When packing with kids, make it a game – Packing tip

by Gadling Staff on

I was famous for forgetting major components when packing for a trip or vacation… items like socks and underwear, stuff you really need. So I created a game for my family to pack quickly and easily without forgetting a thing.

  1. I make a list for each child and the quantity they need, i.e., undies 5 pair, socks 5 pair, etc.
  2. I gather everyone into the living room. From the list, I will call out, “Five pairs of socks!”
  3. Each child has to run and locate the item(s) I called out before they return. Whoever returns first gets a point, and the winner gets a special pre-trip prize.

This will continue until all the items are in their suitcases, and my sanity is restored.

Visit a ghost town – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

If you’re looking for an interesting side-trip, or you just want to get out of town for a quick day trip, visit a ghost town.

To find a ghost town, log on to ghosttowns.com, which lists hundreds of ghost towns by state and county and describes what makes each spot unique and “ghostly.”

You may be surprised at how many ghost towns are in your area. Just don’t get scared.

Pack a power splitter – Airplane tip

by Gadling Staff on

We all know there aren’t enough power outlets in airports, so pack a power cord splitter for long layover.

For roughly $5, you can purchase a cord that allows two or more plugs to access the same outlet. You won’t hog an outlet yourself, or — even better — it might work to your advantage if all outlets are otherwise occupied: you can share someone else’s power.

Use ginger – Cruise trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

Pack ginger.

Have you tried wrist bands and/or patches to soothe a queasy, seasick stomach and found they didn’t work? Here is a tried-and-true herbal remedy:

  • Thirty days before the cruise, start taking 2 ginger tablets every day.
  • Seven days before the cruise, begin taking 1 non-drowsy Dramamine along with the ginger tablets.
  • During the cruise, continue taking the ginger and Dramamine.

This should help resolve any sea sickness during a cruise. Happy Sailing!

Find executive lounges – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

One thing many people don’t know is that many mid- and high-level hotels often have what they term an “executive lounge,” and gaining access to this exclusive area can immensely increase the enjoyment of your stay.

Executive lounges provide a quiet, spacious area in which to relax or work, and they often feature a stunning view of the city, which your room may lack. Many executive lounges will offer free snacks or appetizers, a bar, televisions, newspapers, and access to phones and fax machines.

Access is generally gained through special booking codes, and often adds very little to the total cost of your stay.