After you print your tickets and grab your passport, the next thing you need to do is pack the following six items:
For a longer road trip, renting an RV can be a great way to make your experience memorable. These homes-on-wheels come in a wide range of sizes and prices, so there’s something for just about everyone.
The big advantage of traveling in an RV is the flexibility it offers. With a kitchen, bathroom and beds in the vehicle, you can decide where and when you stop — which means you won’t be tied to an itinerary. And when you’re in an RV, the road can be just as fun as the places it takes you.
Bonus: the money you save on lodging and food should cover most or all of the cost of the rental and fuel.
Having never traveled to a foreign country, I didn’t realize I had to pay a departure tax when leaving St. Lucia. Check with your travel agent or with the airline before you leave, so you’ll know how much you’re required to pay in taxes and other fees not included with the price of your ticket.
Pro tip: learn the method of payment that’s allowed before reaching the airport. Most places will not accept credit cards.
A great idea for remembering a special trip is to get a local map in the local language. Maps can range in detail from neighborhood streets to an overview of the region. Find a special interest map, like wine regions throughout France or boutiques along Magazine Street in New Orleans.
Use your map to mark a favorite spots during your trip — or to plan your next day. Write down your experiences and attach it to your map for an instant travelogue. Maps fold up small and are easy to pack on the trip home.
Bonus: you can share your map with friends when you get home, when they decide to go on a similar trip.
Most travelers know to shower before they fly. It’s common sense that when you’re going to be captive for hours, with no personal space, the last thing anyone needs is body odor. What some new travelers don’t realize is that even the tiniest amount of aftershave or perfume can be toxic to cooped-up fliers.
At home, your loved one may adore the smell of your fu-fu, but people sitting near you on a packed flight, will not — and there is just no way they can get away from it.
So, to recap: shower; wear fresh, clean clothes; but please hold the cologne.