Where might I be if I… stood on the edge of a cliff looking 1,000 feet down to the ocean, held a baby lamb, drove on the left side of a crazy-narrow road, saw a beautifully adorned 1,200 year-old manuscript of the Gospels, stepped into places once occupied by kings, and had my first taste of Guiness in a pub built in 1198. If you guessed Ireland, you’re correct.
What a grand time! To top it all off, our daughter, Rachel, did the research, itinerary, reservations, and 99.9% of the driving. Thank you, Rachel--you did a great job and stayed in your lane.
Since trip planning isn’t my forte, I’m going to stay in my lane and offer some Timely Tips on how to prepare for a trip that’s already planned.
Timely Tips for Travel
We got soaked and almost blown away on the Cliffs of Kerry. Was it worth it? Yes! https://www.kerry-cliffs.com/
DON'T RELY ON WEATHER FORECASTS
Whether you're in Ireland or Oklahoma, like I was last weekend, things can change fast. In Oklahoma it went from blue skies to thunder, lightning, and a tornado warning.
Layer for warmth
Bring a poncho or raincoat
Pack a compact umbrella
Check online for a packing list for the area you're visiting
DOWNLOAD APPS
Downloading relevant apps can provide easy directions, updates, etc.
Hotel
Airline
Destination sites
Travel Apps (i.e. Rick Steves Audio Europe™ Travel App)
TRIP FOLDER
Label a plastic file envelope with your trip name.
Prior to the trip store hard copies of tickets, reservations, confirmations, prescription info, and packing checklist.
During the trip use it to store receipts, brochures, and memorabilia. And maybe, an old fashioned map for times you venture beyond your GPS capabilities.
TASKS
Put a hold on your mail by visiting www.usps.com or fill out the form at the post office.
Arrange care for pets and plants.
Put house lights on a timer and secure valuables.
Give a trusted family member or friend your itinerary, contact info, and where to find vital info in case disaster strikes.
Ensure that any bills coming due are paid prior to your departure.
Place an Apple Air Tag or generic equal in each bag/suitcase and on keys, etc.
TRAVEL PRODUCTS
Pill organizer - compact and easy to put a day's zippered pouch into your pocket or purse.
Packing Cubes - great for keeping like things together. Whether it's your own shirts, pants, undies, etc. or one cube per family member. Easy to place into a hotel drawer and return to the suitcase while keeping things neat.
TSA Approved bag/bottles for liquids - Instead of purchasing individual travel size items, use these refillables whether you're flying or driving.
Mini Crossbody Bag - Perfect for the essentials (ID, passport, credit cards/cash, health insurance cards, phone, etc.).
Wireless Charger and Electronics Organizer - Keep connected and organized while traveling with these products.
When you live in a castle, it's good to keep it up. You never know who might be dropping by 800 years later. Although, with a "murder hole" above the front door, they probably didn't have too many unexpected guests.
wise words
Travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. -Unknown