Traveling Together

Dear Travel Guru –

My boyfriend of 8 months and I are planning to travel together on a vacation. We haven’t really traveled much together before and I know travel can be a test of a relationship. We don’t always have the same taste in activities, and I’m a little concerned about how this will turn out. We haven’t even decided where we’re going yet, much less what activities we’ll do there, and we’re already fighting like an old married couple.

Any suggestions for how to protect our relationship on this trip?

Jeanette

Dear Jeanette –

You are right, travel is one of the most taxing activities you can put on a relationship. When you are at home, you’re on your own turf, know what to expect and can control your environment. When you travel, you’re at your most vulnerable and so much is beyond your control that it can be very anxiety-provoking. Because of this, people who get along fine on a day-to-day basis sometimes find they don’t travel well together.

In fact, two best friends from college who spent their junior year abroad traveled together in Spain at Christmas time. Two weeks of travel together almost ended their friendship.

When you travel together, it’s important to talk ahead of time about what vacation means to each of you and what you like to do. Look for mutual interests and focus on finding plans that tap into them. If you find you have few common interests, look for compromise plans. For example, if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation and he wants adventure, a compromise might be a cruise where you can relax in a lounge chair or on the beach and he can scuba dive and trek through a rain forest – while you’re both enjoying the same cruise.

Other things to discuss:

How social are each of you? If one of you is very social, but the other is not, look for lodging that gives you “space” (i.e., probably not a B&B).

How much time do you need alone? I find that one of the biggest mistakes couples make is to take a vacation and feel they have to spend every minute together. It’s okay for each of you to go off and do something you enjoy and then come back together to share the magic of your day.

Does one of you need regular meals and the other eat seldom? The person who doesn’t need to eat should be considerate of the one who does.

Traveling together can be a wonderful, growing experience for a new couple as long as each respects the other’s desires and needs. Communication is key.

Best wishes on your trip.
The Travel Guru


At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

Traveling with a Guitar

Dear Travel Guru –

I’m an avid acoustic guitarist and will be going overseas to teach. I’d like to take my Martin with me, but it’s expensive and I don’t think the climate will be very good for it. I’m also afraid it may get stolen or broken.

Have you heard of anyone taking a guitar to China?

Larry W.

Dear Larry –

I had a friend who took her guitar to France when she studied abroad in college and she was really glad she did. She mentions being amazed that, people from all over knew most of the same songs whether they were old folk songs or contemporary. It helped bring the group together. That being said, her guitar was somewhat the worse for wear after being carted all over Europe.

So you may want to consider investing in a substitute. The one I have in mind is the Ultra Light Acoustic Traveler Guitar from ProTravelGear.com. This satin finish guitar comes with an acoustic piezo pickup, a light-weight detachable lap rest frame and it weighs less than 3 pounds. The neck and the body are made of Eastern American Hard Maple measuring 28” in length and 5 ¼” in width. The fingerboard is ebonized rosewood inlaid in the vintage clay style. It comes with its own gig bag and retails for only $279.

Its other specs include:

Frets - 22 Medium
Scale Length - 24 ¾ inches
Fingerboard Inlays - Vintage Clay Style
Truss-rod - Fully Adjustable (access via endcap)
Neck Width at Nut - 1 ¾ inches
Pickup - Shadow® Piezo
Hardware - Chrome 14:1 Gear Ratio Tuning Machines (Closed Gear)

If you decide to order this guitar, be sure to do so before you leave the U.S. because it’s not available for shipping outside of the States. It is a cute little guitar, with full sound...and it also makes a great conversation-starter!

Have a great trip!

Best regards,
The Travel Guru


At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

Pro Travel Tip: Tote for Travel Comfort

Dear Travel Guru –

One of my girlfriends travels a lot and the last time we traveled together, she used a cross-the-body bag that she swore by. I swear that bag was like Mary Poppin’s carpet bag! She managed to carry every imaginable thing in there and she said it didn’t bother her back or shoulders. I, on the other hand, was carrying far less than she was and I ended up feeling like a little old lady because I was so stiff from carrying an over-the-shoulder bag with camera, water, guidebook, wallet… you get the picture. I looked like a bag lady!

Do you have a recommendation of a bag that can be used for everyday but also functions for heavy duty travel?

Katie L.

Dear Katie –

You have correctly associated that pain you felt with your bag. Man, excuse me, woman was not meant to be a pack animal! Chiropractors have been seeing an increase in neck, shoulder and back pain as a result of the larger size bags women are carrying these days.

When you travel, it gets worse, because most women have a tendency to tuck extra things into their purses, like water, cameras, guidebooks, sewing kits, toiletries, even lightweight jackets “just in case.”

We have just the solution! Our Baggallini Messenger Bag lies flat across your body, so it doesn’t put as much stress on your neck and back. Because of its design, it also discourages pickpockets. It measures 13” x 10” x 4” and is made out of durable, light weight, water resistant microfiber nylon. It has multiple zippered pockets, and a large back pocket in which you can store your guidebook or maps. The strap has a concealed pocket in which you can squirrel away money, credit cards or metro tickets.

Once you purchase this bag, it’s important to remember: Don’t stuff it with as much travel gear as you can fit, or you’ll need a porter. Put in it only what you need. Don’t forget to stand up straight – a good posture helps distribute the load so you won’t end up in pain.

Best regards,

The Travel Guru


At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

Finding Look-alike Luggage

Dear Travel Guru –

I just got rid of my old luggage, which was easy to spot because of its “distressed” look. It’s seen me through quite a few airports and I was sad to get rid of it, but it finally gave up the ghost in LaGuardia airport when the zipper broke and my suits, shirts and underwear ended up all over the luggage carousel.

So I went out and bought “the latest and greatest” set. The new luggage is great, but I should have looked for a neon green color or something with a pattern. Now my suitcases look like every other piece on the luggage carousel and I can’t tell them apart.

Cars have remotes you can press and the lights go on, why can’t they have something like that for luggage? Do you have any suggestions of an easier way to find my luggage than reading every tag?

Dismayed Dan

Dear Dan –

As a matter of fact, we have exactly the type of travel tool available that you’re looking for. It’s called the Luggage Locator Pro and it’s only $29.95.

The receiver attaches to your luggage with an FCC approved cable that is durable and weather resistant. The remote is compact and will fit easily in a pocket, a purse or on a key ring and can help you detect your suitcase from as far as 60 feet away. When you hit the button on the remote, a series of beeps and flashes will tell you where your bag is located.

If you have multiple bags, you simply purchase additional receivers separately and all can be programmed to work off one remote.

No more luggage carousel hassles!

Best regards,

The Travel Guru

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

Toiletry Set

Dear Travel Guru –

Well, I’m ticked off! I have a great toiletry kit that I love, but because of security regulations, it has to go in my suitcase now rather than my carry on. Two trips ago, my luggage never made it to the hotel until 2 days after I did, so I had to go out and buy all new toiletries! Next trip, I swore I’d carry a travel size on with me. So I did, and didn’t the darn things leak and get all over everything inside my bag!

Now I’m on a search to find a toiletry kit that I can carry on, but that can be trusted not to leak. No more dollar store bargains (which wasn’t a bargain!)

Mad--

Dear Mad–

You’ll find comfort in the fact that you’re not the first person I’ve heard share these woes. I have one friend whose digital camera was ruined when her shampoo container broke and got into the camera case.

But there is a solution!

ProTravelGear.com carries Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Leak Proof Travel Bottle Set. The set comes with 3 squeeze-top and 1 pour-top 4-oz. bottles for shampoo, cream rinse, soaps and lotions, as well as 2 2-oz. vials for pills and vitamins. This set sells for under $8. A lot of folks also purchase the Eagle Creek Pack-It Wallaby II Travel Toiletry Kit in which to pack them and find it’s a great combo solution for all their toiletry travel gear. The Wallaby is stain and water resistant, has three sections with loads of compartments for bottles, jewelry and other needs. There’s a removable mirror and swivel hanger hook, yet folds small enough to fit into your carry-on. The Wallaby II sells for $32.95 and you’ll find it very useful for both short and long trips. And no more spills!

Best of luck,

The Travel Guru

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

ProTravel Tip: 10 Tips for Traveling Alone

I’ve had a number of questions asking me to share tips for people who travel alone. Here are a few of our ProTravel Tips:

1. When possible, arrive at your destination during the day. Even familiar destinations look different at night. Cities that are perfectly safe, can make you feel unnerved at night. By arriving during the day, you can get your bearings by the time night falls.

2. Get directions for driving your rental car from the airport to your destination. Ask the rental agent for a map and explicit directions of how to get to your location. Ask for the rental company’s phone number so you can call back for directions if you get lost or turned around.

3. At the hotel: Ask the front desk clerk to write down your room number and not to say it aloud. Always ask for two keys so it’s not apparent you’re alone. Ask the bellman to accompany you to your room if you feel uncomfortable.

4. After you arrive: Ask the concierge or front desk staff to point out any areas of the city or region they recommend you avoid.

5. Don’t leave your breakfast card hanging from the door. One card usually means one occupant. Instead, call your order in the night before.

6. When you go out, be sure you have written down name of the hotel, its address and phone number, and that you have the phone number of a reliable cab service the hotel recommends.

7. Be conservative in your dress, so you don’t attract unwanted attention. Going to a special event? Try to meet friends or colleagues with whom you can travel there. Ladies, if you’re wearing evening attire, consider sporting a shawl or cover up over formal attire until you arrive. Hide flashy jewelry – even fake – in your purse to put on once you get there.

8. Safeguard your documents and extra money – If there is a safe at the hotel, this is the best place for passports and extra cash. If you must keep these items on you, hide them somewhere other than your purse or wallet. For more on this topic, read: “Traveling with Cash.”

9. Walk confidently. Study your route in advance and if you do get lost, don’t act as if you are. Calmly and confidently ask at a restaurant, hotel or other business establishment for directions.

10. Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable, there may be a reason for it. A friend once felt as if she was being followed in NYC, so she ducked into an apartment building with a doorman and told him of her concerns. It turns out she wasn’t being paranoid. Her pursuer actually followed her into the apartment building. The doorman chased him off by threatening to call the police.

Safe and happy travels!

The Travel Guru

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

Camera Cases for Travel

Dear Travel Guru –

My husband is an Ansel Adams wannabe. When we travel, he takes both a digital and an SLR with him “just in case.” His carryon is a jumble of wires, film, lenses, batteries, cables and other gear! When he takes photos with the SLR, he sometimes has trouble keeping track of which rolls have been shot. The last time we took a trip, he ended up developing one blank roll of film!

His birthday is coming up and I’d like to get him a case that would help him organize his photography equipment, but most I’ve looked at seem so bulky and not very functional. Do you have any suggestions?

Susan A., Staten Island, NY


Dear Susan –

Like your husband, I’m one of those people for whom photography is an essential part of travel. A well-shot photo can transport you back to magical memories years later.

Your idea of finding a case for your husband that would help him be prepared to “capture the moment” is a very thoughtful gift.

I have a couple of recommendations:

The Podzilla Travel Camera Case by Road Wired - $39.95 This case is a real find and measures 9.25"L x 9"H x 6.5"D. It “wings out” for convenience and features 20 pockets and compartments to hold any item the photo buff or pro might want to carry. It’s made out of ballistic nylon, so not only is it lightweight for its size (only 1.5 lbs.), it’s also waterproof. One of the things I like about it is that not only is there a “secret pocket” to hide cash and keys, but there are loops on the back so you can remove the (non-twisting) strap and fasten it to your belt loops. The inside has elasticized media and accessory organizers, flap pockets and bungee keepers to safeguard equipment and gear. The outer pockets are gusseted to keep contents from falling out.

The Pod Travel Camera Case by Road Wired - $25.95 Depending on how much photography gear your husband carries, this “little brother” of the Podzilla above might be perfect. It’s the same model as the Podzilla above, offers the same great features, but is smaller (7"L x 6.5"H x 5"D) and more lightweight (13 oz.) in size.
Best wishes to “Ansel” on his birthday!

The Travel Guru

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

Car Travel with Children

Dear Travel Gear Guru –

Our five-year-old Grandson is coming to stay with us for a week while his parents vacation in the Bahamas. We don’t see him often and we’re really excited, but we’re concerned about the car trip. We’ll be picking him up in Albany and driving him to our home in Baltimore and we don’t have one of those in-car video systems, like my son has. Do you think we need to rent one?

Jacob’s Grandma in Baltimore, MD.

Dear Jacob’s Grandma –

Why not take this as an opportunity to bond with your grandson and give him special experiences he’ll remember as an adult! Although a 330 mile trip is a long time to keep a five-year-old entertained, if you come prepared, it can be fun.

Be sure to pack the following “young traveler” gear:

§ Plenty of healthy snacks (fruit, pretzels, trail mix and crackers are good choices, as are Grandma’s homemade goodies!)

§ An ice chest with waters and juices

§ Books on CD (check with his folks to discover your grandson’s interests and then talk to the local librarian for recommendations your grandson would enjoy)

§ Children’s Music on CD (Raffi has some great kids’ music that even adults find entertaining!)

§ An activity box loaded with fun kids’ items from your local dollar store. They might include paper, coloring books, crayons, pencils or markers, small animals, vehicles and action figures, mini doodle boards, magic ink coloring books, board books and so on.

§ Don’t forget the great games like I Spy and the one where you track different state’s license plates on the cars that drive by!

At ProTravelGear.com we offer a Kids Car Organizer by High Road ($22.85), a great travel tool that’ll make your grandson feel like a “big kid”. It’s part toy box, part snack bar, part game table and it fastens securely in place with a seat belt. Your grandson will love being able to organize his own gear!

Have him bring his favorite toy or stuffed animal and blanket with him in the car. Don’t forget a travel pillow, so that when he falls asleep (very likely on this length trip) he won’t awake with a sore neck. Pro Travel Gear offers a Junior Kid's Travel Pillow by Bucky for only $17.95.

Make the journey part of his exciting stay at Grandma’s and Grandpa’s, and enjoy!

The Travel Guru

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

TRAVEL SAFETY: Traveling with Cash

Dear Travel Gear Guru –

My husband and I are traveling to China next month to adopt and bring home a baby girl. We’re so excited to finally be getting our new daughter, but also worried because our adoption agency has recommended that we take most of the money in cash rather than travelers’ checks. We’ve never traveled with so much cash before and the idea is pretty scary. Any suggestions?

Ann S., Rochester, NY

Dear Ann –

Congratulations to you and your husband! Having waited so long for this event – I understand from friends that the wait is about two years now – it’s important that you feel secure to focus on your daughter and not on the safety of the cash you are transporting.

When you must carry a lot of cash, for any reason, don’t store it all in one place. You and your husband should split the cash, and stow it in a number of separate locations, and always with you. Never leave the cash in unattended bags or in your hotel room when you are out. If you stay at the White Swan Hotel in Guangzhou to finalize your adoption, you may have access to the use of a safe deposit box, but many hotels in China will not offer this amenity.

To alleviate stress about traveling with so much cash, you and your husband might each consider selecting one or two security products offered by ProTravelGear.com:

§ TravelSafe Locking Travel Safe by Pacsafe – This compact travel safe is slash-proof, weather resistant and easy to use, ensuring peace of mind while you sleep. Under $40.

§ Eagle Creek All Terrain Travel Money Belt – Carry your cash in the zippered compartment hidden within this one size fits all money belt. Under $14.

§ Eagle Creek UnderCover Deluxe Security Belt – This pouch, which fits up to a 42” waist, can be hidden beneath clothing and secures money, passports and other valuable documents. Under $14.

§ The Eagle Creek Undercover Neck Pouch - Not only can you stow cash, but this pouch also provides safe storage for your passport, airline tickets and other valuables. Under $14.

§ Eagle Creek UnderCover Travel Leg Stash – Hide cash and other documents in this clever travel accessory, worn just above the ankle. The Coolmax backing makes it comfortable in all climates. Under $15.

Safe travels and warmest wishes to you, your husband on the adoption of your new daughter!

The Travel Guru

Reference
http://www.protravelgear.com/store/security

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: Totes for Meeting Planners

Dear Travel Gear Guru –

My girlfriend is a meeting planner for a trade association, so she travels a lot. I’m looking for a birthday gift for her, and I notice that each time she travels on business, she complains about her bag. It’s big with few inside pockets, so she ends up using clear zip lock bags inside her tote. Even then, she can’t find what she’s looking for.

I think she needs a bag that’s large, can be used as a tote or a purse, and has lots of pockets to hold her planning book, purse, makeup, camera, airline tickets, passport, etc. She carries more gear onto the plane than the average traveler because she’s always afraid if her luggage gets delayed or lost, she won’t be able to run her meetings. What would you suggest?

Ted L., Branson, MO.


Dear Ted –

Do I have some great suggestions for you! I went to my female friends who are meeting planners to ask what they’d recommend and here are some of their favorite ProTravelGear.com choices:

Carryall Travel Tote by Ellington – This elegant “workhorse” of a bag features 4 exterior pockets and a front bungee cord, 2 full width pockets with magnetic snaps, a zip mesh pocket, pen slots and a hideable luggage handle for $89.95.

Large In Flight Tote by Ellington – Lots of pockets for a wallet, travel guide, a good book, camera, cell phone, sunglasses, water, compact or any other gear your girlfriend can think of! - $73.85

Catalina Travel Pack Backpack by Ellington – This hands-free travel bag is a great choice for meeting planners because of the spacious storage and numerous compartments that will hold just about anything. - $ 54.85

Baggalini Messenger Bag – This popular hands-free option fits across the body and features multiple pockets that will carry everything from a magazine or important documents to sunglasses for a post-event beach day! - $39.95

I am sure that one of these totes will delight your girlfriend and solve her problem of traveling with the many items needed by meeting planners.

The Travel Guru


References:
http://www.protravelgear.com/store/carry-on_tote_and_messenger_bags/carryall_travel_tote_by_ellington.cfm
http://www.protravelgear.com/store/carry-on_tote_and_messenger_bags/in_flight_tote_by_ellington_large.cfm
http://www.protravelgear.com/store/carry-on_tote_and_messenger_bags/catalina_travel_pack_backpack_by_ellington.cfmhttp://www.protravelgear.com/store/carry-on_tote_and_messenger_bags/baggallini_messenger_bag.cfm

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

AIRLINE TRAVEL: Roomier Seating

Dear Travel Gear Guru –

I am a large man and, as a result, I try to avoid traveling by plane whenever possible.
When I do fly, I try to get a bulkhead or emergency aisle seat and just suffer with a seat belt that is uncomfortably snug.

I’m writing because my daughter is getting married in California this May, and a train won’t work, since we live in Pennsylvania. I checked ticket prices and business class is out of the question. But I can’t even imagine the discomfort I’ll feel after a 6 ½ hour flight. I’m afraid that instead of walking my daughter down the aisle, she’ll have to carry me! What’s a Santa look-alike to do?

Gary T., Philadelphia, PA.


Dear Gary –

In this day and age, when U.S. residents are getting both taller and broader, I really wonder at many airlines’ wisdom in shrinking the roominess of seats and legroom. On some short-distance flights, the width of seats can be as narrow as 16.2” with a pitch (amount of legroom) of only 31” – less than comfortable for all but the most petite of us!

Below are a number of ways you can improve your chances of having a roomier seat when traveling by plane:

§ Look for a 767 airplane model and ask for the aisle seat in the center section. The middle aisle seats fill last and because of the 2-3-2 configuration of the seats, the airline has to be 86% full before the airline begins filling the middle seats. As an alternate, a 777 with a 3-3-3 layout must be 67% full before the middle seats start filling.

§ Visit http://www.seatguru.com/ by Tripadvisor to research airplane layouts on most airlines to discover which seating is more spacious and what amenities are provided.

§ At ProTravelGear.com, we offer three different models of Airline Seat Belt Extenders that work on all major airlines. These extenders are constructed using the same high quality material and FAA standards as airline seat belts, and they add from 22”-28” of extra comfort (depending on the model) for only $48.95.

Follow these suggestions, and I bet you’ll be skipping rather than walking your daughter down the aisle!

The Travel Guru

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

ProTravel Tip: Getting ready to go

Dear Travel Guru:

Before I go on a big trip, I always get really anxious and overwhelmed. I have even chosen not to go on trips, because of all of the preparation that has to happen. Do you have any advice to make trip preparation go smoothly?

Shaina G.

Dear Shaina,

Oh please don't pass up the opportunity to travel just because of the stuff you have to do before you go! Traveling is one of the great joys in life!

You can make getting ready to go more laid back, just by working through a check-list. By writing down everything you need to do, you won't get overwhelmed with the details.

For the travel plans themselves:
1) Book the flight
2) Book the hotel
3) Book transportation

That is the hardest and most expensive part usually. Do that and you are well on your way!

After that start your packing list. As the travel time gets closer, write things down as they occur to you, but wait until at most a week before to start packing, since weather or your needs may change.

If you are traveling internationally, you may have to call your credit card company to insure that they will work oversees. Check your balance, so you know what your spending limit will be and also take out cash for use as tips, emergencies, and places that won't take the card.

Arrange for your mail to be help or picked up by a friend, and pay any bills that will come due as you are away.

Write out any emergency numbers you will need:
1) The rental car company
2) Family members
3) Neighbor or pet-sitter
3) Doctors
4) Airline numbers
5) Any other contacts you may need while you are away

and:

Write out a list of numbers your family/friends will need:
1) Your cell phone
2) The cell numbers of anyone you are traveling with
3) The hotel number or number for the place you are staying
3) Vet (if you have pets)

Include your flight information and travel itinerary on this list as well.

Set up pet or home care. Leaving emergency phone numbers, food, water, medication if necessary, and treats for your pets and instructions for the person taking care of your home or pet.

Pack maps, guide books, public transportation schedules and itineraries of any activities you plan. Put all of these into a folder. Plan any back-up activities in case of bad weather, like museum visits or shopping areas.

Check the weather a week to 10 days ahead so that you can plan activities and what to pack.

Make reservations for any activities you are planning, such as a tee-time, spa appointment, dinner, shows etc. Call the hotel before your trip and ask the hotel concierge for recommendations if you’re unsure where to book.

Before leaving the house, double check that you have all necessary essentials, such as your passport and/or driver’s license, medications, cash and credit cards. You can always buy another pair of socks as long as you remembered your wallet!

After you have put together your pack list, plan for the first couple days of your trip. It is generally unnecessary to plan to fill every day, but if you have activities, and dining plans at the beginning of the trip, it will give you something to do until you get your bearings. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling somewhere new or to an international city, and will help in case you need to pack the extra pair of dress shoes or athletic gear.

When you arrive, you will want to take a look at local guides and find out what shopping, attractions and restaurants are near where you are staying. Take a walk around your hotel and get familiar with amenities like the spa, fitness center, common areas, swimming pool, restaurants and bars.


Remember that traveling is meant to be fun, exciting, maybe even relaxing! If you methodically go thorough what you will need and what you want to do, then "getting ready to go" does not need to be a hassle, and the pay-off will be a great trip!

Have a great trip
THE Travel Guru

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

Dream Adventure Trip - Safe Traveling

Dear Travel Guru,

My best friend and I are going on the adventure trip of a life-time. We will be taking a month and traveling all over Asia. We have been planning this since we graduated college 5 years ago and next year we are both getting married.

We need to pack as lightly as possible and also be safe when we travel. What can we bring that will help keep our personal belongings safe, but not take up a lot of room?

Michelle J., Boulder CO

Dear Michelle,

That sounds like a wonderful trip. I wish you and your best friend a great time on your adventure.


For security on long trips we would recommend the Eagle Creek UnderCover Deluxe Security Belt. This nifty comfortable belt has plenty of pockets, but is light-weight, and can be discreetly hidden away under your clothes. This security belt also has a separate pocket for an airline ticket, so is perfect for air travel or walking through a crowded market in Asia!

Please browse through our website for other safe travel gear, and have a fantastic voyage!

THE Travel Guru
...travel gear answer man!



At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

Planning Spa Vacation and Travel

Dear Travel Guru,

My husband and I are planning a much needed "Spa Vacation" this winter. We just found out we are expecting our first baby in the summer, and we want to go away and relax before our lives are happily, but chaotically changed.

We are looking at a couple different places now, but I am wondering if you have any spa vacation travel tips to share--and any travel trips for flying while pregnant.

Thank you very much!

Sincerely,
Stacy A.

Dear Stacy,

Congratulations on your upcoming addition. What exciting news! And certainly a spa vacation sounds like the perfect way to celebrate and relax with your hubby.

A spa vacation can calm and sooth your mind, body and soul--and you can find good spas and hotels in almost all price ranges. The only down-side is that you have near endless possibilities, from the upscale hotel in your town, to the beautiful beach resorts in Aruba.

The first thing to consider is your budget. This will determine if you will be going away, or staying local. Next you can decide what is important to you in terms of spa services. Many spas now offer pre-natal massage, which is a great option for you. Other services include pedicures, mud baths, yoga, and salon services.

Remember that saunas and whirlpools are probably out while you are pregnant. When in doubt, ask your doctor.

Relaxation is key, so investigate your spa options online, get reviews and check with the International SPA Association (ISPA) for photos and information on spas around the world. You can even narrow your search by choosing "medical spas," "beach spas," "weight loss spas,"etc. based on your preferences. Think about execise options, nutritional analysis, atmosphere, and types of services.

The most important thing is to enjoy your spa vacation and that you find that tranquility that you are looking for before the baby arrives.

As far as air travel while pregnant goes, the first thing to do is check with your doctor to make sure they feel that you are healthy enough to travel. There is minimal risk when flying when pregnant, but it is always important to address your specific situation with your doctor.

Most airlines do not put any restriction on flying until you are in your last month or so... mostly because they are not prepared to deliver your new bundle of joy in the aisle of business class on the flight from New York to LA! You think it is tough to fly normally--you definetly do not want to do it while having contractions every two minutes.

So as long you as you are cleared to fly, you should know a few things first. You will want to leave plenty of time to travel and in-between flights. It will be harder to dash between terminals while pregnant! And don't be afraid to ask for a ride from the airport staff in those cool little electric carts. That is what they are there for!

On the plane, you should try to get a seat with extra leg room. It is important to avoid getting blood clots, so get up and walk, and wear support stockings (like "travelsox" Travel Socks). Drink plenty of water on the plane to avoid dehyration and remember that this is supposed to be a relaxing vacation, so bring the travel pillow and blanket, (try the Dreamsack Airline Comfort Travel Set) the headphones and music player, and anything that will make you more comfortable while traveling.

Congratulations again and enjoy a wonderful travel and vacation experience--you deserve it!

The Travel Guru
www.protravelgear.com

At ProTravelGear.com, we are dedicated to providing you the best travel shopping experience possible, now even better with free shipping on all orders*. We proudly carry the industry's most recognized brands, like Patagonia, Ex Officio, Eagle Creek, Plane Quiet, and many others. We also offer new gift ideas, expert advice, and resources for trip planning.

Honeymoon Travel - Europe

Dear Travel Guru,

My best friend and her fiance are planning their honeymoon to Europe. They are planning to spend three weeks in England, Germany and France and they are so excited.

I would like to get them an engagement/early wedding gift of a guide and I saw you have the "Hedonist's Guides." Can you tell me a little more about these travel books? Would they make a good gift?

Shere J.

Dear Shere,

The Hedonist's Guide are perfect for a wedding gift! What a wonderful gift idea. Your friends are going to love traveling around Europe and with these guides they will have detailed, glossy descriptions & photos of Berlin, London and Paris. They will have a blast exploring the best hotels, most interesting restaurants, chic bars and clubs--and great shopping boutiques!

Everyone should see Europe this way.

Order your Hedonist Travel Guides today!

The Travel Guru

http://www.protravelgear.com/

Road Trip...with Kids!

Dear Travel Guru -

My sister and I are taking a road trip to visit our parents in Arizona for Christmas (we live in New York) We have decided to drive because we each have 2 kids under 5... so we will be traveling in a van with 4 kids for 2-3 days each way, (I know... we are crazy!)

What can we do to keep the van relatively organized and our sanity, (what we have left) in tact.

Michelle J., Rochester, NY

Hi Michelle--

That is quite an undertaking! Well, there are a few things at ProTravel Gear that will help keep you organized and the kids happy.

The absolute essential for taking long trips with children is our Car Organizer by High Road. You can easily and neatly pack videos, DVDs & CDs. Organizing the viewing choices cuts through the clutter and puts it all in reach. Smaller items, like game cartridges and cassettes can be stored safely in the convenient mesh pockets. Convenient storage even exists just for a standard size tissue box. There are seven pockets in all.

The organizer is made of reinforced 600 denier pack cloth.

Benefits include being able to reduce car clutter (a plus for two traveling mom's and 4 kids) as well as organize your car's music, videos, and games. There are also lots of small pockets for organizing Crayons-Game cartridges-Mints, gum, etc.

For more information and to purchase the car organizer, check out the Pro Travel Gear Website!

The Travel Guru

Pro Travel Gear

Traveling to Europe - Need the PERFECT Bag

Dear Travel Guru,

My husband and I have planned a European trip for our 20th anniversary this summer and I am looking for a bag to carry that I can use as a carry-on on the plane as well as something I can use while we hike and site-see. Can you recommend anything durable and all-purpose that would also be stylish and easy to carry?

Kathy M., Fort Mill, SC

Dear Kathy,

A European vacation is a great way to celebrate your anniversary! We have several great bags that give you the comfort and functionality that you are looking for.

One of our personal favorites is the stylish Baggalini Messenger Bag. The strap fits across your chest and the locking zippered compartments keep your valuables organized and safe. There is a large back pocket gives you easy access to magazines and important documents--perfect for the plane. You can even clip your keys into the bag. There is even a concealed pocket in the strap to keep money and your cell phone.

The messenger bag is made of strong and durable MicroFiber nylon -- perfect for a plane ride AND traveling across Europe!

The Travel Guru

Christmas Gift for Traveler

Dear Travel Guru:

Hello. My husband has a new job and travels for work several days each month. I would like to get him a Christmas gift that would make the long plane rides or hotel stays easier on him. But he is also hard to buy for him since he seemingly has everything! Do you have any ideas?

Samantha K - Charlotte, NC

Dear Samantha,

We have a ton of great travel gear for the avid recreational traveler...and the business traveler, and everyone in between.

For your husband I would like to recommend our Quiet Platinum Noise Reducing Headset.

At less than $100 each the Plane Quiet Platinum is a full around-ear active noise reducing headset at a great price. It's combined high fidelity sound, active noise cancellation, and low price, make it an unbeatable value. Your husband will love the great sound, and also the headsets ability to get rid of the sound of the screeming baby, the loud talker, the plane noise and the chatty row-mate. In fact, we think this is the perfect gift for the frequent traveler!

A List of the Plane Quiet Noise Reducing Headset is below -- thank yo ufor your question and happy holidays.

The Travel Gear Guru

Features & Accessories:
-->Up to 18 decibels of active noise reduction
-->Flat-folding designProtective Storage/travel pouch
-->Luxurious leather wrapped ear cups & headband
-->Noise cancellation on/off switch
-->Gold plated 1/4th inch stereo pin
-->Gold plated 1/8th inch to 1/4th inch adapter
-->Gold plated dual-pin adapter
-->Two AAA batteries included
-->Compatible with: iPod ®/ MP3, CD, DVD players/laptop computers/ desktop computers
-->Limited one-year warranty
-->FAA compliant