TravelsandEscapes

Pack for the worst case scenario? Pack in case the weather turns bad? What if you run out of clothes? What if you need all your gadgets?

With a little pre-planning, this doesn’t have to be you. Check the weather report and look at weather on the Internet before you pack. Sure, it doesn’t hurt to throw in an umbrella if rain might happen in May in Paris. Or, you could buy one on the street. If the weather forecast for Rome in June is high 80s…you could probably only pack one long sleeved shirt or light jacket. No need to have two sweatshirts, a long sleeved fleece, and a jacket.

What if you get somewhere and you find you really do need something you left at home? There’s a good chance you can find a shop and buy whatever it is you need.

Laundry issues? Pack a small bag of laundry soap or use your hair shampoo and wash out some clothes in the hotel sink. Or, check before you rent a vacation home or apartment to see if there is a washer. Pack clothes that wash and dry easily.

As for gadgets, we are all addicted to our favorite ones. They can be useful when traveling. Check the website of the hotel or vacation home to see what they have included. You may not need to bring your hair dryer, chargers, adapters, or converters.

Do any of these sound like you?

I must plan for the worst case scenario.

I must take all types of clothes in case the weather changes.

I must take plenty of clothes in case things get dirty.

I must take all my gadgets.

I don’t have time to plan, so I must take everything.

If you answered YES to any of these…read the next post to see what you can do.

You may have heard from me on this blog or from another travel site about drinking water in countries where you wonder if it’s safe.

If so, you already know that if you have any concern…it’s best not to drink it. Therefore, it’s also best not to have ice cubes in your drinks or eat foods that are soaked in water. Keep your mouth closed when you shower and use bottled water when you brush your teeth. Have trouble keeping your mouth closed when you shower? Try this trick…

Cover your lips with lip balm before you shower. This will help repel water from your lips. Put some mouthwash in your mouth before you shower. The alcohol in the mouthwash will help counteract any water that accidentally makes it past your lips. No mouthwash? Try a sip of tequila!

When you’re approaching the security line at the airport are you all prepared with your ID and boarding pass ready, your shoes easy to remove, the bag with any liquids handy, your computer case unzipped and ready to place in a separate bin, and your jacket already removed?

Or, do you fumble around with everything at the last minute?

Recently, I watched a couple in the line next to me create a mess for security and the people in line behind them. I’m not sure if they don’t travel much or what…but it was painful to watch. And, I can’t even imagine being behind someone like that. It’s so much easier for everyone, including yourself, if you do a little pre-planning and getting ready. Security is the same at all airports.

Thank goodness I only had to watch from a distance! Since I am a member of the trusted traveler program, I go through the TSA Pre line where everything is easier. That works for me.

Do you frequent the bars, coffee shops, or restaurants recommended by a guide book? Or, do you seek out the places where the locals go for their morning coffee?

If you’re in a local spot, ask questions. Where is the best place for lunch? Do they have any tips for visiting an interesting part of the city?

Who knows…you may find things you didn’t know existed.

Do you have a travel bag with essentials packed and ready to go? If you travel very much, it’s a good idea.

While I use a packing list, I also have my essentials already in a bag and ready to throw in my suitcase. I refill any containers that may be getting empty after I get home from the last trip.

When traveling, do you use flight tracking apps? If so, which ones work well for you? Do you pay for ones or use the free version?

Or, do you sign up for alerts from the airline? Whatever you choice, it’s a good idea to find at least one that works for you.

Letting you know about flight delays, cancellations, gate changes, when you can check in online, and more are all ways to help keep your travel running smoothly.

Great day in Sausalito, California…