Travel

Smart Tips For Travelers

Posted: 9/30/2011

A little forethought can help your next trip be one you’ll long remember with delight.

(NAPSI)—Any time can be a good time to travel. The next time you take to the road, these six tips can make your trip more enjoyable:

1. Pack light.

Bringing less makes it easier to pack up the car or avoid checking bags at the airport to save time and possibly money. If traveling by train, you may have to lug your own luggage on board. Plus, many historic and foreign hotels don’t have elevators.

2. Confirm all travel arrangements in advance.

You’ll save yourself the frustration of showing up at a hotel and finding it has no record of your reservation. Or running to the airport to find your flight has been delayed or canceled. Check reservations online or, even easier, via smartphone apps.

3. Bring all necessary documentation.

In addition to any road trip, you’ll need your driver’s license if you go through airport security or want to rent a car. If going to another country, even Canada or Mexico, bring your passport. Check its expiration date early on, as renewals can take several months.

4. Make airport security checks easier.

Wear shoes that slip on and off easily and socks to keep bare feet off the floor. Have your driver’s license or passport and boarding pass in hand. Check online for the latest security restrictions for both checked luggage and carry-ons, as they vary by airline.

5. Follow quarantine restrictions.

Be aware that the USDA won’t allow certain food and agricultural products purchased abroad into the U.S. Even some U.S.-grown items can’t move out of certain states because they could spread pests or diseases. This is especially true for citrus, an ever-popular gift. Some areas, including all of Florida, are under quarantine for citrus greening disease, which threatens citrus nationwide. Get the facts on citrus quarantines at www.saveourcitrus.org. For information on foreign agricultural items, visit www.aphis.usda.gov/permits.

6. Be money savvy.

Inform credit card companies of any cards that may be used out of town, so they won’t deny purchases. If going overseas, make sure to bring your PIN number. You’ll get a better exchange rate by exchanging currency at your destination, including drawing money from an ATM compatible with your home bank.

Follow these travel tips and your trip should go more smoothly, leaving you with more time to truly enjoy your vacation.