I trust that each of you celebrated a lovely Thanksgiving, and that by now, you’ve run out of leftovers. I wanted to share with you some of the random travel tips that I collect over the course of the year that really don’t fall into any particular category. So, this week, in a nod to one of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions, the leftovers, enjoy these “leftover” tips.
~ The Real ID Act deadline for States to meet minimum ID standards is scheduled to begin May 3, 2023. Now is the time to make sure your ID is compliant with the new regulations. A compliant ID will be required to board domestic flights.
~ When renting a car do a quick walk around taking video with your smart phone of dings, scratches, etc before leaving the lot.
~ Leave your camo themed clothing at home. Did you know it’s illegal to wear camouflage in nearly a dozen different countries?
~ Before you leave home, check with your mobile provider to see what options you have for upgrading to an international plan. Or, better yet, unplug and enjoy your vacation!
~ Regardless of whether you are putting your mail on a vacation hold or having a neighbor collect it while you’re gone, did you know that with the USPS informed delivery program that you can see what is being delivered each day? You’ll get an email each morning showing what is scheduled for delivery and know whether or not you are missing anything important when you return home.
~ Don’t throw your packing list away when your suitcase is packed. Instead, put it in your suitcase so when it’s time to pack to come home you can use it to make sure nothing is missing.
~ When you are on vacation don’t eat at any restaurant that you can eat in at home. Stick to local restaurants, not chains. Seriously, you didn’t fly half way around the world just to eat a Big Mac.
~ Allocate 10% of your vacation budget to spend with local artisans and in turn support the local community and its citizens.
~ Give the gift of travel – this holiday season, more than most, our desire to travel is stronger than ever. The holidays are a great time to start planning that next vacation. I would be more than happy to help you plan out an itinerary to present this holiday season for travel in 2023 and beyond.