As I get ready to travel from Austin, TX I always start considering what I will need for my adventure a month or so in advance. It gives me some time if I need to purchase anything specific for the trip if I don't already have it.  As I think about things we need to pack I always advise to pack several days in advance before you travel instead of the night before.  I will follow my own advice in order to not forget anything.

Items one, two and three are important to have in your carry-on to ensure they don't get lost in your luggage.
​1.  Phone + Sandisk in Phone for additional memory + Charger + Headphones- Most I believe will agree.  What would we do without our phones? I always make sure I have a charger that I can plug my phone into so I can keep going with my trip. I use an ACCELLORIZE portable charger. I don't have to plug it into the wall and wait. You can plug up to 2 phones in at a time and not miss a beat.  If your phone allows you to add a sandisk you won't have to worry about not being able to get all the pictures and videos you want while you travel.

3. ID/Passport/Visa-You should know in advance what kind of documents are needed for your trip when leaving Austin, TX.  You don't want to wait until the last minute to rush for a passport or apply for a tourism visa. It is important to make sure your passports are valid 6 months past your return date of your trip. These items get forgotten often when traveling and are important to have at all times.  Not all states' driver's license are not compliant with TSA's travel requirements. 

4. Comfortable shoes-There is always plenty of walking in the airports as the connections can be miles apart.  You want to take care of your feet when traveling so you are not miserable and can enjoy touring your destinations. It amazes me that women will wear high heels in the aiports. There is no way I could run in them with my suitcases to make my connection if things are delayed.

5. Water Bottle- Yes, a water bottle. Make sure it is empty going through security and then you can fill it up with the filtered water stations available in the airports such as Austin.  It is important to stay hydrated when you travel!   I prefer a water bottle that is BPA free and has a loop on the lid so you can hang it on your purse or belt loop so you are hands free. Bringing your own bottle allows you to have water wherever you go.

6. Hand Sanitzer- There are many different scents and sizes.  When you travel you are exposed to many germs. You can't always wash your hands with water so it is great to have a back up.

7. Cross-body purse- I always travel with a cross-body purse when I travel.  They come in many styles.  I keep the most important items in my purse such as my wallet, passport, head phones, phone and charger.  I store my purse in my back pack that usually goes under the seat in front of me. This way if I need anything I can easily get to it when I am on the plane. 

8. Power Adapter and Night Light- When traveling internationally you'll probably need a power adpater.  I recommend the TUMI adapter.  Many a times you are in your room and it is hard to find your way around in an unfamiliar place.  I recommend taking a small night light. One that will come on when the lights go out and turn off when the lights come on.

9. A Change of Clothes, Deoderant, Toothbrush/paste, compact poncho, and medication- You should pack these in your carry-on in case you miss a connecting flight, if your luggage is delayed or if your flight is cancelled leaving you without your luggage.

10. Printed Travel Documents- You want a printed copy in case there is no internet or Wi-Fi. It is good to keep hotel phone numbers and confirmations available in case of any issues that come up. I provide printed documents but can provide electronic copies as well.

​Have you wanted to visit Hawaii?  It is a great destination for families or couples to experience from Austin, TX. The islands offer an array of experiences different from each other. There are a few ways to visit the islands.
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The more all-inclusive way is by cruising the 4 main islands Maui, Kaui, Kona, and Hilo.  The Norwegian Pride of America is the cruise line that is dedicated to help you see the most of Hawaii at one time.  I would suggest coming in a day before.  Rent a car to get yourself around when you arrive.  Consider a luau the night you arrive and visit Pearl Harbor to its fullest before you cruise the next day.  There are several tours available that just share the memorial.  Your missing out on seeing the Pacific Aviation Museum, the Battlefield Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum.  There is a lot of history to learn about.  You can also get your picture taken at the shop near the USS Bowfin Museum.  Your picture will be on the newspaper article about WWII.  It is nice to have a piece of history to take home.  

When you arrive to the Norwegian’s Pride of America at least 2 hours before it departs you can start by grabbing yourself a snack or drink before checking things out.  You have the choice of taking your luggage on yourself or you can let the cruise line take it to your room for you.  You will have to wait at least 3 hours before your luggage arrives to your cabin. If you allow the cruise line to take care of your luggage make sure you have a small carry-on bag that has your medications, change of clothes, passports and other important items.  You will be called to do a muster drill so pay attention to where you need to be for that. Your Room Key will provide some of the information on where you need to show up. Once the muster drill is done the ship will get ready to head out. You can head to the pool deck where everyone will watch as you pull away from the dock.  Once you are at sea you can eat dinner or see a show or whatever suits your fancy.  You are on your way to experience the great islands of Hawaii!

The other option is to select a specific island or two you want to explore.

​Hawaii does not offer all-inclusive resorts to stay at. Some may offer breakfast everyday for your stay but then you are on your own to explore the islands and enjoy the local food and hidden gems. Many resorts offer small kitchens where you can cook yourself with the local foods you purchased. Let the fun begin!
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Maui is known as the “The Valley Isle.” It is the second largest Hawaiian island. You will spend almost 2 days here.  It is known for its beaches, the migrating humpback whales and the sunrise and sunset from Haleakala. The Iao Valley State Park is a top attraction with the lush valleys and burbling streams.  If you like shopping you can browse the local shops, restaurants and historic sites in the charming town of Wailuku. East Maui is where you can brave the road to Hana if you dare.  This winding road and narrow bridges provides some awesome views of lush rainforests, gorgeous waterfalls and a black and red sand beach to enjoy. South Maui has miles of sandy beaches for lazy days and romantic nights. The west side of Maui is known for its charming towns to its championship golf courses. Upcountry Maui is where many will watch the sunrise from the peak of Haleakala.

Kaui is named after the Wiliwili trees, which once lined its picturesque harbor On "The Garden Island," nature is truly the star, from the dramatic mountains of Kokee to the cool rainforests of Haena. ​On the North Shore enjoy the dramatic natural beauty of the cliffs of the Napali Coast.  Kaui is known for its premier golf courses.

Kona offers the quintessential Hawaii experience. Sunny, warm weather and crystal blue waters entice visitors to partake in a variety of surfside fun. Snorkel amongst a kaleidoscope of tropical marine life. Take a surfing lesson, a kayaking trip or head out to deeper waters for some deep-sea fishing.

Hilo is like one giant greenhouse with spectacular tropical flowers at every turn. Visit the town's well-preserved historic buildings, which date back to the turn of the century and showcase Hawaii's unique architecture. Just 30 miles away the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the home of the active Kilauea Volcano. Check out the 80 foot Waianuenue (Rainbow Falls) and Peepee Falls. You can also enjoy the Hilo Farmers Market downtown Hilo for exquisite produce and local crafts.

Hawaii is a great destination here is the US and easy to get to from Austin, TX and I encourage you to experience it.  You won’t be disappointed.  Let us help you with your next Hawaii trip!