Travel Tips for the Timeless Traveler

Traveling can always be a pain for packing, but here are some tips to help make it better.

Perfume, lotions, and other such luxuries make such a mess when you travel. Consider getting travel sizes of all of these items. Even Wal-mart carries travel sizes of many common toiletries. For perfume you can often find an Avon or Mary Kay salesperson who might be willing to part with some of their samples for a small fee - or free with another purchase!

Pack all of your toiletries - toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, etc, in a large gallon-size plastic bag. Make sure you squeeze out all the air you can before sealing. This way if they do break or leak you can fill the bag with water and rinse off everything. It also keeps the spills from getting on your clothing.

Ever notice how you seem to bring back more than you took? Consider getting a collapsible bag or knapsack and pack it in side your luggage. Be sure to add another luggage tag and then when you find your suitcase is overfilled you can put the extra in the knapsack.

If you find that you like having lights on in unfamiliar settings pack a nightlight with your luggage. Include a pack of sticky notes, then when you plug in the nightlight put "light" on a sticky note and put it on the back of the door. This way you don't forget to take your nightlight back!

Make a photocopy of your passport, driver's license, birth certificate, Social Security Card, plane tickets, hotel reservations, etc. Keep one copy in your carry-on bag (in case your luggage gets lost) and give one copy to a trusted person back home. This way if something happens overseas or across the border you have someone that can help identify you as a citizen of your country. Keep your originals in your hotel room and carry the copies with you when you go out on the town - then if your wallet is stolen they only get the copies, not the originals.

When packing for a trip start planning a week ahead of time (if possible). Make a list of everything you need and keep it handy. As inspiration hits keep adding to the list. Then when you are ready to start packing you have a list of everything you need!

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