Jet-Set with Ease: Essential Travel Must-Haves for Stress-Free Adventures!
Booking travel is in full swing at the beginning of each year! Folks are down with the holidays and ready to plan for some fun in the sun or wherever you dream of heading. But there are a few things that you can have in your travel arsenal, that no matter where you choose to vacation, can make your trip so much easier and more enjoyable!! And with some of these travel must-haves, a small investment can bring many more years of stress free travel to come as well!
First off is my flight must have…..TSA Precheck! Even as someone who travels more than monthly, I still get a little edgy when it comes to going through TSA at the airport. But with TSA precheck, I can leave those moments of chaotic airport entry behind! Insert TSA Precheck! This is the government’s pre screening process that helps you to expedite your time going through the TSA lines at your respective airport. You can enroll for anywhere from $70-$85 and the membership is good for up to 5 years and can be renewed after that. Also, children under 17 can join an adult with recheck when the recheck symbol is on their boarding pass. And the best part about precheck, 99% of passengers with it, wait less than 10 minutes to get through screening and on their way!
Pro Tip:
You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.
If you are planning to leave the country or go on a cruise, a passport is your best friend! Even if not, there are so many benefits to having a US passport! Government services, eligibility for government jobs, the general benefits of traveling to hundreds of countries without obtaining a visa, assistance from the US embassy when traveling abroad and a host of other conveniences that would take me hours to go through. For a little less than $200, you can obtain a passport that is valid for up to 10 years (if you obtain it at the age of 16 or older) or up to 5 years if you are under the age of 16 when issued. Having your US passport on cruises, guarantees your reentry to the US if you should have to be held back in case of emergency, injury or illness. But keep in mind, when you travel, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel or it is considered invalid. Always check your status and expiration date when initially beginning to plan any out of country adventure!
Pro Tip:
Carry-on: Combined length + width + height of baggage must not exceed 45 linear inches. Individual length, width and height measurements may not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches, with no weight limit.
Another travel must have or at least must look into is travel protection. Now, I am not an insurance provider, so I generally do not advise in this area, only that you should research it and find the coverage that is right for you and your travel party. There are many companies that provide this protection at varied costs and levels of coverage from cancel for any reason protection, to a travel credit in the amount of money paid. Again, I don’t generally advise on this, but I can certainly point you in the direction of reputable companies that offer coverage that fits your type of travel.
Pro Tip:
Yes, you absolutely can take your lightsaber on a plane. The TSA lightsaber requirements allow you to pack your lightsaber in either your checked or carry-on luggage. While lightsabers are a common occurrence at airports in Orlando and Southern California, they might be less common at your local airport.
Next up, having a knowledgeable and experienced travel advisor! Someone who has traveled to your selected destination and knows the requirements, safety concerns, and can advise you of the easiest and smoothest course when on your journey. Having the expertise and the “insurance policy” of a travel advisor on your side can prove to be absolutely invaluable. From helping advise you of how to pack for the weather, to making sure you have the proper documentation for entry into destination, the list is literally endless. And the best thing is, having and keeping a trusted travel advisor at your side during planning and throughout travel is like having your own personal expert along every step of the way with first hand knowledge, ensuring the most enjoyable adventure possible! Also, at no cost to you, having me at your service only adds more value to your experience. Inside tips, suggestions on itinerary, things to avoid, and so much more. A well traveled and experienced advisor can be your best travel asset.
Pro Tip:
When traveling internationally you can sign up for STEP here:
What is STEP? The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free
service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living
abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or
Consulate.
Long story short, well planned and well prepared make your trip’s experience even better! I hope this helps put you on the right track to amazingly safe and fun travel that you will absolutely never forget!
