Pack for easy access – Packing tip

by Gadling Staff on

When packing for a long trip, it’s essential to pack items for easy access. You don’t want to rummage through your luggage each time you need something.

Placing items that will be least used — or used last — at the bottom of your suitcase or bag will help eliminate “bag rummage.” Think of the order in which you’ll use items and pack accordingly. Items used frequently or that will be used the soonest should be packed near the top.

When packing small items, pack them in containers inside luggage so they don’t end up at the bottom of your bag.

[Ed’s not: this is useful for carry-on luggage, as well. You don’t want to be digging through your day bag trying to find a pen to fill out the immigration card.]

Bring a swimsuit – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

When going on a road trip, you often have no idea which stops you’ll make along the way. You may have a planned destination, but not every stop will be outlined in advance. When I think of road trips, I think of long distance and this is a reason you should bring a bathing suit: You may decide to stay all night at a hotel — or you may find a great view by a lake.

Although the ideal decision may be to go skinny dipping in the lake, it may not be legal to do so in some of the states you’ll pass through. That’s why it’s always a great idea to bring a bathing suit — just in case.

(And who knows? You can always ditch the suit at the shoreline, if you want to!)

6 essential items to be sure to pack – Cruise tip

by Gadling Staff on

After you print your tickets and grab your passport, the next thing you need to do is pack the following six items:

  1. A power strip or extension cord (most rooms only have ONE power outlet).
  2. A shoe hanger for extra bathroom storage. Counter space is limited.
  3. A bungee cord to hold open the balcony door.
  4. A bathroom air freshener.
  5. Ziploc bags, so you can take room service food on shore excursions.
  6. A large Plastic mug or plastic cups.

Rent an RV – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

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.

Save money for the departure tax – International travel tip

by Gadling Staff on

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.