Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Common Packing Mistakes

The tendency to overpack ... throw in the boots in case of rain, throw in your entire stack of unread books in case of downtime. Below you will find a guide on what NOT to pack, helping to keep your luggage under the weight limits and much easier to handle ... maybe even to the point of being able to fly with only carry-ons.

1. Check what is prohibited.
The Transportation Security Administration has a whole list of items that are simply not allowed, in both carry-ons and checked luggage, such as weapons. Check the list and, if you are not sure, leave the item home.

2. Toiletries
Those full sized bottles of lotion and shampoo are not only heavy, they take up a lot of space and, if you want to fly with only a carry-on, are too big for the TSA 3-1-1 guidelines. Use trail-sized toiletries (Target has a great selection) or, if you MUST have a specific shampoo, buy small plastic bottles to fill with your favorites.

3. Clothing
If every item you pack cannot perform double duty, nix it. Pack clothes in mix and match neutral colors. Use scarves and shawls, ties and belts, as an addition to turn daytime outfits into colorful outfits for the evening. Accept the fact that you will hand wash a few items along the way. Choose clothing made from wrinkle resistant, quick drying fabric. If you'll be traveling to a cold climate, think layer. You don't need bulky coats and wool sweaters. Instead opt for silk long-johns, under a quick dry shirt, under fleece, under a windproof/waterproof jacket.


by: diane robbins

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Booking Air on Non-US Airlines

The better known travel sites, such as Expedia, Travelocity and Kayak, all favor U.S. airlines. But there is a world of other airlines out there, many of them offering seats at a lower price.

For your next trip abroad, you may want to use some of the following sites to research your air -- recommended by readers of International Travel New.

Vayama

ITA Matrix - site doesn't sell tickets but it shows flights and info

Air Treks -  according to an ITN reader, particularly useful for multiple city long-haul travel

Travelation

Sky Scanner - checks several airfare selling sites



by: diane robbins