Packing/Luggage
- When packing your carry on bag, remember the 3-1-1 rule; all liquids must be 3 oz. or less, and carried in one 1-quart see-through bag. There are TSA compliant travel kits sold now online and in stores.
- If you absolutely must have something (i.e. medication, your camera, passport), it should be packed in your carry on.
- For shorter, domestic flights, consider checking your luggage at the gate instead of checking it. This will save space in the overhead bins, and your bag will be waiting for you when you get off the plane. Saves time!
- If visiting a location known for having expensive food (i.e. Disneyland, Manhatten, etc.), consider purchasing and packing portable snack food. Things like granola bars, dried fruit, trail mix, and vegetables will travel well, and will keep your hunger in check. Save your money and splurge on one nice, big meal instead of many smaller ones.
- Electronic tickets are the best way to go, for you and the airline. Remember, a lost ticket is your responsibility... you may end up buying another ticket!
- With few exceptions, discounted airfare is non-refundable and non-transferrable. If you think you may need to make changes to your flight, consider purchasing a full fare ticket.
- If using a frequent flier program, check to see when your miles expire. Try to choose an airline that has no expiration date on their frequent flier miles (i.e. Alaska Air). Always have your number ready to give your travel agent or the airline.
- All airlines oversell flights. If you find yourself in this situation, and you have a flexible travel plan, volunteer to be bumped. You'll get a free airline ticket out of it, not to mention good karma!
- If your hotel has a concierge, use them! They are an invaluable source of local information, and can often gain you access to places you would not otherwise know about/see. Remember to tip them!
- The mini-bar is one of the most expensive things known to man. If you need a drink, there is probably a bar in the lobby (or down the street) that is half the cost.
- Sensitive to odors? Take a travel size of Febreze with you, and spray the comforter and curtains.
- The secret to blending in is know where you are, and where you are going. You don't need to be able to give street-by-street directions, but study maps of where you'll be before you leave. That way, the street names will sound familiar, and give you a general sense of direction.
- Walk with a sense of purpose, it will make you less of a target.
- Keep your camera tucked away when not in use-not around your neck!
- Know how to say "How much is that?" and "Where is the bathroom?" in the local language.