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Many of you have no doubt heard about people being robbed after they were distracted by something, or got bumped in a crowded piazza, but this list by the Canadian Institute of Travel Counsellors will probably contain some surprises for even the most traveled among us (it’s a small pdf file, 152Kb in size).

Why Carry-on?

Mishandling of checked luggage is on the rise, with more than six out of every
thousand travelers experiencing problems with delayed, damaged, and lost luggage.
Add to that the time wasted at the luggage carousel, and the hassle of hauling
a large and heavy suitcase and it’s clear why so many seasoned travelers choose
to carry-on.

Smart Packing

Start with your suitcase. Older bags (even soft-sided luggage) can weigh 15
pounds or more empty. New luggage has been developed with light weight in mind,
often coming in at less than half the weight of older bags. These new bags are
made with modern materials that are very light but durable, without giving up
the convenience of wheels and telescoping handles.

Begin packing a few days early, laying out all of the clothing you think you
might need. Then spend a day or two removing items that aren’t strictly necessary,
are too heavy or bulky, or don’t match the rest of your travel wardrobe.

To avoid wrinkles and airport security delays, pack in easily inspected modules.
Mesh cubes, mesh pockets, and packing folders keep your clothing organized,
neatly folded, and compacted, and can be lifted out individually during inspection
without disturbing your careful packing.

Use a packing compressor bag for soiled clothing. The compressor keeps damp
and dirties extra-compact, and separated from clean clothing. Since the compressor
is transparent, your soiled clothing can be inspected without the need to open
the bag and “air your dirty laundry”.

Pack your liquid and gel toiletries in three ounce bottles to comply with the
TSA rules, and place them in an outer pocket for easy access when you go through
security. Remember, your liquids and gels must fit in a one quart transparent
zip top bag.

How to Get the Most out of Your Travel Wardrobe

Plan for and pack clothes that meet the needs of your itinerary, are appropriate
for the culture and climate of your destination, and allow the most outfits
from the least number of pieces. Here are some easy ways to lighten your load.

• Plan around a basic color. Choose a neutral solid color like black,
  navy, gray, brown or khaki for your main wardrobe pieces. Matching striped
  or print shirts, a scarf or a pin can add a little color without sacrificing
  valuable space.
• Plan to wear each item several times during the trip. Choose clothing
  that is easy to care for — wrinkle resistant, hand washable, and quick drying.
  Take a compact laundry kit along to wash as you go.
• Take more tops than bottoms. Every top should go with every bottom.
  Tops are lighter and take less room than bottoms, and are easier to launder.
• Choose lightweight knits, microfibers, cotton and silk over bulky sweaters,
  heavy denim and corduroy. For colder climates, pack silk long underwear
  that keeps you warm, packs small, and doubles as pajamas.
• Wear your jacket or coat and heavier shoes to the airport (worn clothing
  is never weighed). While you are at it, stuff the coat pockets, too. Many
  travelers choose multi-pocket jackets or travel vests, in effect wearing an
  extra carry-on.
• Pack for comfort. Chances are good that you will be sleeping in your
  clothing on the plane. Choose clothing made of stretchy fabrics, expandable
  waistbands, and non-binding collars and cuffs. Make sure these fabrics resist
  stains and wrinkles to avoid the slept-in look.

Visit the Magellan’s Web site for more valuable travel tips!

These Traveler Safety Tips are from the Americal Hotel & Lodging Association:

• Don’t answer the door in a hotel or motel room without verifying who is knocking. If a person claims to be an employee, call the front desk and ask if someone from their staff is suppose to have access to your room and for what purpose.
• When returning to your hotel or motel room late in the evening, use the main entrance of the hotel. Be observant and look around before entering parking lots.
• Close the door securely whenever you are in your room and use all of the locking devices provided.
• Don’t needlessly display guest room keys in public or carelessly leave them on restaurant tables, at the swimming pool, or other places where they can be easily stolen.
• Do not draw attention to yourself by displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
• Don’t invite strangers to your room.
• Place all valuables in the hotel or motel’s safe-deposit box.
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle.
• Check to see that any sliding glass doors or windows and any connecting room doors are locked.
• If you see any suspicious activity, please report your observations to the management.

With ever-increasing limits on luggage – both weights and the number of items – a compact luggage scale is one of the most useful travel accessories you can buy. If you’re a shopper, you really need to know when it’s time to quit putting stuff in your suitcase and start mailing packages home. There are a wide variety available in both regular and digital styles, and all are inexpensive. Here are some of the most popular ones: