[Seahawk]

All my heavy duty international travel was over eight years ago, so my advice is limited to the type of domestic travel I do now.

Get the good iPhone/iPad rechargers you can carry in your luggage. I poo-poo'ed them but can't live without them now.

I check baggage if I am in a later seating selection. I just hate the overhead bin shuffle. I always take one bag with me that has all the essentials if my luggage is lost or delayed or I decide to check.

A friend of mine always boards last so he can get his carry-on baggage checked for free on full flights. Works like a charm.

Before a long trip, join the airlines credit card that gives you mileage and two free passes to their lounge. Cancel the card after the trip. I have used at least six United lounge passes when I was traveling internationally a lot off credit card offers I never used.

For domestic travel, pick a hotel chain, join their club and stay with it. The Marriott chain covers all the smaller markets I travel in and I have had at least two weekends with Mrs. Seahawk in DC at a major Marriott downtown gratis.

My hotel needs are few in small town America.