Four not to ignore when trying to pack lightly

When I travel for a week or less, I like to take one carry-on because I know I’ll get to my destination with all I need and without the worry of my checked luggage being lost. Most airlines are charging for checked bags today and that is an additional expense. In addition, it also makes the most out of those few precious vacation days – not spending any extra time waiting for my bag means I’m out of the airport and getting to my hotel that much faster.

I’m not saying it is easy, but the key to light packing for your seven-day trip is organization! First tip before you even start – cut everything you think you need in half, proceed from there.

1. Remember you get your carry-on and a personal item. That personal item can be a large duffel or a satchel, as long it fits underneath the seat in front of you, its all good. Ladies, a small purse can be put inside this item for use when you arrive at your destination. I recommend choosing something that is pliable enough to fit as much as you can in it and be able to squeeze it to fit! Backpacks are an excellent choice. Pay attention to size limits. Airlines are usually diligent about checking... some budget or a' la carte carriers are charging for any size carry-on now, too. 

2. Space saver bags really work! They can be purchased anywhere (WalMart, Target, Amazon) and don’t require a vacuum, just put in your clothing, roll, and get all the air out. They are reusable and much less expensive than checking a bag (or two)!!

3. Make a list! Obviously, underwear, pants and shirts are critical, however, I suggest buying toiletries at your destination to save room. If you absolutely can’t leave home without your toothbrush, all the big box stores or Amazon will carry travel sized products. If you are going somewhere that you will need a coat and boots – wear them! It’s a lot easier to pack tennis shoes than boots. Electronics are another essential, you don’t want to forget your tablet and all needed chargers.

4. Finally, your paperwork such as your passport, identification, and boarding pass, should be easily accessible in your personal item. You will also want to be able to grab your paperback book or Kindle for enjoying on your flight. 

 Try traveling light on your next trip – enjoy the freedom of less really being more! 

Photo by Ralf Cornesse, used with permission.

 #travel4less

Is Travel Insurance the one essential to pack?

Traveling is a joy. It makes life fun and exposes us to the world. It is also an investment and as with any investment it needs to be protected. Life happens, illness, death, or last-minute business responsibilities do occur. Protecting your trip with trip cancellation coverage means you will be able to recover out-of-pocket expenses for these reasons and some occasions you may not think about when you book your trip.

Don’t wait too long to get your travel insurance. The earlier you buy your insurance, the bigger the coverage window. Generally, you need to buy your plan within 14 days of travel to be eligible for pre-existing medical condition coverage (not available on all policies).

How does this work in practical terms? Picking a plan that includes trip cancellation benefits is the most common. Imagine two days before your cruise to the Bahamas you come down with an infection that makes it impossible to travel, the cruise line would tell you it is passed the cancellation date and too late to get a refund. With travel insurance, you can be reimbursed for your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs.

Choose your plan carefully and think of the types of things that could happen to YOUR trip. Here’s a list of events you may want to consider: trip interruption coverage would cover expenses of a different ticket or hotel if a flight being cancelled leaves you stranded; terrorism coverage; trip insurance that covers financial default if your airline or cruise line goes into bankruptcy; coverage for luggage that is lost, stolen or damaged and finally medical evacuation coverage. This is a must for people who love to travel to countries where the medical care is inadequate. This type of coverage arranges transportation to the best, closest medical facility and in many cases, back to the USA. This is the type of emergency that can cost tens of thousands of dollars and no matter what your age, anything can happen.

My favorite reason to travel is to relax, rejuvenate and appreciate life. Travel insurance gives me the peace of mind to just simply enjoy and know that any problems that may come up will be taken care of.

Image by Wiroj Sidhisoradej, used with permission

Three destinations to travel solo like a pro

Sometimes we all just want to get out – a trip away from everything and everyone! Solo travel is an option that provides you the opportunity to save, and do your own thing without accommodating another’s schedules or interests. Not everyone likes to travel. Family responsibilities, pets or work schedules may be prohibitive for a couple or a family to take a vacation together. Why not consider some of these spots to visit on your own?

New York City is also a choice for someone who wants to get away for two or three days and pursue your own interests. New York is easy to reach, fun to explore and offers a plethora of solo traveler fun. Shopping is always amazing, but you can also take in a Broadway show, or wander around the West Village and revel in the unique ambiance. Another fun treat for you may be a stay at a luxury hotel that would not be practical if you were traveling with the family!

The beautiful Cajun city of New Orleans is also a must-see destination. Going by yourself would give you a chance to walk the streets and just enjoy the amazing feel of this old city. There is so much more to see and do than party on Bourbon Street. Enjoy some beignets, walk the old French Quarter at your leisure or take a tour of an old cemetery! The St. Charles Street streetcar is the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world and only costs $1.25 for a one-way ride. The St. Charles travels from the edge of the French Quarter down beautiful St. Charles Avenue onto tree-lined South Carrollton Avenue. You will see the massive, live oaks that are characteristic of this iconic city while passing restaurants and shops full of character.

A bucket list destination could be Tuscany, Italy. VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations recommends Tuscany to solo travelers because English is widely spoken and the fabulous variety of experiences available. Tuscany is a premiere destination for sipping wine and dipping Italian bread in local olive oils, but Firenze, the capital city, is famous for its Renaissance art and architecture. Walk at your leisure and absorb the history and culture of this amazing town. Pisa, the most famous city in the region is a photographer’s dream. It is home to cobblestone streets, more than 20 historical churches and of course, the Leaning Tower. 

Michele Piacquadio image, used with permission.

Three fun, affordable destinations

Looking for a fun trip that is affordable? Here are some awesome destinations right here in the USA!

San Antonio, Texas, is home to the Alamo and several other famous missions that are part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. San Antonio is also home to the famous River Walk or Paseo del Rio as the locals say. The River Walk is San Antonio’s most visited attraction and is located along the banks of the San Antonio River through the center of the city and connects major attractions like Brackenridge Park and the San Antonio Museum of Art. There are rows of fabulous restaurants and sidewalk cafes with street performers and Mariachi music. During January and February, the weather is between 65 and 70 degrees – great for walking and enjoying the sites while escaping the cold and snow up North.

Portland, Oregon, is calling all Foodies! Portland is becoming a must-visit in the Pacific Northwest. It's a cultural Mecca with the most pedestrian-friendly streets in the country, lined with food carts and some of the most affordable and diverse street food to be found anywhere. Enjoy locally roasted coffee or visit one of the many upstart breweries. There is a myriad of art galleries through which to stroll and, if you're in the mood, get out and conquer the trails for hiking or biking. This progressive and hip city truly has it all!

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, is a family place that is historical, educational, and fun! Walk with the likes of Benjamin Franklin and George Washington (costumed actors who roam the city). Absorb the feel of what it was like to live when our founding fathers were alive. Several of the attractions have some hefty admission fees, but the trick to making it affordable is to purchase the multi-day combo pack. You can explore all the Colonial Williamsburg sites and trade shops as well as two art museums with unlimited shuttle service around the city for $50 for adults and $25 for youth.

Whether you drive or choose to fly, head to www.bookitmarci.com and register for a free Vortex account offering you discounted prices on all your travel or simply click “Contact Us” and let Marci put together an affordable and fun itinerary for you!

image by Sean Pavone, used with permission