10 tips on travel

This post has nothing to do with farming, unless a creative person can see parallels in preparing for the unpredictable and remaining calm when things don’t go as planned.

I’m sitting here in the airport practicing #8 after experiencing #6.

I’ve already researched growing blueberries and building low tunnels, and now reflecting on the past 5 years as an intermittent Primary Stroke Center reviewer and what I have learned from various aspects of the experience.   Today, it is the joys of travel, especially WINTER travel.  I thought I would share, in case someone finds this helpful and prevents a few of the mistakes I have learned along the way.

10 Things I’ve learned from 5 years (and 60+ trips) of business travel:

1. Pack light, carry on
   
   
2. Triple check before you leave home (and again when you get out of your car) for things you must have and can’t buy:  (yes, early on I once forgot my wallet and then my cell phone.  Thank goodness my ex is a nice guy)
   
   
   1. Wallet, credit card and drivers license
      
      
   2. Cell phone
      
      
   3. Contacts/ glasses
      
      
   4. Keys
      
      
3. Be prepared for our own comfort
   
   
   1. Bring a jacket
      
      
   2. Bring something to read
      
      
   3. Wear comfortable and presentable clothing and flat shoes capable of running.
      
      
   4. Drink plenty of water
      
      
4. Give yourself a generous amount of time to get to the airport.  Estimate how long it will take, and add at least 30 minutes or more if traffic may be an issue.
   
   
5. Don’t expect your flights to be exactly on schedule.  The airline builds in extra time for minor preparations.  If they are on time, be pleased.
   
   
6. Don’t give up till they close the doors – then stay calm, re-book and proceed directly to the nearest establishment serving wine.
   
   
7. Don’t expect the gate agents to help you.  Use your phone and book yourself. (thank goodness for travel agents)
   
   
8. Make productive use of time spent waiting in the airport
   
   
   1. Charge your phone
      
      
   2. Go to the restroom
      
      
   3. Catch up on some email/ work/ research
      
      
9. Pay attention to gate changes and overhead announcements, especially close to your boarding time.  Don’t talk on the phone or be otherwise distracted when it’s time to start boarding.  (yes, almost missed my flight more than once for this)
   
   
10. If the distance is less than 5 hours – DRIVE
    
    And finally, for farmers:
    
    
11. Have a dependable person at home to tend your animals while you are away.
    
    

The list is not all inclusive, and has not been approved by TSA :-).