Road Trip Ready

(Family Features) Whether you're planning a cross-country vacation or just a weekend getaway, packing for a road trip doesn't have to be a daunting task. Creating a packing list of essentials can be the first step toward avoiding unnecessary stress and making your trip one to remember.

Of course, that list should start with the items you should never leave home without like your driver's license and proof of insurance, but it should also include pertinent information about your destination, like the trip's itinerary and reservation confirmations. Don't forget a map or printed directions in case your GPS dies or your phone loses service.

While even the most experienced travelers have reached their destinations only to find they left a necessity or two behind, this handy packing guide can set you on the road to success and help you avoid buying a new set of sunglasses or portable charger en route to your destination.

Safety

• Roadside Emergency Kit. In addition to having your owner's manual and the equipment necessary to change a flat tire, including a lug wrench and portable jack, keeping some additional safety supplies in your vehicle can come in handy in case of a breakdown. Consider including items like jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, road flares, a poncho, gloves, a flashlight, a small tool set, a small fire extinguisher, paper towels or rags and duct tape.
   
• First Aid Kit. Just as your car may need patched up while on the road, someone in the traveling party may need a little TLC between stops. Some items to include: bandages, aspirin or ibuprofen, antiseptic spray, cotton balls or gauze, tweezers, hand sanitizer, antibiotic spray and bug spray.

Entertainment

• Reading Material. A road trip is the perfect time to dive into a good book, such as New York Times best-seller and Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick "The Alice Network." The enthralling historical novel from national best-selling author Kate Quinn tells the story of two women - a female spy recruited to the Alice Network, an espionage ring operating during World War I, and an unconventional American socialite searching for her cousin post-World War II. They embark on a dangerous mission to discover the truth about the betrayal that tore apart the organization, no matter the cost. Learn more at katequinnauthor.com.
   
• Technology. While cellphones often fall into the "essential" category, there are other devices that can make the miles pass by a little easier, like a laptop or tablet, but don't forget headphones and chargers for any gadgets you decide to bring.

Comfort

• Toiletries. Regardless of where your travels take you, personal hygiene will rank near the top of the list for each passenger in the vehicle. Ensure you've got your bases covered with soap, shampoo, conditioner, a comb or brush, a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, shaving supplies, lotion, sunscreen and any additional hair accessories you may need.
   
• Snacks. It's often cheaper to pack your own snacks at home than stopping at a gas station or a drive-thru, plus you can pack some healthier choices. Consider options such as trail mix, granola bars, crackers, and dried fruits and vegetables, or if you have room for a cooler, consider fresh fruits and veggies as well as some bottled beverages.
   
• Accessories. Long periods of time spent in the car can get uncomfortable, so consider bringing along a neck pillow and blanket to make the ride more enjoyable, and don't forget to grab an umbrella in case the elements decide not to cooperate.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (women with map)

SOURCE:
Harper Collins

Check International Travel Off Your Bucket List

(Family Features) International travel tops the bucket lists of many aspiring travelers. However, two-thirds of Americans aren’t ready for international travel because only 36 percent hold a valid U.S. passport, according to the U.S. Department of State, which is required for travel outside of the United States.

While there are exotic destinations such as the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and even Puerto Rico   (the country that’s become more popular due to the hit song Despacito) that do not require a U.S. passport, Americans applied for about 17 million passports in 2016, according to the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs. It’s predicted that applications will hit 21 million in 2017.

“This summer is the perfect time to head out of town,” said Josh Belkin, Hotels.com vice president and general manager. “European destinations are particularly popular right now and with declining airfares, increased international flight options and great hotel deals, it’s an obvious time to venture abroad.

One of the main hang-ups in applying for a passport can be cost. However, with a qualifying international accommodation booking, Hotels.com is aiding Americans by offering free passports. The online lodging expert also offers these simple passport tips to ensure you’re ready to pack your bags for the trip of a lifetime:

• Be informed. Get to know the application process. In addition to the application form itself, you’ll also need proof of citizenship, identification and a 2-by-2-inch photo prior to applying at your local acceptance facility, such as a post office, library or government office. You can find additional details on the U.S. Department of State website.
• Keep time on your side. The routine application process can take 6-8 weeks, so plan ahead to avoid paying extra fees for expediting your application, which still takes 2-3 weeks.
• Know the photo requirement. Many people are unaware that you can’t wear glasses – prescription or otherwise – in your passport picture. You must also have a neutral facial expression or natural smile and cannot wear headphones, a hat or any other type of head covering.
• Choose a card or book. While passport cards cost less than half the price of traditional passport books, they are only valid for land and sea ports of entry between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean, and cannot be used for air travel outside of the United States. You’ll need the full passport book for international air travel, which also offers the land and sea benefits of the card.
• Get a free passport. With the Hotels.com passport coupon you can save $110, which covers the cost of renewing your passport, when you book by Aug. 31 for travel through March 31, 2018. To learn more, visit hotels.com/passport17.

With a passport in hand, you’ll be prepared to discover some of the most popular international destinations like London, Paris, Toronto, Tokyo and Rome, and check an enjoyable travel spot off your bucket list.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (woman holding up passport)

SOURCE:
Hotels.com