You can learn quite a few important life lessons from Batman. Courage, honour, how to maintain a secret identity while managing a billion dollar company, the perils of paramours with nine lives…
However, if you don’t live in Wayne Manor with your very own Alfred by your side, you may need some help in the travel planning department. Look no further. We may not be superheroes, but we know a thing or two about flying.
With “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” in theatres, the debate over these two iconic heroes is once again front and centre. While we won’t pick a favourite, we will say there is a lot you can learn from the Caped Crusader, especially when it comes to travel. (Superman’s budget travel hack? Fly.)
Before you plan your next trip, here are six ways to travel like Batman without Bruce Wayne’s budget. Holy travel hacks, Batman!
Choose your travel companion wisely
Travelling solo has its perks. You can do what you want, when you want, without having to confer with anyone else. But even the ultimate brooding loner knows that sometimes the right travel companion makes all the difference. Your partner in (fighting) crime should be someone you can trust (no Two Faces need apply). Create your own dynamic duo and travel with a Robin of your very own. Aside from companionship, you’ll also save by splitting the cost of accommodations, gas and other travel expenses. Side car optional.
Depend on a strong signal – bat or Wi-Fi
While it may not be as showy as the bat signal, a strong Wi-Fi signal can be a life (and wallet) saver. Making phone calls from overseas can cost you. While you can purchase reasonably priced plans to fit your needs, relying on Wi-Fi can also do the trick. Most hotels, hostels, restaurants and museums will have free access and you can message away using iMessage or apps such as WhatsApp.
Dress to impress
Batman knows a thing or two about packing smart. Sticking with one neutral colour scheme is an easy way to mix and match your wardrobe so you can pack everything you need in one carry-on and avoid extra fees for checked or overweight luggage. While Mr. Wayne prefers black, any neutral hue has what it takes, and pairing a few statement pieces with all-black staples makes packing easy and no one the wiser. The Joker didn’t get the memo, but we aren’t going to be the ones to tell him.
Looking to up your carry-on game? How about this Batmobile suitcase? Sure, it’s marketed and sized for kids, but don’t let that stop you. We certainly won’t.
Batmobile goals
It may not be the Batmobile, but that doesn’t mean you can’t travel in style. While ejection seats and a rocket launcher may not be in the cards, there is no reason you shouldn’t get at least a few add-ons. Reserve your budget rental car for peak hours (Monday morning or Friday). By doing so, there’s a solid chance they will be out of the cheaper vehicles and you’ll be driving away in something a little more luxurious than the compact car you requested. For newer models, rent at the airport – they usually get new cars first. Choose a black-on-black colour scheme for the full Dark Knight experience.
Don’t call it a fanny pack, it’s a utility belt
If Batman can wear one, we all can. End of discussion. The caped crusader knows the importance of travelling hands-free and are you really going to argue with him? Superman might, but Batman keeps some kryptonite in his utility belt just in case. Public opinion is for the birds (mostly the Penguin), so suit up and strap on that hands-free bag with pride. But note, when flying, all batarangs should be securely packaged in your checked luggage.
Fly smarter, not harder
Unlike Superman, Batman can’t fly without some help, making the Caped Crusader just like us, if you think about it. Even without the Batplane at his disposal, Bruce Wayne doesn’t have to cut costs on plane tickets so First Class ain’t no thing even without the Batwing. But, just because you aren’t a billionaire playboy philanthropist doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a comfortable flight. Give your economy seat a turbo boost with these tips on choosing the best seat and make the most of all things free in the friendly skies. Even Batman can’t turn down a mini bottle of Cab when it’s offered free of charge.
Fun Fact: Did you know Melbourne, Australia was once called “Batmania” after one of the city’s founders John Batman? Now you do 😉
Search for flights to MelbourneMain image: istockphoto/yudhistirama
