Greater Sudbury Northern Life  
Have you ever noticed that some people seem to travel with a
greater sense of ease than everyone else?  Their clothes
are wrinkle-free and always just the right thing for every
occasion, and yet they never seem to be lugging an extra heavy
bag.  What do they know that the rest of us don't?  I
polled a list of the best travelers I know and have come up
with the following list of top ten travel tips. Try a few - I
think they're all great.
-  The outfit that works in the Caribbean may be
completely inappropriate for Austria - even if the summer
temperature is the same.  Somehow bright florals and
electric colors look better under a tropical sun. Consider your
destination and what will and won't look appropriate before
packing your bag.
-  Always throw a collapsible tote bag into your suitcase.
It can be used for a day-bag, to carry a lunch or your rain
jacket etc. or be pressed into service as a carry-on if you buy
more souvenirs than you'd expected.
-  Balance your bag by packing heavier things at the
bottom, so it won't tip over if left to stand on its own. And
while it's always good to pack lightly (particularly if you're
using the European rail system and will be running between
tightly scheduled trains) you should also try to pack
tightly.  Gently roll your sweaters and t-shirts to fill
the space in your bag evenly.  When you have too few items
in too large a bag, the pieces tend to fold over on themselves,
creating wrinkles you'll find hard to press away. 
-  Bring old shoes and new socks.  A walking holiday
is never the time to break in a new pair of shoes - always
bring your most comfortable, well-worn pair.  On the other
hand, old socks can have bare areas or even holes, which can
lead to rubbing and blisters.  Ouch!  To be doubly
sure your feet will stay comfortable, toss some moleskin and a
package of liquid bandages into your knapsack.  If a
blister does appear, you'll be prepared.
-  Jewelry is best packed in a plastic fishing tackle box
or even a plastic pill sorter, so earrings can be kept together
and chains won't tangle.
-  Be sure never to put your jewelry in your checked
luggage, but instead keep it with you , in your carry-on
bag. 
-  Before packing, write out a list of the days you'll be
gone and list the clothing you'll need.  Be sure to plan
for both warm and cool weather, and remember to include
underwear, socks, shoes, bathing suits and accessories. 
By writing out your list on paper, you'll be able to see
opportunities for certain clothing items to do double duty and
you'll end up packing less.
-  Because shoes take up so much space in your bag, it's
important to make the most of your packing opportunities by
filling them with socks and underwear etc. 
-  Heading for a country where you won't be able to speak
the language.  It might be a good idea to bring along a
few photos of your home, your neighbourhood and your
family.  Even if you can't communicate everything, you'll
at least have a few conversational aids.
-  Never trust that your checked luggage will
arrive.  To be sure you'll have something to wear, trade a
few pieces of your clothing for a few of your traveling
companion's.  If one checked bag doesn't make it, at least
you'll both have something to wear.
