Mail luggage, skip the carry-on

Dear Heloise: Given the cost for checked bags and problems with carry-ons, when my wife flew, we boxed up everything she’d need, from clothes to toothbrush, and mailed it about two weeks before she would get there.

She took a handbag that had her driver’s license, a credit card, cellphone and some cash. Going through security was easy, and not checking a suitcase made things even easier. When she arrived, she did not have to wait around for her luggage, or worry that it missed the plane.

When it was time to come home, she simply mailed everything back.—Timothy R., Owasso, Okla.

This is great if you are meeting family with gifts to give.—Heloise

CASH-AND-CARRY

GERMS Dear Heloise: I’m amazed at cashiers and checkers sneezing and coughing into their hands while I’m in the checkout line. Twice in two weeks, I have backed out and moved to another register.

This is something that should be addressed in a store meeting. I see others raising their arms and covering their mouths with their forearms.—Michael V., Cypress, Calif.

THE WIPE STUFF Dear Heloise: I keep alcohol prep pads on hand for cleaning eyeglasses, phone and computer screens, and remote controls. They are cheap—a box of 100 is only a few dollars.

After buying screen- and lens-cleaner wipes, I found that rubbing alcohol was the main ingredient. I clean my laptop screen and keyboard, phone and remote with one square!—Allyse T., via email

Readers, check with the manufacturers to be sure this is OK for your items.—Heloise