Travel Tidbits
Essentials to know before you go!
✈️ Important Travel Tidbits 🌏
Please contact me anytime if you experience issues while traveling — especially if you feel you are not receiving the accommodations you paid for.
Sherry Pritz Enderle
Call or Text: 1-815-670-4441
Pre-Trip Planning
Documentation
Verify passport validity (many countries require 6+ months remaining).
Confirm visa and transit requirements well in advance.
Backup Copies
Keep a photocopy of your passport in a separate bag.
Store passport and health insurance card photos (front & back) on your phone.
Email yourself a scanned passport copy using a secure scanning app.
TSA PreCheck / Global Entry / CLEAR
Verify Known Traveler Number expiration:
https://tsaenrollmentbyidemia.tsa.dhs.gov/ktn-lookupConsider enrolling in:
TSA PreCheck (~$78–$85 for 5 years)
Global Entry (~$100 for 5 years; includes TSA PreCheck)
CLEAR (~$189 per year)
United Kingdom - visiting or connecting through—you may need a visa. | Link
European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) – launched October, 2025—fully operation by April 10, 2026. A new automated digital system replacing passport stamps for non-EU nationals. | Link
Health & Insurance
Review required or recommended vaccinations.
Carry documentation if applicable.
Purchase travel medical insurance and understand exclusions.
Itinerary Discipline
Build buffers between flights and activities.
Avoid tight international connections involving customs or immigration.
Financial Readiness
Notify banks of travel.
Carry at least two forms of payment.
Keep a small amount of local currency.
Research Basics
Learn tipping practices, power plug types, and emergency numbers.
Pre-book high-demand sites (e.g., Anne Frank House, Statue of Liberty) weeks or months ahead.
Packing, Gear & Carry-On Tips
Carry-On Essentials
Medications (original containers + pharmacy printout)
Chargers & adapters
Travel documents
Valuables
Toothbrush
Swimsuit (if applicable)
One change of clothes
Smart Packing Techniques
Roll outfits together by day.
Pack shoes on bottom, toe-to-toe.
Place rolled socks & belts inside shoes (preserves shape & saves space).
Use packing cubes (try “Magic Cubes” washcloth cubes from Dollar Tree).
Bring an empty laundry bag.
Weigh luggage at home.
Extra Packing Wisdom
Bring a binder clip (for hotel drapes that won’t close fully).
Small packets of tissues & sanitizing wipes.
Disposable masks, COVID tests, basic cold meds.
Small baggie of laundry detergent (sink washing works well).
Travel with a backpack rather than a purse.
Keep medications and vitamins in your carry-on at all times.
Comfort Items
Compression socks (reduce risk of blood clots on long flights)
Neck pillow
Earplugs/earbuds
Water shoes (hikes & beaches)
Tech Preparation
Download offline maps and boarding passes.
Bring a universal adapter.
Pack power banks in carry-on only (TSA requirement).
Hair Devices - Cordless curling irons/flat irons with lithium or butane fuel are banned from checked luggage but allowed in carry-on.
Suggested Extras
Send yourself a postcard
$2 bills for unique tipping
During Transit
If Your Flight Is Canceled:
Call or text me immediately.
Stand in line at the service desk.
Ask:
Why was the flight canceled?
When is the next available flight?
Can I be rebooked on another airline?
Are nearby airports an option?
Airline App - Download your airline’s app for real-time updates.
Lounge Access - If flying premium cabin or using club passes, verify hours and location. Example: American Airlines Admirals Club hours vary by airport and terminal.
Security Efficiency
Wear slip-on shoes.
Minimize metal.
Keep liquids accessible.
Seat Strategy
Aisle = mobility
Window = sleep
Hydration & Rest
Drink water.
Limit alcohol.
Begin adjusting sleep toward destination time zone.
Stay Connected Internationally
WhatsApp – Free global messaging/calls.
Airalo (eSIM) – Cost-effective international data.
USB Data Blocker – Ideal for public charging stations.
Add an international calling plan for the length of your trip.
Health & Safety
Travel Insurance
Strongly recommended — covers medical emergencies and repatriation.
NutriBiotic® GSE
Often used for destinations in Mexico, Central/South America, Middle East, or Asia to help reduce stomach issues related to food/water exposure.
Hotel Safety
Stay on lower floors when possible (fire ladder access is typically limited).
Upon arrival, count doors to nearest exit in case visibility is limited during emergencies.
Use hotel safes.
Blend in; avoid displaying valuables.
At Your Destination
Transportation
Use licensed taxis or reputable rideshare.
Photograph rental cars at pickup.
Connectivity
Use eSIMs or local SIMs; confirm device compatibility beforehand.
Cultural Awareness
Eat where locals eat.
Learn basic phrases.
Respect dress norms.
Example dress codes at Sandals Resorts:
Day: Resort casual
Evening: Resort elegant
Data Backup
Sync photos and documents daily to cloud storage.
Dress Codes Example
Sandals Resorts
Day: Resort casual
Evening: Resort elegant (no beachwear; elegant shorts permitted at some venues)
Data Backup - Sync photos/documents daily to cloud storage.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) Highly recommended. Enroll international trips with the U.S. Department of State for emergency assistance: https://step.state.gov
Common Cruise Questions
“What if I get seasick?” Modern ships have stabilizers and remedies available. Larger ships and calmer itineraries reduce motion. Consult your physician if prone to motion sickness.
“What if I miss the ship?” Always stay on ship time. Be punctual. Booking cruise-line excursions offers protection if delays occur.
“Will I be bored on sea days?” Between pools, enrichment classes, entertainment, and dining — boredom is unlikely unless relaxation is your goal.
“Do I have to dress up every night?” Formal nights vary by cruise line. Pack one versatile outfit to be prepared.
“Will I feel lost onboard?” Ships are surprisingly easy to navigate with apps, maps, and helpful crew.
Bonus Resources
Travel Fashion Girl Packing List | Link
Sudoku 3x3 Packing Method | Link
2026 Noise-Cancelling Headphones Guide | Link
Making Long Flights Comfortable (Travel + Leisure) | Link
What A Codeshare Flight Is And Why It Matters To Travelers | Link
Wishing you safe, smooth, and exciting travels!
May your journey be seamless, your experiences memorable, and your return home filled with wonderful stories. If you need anything along the way, I’m always just a call or text away.