I'm a frequent flyer and here are seven travel tips and tricks you need to know — including why you should always bring duct tape (and never use the hotel iron)

I'm Gilbert Ott, frequent flyer and founder of a travel site godsavethepoints.com and I've reached a point in traveling where I wish I didn't know a lot of the things I do.

Oh, how I sometimes long to be an oblivious person walking through the airport, or getting ready to iron my shirt in a hotel, without realizing what that iron is used for.

Once you know it, you can't undo it, and that can be as helpful as it is annoying. Here are the travel hacks and tips you need to know, even if you don't want to…

Dryer sheets are the best luggage hack

There's a sinking feeling when you open a suitcase and it doesn't smell quite minty. A great way to keep worn-out clothes from ruining the rest is to pop fabric softener wipes in your luggage. These provide enviable freshness before and after the trip.

Bring tape for annoying lights

Now, duct tape may seem a little weird and sinister, but having some basic tape can be a game changer in hotels that have alarm clocks, TV lights, and other electronics that can bring unwanted light into a room. Just put a piece of tape over anything that irritates you and it's all solved.

Do not use the hotel iron

Pilots and others infamously use irons to heat pizza and other foods during layovers, Gilbert says

This is not to say ever, but it is worth inspecting the hotel iron, or testing it on a garment that does not face outwards, before relying on your future crisp white shirt. Why? Pilots and others infamously use irons to heat pizza and other foods during layovers.

Use the shower to steam your clothes

Now that you know that irons can't always be trusted, there is an alternative. Steaming your clothes can be quite easy while you're getting ready for the day. Placing items of clothing on the towel rack or behind the bathroom door while you shower can be the perfect way to loosen wrinkles and freshen up a piece of clothing for the day.

Roll your clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles

Rolling up your clothes is by far the most effective way to save space when packing. Try it and you will be convinced. It also prevents wrinkles, meaning you have less hassle upon arrival.

Enjoy same-day delivery

Especially in places like the US, where ShopRunner, Task Rabbit, DoorDash and Amazon Prime exist, it's easy to get everything from pharmacy items to clothes and food delivered, often even on the same day. If you're short on space or want to avoid a checked bag, think about what you can have delivered to your home on day one!

Clips for curtains

A clothespin or clip can do a lot of good in a hotel room, especially when you need some rest. Many hotels have invested in beautiful curtains to brighten the atmosphere, but they often fail to block out all the light. If you take a clothespin or clip with you, you can clamp the blinds to the edge and ensure that no annoying light creeps in.

Gilbert can be found on Twitter @godsavethepoint.