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Whether you're taking a weekend or a month to travel, there are ways to pack and plan efficiently to prevent disaster from striking. Let's start with the basics- how to pack efficiently when planning to travel.
* Do some minor research on current weather patterns. You should also find out what the normal temperatures are like and pack accordingly. I recommend taking along one pair of pants and one sweater, even when you are likely entering into hot weather. Mountains or waterside areas will likely be a bit cooler, so if you're planning on visiting these areas in already cool weather, plan to pack warmer clothing.
* Only pack what you will really need. Purchase travel size items, or better yet, buy them when you reach your destination. Don't overpack clothing. Take one extra outfit for warm weather, and one extra outfit for cool weather.
* Take a small first aid kit. This should include: bandaids, gauze, anti-bacterial and burn cream or spray. Don't overdo it, you just need the basics.
* Keep in mind that there are stores where you're going.
* Leave books you've been meaning to read at home, unless you aren't planning on doing any sightseeing. I always take a book, and never read a page.
* Take along some bubble wrap. If you purchase something fragile, you'll have something to pack it in for the return trip.
Now that you've packed effectively, you need to know about safety and health issues.
* Always use traveller's checks. Carrying some cash is fine, but remember, you can always cash in your traveller checks.
* Don't carry a big purse when out shopping. Take a wallet with the very basics inside: driver's license, traveller's checks, and perhaps one credit card.
* Research the health issues in the area you will be travelling to. Speak with your doctor about any immunizations or possible illnesses you may contract.
Even the most well prepared traveller can run into the following problems. Here is how to deal with them.
* Avoid eating onions in hot weather. It takes only 15 minutes for onions to become unsuitable for eating in hot weather. (90 degrees or over)
* When dealing with motion sickness: try to ride with your eyes seeing the same direction the motion of the car is going. For instance,if riding in a car, don't look out the side window in a car,look straight ahead.
* In an airplane, be sure to chew gum when increasing or decreasing elevation.
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