I am not sure what is happening with the general traveling public these days. But it seems like a lot of people need reminders of how to be a polite traveler. And after a recent work trip, where I experienced a lot of rudeness, I am ready to share some thoughts.
I’m traveling more frequently for work. I’m not thrilled about it, but I have discovered a few things to make business travel more enjoyable. And none of them will take up much precious space in your suitcase! And they might make some really easy stocking stuffers too…
I’m not sure why I was being stingy with packing lip balm. While being perfectly happy to stuff four pairs of shoes in my bag! Lip balm is so lightweight and inexpensive, and yet so important for my comfort when traveling. So I got over my issues and now I bring at least 4 lip balms on every trip. Handbag, work tote and 2 in my toiletry bag. It truly makes business travel more enjoyable.
A couple that I like:
Yes, it’s probably obvious why one might need nail clippers on a trip. Nail trimming! But I am here to tell you that nail clippers can be used for more than that. Of course you’re probably not traveling with scissors on a trip. (fun fact: you can bring ones with blades that are shorter than 4 inches on a plane) But there are lots of times when scissors would be handy to have. Instead of running down to the front desk, use your nail clippers! Some ideas:
I have finally learned NOT to buy the cheapest nail clippers I can find. It’s just a much nicer experience to use high quality ones- and they truly aren’t that much more expensive.
And buy the big ones– have you ever tried to trim your toe nails with a tiny clipper??
This tip for making business travel more enjoyable is particularly relevant for Fall-Winter, when we are wearing lots of sweaters on the road. These combs are light and cheap- and they will make your outfit look a lot more polished. Just tuck it in your toiletry bag and you’ll be ready. Buy two– one for home, one for your suitcase.
I know, this one sounds a bit less practical. But hear me out. Work travel can get you down. You aren’t sleeping that well. Working late nights. Sitting in a conference room for hours on end. Why not wear an especially cheerful red lipstick? It will brighten up your complexion, you’ll smile every time you wash your hands during those offsite breaks. And you may cheer someone up across the table from you. I just tried this one, and it’s lovely.
Of course, red lipsticks vary a lot- probably best to head to Nordstrom for some advice on the right color for you.
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We recently planned a last minute Fall trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming with some friends. One quick lesson we were taught – Jackson is the town, Jackson Hole is the area! And it helps to travel with the same fun pals– we all know each others’ travel preferences.
I mentioned that we stopped by the MIT Museum in Boston during a recent trip to visit Sophie. It’s been on my list of things to do for the past couple of visits, and I’m glad we finally made time for it. It’s an interesting place- not too large- but someplace you can easily spend an hour or six, depending on what you like.
Dear Husband and I just returned from spending Parents’ weekend in Boston with dear Sophie. And while we had a terrific time, I have a few tips for next year’s Parents’ weekend. Lessons learned!
On a recent trip to Charlotte, I brought a few great travel-sized beauty products in my bag to make the experience a little nicer. It really made the challenges of travel more pleasant to have a few special things to use every morning and evening.
I just returned from a Sunday-Friday extended business trip to Charlotte, NC. Other than one short trip last year, I haven’t really traveled for work much since the pandemic. So when I knew I was doing a longer trip, I stopped to think about how to make it as pleasant as possible. Here are my tips.
We were recently in Charleston with friends and I wanted to share a few found nuggets. If you haven’t been to Charleston and like a bit of history, beach and amazing food, get your ticket and go!
Repost in July 2023: I always have a renewed appreciation for these wonderful bags during the summer months. All the schlepping and packing is made a lot easier with a Boat & Tote!
I’m on a bit of a kick with appreciating classic things that stand the test of time. In general, I’m not a trendy person, but as I get older, I definitely want to buy things that I’m going to have for years. Or maybe even the rest of my life! That goes for scarves, and, more reasonably, it goes for LL Bean tote bags. And for our upcoming roadtrip, we’re packing with Boat & Totes for everyone, including Cheddar!
Life, money and time being what they are-limited!- means that it behooves us to do some longer term travel planning. Once you have a list of activities and locations (and assuming you can get on the same page as your partner!), you can start to think more strategically about planning your travel for the next 5-10-20 years. And while this might seem daunting, I think there’s a ton of benefits in doing so.
