in July/August 2005
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resources_travelwisdom.html
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The Little Book of Travel Wisdom
Photograph by Jim Lo Scalzo
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A plane takes off from Gravelly Point, near Washington, D.C.'s National Airport. |
»Before You Go1. Immunization Tips
Hepatitis A and B, malaria, typhoid fever, anyone? These are among the most serious diseases travelers can prevent with vaccination or pre-trip medication. Yet more than half of U.S. travelers headed to high-risk disease areas fail to seek travel health information prior to departure—a costly move, considering the bad bugs out there. Although most medical insurance plans don't cover vaccines or prophylaxes for the following illnesses, an ounce of prevention is worth the price. Hepatitis A and B vaccines (three shots over six months, $80-200) provide protection for at least 15 years. Mosquito-borne malaria is prevented by daily pills such as Doxycycline and Malarone ($60-150). Contaminated food and drink could cause typhoid fever; a shot ($70-120) or live, oral vaccine ($50) helps stave off this infection. To avoid being vaccinated at the border (or possible quarantine) check entry requirements before departure and carry proof of vaccination. If you shouldn't get a vaccine for health reasons, be sure to carry a doctor's signed waiver. Consult the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization.
2. Passports/Visas
Obtaining travel documents for your trip has become more complicated due to tightened security post 9/11. Passports cost $55-85 and have a turnaround processing time averaging six weeks (expedited service costs an extra $60). Plan ahead as some countries require passports to be valid at least six months prior to your arrival. Parents, keep in mind a new State Department rule: Young travelers (age 14 and under) must apply in person for a passport or renewal. Acquiring a visa can also be a challenge. Don't assume you don't need one: Call your destination's embassy in advance to learn visa requirements, fees, and application processing times as they can vary widely. Australia, for example, has a simple online visa application costing $14 (20 AUD). Brazil, on the other hand, now requires Americans to obtain a visa prior to departure and charges a $100 fee. For a country-by-country list of document requirements and American passport guidance, visit the U.S. State Department online.
3. Essentials to Go
Among handy items to pack, you'll find that Ziploc bags are the most useful— good for wet swimsuits, medication, shampoo bottles, soap, and dirty laundry. Duct tape (wrap a few feet around a pen for later use) comes in handy if the strap on your favorite sandals breaks or the handle on your suitcase snaps. Avoid camera calamities and pack extra batteries in addition to extra film; also an extra watch battery. A Swiss army knife (keep it in your checked luggage) has multiple uses on the road, and a pocket calculator helps with figuring out tips and taxes on local purchases. Jennifer Smith, a frequent traveler who roams the country on business, includes "antibacterial pads to wipe the phone, TV remote, and light switch in hotel rooms, even in five-star hotels." A lint roller will freshen up your dark clothes, and spot remover will save you from a trip to the dry cleaner. A small, portable white noise machine with earphones is great for long plane rides and noisy city hotels. Bring a copy of your medicine and eyeglass prescriptions in case you need to refill them during your trip. Other things to have on hand: Deet-based bug repellent, antacid tablets, 24-hour non-drowsy cold and flu medicine, and Band-Aids. Finally, bring an extra shoulder bag to carry purchases home.
4. Don't be a Pack Rat
Sharpen your packing skills and save yourself loads of travel stress. Pack your bags a day before your trip, then remove five to ten items. Choose light, wrinkle-free fabric clothing. Make sure that some of your clothing does double-duty: a sarong can be used as a skirt and beach cover-up. Have your clothes laundered at a hotel or wash them yourself (use hotel shampoo). Not enough room in your suitcase? Try PackMate VacuSacs ($18 for two). Place clothes in a plastic bag and squeeze out excess air. Always pack a swimsuit, and wear layers on the airplane (which saves room in your suitcase). And remember: You can usually buy needed clothing on the road.
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