My 4-App Travel System That Saves Hours of Trip Planning

Streamlined Solopreneur: Helping solopreneur parents stop checking email at the playground

I'm recording from Kit Studios in Boise while attending conferences, which got me thinking about something crucial to my business success—my travel system. As someone who travels frequently for networking and conferences, I've developed a streamlined approach that keeps me organized and stress-free on the road.

My system revolves around two essential apps: Flighty for flight tracking (which often knows about delays before airlines do) and Apple Notes for keeping all trip information in one easily accessible place. But the real magic happens with my "New Trip" shortcut that automates the entire trip planning process—from creating calendar events to generating custom packing lists based on trip length and type.

I also swear by checking bags instead of dealing with carry-ons, mainly because I travel with items that can't go through security, but also because it lets me move through airports quickly with just my backpack. Plus, I share some thoughts on Southwest's recent policy changes and how they might affect family-friendly travel.

Special thanks to Kit for letting me record in their Studios! I highly recommend them for email and newsletters!
Get my free automations database at https://streamlined.fm/automation (powered by Kit, natch)

Top Takeaways:

• Flighty is a game-changer for frequent travelers — it provides real-time flight tracking with AI forecasting that often alerts you to delays before airlines do, plus it tracks connections and terminal transfer times
• Create a "New Trip" shortcut to automate trip planning — mine calculates trip length, adds calendar events, generates custom packing lists, and creates project templates in one tap
• Set up dedicated travel and conference focus modes — customize your home screen with essential widgets (time at home, flight info, maps) and silence non-essential notifications

Links

• My iPhone Focus Modes
• Flighty - Flight tracking app with AI forecasting
• Apple Notes - For trip organization and quick reference
• Widgetsmith - For custom widgets (QR code display)
• Whisper Memos - Voice note recording
• Ticci Tabs - Bookmark manager app
• Todoist - Project management for work tasks
• Apple Reminders - For packing lists and personal tasks
• MacSparky - David Sparks' site (source of packing list shortcut inspiration)
• Send Feedback

★ Support this podcast ★