The Traveler's Tool Kit: How to Travel Absolutely Anywhere

The author says it all with the quote, "Too many vacations consist of lying down, dressing up, and paying someone else a lot of money." As anyone who has traveled for months or years on end will tell you, traveling can be downright cheap (and quite fulfilling and eye-opening) if you do it right. This book will tell you how to do it right, from choosing destinations to preparations, to packing. He even completes the circle with a section on the process of returning home. Some may find this book overkill; if you're the type who thinks uncertainty is half the adventure, pick up Vagabonding instead. But if you like to have your bases covered before departing, this will answer hundreds of questions--even the ones you hadn't thought to ask!- Tim Leffel, author, The World's Cheapest Destinations: 21 Countries Where Your Dollars are Worth a Fortune

I first ran across this book a few years ago when I had just been bitten by the travel bug, but did not know how to plan or to pack. This book was a wonderful introduction to traveling; full of stories advice by the author from his extensive travels through the world. Those who are still unsure about traveling will find themselves steadied by the introductory chapters which suggest reasons for traveling. What is even better is that the author makes very good suggestions as to how to pack and what essentials to bring. Things that you may not have thought of bringing that you will find useful. Plus for someone just beginning to travel, such a well though out list is a great help. Although I have now lived on three different continents and traveled extensively, I still find myself referring to the lists of things to pack or the suggestions for how to find inexpensive fares. So, even seasoned travelers will still find this book a good resource.If you are just thinking of traveling in the world or have already been bitten by the bug, I highly recommend this great resource as an aid for your travel plans.

Quite possibly the best and most useful general travel reference book that I have seen. It has basics for planning, preparing for, and going on your trip. Outstanding bibliography and checklists. This book will serve as a great introduction to all aspects of trip planning, but you will probably want to consult other resources for further information about specific topics (such as courier flights, packing, rail travel, destinations).Reviewed October 2001 by Charles McCool on LowerAirfares.com

I really think this is a good basic book. I am an experienced traveler and I still found many valuable insights, useful web pages, and helpful tidbits. The bibliography at the end of the book is worth the price alone. It has many valuable resources and lists hard to find periodicals and newsletters. I found Chapter 14, "Woman On Her Own" especially helpful for the trip I am planning now. It gives advice for the solo woman traveler. The multitude of checklists is also very helpful. I heartily recommend this book to new and seasoned travelers.