bags. Put your dirty clothes in one, underpants in another. Put your socks in one, camera gear in another. You get the point. If you’re sharing a suitcase with a travelling companion, you can put your clothes into individual packing cells – that way your clothes won’t get all mixed up. 3. What do fans say about them? A Facebook thread on packing cells went viral this week due to the number of people commenting. Comments such as: “Best things ever – saves so much room and keeps things tidy and organised” were common. Here’s a few more comments: “They have really changed our packing. Highly recommend. No more digging through the whole bag trying to find a pair of undies.” – Alicia thoman “We use them all the time now. Each person has their own pack and then you just take it out of the case – so much easier.” – Clare Ditchburn “They are the best, love mine, make so much more room in your suitcase.” – Kathy Stringfellow 4. What do the critics say? Critics say that packing bags are a waste of money. Some argue that the bags are just more stuff you don’t need. Why pay the money when it doesn’t really take that long to find something in your bag. Is the 20 seconds really worth the cash? 5. Tips for using them Generally, most people we found who have used the packing bags say they love them. So how do you use them effectively? <ul> <li>Use a different colour per traveller</li> <li>Make sure you buy enough of them</li> <li>Get packing bags that have a clear window or mesh to allow you to see what is in the bag. Otherwise you’re going to spend just as much time hunting for the stuff you need.</li> <li>You can make your own packing bags from laundry bags, old airline amenities bags or plastic zip-lock bags.</li> <li>Buy a selection of different sizes</li> <li>Use them for small and necessary items.</li> <li>Use one for medications</li> <li>Keep one for chargers and phones</li> <li>Have a waterproof one for wet clothes</li> <li>Have one for dirty clothes</li> <li>Where do you buy them?</li> </ul> Written by Alison Godfrey. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/packing-cells-hack/">MyDiscoveries</a>.

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What to pack for a cruise

In the Golden Age of cruising of the 1920s and ‘30s, first-class passengers donned full-length evening gowns and tuxedos as they steamed across the Atlantic. Dress styles changed as cruising became more egalitarian, although five-star lines maintained strict formal dress policies to allow well-heeled passengers to parade their finery. I clearly remember staring in wonder at the dazzling array of full-length, full-beaded gowns in the boutique on board stylish ship Crystal Symphony in the early 1990s. There was plenty to plunder if one needed a bejewelled outfit for the evening. Dress codes still exist; however, sequins and bowties are more an option than a requirement. I’ll go out on a limb and say that most women love to dress up; I know very few who’d sneer at the chance to put on that cocktail outfit that’s been bought and begging for an outing. Conversely, men favour the phrase: “I’m on holidays – I don’t want to wear a tie.” To appease all-comers, cruise lines still offer traditional ‘formal’ nights (they may have a different name such as ‘cocktail’ or ‘dress to impress’) but also permit passengers to ‘dress down’ as long as they dine in the casual eateries. As a rule of thumb, cruise lines have a resort/casual code for daytime and two different codes for the evening. Onboard Day wear For summer cruises passengers should pack swimsuits (preferably two), sarong/cover-up, shorts, t-shirts, resort dresses, jeans or light-weight pants, sandals, thongs or ballet flats and gym wear if heading to the fitness centre along with the right footwear. Others should pack flat rubber-soled shoes to avoid slipping on deck. Swimsuits and sarongs are not allowed in restaurants and lounges during the day time, while some cruise lines also prohibit tank tops (sleeveless T-shirts) and baseball caps. The best advice is checking the cruise line website under the Q &A section. Those taking expedition cruises or venturing to cooler climes should pack hiking pants, waterproof over pants, wind-cheaters, lightweight warm jackets, thermals, beanies and hiking boots. Evening wear Most cruise lines – be they the affordable mass-market companies or the luxury lines – have two dress codes for the evening. On most nights the code with be “smart casual”, although a cruise line might call it “elegant casual”, as Seabourn Line does. Women can wear a good dress (something one would wear out to dinner), pantsuit or separates (top and skirt/pants). Men are required to wear a collared shirt and long trousers and sometimes jeans (depending on cruise line), while jackets and ties are optional. The best choices for women are non-crush, no-iron varieties. There are plenty of jersey fabric dresses and outfits available, while a scarf or two, a pashmina, or a light evening jacket never goes astray. The biggest change in the cruise industry has been the relaxing of the “formal” dress code. Ladies can go to town and put on that sparkling evening dress, pantsuit or dressy separates. On most lines men are required to wear a tuxedo or a dark suit with tie or bow tie; P&O Cruises Australia say a tie is optional, while Celebrity Cruises allows men to wear ‘pants or designer jeans’ on their ‘evening chic’ nights. These nights are held once or twice during a seven-night cruise. Theme Nights Many lines have these, with the most popular being ‘white’ parties and ‘Gatsby’ nights. Cunard ships also have masquerade and Victoriana balls, while P&O has a “Back to School” party. Shore Excursions Pack the sunscreen, hat, water bottle, lightweight jacket/jumper, rain jacket (or umbrella) into a light day-pack or travel bag and carry local currency for drinks, lunch and tips. The key to stress-free packing is check the cruise line website and choose lightweight, drip-dry outfits than can be mixed and matched and glammed up with a scarf, pashmina and some bling. Written by Caroline Gladstone. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/what-to-pack-for-a-cruise/">My Discoveries</a>.

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Scary new travel theft trend: Why locking your suitcase with padlocks is pointless

Locking suitcases may not be enough to keep them from being broken into, thanks to an increasingly popular technology. UK consumer group <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.which.co.uk/news/2019/02/master-key-to-luggage-locks-leaked-thieves-can-open-your-suitcase-with-a-3d-printed-key/" target="_blank">Which?</a> found that keys printed on a 3D printer could “potentially open the luggage locks of almost any bag in the world”. Many suitcases have TSA-approved locks, giving officers from the US Transportation Security Administration the ability to access them if needed. These locks, which have seven different varieties, are used by more than 500 different luggage and padlock brands globally. However, in 2014, the TSA's seven master keys were leaked in a Washington Post article, leading them to be replicated around the world and the templates posted on the Internet. The consumer group's investigation found that after four years, bags are still sold with the same TSA locks and the same key templates still work. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7824125/lock1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/4fdf36317f0d4294a9adcd6db64df049" /> The group found that a set of keys printed using a £200 (AU$369) 3D printer could open suitcases from a variety of brand, including Samsonite, Antler and American Tourister. The templates could also be used to order the keys in stainless steel from an online 3D printing service, which is available to anyone. Travel Sentry, which produces the TSA lock security system across 30 countries, told the group that while the 2014 leak was taken seriously, it did not affect travellers' property security significantly as thieves still prefer using brute force to break into bags. The company also added that the presence of the locks is "still a proven deterrent to theft and tampering". While it is not mandatory in Australia, travellers are still advised to use these TSA-compliant locks when travelling to the US and Canada. The TSA has not commented on the matter. How do you keep your luggage safe? Let us know in the comments.

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The bizarre items you cannot take with you on a plane

There are plenty of items that you can take with you overseas, provided they’re in your checked luggage and not your carry-on. Bottles of alcohol, aerosol cans, corkscrews with blades and sporting equipment are just a few of the things you can transport overseas in your checked luggage. But before you do, keep in mind that each country has their own rules and regulations. For example, the United States doesn’t allow sharp knitting needles. So, what is permitted in carry-on? And what is a complete no-go? Items allowed in your carry-on There are a few items that you can travel with in your carry-on that are restricted in your checked luggage. For example, lithium batteries that are usually found in smartphones, cameras and laptops are considered a fire hazard. So, you would want to keep them in your carry-on bags rather than your suitcase. Other items that you can pack in your carry-on but not your check-in luggage are electric skateboards, cordless curling irons, e-cigarettes and snow globes as long as the liquid inside is less than 100ml. Items that are completely banned When travelling, don’t even think about taking any of these items with you, because chances are, you’ll be stopped before you get the chance to board. CO2 cartridges are definitely not allowed, so if you ride a bike, you’ll need to carry a pump for your tyres instead. Other items that are banned are chlorine, bleach and fertilisers due to the ammonium nitrate that are present in some brands. The most bizarre item of all is probably a coconut, which is also classified as a fire hazard, so don’t try and smuggle it in either your carry-on or your check-in luggage. Did you know what you were allowed to carry and what you weren’t? Let us know in the comments below.

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Woman writes genius note to noisy neighbour

Dealing with a noisy neighbour is tricky – but this woman from New Jersey in the US took the high road and tried a different approach. Candice Benbow was getting used to the fact that her neighbour loved to play loud music. However, one night when the noise blasted into the wee hours, Benbow finally had enough. While others might call the police or talk to the strata committee, Benbow decided to pick up her baking tools and make a cake at 3.30 in the morning to pass on to her neighbour with the note. “I wanted the best way to tell my neighbor that he tried it with his late night party,” Benbow said. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> I wanted the best way to tell my neighbor that he tried it with his late night party. So I wrote him a letter and baked him a cake. <a href="https://t.co/SxPKAzOHp0">pic.twitter.com/SxPKAzOHp0</a> — Candice Marie Benbow (@CandiceBenbow) <a href="https://twitter.com/CandiceBenbow/status/1074010643592814592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a></blockquote> Accompanying the cake was a whimsical letter, which she also posted on her Twitter page. “When you come home every evening and blast music, I’ve come to expect it,” Benbow said in the letter. She even admitted that the loud music helped her “catch a vibe” and find new songs for her weekly playlists. “But last night… Fam, you tried it,” she wrote. “I don’t know if you were hosting the official afterparty for our building’s holiday social … In the future, as you’re hosting your kickbacks and come throughs, please remember the rest of us.” To her surprise, the gesture worked – and she shared all the updates on Twitter. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> UPDATE: I JUST MET MY NEIGHBOR TOMMY!!!! He’s so freaking cool! He apologized for the noise, promised to invite me to the next party and most importantly...HE SAID MY POUND CAKE WAS AMAZING!!!! <a href="https://t.co/NcU8t0ZfqT">pic.twitter.com/NcU8t0ZfqT</a> — Candice Marie Benbow (@CandiceBenbow) <a href="https://twitter.com/CandiceBenbow/status/1075057181798604801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</a></blockquote> The neighbour, Tommy Amaro, turned out to be a music video director, which explains the loud music. “It was just beautiful because if it was another neighbour, they would’ve at least tried to call the cops on me, try to knock me out and this was like, it was cool,” Amaro told <a href="https://www.insideedition.com/instead-getting-mad-noisy-neighbor-new-jersey-woman-bakes-him-cake-49470">Inside Edition</a>. Benbow also learned that Amaro was having his first Christmas without his daughter, who died in a car accident. “It was a sweet and gentle reminder that we never know what folks are going through and it is always best to lead with kindness,” said Benbow. She confirmed that now she can enjoy being home without the noise. “He has been quiet as a church mouse,” she said. What do you think about this woman's strategy to put an end to her noisy neighbour? How do you deal with noisy neighbours? Tell us in the comments below.

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How to pack for your first cruise

Hand luggage Most cruise lines will take your suitcases at check-in, but it can take a while for these to be delivered to your room. So, it makes sense to pack a small carry bag to take on with you containing your passport, tickets, swimsuit, change of clothes and any other essentials including medication and valuables. Cruise style Do some research into what you’ll be doing. If it’s mostly on-board entertainment, you’ll need lots of swimwear and casuals, whereas shore trips to galleries and cultural venues will require smarter wear. Dinner style Most cruise ships have a selection of restaurants, and you’ll probably get a set number of dinners in a formal restaurant, with other meals served in casual or buffet style eateries. Each cruise line has their own dress codes and rules, which should be provided on their website. As a general rule they are: <ul> <li>Casual: If you’re having lunch or dinner at a buffet-style restaurant, then the dress code is laidback, although swimwear and bare feet are usually not allowed.</li> <li>Semi-formal: Polo shirts and chinos or smart jeans for men, with women wearing dresses or smart separates.</li> <li>Formal: Men will be required to wear a dark suit and tie or dinner jacket, with ladies dressing up in cocktail or floor-length dresses. Your tickets should say how many formal nights there are.</li> </ul> Gala nights If you are on an upmarket cruise, a gala night or two is usually part of the itinerary. Some men enjoy wearing a tuxedo for these special events, although a lounge suit is usually acceptable, and for women, it’s an excuse to go all out, with evening gowns or glittery cocktail dresses. This article first appeared in <a href="http://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/cruising/how-to-pack-for-your-first-cruise">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestsubscribe?utm_source=readersdigest&utm_campaign=RDSUB&utm_medium=display&keycode=WRA85S">here’s our best subscription offer</a>.

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5 questions to ask before moving into a granny flat

If managed correctly, a granny flat arrangement can turn into a win-win scenario for all parties. It can also turn sour fast. If you’ve toyed with the idea of entering into this sort of arrangement, it’s important to make sure you’re aware of the implications. Here are five questions to ask before moving into a granny flat. 1. Am I really ready to live in a granny flat? While often in these situations you still have plenty of your own personal space, there is going to be a loss of independence to a degree. It’s important to ask yourself if you are really willing to give up this space when moving in with your family. 2. Is my family really ready to live with me? It’s not pleasant thing to think about, but the harsh reality is there may be some parties who are not altogether pleased with the situation (even if it seems like they are on the surface). It’s always worth having a frank discussion with all the parties that are affected, and asking them if this is arrangement is indeed willing to go into. 3. Is my pension going to be affected? Depending on the arrangement you enter into, moving into a granny flat can affect your pension entitlements. It’s important to check with the Department of Human Services<a rel="noopener" href="https://www.humanservices.gov.au/" target="_blank"></a> and a financial professional about the ramifications of making this move, and ultimately whether or not you’re willing to live with them. 4. Have I formalised the agreement? This may seem like adding unnecessary red tape to the arrangement (especially when you’re dealing with family), but formalising the agreement can go some way to avoiding conflicting. Getting the rights and responsibilities of each party down on paper is the best way to manage expectations and ensure no one is given the short end of the stick. 5. Do I have a backup plan? If things do go awry you don’t want to be left high and dry. It’s important to have a backup plan up your sleeve just in case the worst does happen, and you can be sure you’re in the best position possible to recoup and ultimately recover. Have you moved into a granny flat? Or perhaps you know someone who has? What do you think about the arrangement? Let us know in the comments below.

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Mum's genius $3 Kmart hack

There’s no shortage clever ways you can reappropriate a bargain product at Kmart, and this latest hack might just change the way you pack for holidays forever. A mother has shared the $3 Kmart hack that will give you a cute, convenient way to store shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and other essentials when packing. <img width="500" height="378" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/44881/kmart-in-text_500x378.jpg" alt="Kmart -in -text"/> Image credit: Facebook “Kmart sell these travel bottles in a 2 pack for $3. Filled them with shampoo, conditioner and shower gel and attached to a lanyard,” wrote Nat on Facebook. “Perfect for my girls when we go camping to take to the showers. Also would be good for swimming lessons. I have ordered some stickers.” With over 1,000 likes on Facebook already, Nat’s hack is a real winner. Do you have any travel tips to share?

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This $2 packing trick is absolute genius

Two dollars doesn’t go very far these days, but if you’ve got a gold coin handy and are a notoriously messy packer, you can still take advantage of a packing trick that is absolute genius. The trick, which was shared with <a href="http://www.news.com.au/" target="_blank">News.com.au</a> by Sydneysider and professional travel blogger Leanne Melody, will prove to be a real lifesaver to anyone who typically has a hard time getting everything into the one bag. Leanne says, “After this trip, I can’t travel without packing cubes. They’re $2 from <a href="https://www.mydaiso.com.au/" target="_blank">Daiso</a> and they’re the best thing ever to organise your clothes in, and keep everything compact and clutter free.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Packing cubes. ~$26 for a trio. But I found these at Daiso for $1.50 each. Woot! <a href="http://t.co/bQHcwglFhj">pic.twitter.com/bQHcwglFhj</a> — Joan Reginaldo (@JoanWIP) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoanWIP/status/516348012616888320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2014</a></blockquote> Leanne was also keen to share a list of items she refuses to leave without when she’s jet-setting around the world (it’s a hard life for some). These include: <ul> <li>“A bar of laundry soap for those times you need to hand wash, and it doubles as a makeup brush cleaner.”</li> <li>“A skipping rope for fitness and it doubles as my clothes line when I need to hand wash.”</li> </ul> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 62.5% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb_7n8RB8Yc/" target="_blank">Missin' this European summer and the sparkling waters of the Italian Coastline. I could spend hours just frying like an egg on these rocks and then rolling in the water to cool off. Try out the quaint restaurant in Monterosso called Gastronomia San Martino that arguably makes the tastiest handmade pasta you'll have in the region!</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by 💥Leanne Melody (@lionmelody) on Nov 27, 2017 at 4:37am PST </div> </blockquote> What do you think of these $2 packing tip? Think you’ll try it? <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/travel-insurance/?utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=travel-insurance&utm_medium=in-article-banner&utm_content=travel-insurance" target="_blank"><img src="http://media.oversixty.com.au/images/banners/Travel-Insurance_Website_GIF_468x602.gif" alt="Over60 Travel Insurance"/></a>

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Can you find the cat hidden in this apartment?

A Twitter user has taken a series of photos revealing how good her cat is at hiding in her apartment. Grace Spelman has become an online sensation as users struggle to spot her cat, Pierogi, in her apartment pictures. The series of photos have turned into a brain challenge, with some describing her photos as a Where’s Wally? for cat people. So, can you spot the cat? <img width="500" height="709" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7265888/1_500x709.jpg" alt="1 (63)"/> Grace explained that her cat has a habit of going missing in her apartment and so she responded by capturing the moment on camera. "I think it’s a mixture of she likes to hide and I’m good at taking photos AND she’s a white cat in a primarily white apartment," Spelman said. Scroll through the gallery above to find out where Pierogi is hiding and to see if you can spot her in other rooms in the apartment. Did you spot the cat? Let us know in the comments below.

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Can you find the cat hidden in this apartment?