I never have time to do more than learn the basics with any new piece equipment or program with my busy schedule - so I use my flight time to learn short-cuts, special features and program my cell phone with speed dial numbers. Robyn B., Sacramento, CA.

I'll never forget traveling with the CEO of my company when flight delays resulted in a 1:00 a.m. arrival time at our destination. Connections, flight times and delays caused us to miss all meals on a cross-country flight. At the hotel he discovered the mini-bar missing from his room. My room's mini-bar was empty. So he persuaded the night clerk to open the hotel gift shop only to find a package of peanuts and some breath mints. Helene Y, Portland, OR.

On an extended trip to Arizona, my brother was in charge of watching our house. He'd check everything once a week. The next Sunday when he arrived he had the surprise of his life - upon opening our front door a wall of water gushed forth, apparently the hose to the washing machine had burst from the constant water pressure and had flooded our entire first floor. Everything had to be replaced including flooring, drywall, carpeting and even our appliances. I now tell everyone how important it is to turn off your appliances! Eleanor M., Mt. Clemens, MI.

• Airline Carry-on rules are stricter.
  To avoid delays or hassles at the airport check-in remember to use common sense with carry-on items.
  • Expect delays due to more questions and id checks at airports.
  • Stricter airline regulations now prohibit any knifes or blades as carry-on items. Please help by removing any such items from your carry-on luggage, no matter how innocent the items may appear (any cutting instruments, nail files, cork screws, pen knifes or any sharp tools).
  • When in doubt, transport items to check-in area.

  As of today, October 8, 2001 FAA regulations limit carry-on baggage. The allowance is now one carry-on, plus one personal item, i.e. a purse, briefcase, laptop, small backpack, etc. Susan W.

• Airline pillows and blankets.
  Did you know the blankets and pillows on airlines are repeatedly used without being washed or laundered? Research disclosed through news media reveals these items may contain e-coli bacteria and a host of other organisms. Children and elderly are especially vulnerable. Keep them safe and healthy knowing their airline comfort materials are clean and free of life-threatening bacteria. Use airline pillows only for back support on long flights (they make good lumbar support). Take along our Bucky Pillow. I won't travel without mine.

• Ask for seat assignments.
  Avoid long waiting lines by asking for seat assignments when making reservations. If your choice is unavailable, call back a week before the flight. Check the airline web sites for the latest flight updates and schedule changes. Ask for bulkhead seats when traveling with little ones (more room to stand without going into the aisle and no worries about them kicking the seat in front).

• Flying attire (warrants repeating).
  It's not just enough to say wear comfortable clothing when flying, as comfortable takes on a different meaning for some travelers. Wear loose fitting clothes with elastic waists, take along a sweater or jacket in case it's chilly. Wear low heel shoes for both comfort and safety. It's best not to travel in shorts, short sleeves, bare mid-drifts or flammable materials (need I say more?). If business travel is a must (for women), that may mean wearing nylons; try support hose to help reduce leg swelling. Take a pair of short cotton socks along to slip on if you remove your shoes.

  My husband is a pilot who has some very sensible rules about what to wear when traveling by air. Fire is the greatest danger in any type of air mishap and he has taught me to dress defensively. Wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to protect arms and legs. Wear fabrics that don't melt, and cover feet with socks and wear closed heel and closed toe shoes. Carla C., Nashville, TN.

• Ask for directions.
  If you find yourself unfamiliar with the area you are traveling to be sure ask for a map and directions to where you are going, and back! Many rental agencies have computerized directional information kiosks: type in where you want to go and it prints a map with detailed directions starting at the rental parking lot. Or use services like MapQwest. Be sure to take a business card from the rental agent: if you have questions or problems, you have someone local to call. Take along your cell phone. Calls might be expensive (due to roaming charges) but it might just save you in case you run into trouble. Many rental car companies have cellular phones to rent - inquire about them when making reservations.

• Car rental check list.
  Upon finding your rental car familiarize yourself with all the controls; do not assume that this car works like the one you have at home. Go over everything, wipers, mirrors, lights, horn, locks, heater/AC, radio, seat controls, check gas gage, etc. Then carefully inspect the outside of the car for any damage to the body, fenders, lower portion and glass (even light damage such as chipped paint, door dings, scuffs, etc.). Check the tires and wheel covers too. Next check the interior for stains and rips in the upholstery and carpeting. If something doesn't work or the car is damaged make sure to report it to the attendant. Have them note any damage on the rental agreement and have them sign it. Failing to do these steps may result in you being charged for damage someone else did!

• Car rental insurance.
  Check your auto insurance policy to see if they cover you for collision, liability and medical insurance when you rent a car. You may want to take a copy of your policy along. Double check when renting automobiles overseas, you may not be covered or may need an international drivers license. Verify with your credit card company that they cover rental cars if you reserve with their card. If covered elsewhere, decline the extra costly insurance on the rental agreement. When traveling for business, confirm with your travel manager for company policy on car rental insurance procedures.

• Getting what you paid for.
  Double check the rate before signing any paper work. Insist on the car you reserved. Be persistent; if the car you reserved isn't available ask for upgrades at the original rate or lower rental rates for lesser cars. Cars are distributed on a first-come basis and often are limited to a few of the special vehicles (like vans, four-wheel drives and convertibles).

• Shop for rates.
  Make arrangements for your rental car at the same time as your flight or travel plans. Check your credit card billing envelopes and frequent flyers programs for special discounts or ask the airline if they have special offers with rental car companies. Ask about local surcharges and taxes. Never pay full rack rates: there's just too many good deals now. Surf the web! Deal with nationally known car rental companies (they can service you anywhere) but comparison shop. Get the facts on charges for insurance, gas, mileage, different destination drop off fees, etc. ask for it in writing. Any discounts you get disappear in a hurry with the extra charges.

• Smart tips to follow when alone or at night.
  Ask that your rental car be brought to the office or to a well lighted area when renting at night. This makes vehicle inspection easier and lessens your vulnerability.

  I had an un-nerving experience when renting a car very late at night. It was defiantly the graveyard shift with only one attendant in the office. Once the paperwork was signed, the clerk handed me the keys and pointed me to the lot. The rental lot was miles from the airport and the car lot some ways from the office. It was a foggy, dark night and the lot poorly lighted. I felt as if someone was watching me, yet I made my way in the dark to my rental car out in the hinterland. I hurried, opened the car, tossed my bags on the front seat and locked the doors. The car would not start.

  As I ponder what to do next, I realized there was a man standing at my window. I almost jumped out of my skin! He apologized for startling me, he said he worked there and just came on-duty. Although I was apprehensive, he did have on a uniform and appeared to have authority. He stated, the car I had been given was in for repair and that the night clerk should have known not to assign this car. We did get things straightened out and I was on my way - with enough adrenalin to keep me awake for my five hour drive.

  Since that time I never go out in the lot to pick up my car at night and I insist that the car be brought to the well-lighted office. This way, I know the car starts and I can review it in someone else's presence. Annette Z., President & Creator, Christine Columbus.

• Time Saving Tips.
  Most airports have moved car rental dealers to offsite locations, requiring you to be transported to their offices. Time saving tool when traveling with someone is: have the driver go to the rental desk while the other person waits for luggage. It might put you ahead of the crowd and avoid long waiting lines. The driver can then pick up travel compaions at the arrival gate all without having to transport the luggage twice.

Jet lag can spoil a trip. My husband and I were so looking forward to our first trip to Hawaii. What we hadn't anticipated was spending two days out of our five day trip flat on our backs in bed too sick to move or enjoy our fabulous Waikiki view. We thought we had the flu. Our symptoms included; dizziness, headache, lost of appetite, fatigue, body aches, and even swollen feet. We heard of jet lag of course, but hadn't actually understood it. It's not to be taken lightly and avoided at all costs. Now when we travel, we bring our own purified water and drink a quart for every hour we fly.Clarie M., Grosse Pointe, MI

• Brush your teeth using bottled water.
  When on the road, brush your teeth using bottled water to avoid contamination from unsafe tap water. Sanitize your toothbrush and other cosmetic brushes by running them through a dishwasher cycle upon your return home. Or use 1 part bleach to 3 parts boiling water and raise well with clean water. This also helps kill bacteria and germs. Replace your toothbrush often when traveling internationally.

• Easy ice cold water for any travel occasion.
  Whether you are driving around town or crossing the continents, nothing refreshes better then a cold drink of water. Half-fill clean plastic pint or quart bottles with water and freeze. Once frozen - fill remaining half with water, you'll have icy cold water for hours. Keep a supply of these bottles in the freezer for any occasion. Works well with water-based drinks, too!
  Insert the Sip-Master water purifier straw to filter out water bourne bacteria, viruses and contaminants.

• Economical Water Advice
  Pack a small, portable container for toting water. When arriving at your destination, buy large jugs of water as well as a small portable size. Refill the small portable container from the large jugs. Gallon jugs of water cost about the same as small containers, but will yield many "free" refills! Submitted by AJL on 3/3/03

  Space conscious travelers can take a tip from backpackers - Collapsible lightweight plastic water bottles (available at camping supply stores) are designed to take up less space when empty.

• Save money on water drinks.
  Save those nifty sports caps from water bottles for use on other water or soda bottles. Pop a couple in your travel bag for use anywhere and bank the extra cents water drinks with sports caps cost.

• Enjoy a cool minty wash.
  Carry a damp wash cloth in a plastic zip-lock bag to wipe road grime from face and hands. As a double refresher, add a citrus peel, an ice cube and a sprig of lavender or mint.

• Hot, Sunny Climates
  Wear loose fitting, light-weight natural cotton garments that allow your skin to breath. Avoid lots of perfume, especially if you will be around insects that are attracted to pollen. Wear a stylish packable straw hat to avoid scalp burns.

  Hot climates melt lipsticks. Use lip pencils instead.

• Hydrate to prevent jet lag.
  Drink plenty of water while flying. Did you know that you lose 8oz. of fluid for every hour you fly? Avoid alcohol and too much soda pop. After long flights flush your system with as much water as possible. It helps prevent jet lag.

• Pack a foot care kit.
  Tired, sore feet are a travelers worst enemy. Soothe feet with peppermint lotion and slip into white cotton socks. Take along mole skin, corn pads and band aids for blisters and sore spots. Take a pumice sponge or try an exfoliate for callused heels. Take well worn comfortable shoes.

  I wear socks with sandals in hot climates. I wore open brown sandals and thought the dye rubbed off on my toes. But I forgot to put sunscreen on my feet, and my toes turned so brown they looked dyed. Yvonne.

• Pack a mini spa kit
  Pack a mini spa kit (perfumed soap, wash cloth, scented lotion) for relaxing after a hard day.

• Recyclable Toiletry Containers
  For short trips, film canisters make great containers for things such as shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, etc. Fuji are the best ones I've used as they seal very well and are translucent. Submitted by Jessie K. on 3/21/03

  Before filling any reusable container sterilize to avoid cross-contamination. Upon filling leave room for liquids to expand. Avoid leaky messes by sealing liquid containers (including creams and lotions) in leak-proof zip close bags. Always label any re-packed toiletries.

• Preparing for visitors
  It's hard being the hostess, but, often it's harder being the guest. The key to success is information. Make it easy on yourself by inquiring about your traveling family and friends living habits. Planning ahead is easier one everyone. Before arrival ask basic questions of your visitors. Examples: Will stairs be a problem? Is a first floor bedroom needed? Is there a need for a walk-in shower or oversize bath tub? House temperature setting - preference cool, warm or hot?

Have your information and payment method ready to give to the clerk. If you have preferences on bed size, room size or location, smoking or non-smoking, let the clerk know right away.

Always tip the waiter or chamber maid in the first few days of a long stay in a resort. You will nearly always find they look after you exceptionally well (change of towels, speedy service at the bar after meals, etc.)Sarah

• Seasoned Travele'rs Advice on Luggage.
  It's true that it's getting harder to travel today, tighter security measures, more restrictions on what we can take and how to pack it. Yet, practically speaking things that most season travelers have been doing for years are the best advice for all of us. Only travel with items that can be replaced if lost or stolen, never place valuable items in check-in luggage and cooperate with airport security friendly and patiently. Airport security has asked travelers to keep their check-in as well as carry on luggage unlocked. Luggage handling at airports has become more sophisticated and luggage handlers are also under tighter scrutiny, fewer bags are lost or misplaced and every piece of luggage is being matched to passengers on board.

• Inspect luggage for damage.
  Inspect luggage for damage after every trip. This allows time to have repairs made or purchase replacement pieces before your next trip.

• Count your luggage.
  Keep track of luggage, carry-on's, strollers, etc. by the item count. At each destination (car, airport, hotel...) count off the items so nothing gets left behind. Remember to change the number if you add a tote for your souvenirs.

• Use luggage tags.
  Cut down on lost luggage by using luggage tags and affix a copy of your current itinerary to the inside of each bag. Most luggage is recovered but often unidentified due to missing ID tags. Print and fill out a couple copies of our Packing Checklist as a list of items taken. See Luggage Tags.

There are many methods to keep your clothes wrinkle-free as you travel. I like to use plastic bags from the dry cleaners for silk blouses, cotton shirts, skirts or dresses. The bags are lightweight, and the plastic protects the clothes if something leaks.

For long distance trips where clothes will be suitcased for several hours, I bring either no wrinkle spray or a travel iron to help keep clothes crisp and fresh.

Another helpful item is a set of inflatable hangers. Some hotels provide a limited supply of hangers, and motels seem to forget you need them. I once hung my clothes over each other during a two week stay on a Carribean Island. When I packed to go home, I realized I had two outfits lurking in the folds of my homebound trenchcoat.

Wear your heaviest or bulky clothes and shoes on the plane, train or bus. Travel with items that have multiple uses. For instance, I use a compact hair roller set that includes clips. I use the clips to hold my hair in place when I shower, or to hang laundered items from hangers.

Pack only two pair of shoes. The third pair will be on your feet. A nice pair of "flats" can double as dress shoes or walking shoes. You can always play golf in athletic shoes, and these can double for other activities as well.

Pack clothes that are versatile, color-coordinated, and can be layered. Coats do not need to be bulky and heavy to be effective. My favorite is a lightweight, packable trench coat that is stylish and takes less room than a book.

A large square scarf can double as a shawl, blanket, sash, accessory, or head covering. Color, fabric, texture and design determine how stylish you want to be.

One of my best "travel finds" is getting 75% more packing room by using the travel Space Bag™. These wonderful bags condense bulky items like sweaters, jackets, towels, coats and diapers.

Now you can bring home that sweater you found in Peru, or the area rug you loved in India!

Submitted by Kat on 7/19/01

Roll socks or underwear and put them into your shoes.

I don't like to wait in baggage claim crowds, and I don't like surprises (like lost luggage) when I'm traveling. A roomy, wheeled carry-on bag that doesn't put a strain on my wrist, space-savers, and lightweight travel items such as a pencil-length, feather-light umbrella or a stylish packable trench coat that folds to the size of a portfolio, helps add space to my bag.

By color coordinating, I can pack enough clothes in a single carry-on bag to last five days without wearing the same outfit twice.

Limit shoes to three pair (including the ones on your feet: dress, walking, casual). Walking shoes should be interchangeable with dress shoes (e.g. works with slacks). Micro-fibre clothing is lightweight, warm, layered, requires less space, and works for any season.

Did you know that one ounce of makeup can last 30-days? Use sample sizes of makeup and perfume for travel. A lightweight travel hair dryer (even though hotels have them sometimes they don't work), or mini hot roller set guards against bad hair days while on the road.

Woolight soap packs keep lingerie or hosiery clean and smelling fresh, plus minimizes need to pack for daily changes. Pantyliners extend use of underwear - 3 pair equals 6 wearings.

Travel agents tell me the first question after clients book a trip is, "what should I pack?". First rule is, if your destination is near a clothing store, you can always find a wearable souvineer to match the weather. Second rule is, always take along layered clothing. It expands the wardrobe, and easily accomodates weather changes.

If you are traveling overseas, bring along items that may be more expensive at your destination. Film is a good example. Both quality and price can fluctuate greatly overseas.

Empty film canisters are great for packing small items like earings. Do not use them for pills though. The coating inside can contaminate pills or lotions.

I once was on a flight to Egypt and watched the lady next to me wading through her pregnant purse. She opened one compartment to reveal a year's supply of clipped coupons. I wondered why she would be taking them to Egypt. Eliminating the coupons would have elicited cheers from a weight watchers support group.

Poolside or beach towels are generally supplied at resorts or on cruises. If your destination is towel absent, and packing one is a must, use a space bag to reduce it's bulk and size.

If your trip is five days or less, you should only need a carry-on bag. A 30-day trip requires two bags at most, including space for souvineers.

A dear friend had a large expensive hand-painted Italian bowl shipped from Italy to Oregon. It arrived in two pieces due to substandard packing methods. Sturdy shipping boxes are difficult to find in many overseas countries. Plan ahead and pack a flat box, tape and mailing label. Avoid offers from store vendors to ship your purchase home. Use your box, pack your fragile item in newspapers and clothes you no longer need, and mail from a post office or express shipping company.

Toiletries, make-up and hair products account for most of the weight in a woman's suitcase. To minimize bulk and weight, buy samples of your favorite lotions, potions, sprays, deodorant. Set aside those make-up sample kits you receive from department store promotions. These are excellent for traveling. For instance, one ounce of make-up can last 30 days!

Another option is to purchase small plastic bottles and transfer lotions, make-up and other contents to the smaller containers. Test the caps before you leave for leaks. Liquid expands in the air during flight, so leave room to allow for expansion (suggest filling 3/4 full). Always put liquid items in sealed plastic bags.

I love my travel hair dryer. It fits in the palm of my hand, has dual voltage, is lightweight, and takes up little room in my suitcase.

Before filling any reusable container sterilize to avoid cross-contamination. Upon filling leave room for liquids to expand. Avoid leaky messes by sealing liquid containers (including creams and lotions) in leak-proof zip close bags. Always label any re-packed toiletries.

• Expect delays due to more questions and id checks at airports.
• Stricter airline regulations now prohibit any knifes or blades as carry-on items. Please help by removing any such items from your carry-on luggage, no matter how innocent the items may appear (any cutting instruments, nail files, cork screws, pen knifes or any sharp tools).
• When in doubt, transport items to check-in area.

As of today, October 8, 2001 FAA regulations limit carry-on baggage. The allowance is now one carry-on, plus one personal item, i.e. a purse, briefcase, laptop, small backpack, etc. Susan W.

Do not open your hotel room door when someone knocks and announces Room Service, Security, Housekeeping, Bellman, Valet or any other hotel functional duty. Always look through the peephole to identify the person first. I always bring my personal portable door lock to use on doors with broken or missing chain or security locks

Call the front desk immediately if you have not ordered a service, and someone is asking you to open your door.

Never put detailed information on room service door tags. Order room service by phone.

Submitted by Laura on 7/31/01

Use the chain lock! I was in St. Louis on business, staying at a very well-known, highly respected hotel. I ordered room service, filling out the card and hanging it on the door to my room for pick-up. Someone obtained the information from the room-service door tag, then went to the front desk and stated he was my husband and needed a new key. He got a key to my room without presenting ID or verification from me.

At 2:00 a.m., I was awakened by the sound of my door being opened. A man's hand was trying to figure out how to get the security bar dislodged. I yelled at him that I was calling the police. He shut the door and left.

I called the front desk, whereupon the desk clerk blurted, "That was your husband!" I told her MY husband was home, in another state. The next morning I alerted the Hotel Manager, who became pale when I related the incident. Needless to say, I was very lucky!

• Be Prepared
  

  When traveling with children, at any age, sample sizes of shampoo, toothpaste, antiseptics, band-aids, lotion, sunscreen, and over the counter medications often come in handy. Sample sizes take up less space, and may be all you need.

  Submitted By Kelly on 1/22/01

  Those moist towlettes you get on airlines are excellent for keeping in your car when kids hands get dirty or sticky.

• Pet Travel
  Check list for traveling with your Pet On-the-Go!

My husband is a pilot who has some very sensible rules about what to wear when traveling by air. Fire is the greatest danger in any type of air mishap and he has taught me to dress defensively. Wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to protect arms and legs. Wear fabrics that don't melt, and cover feet with socks and wear closed heel and closed toe shoes. Carla C., Nashville, TN.

• Build on a solid foundation.
  Start with a foundation of one basic color (black, navy or tan). Solid slacks, skirts and jackets are more versatile and can be mixed and matched with printed tops. Lay out items and see how many ways you can wear each piece. Avoid taking outfits that won't coordinate with other items. Fewer dresses, more skirts, slacks and jackets.

• Comfortable and expandable clothing is key.
  Take items that are comfortable and you feel good in. Just as you should never take new shoes on a trip, you should not take all new clothes. Your weight may fluctuate - especially if flying long distances and eating foreign cuisines. Select clothes that have expandable waists and belt loops.