#8. Minimize, minimize, minimize!
"A good rule of thumb is: Pack one outfit for every three days of travel. In other words, if you're not planning to wear something at least three times, then don't take it on your trip. If you can, pack your shoes inside your husband's bag. Then, wrap hairbrushes or your hair dryer in plastic and tuck those inside your shoes. When you're done, take your suitcase around the block to make sure you can handle it by yourself—or that you won't be overburdening another travel mate who offers to help out."
Sandra Galbraith, 9-time traveler, The Woodlands, TX
#19. Bring money in many forms, and always carry small bills.
"It's always a good idea to have money available in different forms, including cash, an ATM card, and credit cards. Travelers' checks are not as widely accepted in shops and restaurants outside major tourist destinations, and it can eat up your precious travel time if you have to find a bank to exchange them for cash. U.S. bills are accepted almost everywhere nowadays, so do carry them—but only in small denominations. I always keep $50 to $200 in singles to use for taxis, tips, and incidental purchases."
Pat Carberry, 8-time traveler, Plano, TX
#83. Consider giving the hostess of your home visit a little gift.
"Hostess gifts are appropriate around the world, so consider bringing a gift if your trip includes a home-hosted visit. Flowers or chocolates are fine, or you can select something more personal, perhaps a book or photos or a print from your home state. Perhaps you'll bring a local delicacy, such as New England maple-sugar candy or Georgia pecans. Make copies of a few of your favorite recipes, and your hostess might share some of hers. If you're a knitter, a quick handmade hat or scarf is a thoughtful gift. And bandanas are uniquely American, serve many functions, are good for any age or gender, and take up almost no room in your suitcase."
Mehmet Guier, Program Services, Turkey