Now that airlines are charging fees for checked bags, more people are traveling light, bringing their bags into the cabin. That saves money on fees but it does not address transporting liquids and gels that are above the limits. You do have some options.
If you are visiting friends or relatives, you could
ship those supplies ahead or purchase them when
you arrive. Depending on your relationship with your
host(s), you could leave your supplies there for the
next time you visit.
If you are on vacation, buying supplies when you
arrive in quantities that you will use during your
journey is probably the best option. If you are
traveling to a foreign country, it would be a good
idea to get a list of the items that you will need in
the language of your destination. You could shop at
the
destination airport but prices are usually better
outside the airport. Alternately, a savvy hotel
concierge would see this as an opportunity to
provide a service and provide (sell)
supplies to their out of town guests. You could check
with your hotel prior to your trip to see if they
provide such a service.
Another option is to take dry shampoo for your hair and a cleansing bar soap for your face. Toothpaste can also be found in a powder form.
Finally, decide which items you absolutely need
and which items you can live without for the duration
of your trip. Most people agree that sunscreen is a
necessity but do you really need your expensive perfume?
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Finding a Travel Companion
Suppose you are looking for a travel companion and a friend or acquaintance expresses an interest in taking a trip with you. Do you set a travel date and start packing your bags? Not if you value your sanity and your friendship. Take some time to determine your travel personality, and then get to know the potential travel companion to see if you get along. Start out by going for lunch or coffee. If the first meeting goes well, take a day or overnight trip together.
Travel personality refers to personal habits and preferred travel activities. For example, you could be a(n):
Early riser or night owl
Talkative or quiet
Big budget or small budget
Fast food diva or local restaurant explorer
Very independent or very interdependent
Driver or passenger
Glass of wine with dinner or teetotaler
The level of rapport that travel companions enjoy directly affects the quality of a trip. Take your time choosing a travel companion.
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Money I: Should You Leave Home Without Your American Express?
Americans who recently traveled to Europe are reporting that American Express cards are not as widely accepted as they were at one time. If you do find yourself stuck with the card and unable to get use it, ocate the closest American Express office. Almost every major European city has one. If your credit limit allows, the office may give you a cash advance.
A friend who travels frequently takes a Visa debit card. It is linked to an account earmarked for travel and is separate from her main household and investment accounts to limit her exposure if the card is lost or stolen.
A monthly automatic deposit into the account is a great way to put aside money for your next trip.
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Travel Books
Traveling Solo: Willow Woman on the Road by Maria Richard
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Contact
Maria
Copyright © 2008 - 2011 by
Maria Richard