travel tips and tricks: how to enjoy the “getting there” too

Some people disagree, however. I can understand that. It can be a bit of a hassle. But, with a few tricks, you can make it more enjoyable than headache-inducing. As a veteran, here are my tips (some are related to specific means of travel, some are not):

1. Be comfortable. If you don’t plan at all what you’ll wear the day of, you will most likely end up too hot, too cold, all tangled up at the security checkpoint, sore and cranky, or possibly all of the above.

Make it easy on yourself. Dress in layers (make sure whatever’s closest to your body is something you feel comfortable wearing in public – security checkpoints will probably make you get to whatever is the most form-fitting that is still appropriate in public); wear flats that are comfortable and easy to slip on and off (another fun thing to do at the checkpoints); don’t wear a lot of jewelry and things with metal like belts (also fun at checkpoints).

Personally, I like a pair of skinny jeans I can roll up and down, a nice looking top, a cardigan, a jacket (I get cold), and my Mary Jane Crocs (sooo comfy to walk in). If you want accessories but not jewelry that will set off the metal detector, maybe opt for a scarf instead.

Here are some other ideas:

2. Pack light. Checking bags is a hassle. And it’s getting expensive to boot! Save yourself the $50 for souvenirs and pack a carry-on. And if all else fails, you have everything with you. Make it easy on yourself – get a bag that has 4 wheels (much easier to maneuver) and a long-enough handle. I got a Victorinox Swiss carry-on bag at Marshalls for $60 – great investment.

As far as clothes go, instead of packing by outfit, consider packing several essentials that can be mixed and matched. Don’t forget to count what you’re wearing! I think some good go-tos are:
– a striped tee          -a solid tee          – a cardigan (plus the one you’re already wearing)
– pants (add to what you’re wearing)        – a button-up shirt (chambray is amazingly versatile)
– a pencil skirt (can be dressed up or down)       – a dress       – an extra pair of nice shoes.
Obviously incorporate whatever is seasonally appropriate.

If you’re looking for more ideas, bloggers who are masters of remixing and essentials are Merrick of Merrick’s Art, Jackie of Sweetie Pie Style, Julie of Peanut Butter Fingers, and Audrey of Putting Me Together.