American Airlines Charges on 1st Checked Bag!

I guess it had to happen. All the more reason to become a carry-on only traveler. While researching travel tips solo travelers, I learned how to pack for long stays with one carry-on sized bag. It's the best way to avoid lost luggage, the burden of a single person dealing with multiple bags, and NOW luggage fees!
The secret is two fold:

1. PACK LIGHT. Yeah, it's a no brainer, but what you need to do is THINK about what you'll be doing on your trip. Bring outfits that can be easily washed and hung in your room's bathroom, so you can get double duty out of each item. Dark items hide stains best. Also, bring things that can be rolled up tightly in your luggage. Forget bulky items or things that need to be ironed. If you plan on dressing up at night, plan outfits that easily make the transition from day to night, like a cute camisole top that goes well with shorts AND a skirt.
   
2. PACK COMPACTLY. Buy the 2 gallon freezer bags from Walmart, or wherever you can find them. Fold your clothes to fit the bag, then push all the air out before closing the bag. Sitting on the bag helps get the most air out and flattens the bag. Then, toss immediately into your bag. You'll be amazed how much room is occupied by air!!! You can't wear that! It's like Space Bags but much cheaper. You should have plenty of room to get twice as much stuff in your bag as usual. Added bonus, everything is contained, making it easier to repack your bag if the TSA decides to take a peak inside.

Will these fees lead to less lost luggage, or better service? Hmmm, I'm thinking no. So do what you can to avoid those nasty fees! Chances are, you won't miss the crowds at the check in desk (that's right, you can use the kiosks now!) or at the baggage carousel.
Read more about American's new fees here.

Super Cheap Travel TIP #2

Love the Yellow Pages!
Anyone who has traveled with me knows of my deep love of the phone book. Love it. Did you know it's a valuable source of free maps (go ahead and rip them out!), phone numbers and addresses for all the sites in your host city. You will usually also find a listing of all the local museums, parks, and attractions, along with an events calendar.
Another awesome thing about the yellow pages: COUPONS! In the back of just about every phone book is a section full of coupons for everything from 2-for-1 pizzas to discounts on theme park admissions, bicycle rentals and airport shuttles! Just double check the expiration dates...you don't know how long that book has been hanging around!
You'd be amazed at how much more acquainted you'll be with your new surroundings after 10 minutes flipping through the pages of the phone book. You might even save a buck or two!

Super Cheap Travel Tip

Need a mini vacation, but have NO CASH??? Do what I do: Visit your own town like a Tourist!
I must admit, I have it easy. I live in Boston which is a prime tourist destination, but, though I've lived here for a total of 10 years, I'm constantly reminded of the things I haven't seen or done in this city. I hadn't even been to the beach, in spite of the fact that I only live 30 minutes away by train!

During the week, open your local phone book: most have a section in the front dedicated to local parks, museums and other attractions. Pick two or three that you've never visited, or haven't visited in a long while. Get up early Saturday morning and hit the ground running. Treat yourself to a lunch featuring a local specialty, and don't forget to bring your camera!!!

Optional: if you have a few extra bucks, get a hotel room in a touristy part of town to further the illusion of travel!

It is sooooo easy to get caught up in your day to day routine and miss the cultural richness that is right outside your door...so the next time you're wishing you had the time or money for a mini-vacation, just look no further than you're own hometown!