Check the alarm upon arrival – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

I don’t know if it’s the maid setting the room’s alarm clock as a prank, or the occupants prior to my stay. In any case, too many times I have been abruptly awakened to a blaring alarm or loud music booming at my head from the nightstand.

Not the best way to start off a relaxing vacation.

Therefore, it’s become my custom to check — and turn off! — the room-provided alarm clock when I first arrive so there will not be any surprises at dawn. Or worse: at pre-dawn.

[Photo: Flickr | Robert S. Donovan]

Prevent your liquids from spilling – Packing tip

by Gadling Staff on

Packing liquids in Ziploc bags doesn’t always cut it. It might protect everything else you packed from getting soaked if your shampoo leaks, but it won’t fix another problem: you need whatever might spill.

To stop leakiness in the first place, rip off small pieces from plastic shopping bags (the thinner supermarket kind work better than those from the mall) and stick them on top of each bottle before screwing the cap back on.

Your clothes and your liquid necessities are safe!

[Photo: Flickr | taberandrew]

Four tips for traveling with dogs – Road trip tips

by Gadling Staff on

Traveling with your beloved pooch often takes the same careful planning as hitting the road with young children. Utilize these tips to ensure a smooth ride:

  • Give your pup a thorough brushing before loading him into the car, greatly reducing the amount of flying fur.
  • Pack travel necessities for your road trip like water and a bowl, treats, paper towels, and cleanup bags.
  • Unless your dog requires specialty food, don’t try to squeeze a bag of food into your already packed car: stop and purchase a bag once you arrive.
  • Identify places to stop prior to leaving to assure your doggie can relieve himself and strech every few hours.

Bon voyage!

[Photo: Flickr | emdot]

Save on water – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

Looking for a way to reduce your travel bill but still remain hydrated? You don’t have to buy the water bottles in the room for five to ten bucks apiece, or resort to the hotel’s bathroom tap.

Go check out the fitness center in your hotel first! Most fitness centers will have a water dispenser — use that to fill up your reusable bottle, and you’ll not only be assured that you are getting it from a reliable and uncontaminated source, you could save quite a load on your bill.

[Photo: Flickr | Jason Pratt]