HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR READERS: As a world traveler, I’ve learned a few tricks and tips to help you stay safe and sound on a trip to any part of the world. Believe me, I’ve accumulated a lot of frequent-flier miles, so perhaps I can save you from some awkward moments.

■ If you’re on a flight, boat or train and motion sickness is a problem, try a drink of half ginger ale and half club soda. It will help with the nausea.

■ Learn to travel with one suitcase (25 or 28 inches) and one carry-on. Life will be much easier with less to carry.

■ Forget to pack something? Check with the hotel before running to the drugstore. Many housekeeping departments have extra toothbrushes, razors, etc., and they’re usually free.

■ If it requires ironing, you’re better off not packing it.

■ Stick to one basic color, such as black, gray or navy blue, then take other items that complement that color. Example, a navy pantsuit with pink or red blouse/tie.

■ When you’re in a foreign country, ask locals where they eat dinner or lunch and give it a try.

■ In your carry-on, always pack sunscreen, a hat, a few basic toiletries, any medications you take, a pair of flipflops or a pair of foldable slippers, a photocopy of your passport, camera charger and some clean underwear. You’ll thank me if your luggage is lost.

DEAR HELOISE: With so many hotels, restaurants and amusement parks going up in price, I’ve found free or inexpensive things to do with my children this summer:

■ There’s always the beach at the ocean or a public lake. Pack a lunch with fresh fruit and sandwiches, and you have an all-day excursion.

■ Visit a neighboring town that’s having some kind of event or festival. New sights and sounds are always fun.

■ Contact a library to see what it offers. Some have free summer reading programs that include workshops, movies, theater for children, puppet shows and more.

■ Plant a garden. It’s also a learning session for kids to see where their food comes from, and kids can pick the things they grow and eat them.

■ See a movie. Many theaters have family movies on weekday mornings for kids at greatly reduced prices.

■ Some of the chain hardware stores have free workshops on the first Saturday of the month for kids.

— Samantha E., Indiana