TRAVEL SMART WITH PROVEN TIPS

I count it a privilege to have walked the ground of 18 nations and 40 of the 50 states. Many of these trips have been with Jan. We’ve had some fabulous times and some messed up ones! Here are some proven tips to make your next outing go smoothly.

Check out where you’re going. Use our marvelous technology to check the weather so you have the right clothes, understand the particulars of the destination, and even get a visual through Google Maps Street View. Download a translator app if you’re going to a foreign country and learn to use a calculator that converts the currency to dollars (the iphone ones does this) so you don’t blow your budget!

Crosspack your carryon bag. If you’re flying, you must prepare for the possibility your bag may not arrive when you do. It’s a bummer! But the wise traveler has put a couple of days’ worth of clothes and medicines in the carryon. If you’re traveling as a couple or family, everyone needs to be a part of the system. Use an AirTag to be aware of your bag location. Use some comfort aids like a blowup neck pillow or foot hammock for long flights.

Plan at least your first day of arrival in detail. Okay, I know some folks like to travel spontaneously without an agenda. I’m an agenda person, okay honestly, an over-the-top-agenda person. I think anyone needs to plan how to get out of the airport and to your first destination. If driving, then at least to the hotel. From there, you can reset and move on to your dream experience.

Hold realistic expectations. Each trip has a goal, i.e., adventure, relaxing, business, romance, or event attendance. Further, each person on the trip has expectations. Don’t mix up those expectations! If she wants to lie on the beach then he shouldn’t plan touring the nearest widget plant. If the kids want a water park, Mom won’t get very much shopping time. Try to discuss and plan before you leave what can realistically happen to make it a great trip. Set a pace that helps everyone while you are there.

Hold the memories. A trip worth planning is a trip worth remembering! Take lots of pictures and put some in frames or bring back a special souvenir to put on a shelf. In my office I find memories provoked by 125+ spoons from around the world, shells, a boomerang, figurines, art, and even rocks! I can conjure a scene from these to return to that special place, no ticket needed!

Here’s hoping the next adventure is your best!