We are often asked for travel tips. Here are 10 to start, but also contact  your travel agent, and the TSA website shown below FOR UPDATES!

1) TRAVEL LITE: check the weather and special occassions, then mix and match garments, with preferences for wrinkle-free, and multiple-worn items. Cut all non-essentials, and weigh in at 50 pounds MAX per bag. Assume TSA will open all luggage and carry-on.

2) COMPUTERS, MP3, PDA, CELLPHONE AND CAMERAS: again, think smaller, high-tech, WiFi, long battery-life (extras), and converged e-tools. Avoid extra cases -- use laptop case for small items, ie paperwork and other valuable gizmos. Attach ID to each item. Never pack laptop in your luggage.

3) VALUABLES: Leave most of your purse/wallet contents and valuables at home. Don't pack in luggage. Secure the credit card with you, cash, driver license and passport. Keep 'tip money' handy. Think about 'pickpockets,' especially in big cities. Don't put wallet in your back pants pocket. Watch people. Don't leave your luggage.

4) MEDICATION: Keep meds near you, with a 'backup' quantity in a second bag location, list of prescriptions and doctors numbers. Consider colds, digestive upset, and spare crticial meds.

5) CARRY ON: Check local rules for all carry-on items -- ie liquids, prohibited items, etc. Bring zip-lock bags for certain liquids ... See TSA website below.

6) LUGGAGE: Mark your luggage to easily identify from a distance. Attach ID card outside, and inside. Buy a light bag, with wheels ... or duffel bag and hide the straps. Leave space for return gifts, and pack a spare foldable nylon bag. Don't use locks, unless they are TSA-approved, available at airport gift shops. They often open to inspect, and will cut off locks.

7) LOSS: Make a list of all luggage and carry-on items, leaving a copy at home. Report any loss immediately.

8) ITINERARY: Produce a travel schedule for all flights, phones, email, locations, dates, hotels, etc. with several copies for relatives, friends, yourself.

9) PLAN AHEAD: Plan your trip, and then plan to wait ... at the airport,
hotel, taxi, etc. Recommended: be at the airport 2 hours in advance. Plan contingencies for delays, losses, etc.

10) IMPORTANT: familiarize yourself with the TSA Security travel site for current info: http://www.tsa.gov == and check with your travel agent for more travel ideas and tips.