Travel: Prep for that Dream Trip

It’s June, and for many of us that means vacation. But if you’re like me, getting ready to travel can also cause stress. It doesn’t have to, though. Check out some ways to keep that dream trip from turning into a nightmare:

• Avoid using black luggage. If you do so, tie a ribbon to the handle for easy identification. Also, purchasing a super bright bag that will get you targeted as an American. The same goes for clothing. Don't take a red ski jacket to Europe.

• Keep a separate cosmetic kit for travel-only use. Fill it with all the usual stuff. But make sure you also include your travel insurance card, your vision Rx, and an empty pill bottle. The latter will remind you to pack your medications. When it’s time to go, fill the empty bottle and toss it in your carry-on. Always in your carry-on. Once—and only once—I packed my meds in checked luggage. When that bag got lost, I went a few days without allergy meds in a high-allergy environment. Not a fun way to spend Christmas. Never again….

• Carry a little flashlight in your handbag. Store it with the batteries turned upside down so that you won't run them down if the light gets knocked into the "on" position.

• Carry more than one kind of credit card. If Visa flags your account as having unusual activity, your Mastercard will keep you from having to do dishes at the restaurant after dinner.

• Take your Starbucks card for international layovers. In some places you can use it to avoid changing currency just to buy a cup of joe.

• Take a good story with you. And if you finish it while traveling, leave it behind for someone else to discover and enjoy.

Bon voyage!