International Travel
For keeping passports, cards, and cash safe I generally go with one of two options depending on what I am wearing. I find that the traditional money belt is uncomfortable and bulky. Generally, I go with the hidden travel belt because it is so convenient to access and basically falls where a pocket would so it is more comfortable.
Sometimes I use the “leg safe” that wraps around your calf (obviously not for shorts :)) While not easy access it is good for things that you need to have safe and out of the way.
While not very fashionable I wear this belt even with suits and it can hold a good bit of cash inside. This one is wider, but they do have some that are narrower. It also has saved me a few times I forgot my wallet and needed cash since I always have it with me. It has no metal in it so you can go through metal detectors without setting them off.
I also use RFID sleeves for my credit cards (you do not need if your wallet or holder is RFID). This keeps your card from being scanned by any would-be thieves. I used to think they were a hoax, but since using them I have not had my credit card info stolen and before I used them it had happened several times.
Tour Guide Clothing
It is expensive but I love SCOTTe clothing (and if you keep checking or join their email you will get great sales throughout the year). This vest is one of my favorites. Check out all 26 pockets and clever design, I don’t need my backpack when wearing the vest. Go to their website to see all their clothing in action. Get 30% by going to http://fbuy.me/kTCzR . If that promotion has ended you can visit the site at scottevest.com
I tried to wear so many brands of dress shoes and all were so expensive and so uncomfortable. We are in so many different kinds of weather and are on our feet so much. A few years ago I just started to wear all black tennis shoes and not one person has made a comment to me since they just blend in. Everyone has different needs, but for me these Brooks shoes are great. They are comfortable, have good traction and are breathable for the hot summer tours. The other is leather for winter wear or looking more professional. Yes, I do realize these are the same shoes that mall walkers wear. But I would rather be comfortable and be taking care of my feet and body than look nice and in pain. 🙂 Of course, I have a pair of uncomfortable dress shoes for when I must.
I never even considered a Tilley because of the cost, but I received one as a gift and they are worth it. They have a lifetime guarantee, they will replace them even if you lose it. Many of them you can just throw in the washer and they come out great. You can roll them up to pack them and they come out shaped just right (make sure the one you select is made for travel as they do have some fancier ones that are not as travel-ready). This is the one I have and they fit amazingly as they have a lot of sizes. They look professional and are great for tours where you are out in the sun a lot.
The same sentiments towards my Yeti Rambler. I mocked people who had Yeti products until I put tea in this and it was still warm three hours later.
Luggage
I generally get my luggage at Ross or TJ Maxx so I can see it and give it a test spin around the store. You can get some great deals there. Remember that luggage is going to get scratched and broken. Its job is to protect what is inside not to look immaculate. Do not spend a lot of money for something that you will get upset every time it gets scratched. Always get “spinners” those with 4 wheels that roll well. I really like the ones that open in the middle so you have two sections and do not have to dig through everything every time.
I love this pack-able backpack. It folds up small enough to fit into a back pocket but when it is unfurled it is a comfy backpack for the day. Great for an extra bag for days you need it. Locks are great, always get the TSA ones (often can get them very cheap at Ross or TJ Maxx in the luggage department. I really like this double looped one that allows you to lock up multiple zippers on a book bag or suitcase. I also carry around the braided wire so I can loop it around a table or chair for times I need extra security.
Packing Cubes are the bomb and make it much easier to live out of a suitcase. When you are grabbing things, you are doing it in sections instead of having to move every item individually. Think through what you generally pack and get the size cubes that work for your needs.
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