Travel Tips from Online Little Rock

Reduce Travel Frustrations

You have a computer. Use it to make packing lists for each family member.

Two things make our travel a happier experience: lists and good luggage. And, let's face it -- travel in the 21st Century means more airport security, more lines, more waiting and more frustration. Blame your frustration on the other guys. Don't frustrate yourself.

We've taken long, driving vacations, cruises, weekend road trips to Memphis, Dallas, New Orleans and those wonderful flights to the Caribbean. It was one such Caribbean flight in March 2004 that resulted in the purchase of new luggage. Not only were we upset about having to leave the sand and surf of the island, we flew into San Juan in what I like call a crop duster.

Okay, it was bigger than a crop duster; there were 12 ro 14 people on board. Upon arrival in Puerto Rico, the plane parked about as far from the terminal as possible and we took our luggage out of the cargo area to follow our guide to the customs section of the airport. Armed with two suitcases, two carry-ons and a laptop computer the two of us began the quarter-mile trek to customs.

The leather strap used to pull the luggage on its wheels did not offer the control of modern wheeled luggage and, after the big suitcase fell on its side for the fourth time in fifteen steps, I just picked it up. Shortly after arriving back in Little Rock, we got online and purchased new Travel Pro luggage. And, believe me, it is some fancy stuff! Rather than try to tell you all about it, just click that picture to the left to learn more.

Making a list and checking it -- ah -- umpteen times:
Men, you can very probably get all your stuff into a carry-on. Not so with the ladies. Plan accordingly and make certain she has modern luggage. If you need to do so, re-read the San Juan experience.

Passport Information Before you leave the United States, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. More and more countries seem to be insisting on that. For information about renewing your passport, visit the U.S. State Department: http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/renew/renew_833.html.

General Stuff:

Airline Tickets	Passport	Driver's License
Photocopy of Passport & DL	ATM Card	Credit Cards
Proof of Insurance	Itinery	Medical Info
Prescription Medication	Reservations	Emergency Phone #'s
Traveler's Checks	Glasses	Sunglasses
Camera	Batteries	Hair Dryer
Alarm Clock	Watch	First Aid Kit
Razor and Blades	Nail Clippers	Toothbrush
Shampoo & Conditioner	Deodorant	Comb, Brush

Air Travel Tips:

1. Do NOT pack or take prohibited items to the airport.
2. Avoid wearing shoes, jewelry, clothing or accessories that contain metal.
3. Put all undeveloped film and cameras with film in your CARRY-ON luggage.
4. Do not take butane cigarette lighters.
5. Place the following items in your CARRY-ON luggage prior to screening:
—Mobile Phones
—Keys
—Loose Change
—Money Clips
—PDA's
—Lighters
—Large belt buckles
—Large amounts of jewelry
—Metal hair decorations
6. Take laptop computers and video cameras out of their cases.
7. Take OFF your coat, jacket or other outerwear.