7 Tips for Traveling Comfortably

The week before leaving for Costa Rica, my sisterfriend Della asked, "What are you going to miss most?"

We were living in the jewel of the Puget Sound region, Seattle, with all its natural beauty and technological wonders, like wifi and dishwashers.

Me:  "Beyond my kids and friends, I really don't know.  I don't even know what I don't know."

Her:  "Well, surely, there's got to be something, like, maybe, Dr. Pepper?"

Me:  "You wanna know the truth?  The truth is, the prospect of not having toilet paper terrifies me."
………..

After being in Central America for 2 months, I can report that toilet facilities are usually well beyond my spoiled lady expectations.

Even in somewhat run-down buildings, the bathrooms are usually immaculately clean, with modern soap dispensers, paper towels, and yes, toilet paper.  Although sometimes, you do have to buy the TP first.  (Looking at you, San Jose bus station.)

But let's face it: There are times in a traveler's life when one needs … more.

So although there's no particular "thing" I can't do without, but there are a few things that make traveling much easier.

And since I'm a totally qualified expat in Costa Rica of 8 whole weeks (really only 7) and I want you to come over -- I'll tell you what the guide books won't about traveling in comfort.

These horses give zero biscuits about TP.  Photo credit: Husband on eye-phone 6.

1.  Pocket packets of tissues.  Lots of them.  Trust!

2.  Waterproof zip top bags of all sizes, for a million reasons.  Keep your phone dry.  Keep your Costa Rican colones separate.  A makeshift ice pack.  Put your documents all together.  Extra protection for that Special Thing that could leak or break.

3.  A sturdy, collapsible umbrella.  You may not care about getting wet in the rainy season, but your laptop sure does.  In the dry season, you might want the shade.

4.  Shampoo bar.  It's just easier to carry.

5.  Keychain bottle opener.  (Duh. How did I leave the states without it?!)

6.  Pocket-sized notebook and pen to jot down handy phrases, directions, new words, etc.

7.  Any and all drug store items.  They're super expensive here, so double up, buttercup!  You can easily fit 2 bottles worth of aspirin in one bottle.  

What do you bring to make traveling more comfortable?  Asking for a friend.

Pura Vida!