Gallagher's Travels: Travel Tips

Travel Products

Here are items I've personally used or have been recommended by other travelers.

www.Minimus.biz ---- an e store outlet with over 600 individual and travel size products in a wide range of categories

Reviewed and tested by Mary Gallagher

I'm hungry a lot because at home, a grazer, it's little bites often. That doesn't always work on the road. Frequently I won't eat the airline or other provided food, perhaps a takeout item is really grim or old. I swear Nathan's ships uneaten hotdogs from one location to another until they are finally gone. I had a friend traveling on a very low budget trip to Jamaica who packed his entire suitcase with crackers, peanut butter and Spam. I'm still stunned by that revelation.

Arriving late at a hotel on the verge of starvation to discover all the restaurants and room service have closed, or it's raining cats and dogs, or snowing or we're stuck in traffic on a bus or train, stranded on the runway with nothing and the flight attendants have escaped, means emergency rations are a necessity for the road warrior.

The one year old innovative company www.Minimus.biz offers an e store outlet with over 600 individual and travel size products in a wide range of categories including beverages, food products, personal care and pharmacy related items. None need to be refrigerated before opening and all are commonly recognized brand names.

On my recent two week trip to Europe and I took an assortment of Minimus products and ended up using the Folgers Coffee Singles, convenient coffee T bags, a product I like and have purchased previously. Although be very careful when you open them as ripping the top even a tiny bit low will destroy the integrity of the bag holding the coffee and you'll be hard pressed to drink the coffee if you don't like consuming grounds. As a strong or espresso drinker I find them handy for beefing up "dishwater" coffee. The Kellogg's Low fat Granola with raisins was eaten dry as a snack during one of three plane rides and much tastier than most cereal or energy bars.

Also good were the Quaker Oatmeal cereal packets. In many European hotels you don't have a coffee maker or microwave but an electric tea kettle so hot water was not a problem. Very tasty and healthy! On another plane ride I ate the Kars Sweet'N Salty mix a trail type mix of peanuts, little chocolate candies and raisins. The Nature Valley Granola Bar was passed to a starving friend mid afternoon when lunch had been way too light that day.

The packets of diced dried apricots and another of dried cranberries provided a natural sugar lift and no mess during long museum tours.

I used the Tylenol packet of 2 caplets and the Shout wipes Stain Treated Towelette. Some of the other laundry products I brought with but never needed. I tend to bring clothes I don't mind leaving behind....how many black turtle neck sweaters does one really need to own?

This was a super convenient way to pack a supplement of food and other items in a relatively inexpensive and highly convenient manner. The packaging is light - no bulky boxes. Minimus provides free shipping on orders of $20 or more.

Some of the other items they carry are staples for all my trips including cocoa mix packets, microwave popcorn, Alka Seltzer, baby powder, antibacterial wipes, small disposable sealed flashlight and a rain poncho. After looking at their inventory I'm adding Ramen Noodle soup, powdered Gator Aid and a few other dry cereals for snacking.

If one starts to come down with a cold or flu constant hydrating with liquids is very important. A cup or two of Ramen soup with its tons of salt will have you drinking water like you've been on the Sahara for a month.

The Ark III Survivor kit

Minimus has several prepackaged kits including a survival package that would be good for skiers, mountain bikers or anyone ever in the slightest possibility of being stranded for a few days.

Now I just returned from a short US trip including only a one hour flight and stayed at one hotel for several nights. To my amazement they did not have a mini bar refrigerator due to local liquor laws and subsequently no storage for perishable items. The all time emergency refrigerator didn't work either as the windows did open there wasn't a ledge to stack things on, foiled again. Nor was there a coffee maker in the room, another surprise, but many luxury hotels protect their room service people by forcing one to order coffee.

Here I was stranded without a single Minimus product, no snacks, no drinks and all my own fault for not taking emergency rations everywhere. My flight was also delayed an hour on the runway. This will not happen again.

Are we de-icing the plane?

It's convenient, reasonable and a great feature for the frequent or occasional, long or short distance traveler.
www.minimus.biz

Cocoons Sunglasses

tested by Mary Gallagher

We've been using the wrap-around Cocoons sunglasses for several months and think the best feature is their ultra-lightweight, flexible, Soft Touch(r) frames. I tend to sit on glasses, remove them carelessly with one hand and other abuse meaning frequent adjustments at the opticians but Cocoons flexible frames allowed me to adjust them anytime to my own satisfaction. While they are made to fit comfortably over prescription eyeglasses, I also wore them independently without regular glasses. They have an attractive contemporary styling with a high-tech, optically correct polarized Polar TX(r) lenses offers total protection from UVA and UVB rays and glare. Cocoons are scratch-resistant, hypoallergenic, and come with a neoprene case with belt clip, and cleaning cloth. Available in five sizes $39.85 from Magellan's catalog or website. www.magellans.com 800-962-4943

Bose Quiet Comfort 2 Headphones

tested by Mary Gallagher

This was the first type of noise canceling headphones I tested and they follow the original Bose QuietComfort Headphones in featuring very cushiony lightweight ear cushions although I found this feature, while comfortable and helpful in screening out noise, sometimes a little sweaty. The state-of-the-art TriPort headset technology filters and cancels the sound waves of outside noise (including high-decibel engine roar, wind noise and other aircraft sounds) but we didn't find that it cancelled out "all" the noise as one tester wanted. Particularly when using the noise-reduction feature on its own without any other audio. However, on a packed and very noisy flight with many small children they were a godsend with or without audio. Any noise bleeding through is minimal and you'll especially notice the difference by the end of the flight when you remove them. Noise is very tiring whether you're consciously aware or not.

Version 2 has audio sound further enhanced for a fuller sound, whether you're listening to music or watching the in-flight movie. Rotating earcups fold flat for easy storage. The very nice padded case holds a 36" extension cord for media players, airplane jack adapters, belt clip, and carrying bag. The unit conveniently takes one AAA battery. The case would be even more advantageous if one could fit their CD player inside. Price as tested: Bose Quiet Comfort 2 Headphones $299 from Magellan's Catalog or website www.magellans.com 800-962-4943

Plane Quiet Headset

tested by Mary Gallagher

Art CriticTony Harvey contemplates with classical music and his Plane Quiet Headset.

This was the next noise canceling headset we tried and it's great. A little lighter in weight and at 1/3 less cost than Bose, the price was a big draw.

The "Plane Quiet" headset features the proprietary active noise reduction technology first incorporated into aviation headsets. Unpleasant noise is dramatically reduced while providing high quality audio. According to the products information, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) says, if you are exposed to loud noises eight hours or more in a row, you need hearing protection.

While using some of the same features of the Bose unit, the earcups cradle the ear allowing the headset to lessen most noise that cannot be eliminated by simply covering the ears. A desired sound is "processed" to create a signal opposite to unwanted noise. This correction signal, when reproduced by the speaker in the earcup, significantly reduces the noise leaving the desired sound. The process of measuring, creating a correction signal and lessening the noise is rapid and constant, thus the headset reacts to any dynamically changing noise. There was a slightly "deeper" sound with the Bose but we didn't notice any difference in noise canceling ability. Although the Plane Quiet is a light compact complete package on occasion the connecting plug-in device was a bit awkward.

The headset can be used three different ways: to eliminate noises only, to listen to the airline's sound programs-music or movies; or to listen to one's own portable sound source, for example a CD, DVD or laptop computer. $79.99 with discounts offered for multiple orders.
www.protravelgear.com
www.outsidetheboxgroup.com/store/index.htm

Plane Warm Travel Blanket

tested by Mary Gallagher

The idea of taking my own blanket on the plane, adding weight to my already overloaded carryon was not too appealing but then on a few freezing flights there were no blankets and on one plane they were in dubious condition. I packed in my carryon one of the "Plane Warm Travel" blankets which are quite lightweight and roll or fold down well and it was wonderful. Not only did I use it on the plane as my blanket and at one point pillow, I used it in my hotel room as a throw and blanket supplement. I'm meeting more and more frequent travelers who always wear slippers in the rooms and remove the spreads from their bed before ever sitting or sleeping.

These travel blankets are made of ultra-soft poly that resists punctures and tearing, are flame-retardant, non-pilling, non-shedding, 60 x 40" and weigh 19 oz. After this last trip I threw mine in the washer and fluffed it a little in the dryer and its ready to go again although considered a disposable product.

Also if you're a person like me who buys difficult things to get home it is excellent padding for that great treasure!

Navy $4.85 or buy 2or more at $4.45 each!
www.outsidetheboxgroup.com/store/index.htm
www.magellans.com 800-962-4943

Ultra Soles

tested by Mary Gallagher

Here was another product I erroneously thought would be useless but I wear them all the time in my house. Light as a feather with flexible but protective soles "Ultra Soles" would work any where you wouldn't want to walk in your bare feet. I wore them in Jamaica because of the slippery marble floors in my room and then out on the catamaran. I was thinking if I painted the white netting black, I could wear them at night for dinner and everyone would say how chic!

You need a lot of shoes in resorts and any seaside environment as they constantly get wet, sandy and never seem to dry. These weigh and take up as much space as a pair of socks. The elastic straps are not binding either.

Ultra Soles $8.85 
www.magellans.com 800-962-4943

Deluxe Pill Organizer

tested by Mary Gallagher

I used to carry a hard plastic case with sections divided for each day's pills. It was important to make sure the little doors were taped shut or I ended up with a week's supply of medications in the bottom of my suitcase. Then I tried zip lock sandwich bags for each day and now I use this very compact micro fiber wallet with a Velcro closure. It holds enough vitamins or medications for eight days in sturdy little clearly number marked plastic zip-top pouches that one can easily slip in your pocket or purse for the rest of the day. This is important for those of use that take different pills at different times. There is also a larger zip-top pouch to store extra medication and a medical reference card to record important personal information.

Once again a surprisingly efficient and well thought out addition to your travel items. I like the wallet so much, now I use mine for every day. Update: Unfortunately the little plastic envelopes don't last long and start to split out. Magellan's guarantees all products for life but there is a limit how many times you want to deal with getting a replacement. Too bad I loved this product.

$9.85 or buy 2 or more for $9.45 each. 
www.magellans.com 800-962-4943

Antibacterial Wipes

tested by Mary Gallagher and 100's more.

Thanks to a tip from world traveler, Susan McKee, I'm now carrying a small reseal-able packet of antibacterial wipes with me at all times. On my recent trip to Southeast Asia they were as important as my credit card!

It has been proven that people who wash their hands frequently have fewer colds and other easily spread illnesses.

When one is forced to use public toilets anywhere in the world these wipes are a savior. Frequently, you'll not find toilet paper or a place to wash up or choices that are not an improvement over not washing.

The pre-moistened wipes solve the problem while substituting for soap and water, toilet paper and the longstanding wet washcloth in a plastic bag that was vital to carry whenever you left the house with small children. Generic brands run $1.50 for a packet of 16.

In some hotels out of the US - not the four star - you are expected to provide your own washcloth. I found the disposable face clothes by Olay, Biore or any of the generic brands to be very handy. If you wear "all day stay put" makeup it can be removed first with the disposable towels before using and staining the establishments linens. I put a dozen in a zip lock bag. Under $5.00 for a large box.

MiniMinit

Tested by Mary Gallagher

One cup coffee filters. I found this nifty little product in a shop in Sioux Falls, SD. The Canadian manufacturer tells me they are available at Borders Books, specialty coffee and tea shops and grocery stores throughout North America.

My espresso passion is well documented and in some outposts of the US it is more expensive than beer or unavailable. With MiniMinit I carry a zip lock bag of ground espresso coffee, the weightless holder (a little stick) and filters. In a hotel room with a coffee maker or microwave I can heat water and make delicious coffee as strong or weak, anytime of the night or day, as I desire.

Fill

Pour Water

Remove Filter

... then enjoy

Works well for loose tea too.

Forty filters and the holder run under $2.50. If you cannot find the product in your area call them at 1 416 288-8590 or visit their web site at www.miniminit.com.

Nada Chair

tested by Mary Gallagher

Pack-able back support. My sister told me about Nada products a few years ago and I've been using the Back Up at my computer ever since. Anyone who spends time sitting and isn't gifted with strong abs will find something useful in their product line.

Ideal for sporting events, outdoors people (like fishermen), lawn concert or back less bench seating events, as well as, desk/computer work.

On trips the Sit Pack has saved me from fading out with back pain at an event or activity that doesn't offer much in seating support.

Lightweight, easy to pack and lasts forever. Prices range from $17.95-$59.95. Visit their web site at www.nadachair.com or call 1 800 722-2587

Tilley Endurables

tested by Mary Gallagher

Specialty travel clothing. I started using Tilley clothing and bags at least five or more years ago and not one item shows wear or has failed in any manner. Everything is wash, hang to dry and wear. If you are particularly obsessed the need for totally perfect non wrinkled clothing and an iron is convenient for touch ups - that is an option.

Even the hats have secret pockets! Being somewhat foggy, I tend to forget which of the multi or secret pockets I put the money in. Velcro closings are strong so nothing will accidentally "fall" out or be easily removed by pickpockets.

Mary all in Tilley

The blazer in navy with khaki shorts, skirt and slacks can go anywhere. Next on my list is to try some of the women's clothing in natural fiber fabric with coordinated prints by Liberty of London. Looks to be a bit lighter for summer or tropical climates than items made with AdventureCloth.

Perhaps if I had been wearing my "Vomp" vest on this last trip my new digital camera wouldn't have been misplaced!

Products are not inexpensive but will outlive most of their owners. Available on line at www.tilley.com , in some U.S. stores or you can order a catalog by phone at 1 800 363 8737

Walking Sticks

By Elinor Garely

Whether hiking for the first time, or a seasoned rambler, a walking stick is a necessity. Sometimes it will save your legs and feet, and other times it will save your life. For going uphill, downhill, or meandering along a level field, the walking stick is a vital part of the adventure travelers "must have" equipment.

Spiral Classic Walking Stick

Look for the sticks to provide extra power, and balance, as well as taking pressure off back and hips when going up hill and reducing shock on knees on the down hill slope. Hiking sticks can increase endurance, aid crossing soft ground, and assist in balance for activities such as river crossings.

Foldable Hiking Staff

In an emergency, the stick can also be used as a center or side pole for a tarp, prop up a backpack, provide a leaning post during a rest stop, push aside spider webs, and provide a defense during an attack. Some hikers don't like sticks because they keep hands full, and may get in the way when trying to grip a branch, or regain balance. One pole will be an effective hiking aid, but two are better. Unless you need a free hand, there is no better use for your hands then to control the poles. Recommended sites: http://houseofcanes.com and http://www.whistlecreek.com/classerwalst.html

Gallagher's Travels

Travel Products

www.Minimus.biz ---- an e store outlet with over 600 individual and travel size products in a wide range of categories

Cocoons Sunglasses

Bose Quiet Comfort 2 Headphones

Plane Quiet Headset

Plane Warm Travel Blanket

Ultra Soles

Deluxe Pill Organizer

Antibacterial Wipes

MiniMinit

Nada Chair

Tilley Endurables

Walking Sticks

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