I travel all the time. Almost do it in my sleep.

But not everybody does, so I thought it would be helpful to share some of my routines and habits – some of the almost insignificant, tiny tips and tricks – especially as relates to international travel.

 

Black slacks – The adage “pack light” is true (even though I don’t always do it). But a well-fitting, comfortable pair of black slacks can suffice for almost any occasion. Nobody really notices what you wear anyway – especially below the waist. Ladies: pack an assortment of camisoles (for layering), blouses or tops, plus some jewelry and scarves and you’re good to go!

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Comfy shoes – You do NOT want blisters when you travel. I really like Clarks shoes and have a particular favorite that I bought in both black and off-white butter-soft leather. They breathe. They’re not too sporty/not too dressy – just right! (Alas, they no longer make these shoes, but I’ve written to the company and asked them to re-introduce this style! We shall see…)

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Airport Parking Deals – Driving to the airport? Live in a big city? There are a few different online booking sites to compare costs of the various off-airport parking lots – which can be significant, especially during holiday periods.

My favorite place to park at LAX is Fox Auto Parks. Nothing fancy, but they provide valet service, frequent shuttles (which pick up under the purple “rental car” sign at LAX), and their prices are almost always the best.

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Apps:
a. Google Translate – Download this app. It’s really handy! And fun, too. Another suggestion is iTranslate.

b. Google Maps – And here’s a suggestion I found online (that I’ve not tried): Once you’ve accessed a map page on Google Maps, type “OK Maps” (without the quotation marks) in the search bar. The map displayed on your screen will be saved directly onto your smartphone, tablet or other device. You’ll be able to access that map when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi.

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Money Stuff – This is a bonus category with three handy tips:
a. Dollar Bills – Get a wad of dollar bills to tip your shuttle drivers, luggage handlers, maids*, and other service providers you’ll encounter – both here and abroad. Even if you get local currency at an airport ATM when you arrive in a country, they’ll be larger bills. Greenbacks are accepted everywhere. (Even better if they’re nice and crisp!)

* Kindly tip your maids a couple of dollars (or more) for every night of your stay. These women are seldom seen, work really hard, and usually have some kids to feed. I also scribble a quick thank-you note in their language. I’m certain it makes them smile to see a note of appreciation.

b. My Currency Converter – Another useful app, especially for tricky conversions.

c. Cash or Credit?  Correct Answer: both. Use your credit card (typically only Visa or MasterCard) wherever possible to get the most favorable exchange. (Be sure to alert the company as to your travel plans so they won’t suspect fraud and freeze your account.)  And, get some local currency from an ATM machine.

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Almost all charger cords for electronics are dual-voltage, so you no longer need one of those bulky voltage converters. An exception is for some heated appliances like curling irons, flat irons, etc. (Here in the U.S., our voltage is 110-120. In Europe they use 220-240V. Look on the engraving on the handle. If it says it’s 110-220 volts, then it is dual voltage. Just remember to flip the switch when you get there, and when you get back home.) If yours is not dual-voltage, it might be worthwhile to buy one. There are many good options – even some cordless ones – and they’re not expensive. Almost all hotels have hair dryers.

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Checked Luggage – (This one is so obvious, I shouldn’t need to mention it):
DO NOT PACK VALUABLES, PRESCRIPTION MEDS, ETC. in your checked luggage! Your bag WILL be lost or delayed sometimes. Make sure there’s nothing in it that you can’t live without.

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Cell Phone Plans – Contact your carrier to add a plan that will allow a lot of connectivity (data, voice, and/or text). These typically cost $10/day.

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And #10 . . .
Don’t ever, ever forget your sense of humor. Despite the anxiety, airports, and inconveniences – travel is SO worth it!

Thanks for sharing your travel tips!

– Marilyn Murphy