You have brains in your head/You have feet in your shoes/You can steer yourself/?any direction you choose. “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” Dr. Seuss
We’re an interesting civilization. There are literally thousands of products created especially to make travel “easier.” No longer living an age when trunks are attended to (if you have your own jet, stop reading here,) a lot of the industry concerns itself with packing smaller and lighter- there are baggage fees, car trunks have finite space, your companion believes in women’s lib (ie, you’re carrying your own bag;) securing comfort and convenience when less is provided – does the word sardine ring a bell? and being prepared, as the scouts say- the hotel promised a hair dryer; what’s needle and thread in French, a band-aid would help. Here are some items that might facilitate.
Wallpaper City Guides- There are over 28 at last count. These people have done judgmental research. From art and architecture to restaurants and shopping, the guides provide a taste of logistical cream. Especially good for short stays where you want to pack in the highlights. You know how you travel. Is it this way? $ 9.95 www.magellans.com
Comfort Eye Shade- ok, so it’s not pretty, but this one really keeps the light out and, in the end, which would you rather when you’ve been on the tarmac four hours?! Contoured design with spongy, fleece lining and wide elastic band. Poly micro-fleece. $9.85 www.magellans.com
Hot Iron Carrying Case- definitively nicer than the cheap nylon bags they give us and insulated/heatproof in case your curling iron or straightener hasn’t quite cooled off before you have to dash. Faux snakeskin polyurethane. Warm red or black. 13” x 5” $29.00 www.travelsmith.com
To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries. Aldous Huxley
Sedu Revolution Pro Ionic Travel Set- A mouthful. (Ionic means shinier hair) Unless you’re going camping or can put a month’s rent toward the hotel hairdresser, this kit will be a lifesaver. Foldable hair dryer and mini styler in a compact, heat protectant travel case- 5.5” x 9” x 4.75”. Built-in dual voltage. 2 speeds. 2 year warranty. Recommended by Allure Magazine $89.99 www.folica.com
No Jet Lag- I’m for anything that helps from feeling out of sync when you want to be 150% present. 32 tablets meant to fight the sleep disorders and disorientation experienced when crossing time zones. Chewable. Safe for all ages. Homeopathic. Frequent flyers swear by these. $ 12.95 www.travelsmith.com
Travelers never think they are the foreigners. Mason Cooley
Mini Folding Magnifying Mirror- Horrified as we are, looking and adjusting has to be done. Give yourself an adequate tool. This 3” folding mirror goes to 10X magnification. 360 degree adjustability for viewing angle. Includes travel pouch. $9.99 www.bedbath&beyond.com
USB Adaptor- Are you absolutely sure you know where yours is? I suggest checking now. Not only can this diminutive piece of hardware be used throughout the USA, UK, Europe, Asia and Australia, but it features a USB port for recharging MP3 players and phones. When are they going to make them in colors so we don’t leave them behind? $35.00 www.momastore.org
Travel Pill Case- Seriously practical. Common cases are too small, plastic bags are ridiculous. 8 compartments, roomy enough for a week or two. water tight seal. 6” l x 4” w x 1 ¼” h. Handy for vitamins too. $12.95 www.travelsmith.com
Travel Mate Carry-On Kit- This one’s a no brainer. If it fits in these, it meets TSA regulations. 16 assorted leak proof containers with 36 labels in a zippered pouch. $9.99 www.bedbath&beyond.com
Airplane travel is nature’s way of making you look like your passport photo. Al Gore
White & Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap- Luxe is luxe. As a shawl or blanket, nothing combines viability with appearance like cashmere. If you’re going where he wants to this year, it makes a handy compensation gift. Great for airport layovers as well. Ultra soft; 36” x 81”. Available in four colors. $ 275.00 www.saksfifthavenue.com
Walking Cane & Seat- Visiting parents, grandparents? Just have your bunion removed? Lightweight, sturdy aluminum-can support up to 250 lbs. 9” seat folds flat when cane is in use. Comfort grip handle. 33” x 9” What’ll they think of next? $39.99 www.bedbath&beyond.com
I met a lot of people in Europe. I even encountered myself. James Baldwin.
Turbie Twist Hair Towel- Those stylish bangs need to be out of the way for make-up application or home facial. Begins to dry wet hair so you don’t hear that terrible little sizzling sound when styling. Two asorbent terrycloth turbans. 100% cotton. Twist and fasten. Machine wash. 3 colors. $9.99 www.bedbath&beyond.com
Martini Glasses (2)- Imagine unpacking these for a picnic in Southern Italy or sitting on cathedral steps with an I-can’t-believe-wine-only-costs-this-much bottle, a chunk of cheese, and bread. Panache-to-go. Durable, BPA free resin plastic. Stem & bowl detach and rest together in a travel pouch. 4 ¾” x 4 ¾” x 3 ½” $18.85 (There are also wine glasses) www.adventurouswench.com
See No Vino- This is really smart. Designed especially for red wine –biodegradable citrus-based spray removes stains on the spot before they set. No more running back to change your clothes or party embarrassment. Modern science has its benevolent uses. You might want to buy one for home as well. TSA travel size perfect for purse. $8.85 www.magellans.com
The cool thing about being famous is traveling. I have always wanted to travel across the seas, like to Canada and stuff. Britney Spears
Black Scroll Reversible Raincoat- One side is sold black, the other flocked scroll pattern. Matching travel pouch. Generous enough to fit over most anything. Rain and stain resistant. I have one of these in black and copper and I want to tell you it saved my last trip abroad. Four days of pouring rain would’ve kept me huddled inside or purchasing a coat I neither needed or wanted. Light as a feather. Makes a wonderful evening coat even if the sky is clear. Sizes. $249.95 www.victoriantradingco.com
Dual Voltage Iron- Hotel laundry costs can be prohibitive. Or you might just need a touch up to something that looks like you slept in it. Control is the issue here and looking one’s best despite having eaten those oysters and been confined to the room all day yesterday. Compact design with folding handle. Push button steam or spray. Temperature control. Non-stick sole plate. Travel bag. 3.25” x 3.5” x 7” $38.99 www.1stoptravelstore.com
Leather Passport Cover-Handcrafted, good looking, 4 colors available. Get rid of that old black thing and give yourself some pizzazz. (Easier to find in that enormous bag you just got on sale as well) $ 50.00 www.saksfifthavenue.com
As the poet said, ‘Only God can make a tree,’ probably because it’s so hard to figure out how to get the bark on.
Woody Allen
Survival Kit- For those of you who have been convinced to go camping. I know you’re out there! This has much of what you’ll need in case of the unforeseen: compass, knife, flashlight, rescue flash, signal mirror, fire starting tinder, 150 lb-tested braided nylon cord, stainless steel wire, sewing supplies, basic fishing kit, outdoor instructions teaching over 60 survival techniques. Better yet, give it to your boyfriend, husband, or sons with a pat on the back and a bag of bagels. $60.00 www.uncommongoods.com
It always rains on tents. Rainstorms will travel thousands of miles, against prevailing winds for the opportunity to rain on a tent. Dave Barry
