Jerri Courtney Certified Italy Specialist
We loved to travel long before we started our own travel agency (Travel All Over). I invite you to take a peek inside our luggage to see some of the tips we have picked up along the way.
What I pack . . .
Carry-on
This is the bag that I keep with me during air or train travel. I try to pack anything I can’t live without.
Important: Before packing this and other bags, check the latest airline security regulations at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). (Check with us about the current size allowances.)
My Essentials
- medications-in the original containers
- make-up, toiletries (check TSA for what is allowable)
- toothbrush and paste
- at least one change of clothing
- change of shoes
- Band-Aids, antiseptic ointment
Handbag (“Personal Item” in airline lingo)
- pocket tissues (restroom backup!)
- lipstick, comb, mirror
- sunglasses, spare reading glasses
- Digital Camera
- travel documents (tickets,vouchers, reservations, itinerary)
- traveler’s checks & cash
Valuables
Especially for international travel, I carry cash, credit cards, passport, etc. in a pouch that I can wear under my shirt. A variety of such pouches often can be found in department stores, and even in some office supply stores. I leave any other valuables at home.
What Larry packs:
Carry-on
- any needed medications
- shaver
- toothbrush and paste
- shower gel, shampoo-again, check the TSA regulations
- at least one change of clothing and possibly shoes
the numbers for the traveler’s checks in case of loss - Digital Camera
- copies of travel documents
Laptop
This is considered the usually allowable personal item. (Check with TSA and the specific airline.) Current regulations require laptops to be removed from their cases as they go through security checks.
Additional Luggage
I try to keep the number of bags to a minimum. I make sure I remove old airline tags before I leave. Destination tags will be added at the airport. Removing the old ones helps to avoid misdirected luggage. We usually tie a short piece of colorful ribbon on the handles to make our bags easier to identify. Consider including a 3×5 card with name, address, and phone number inside each bag.
Additional Tips
Shoes
Most airline security checks require that you take off your shoes, so wearing slip-ons could make this process easier. When I pack shoes, I stuff socks in them to save space, and then wrap them with gift wrap tissue. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Saving Space
- Both of us coordinate around one or two basic colors that will mix and match, resulting in fewer items and fewer shoes.
- Cotton knits resist wrinkles and can be gently rolled to save space.
- A good jacket or blazer that coordinates with the basic color scheme can complete several outfits.
- I pack a fold-up zippered tote to carry home special treasures.
Traveling with children
I pack a tote for each child and fill it with activities, little snacks, and a small trip journal where they can write or draw their memories as we go. Again, for airline travel check with TSA. This site has a page devoted to traveling with children.
International Travel
Do I Need a Passport? A Visa?
A valid passport is required for all travel outside the United States and its territories. As soon as you make travel plans, find out what documents are required. Visit the U. S. State Department travel site travel.state.gov for the most current information.
Electric Appliances?
Other countries often don’t have 110 volts as we do in the U. S. Ask us about your specific destinations.
Handy Items: Travel alarm, sewing kit, laundry bag, fold-up umbrella, address book, language dictionary.