Come Fly With Me

Nicki Johnston

Spring Break is upon us again, with visions of wonderful excursions to warm destinations. College kids are heading to Panama City, South Beach and Cancun. Families are ready to enjoy quality time together at theme parks across the U.S. For empty-nesters there’s gourmet wine-tasting tours or a two-week jaunt to Europe to take gourmet cooking classes.

With today’s extra baggage fees, you want to avoid over-packing. Women tend to bring everything they might possibly need “just in case.” You never know what kind of swanky event you might be invited to while you’re traveling, so you want that perfect outfit to wear. With some travel friendly wardrobe tips, you will be able to travel light and still travel with amazing style. 

Packing Tips:

Start planning your wardrobe a few weeks in advance, leaving time for necessary dry cleaning. This will also help you identify any last minute items you need to make your trip go smoothly. 

You should be able to wear each item twice. That perfect little cardigan will look great with both your jeans and your favorite black skirt by switching out a daytime T-shirt with a camisole for evening. Many designers are using jersey knits for their travel capsule collections, so you can easily find pieces that will do double duty. Bring a simple black dress to wear during the day with flats, then jazz it up with heels and flashy jewelry for dinner and dancing. 

Accessories will maximize your ability to wear items more than once, and take up little room in your luggage. Elaborate cuff bracelets are great for nighttime, while an armload of jangly bangles are fun during the day. Wear your most precious items, and never pack them into your checked luggage – keep them in a jewelry roll in your purse while en route to your destination.

To minimize wrinkles, layer your clothes in your suitcase. Place the heavy items, like jeans and trousers, on the bottom so they don’t put pressure on your more delicate pieces. Many travelers recommend rolling your clothing, or using vacuum bags. Shoes work best in the corners with the soles facing the wall of the bag itself; shoe covers will keep your clothes clean. Avoid smashing your shoes by putting socks and hosiery inside. Wear or carry your coat or evening jacket, if you’re bringing either item.

Make a list of last minute items such as cell phone and camera chargers, make-up and toothbrushes, so you don’t have to purchase unnecessary items at your destination. Also, be sure and pack one outfit that is casual and comfortable for lounging. Even on your busiest trips, you may find time to just relax in your hotel suite.

Additional baggage fees have most of us wanting to cut costly corners while traveling. Better to have the extra $25 to $50 (each way, depending on your airline) for fun purchases or souvenirs than to pay for baggage. This makes having the right luggage an absolute necessity. Kamber’s has a great selection of travel bags and accessories. They are available in an array of colors, hard- and soft-sided, lightweight, even spinning on skate-style wheels. Artist Romero Britto has developed his incredible Britto Collection in designs and bright colors that will make your bag truly stand out. The only drawback to a hard-sided bag is you can’t over-stuff it; but the benefit is you don’t have to worry about your precious cargo getting smashed, broken and possibly ruined. Check the fine print on your ticket for information on damage coverage for hard- vs. soft-sided suitcases. For shopping, pack one of those wonderful little collapsible bags that roll up to absolutely nothing to bring home your treasures. But remember the carry-on restrictions!

Most airlines allow you one carry-on and one personal item, such as a tote bag, purse, or laptop case. Casey’s in Casady Square has a colorful selection of Vera Bradley bags that not only look great, they’re perfect for your personal items on flights – a book, crossword puzzles, and your music player to ensure a peaceful flight. The earbuds will convey to your seatmates the message that you don’t want to see their latest gadget or baby photos, or hear about their upcoming trip. Sometimes you just want to enjoy a little quiet time.

Traveling with pets is possible, but make sure to check with your airline, hotel or resort for restrictions, extra fees, and acceptable crates or carry-ons. Bring along their favorite food and toys, and make sure your plans can accommodate walking the dog, cleaning up after the cat, etc.

Happy traveling!

Tips From a Frequent Flyer’s Point of View:

We asked Charlie Epperly, who travels extensively, for a few tips to make the trip worth all the planning:

To avoid disappointment or unreasonable expectations, do your research before you select your destination or resort.

If your destination entails swimming or relaxing on the beach, tan well before your trip. If you plan to ski, make sure your legs are in good shape.

If you don’t want to be around children, try an adults-only resort.

Have copies of your travel documents in your carry-on bag.

Tag your luggage so you can spot it from a distance. This is where bright colors and patterns come in handy. Too many people simply tie a ribbon onto their black luggage, so they still all look identical. You don’t want to get to your hotel with someone else’s suitcases!

Dress comfortably for your flight, but don’t dress like a slob. Gym clothing is not appropriate. Don’t wear complicated belts or jewelry; they’ll have to be removed, along with your shoes, at check-in.

Take plenty of small bills for tips, but never “flash” your cash. Utilize room or front desk safes for your unattended valuables.

Avoid using ATMs in foreign lands. There can be significant bank fees for doing so, and the exchange rate is usually not favorable.

Always utilize prearranged “private” transfers between the airport and your destination. Don’t trust local taxi services abroad.

Before your vacation, communicate with your resort or hotel any special needs or requests. Tip well for good service, but be discreet about it. Don’t forget housekeeping and other service providers.

Remember – if it’s illegal here, it’s probably illegal there. Don’t be stupid!

Adapt to the local culture. It’s their country, not yours. Be respectful, and treat people the way you wish to be treated. Raising your voice will not increase your chances of being understood in a foreign country. Learn important phrases in advance so you can communicate properly.

Benefits of Traveling by Private Jet vs. Commercial Airlines:

Choose convenient flight times, fewer chances for flight delays, and flights are rarely cancelled.

With 5,000 airports available in the lower 48 states, you’ll have access to airports closest to your destination.

Eliminate ticket counters, airport crowds, and baggage claims; never lose your luggage.

Extra privacy; take the whole family comfortably, without having to deal with other travelers. The easiest way to travel with your pets!

You can conduct business during your flight, if necessary.

It’s all First Class!