Welcome! If you found yourself on this page its either because you need help with preparing for trips in general or you just want to compare notes and see if you've forgotten anything. Regardless, I hope you find this helpful and check back from time to time to see if the list has been updated!  *Note* Most of the information will be geared towards International Travel.

 

Tips on Packing:

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• Team Carry on when possible. Why? There is nothing worse then the airlines losing your luggage for an extended period of time. Also, unless you carry status most airlines charge to check a bag (at least $25). 

• Ranger roll your stuff and use packing cubes. If you don't know what that means I suggest you jump on YouTube and run a search for a full tutorial.

• Did you check the baggage restrictions for your flight?- Not all carriers are alike.

• Pack items that can be worn interchangeable and layered. I pack leggings and a variety of flowy shirts as well as a few workout T's and pants (that can also be worn casually). Tennis shoes and flip flops plus a pair of dress shoes (if necessary).

• Wear your"heavy" clothes or pieces that will take up space in your suitcase. I've worn my hiking boots, jeans, sweatshirt and scarf (I always travel with a scarf) on the flight. It gets cold on a plane so this tends to workout well and leave more space in your suitcase.

• Travel with a backpack or over the shoulder bag that fits your laptop/IPad, snacks, wallet,& has room for you to put your sweater or additional layered shirt/sweater inside.

• TSA pre-check: If you don't have it (you're missing out).  You may want to keep your baggy with liquids in your backpack/shoulder bag for easy access in the security line.

• Bring a foldable drawstring bag (that can fit in your backpack). I found it easier to move around with this type of bag instead of carrying a purse. Bonus: if you are a person that likes to do souvenirs, this will be a great bag to have for the trip home (and the exception to checking a bag).

• Sun glasses, Swim suits, hat/visor, ear plugs (in case it's noisy on the plane or hotel), Sun block, and toiletry bag: make sure liquids are compliant with TSA's 3-1-1 rule.

• Bring wet wipes, Kleenex, hand sanitizer and refillable water bottle...items like such.

• Support hose: is good for longer flights to help with circulation (standup hourly on long flights over 3hrs).

• Wash cloths (sounds funny but several places in S. America didn't offer them).

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Additional ways to Prepare:

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• Check and make sure you have your passport...double check if necessary. *If applicable*

• Did you know that your passport should have at least 6months worth of time on it before/during/after International travel?

• Do you have TRAVEL Insurance? I can name 5 times something happened where someone was hurt or died (yes, died) and the individuals didn't have travel insurance. It was hell for recovery for them and hell for the family that needed to get their family member shipped back to bury them. 

• Embassy Website:  Be sure to check on whether you need a visa!

• STEP -Did you enroll your travel dates? Better safe then sorry!

• Electronic Converters, adaptors & a spare battery charger.

• Download movies onto your iPad or laptop- internet doesn't always work or have movies onboard.

• Don't forget your camera or selfie stick- especially if you are on a solo trip

• Download google maps ahead of time in case internet is spotty you can still get to your destination

• Phone carrier and rates (I use T-Mobile due to their great international plan)

• Medicine bag (sometimes it's easier to have things on hand rather than search for it on a trip. Let me add a caution: be sure to look into the laws of the Country you are visiting regarding medication that is allowed and not allowed. Simple items (in the US) can be on the banned list in UAE. Think Samantha from "Sex in the City" except with jail time. Do a google search for more info on the host Country.

• Can you drink the water?  Important to know- don't end up with diarrhea or upset stomach!

• Know the currency and exchange rate (should you get money in advance or use the ATM once you land). 

• Credit cards usage (check to see if your card has fees for use).

• High alert: Be aware of any outbreaks (Zika, Hepatitis, Malaria etc..) and any recommended vaccinations

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Additional Information to know...

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• Know the cost of living and average cost for food and drinks (helps with budgeting a daily allowance)

• The best mode of transportation (Uber is not legal everywhere) and in some cases taking the rail/train system is easiest, fastest and safe.

• Safety- understand the area you will be traveling too. I'm not saying obsess over it just be aware like you would anywhere else in the world

• Know the time zone (so you can prepare in adjusting to the time) 

• Know the official language and whether you will have communication challenges 

• Take the time to learn before hand about customs and any dress codes or frown upon actions. Don't find yourself in a situation of insulating people due to ignorance. *Especially important in Countries like UAE*

• Know the rules on tipping (acceptable in some Countries, an expectation in some places for basic services/often on tours, and insulting in other cultures).

• Know the conditions of the Country because that plays a major role on whether there are shortages of goods, if poverty is prevalent, if it's safe away from "tourist" areas, and simple acts such as restroom usage (Indonesia, Cuba and a few others do things a little different). 

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                                Be sure to check out my blog: "Travel Etiquette": *Coming Soon*

            Tips on how to avoid travel issues (with others) when flying, lodging, tours and more!