10 Travel Tips From Someone Who Logs 200,000+ Miles Each Year
One of the best things about travel is getting to meet other people. And every now and then, you luck out and meet someone who starts a conversation that leads to amazing travel advice — I was once seated next to an older Italian woman on a train from Florence to Rome who heard my New York accent, said she'd lived there for 25 years and proceeded to give me her list of favorite Italian food markets, gelato shops and bakeries in NYC, which I eagerly wrote down and visited as soon as I got back home.
On a recent flight from Sydney to Miami via Los Angeles, TPG's Chief of Staff Adam Kotkin had a similar experience when he met up with Cory L. of Palm Beach, Florida, an international corporate consultant who logs 200,000 miles per year. The two chatted in the lounge and during the first leg of the flight from Sydney to LA and were seated across the cabin from each other on the second leg, but later met up at baggage claim. Being that he's such a frequent flyer, we were curious to see if he had any travel tips to share. Here they are, paraphrased below.
1. Talcum powder takes any stain — including tough ones that are oil or cream based — out of anything, even suits.
2. Given the opportunity, always go with a multi-pocket jacket.
3. Shower every chance you get to stay hydrated and fresh.
4. Pack your clothes with dry cleaner plastic between items to avoid having them wrinkle.
5. Always travel with an extra shirt, socks and underwear — even if it's just a day trip.
6. Order wine as soon as you can after takeoff, as the good stuff tends to go fast!
7. Be nice and respectful to all staff and fellow passengers no matter what.
8. Hang onto any foreign currency that's left over at the end of a trip and save it for next time. This way, you'll avoid losing money on transaction fees when you exchange back and forth.
9. Always keep a $20 bill folded up in your passport, as it may come in handy in certain countries.
10. Never travel without your workout stuff — stick to your workout routine, even if you're away from home.
What are your best tips for being an all-star frequent flyer? Let us know, below.