Mark Wolters – Page 22 – Wolters World

How to Avoid a Bear Attack

Posted on January 14, 2021January 14, 2021 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! This summer, we spent a lot of time in the American West. Also known as the Wild West, or bear country. While black bears are pretty common in many parts of the United States, grizzly bears are found in just a few American states like Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. National Parks like Yellowstone are a popular place to see grizzly bears in their wild habitat. But before you visit bear country, there are some things you need to know!

Bears Are Not Friendly

Sometimes, bears can seem very playful, almost like puppy dogs. Especially the little bear cubs. But they are not! They are wild animals, and they will protect their food and their young.

What NOT to Do At Grand Teton National Park

Always Maintain 100 Yards Distance

The minimum distance you should have between you and a bear is 100 yards. That sounds like a pretty safe distance, but a grizzly bear can cover 100 yards in six seconds. That’s not much time to think about what you’re going to do if they start to charge. Bring a telephoto lens if you want to photograph the bears.

Bears Aren’t Confined to the Parks

Glacier National Park and Yellowstone and other parks are great places to see bears. But you might also see them outside of the parks. That’s right, the bears don’t recognize our artificial boundaries; they wander in and out of the parks as they please. So don’t let your guard down just because you have left the National Park.

Bear safety is for all visitors to national parks.

Carry Bear Spray and Know How to Use It

Bear spray is proven to be one of the best ways to prevent a bear attack, once the bear is already charging you. Of course, avoiding a charge is the best approach, but sometimes that’s not always possible. Even more important than carrying bear spray is knowing how to use it. If you have it tucked away in your backpack, it’s of no use when a bear is closing in on you.

Keep it holstered on your belt or backpack, in easy reach
Know where the safety is and how to remove it
Spray in short bursts so you don’t run out

Don’t Feed the Bears

There’s a saying in bear country: A fed bear is a dead bear. A bear that is fed by humans, either intentionally or unintentionally, will likely become accustomed to humans and have to be killed. By storing your food properly, you are ensuring that you and the bears all stay safe. Bears can easily break into a car or chest cooler to steal your food, and they have an impeccable sense of smell. If you are camping, the campground will give you strict instructions on how and where to store your food. (Hint: NOT in the tent!) If you are camping, you will have to hang your food at least 10 feet off the ground and four feet from the tree base, as bears can easily climb trees.

What NOT to Do at a National Park

Be Careful When Hiking

If you are hiking in bear country, it’s entirely possible that you will run into a bear. However, there are things you can do to avoid running into bears and ensuring you all keep a proper distance. The best bear safety tips for hiking are:

Make Noise – the best thing you can do to avoid a surprise bear encounter is to make noise while you hike. If bears hear you coming, they will get out of the way.
If you’re hiking near a stream, make sure you are louder than the stream
Safety in numbers – if you can, hike in a group. A group of people is way more intimidating to a bear than just one person.
Avoid blind corners; be extra loud if you are going around a blind corner. You might even toss a rock or something ahead of you on the trail.

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He looks cute to you, but you look tasty to him.

It’s entirely possible to enjoy a bear sighting from a distance or from the safety of your car. If you do spot a bear, enjoy the moment and consider yourself lucky. If you follow these basic bear safety steps and guidance from the park rangers, you’ll be bear aware and stay safe! Looking for more family travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

What Not to Do When You Visit Wyoming

Posted on December 28, 2020December 28, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Wyoming. While many travel blogs will tell you the fun things to do in Wyoming, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do on your Wyoming road trip.

Don’t Tell Anyone What to Do

Wyoming is part of the Western frontier, and the people are very independent. It’s actually the first U.S. Territory that allowed women to vote, and they have a strong history of independence. People in Wyoming are super friendly, but the pioneer spirit lives on, so don’t try to tell them what to do!

Don’t Expect Good Cell Service

A lot of Wyoming is wide open plains. With just a few cities in the state, cell service is not always the best when you’re traveling around Wyoming. If you’re relying solely on your cell phone for navigation, make sure you download any maps you need ahead of time. I recommend carrying a road atlas; many visitor centers also still hand out free maps, which can really come in handy on a Wyoming road trip. GPS will only tell you the fastest way to get somewhere, but that’s not always the most interesting route.

Don’t Mess with Animals in Wyoming

The animals in Wyoming are a big draw for travelers, and it’s really cool to see bears, wolves, elk, and bison. But don’t forget that this is still wildlife and not to be messed with. Know the rules for being around wildlife and stay far enough away that you don’t disturb them. Every year, tourists have bad interactions with buffalo because they got too close. Pay attention when driving, too, as animals in Wyoming can be on the road almost anywhere.

Don’t Ignore the Rules and Warnings at the National Parks

Two of the most popular places to visit in Wyoming are Yellowstone and Grand Teton. It may seem like the parks have a lot of rules, but they are meant to keep you safe. If a sign says to stay on the path; stay on the path! If they tell you to stay 100 yards from the buffalo; stay 100 yards from the buffalo! People die in the parks every year and most of the deaths and accidents are highly preventable, just by following the simple park rules.

Don’t Forget Sun Protection

Elevation in Wyoming ranges from 6,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level, so the sun is very strong. Having good sun protection is a must when you visit Wyoming. Sunscreen and a hat are essential, especially if you are out hiking or doing outdoor activities.

Don’t Trust the Weather Forecast

Weather in Wyoming can be all over the place. We went from 94 degrees on a Sunday to several inches of snow two days later. Packing for a Wyoming road trip means you must have lots of layers you can easily add or remove. Have a warm insulating layer, as well as a waterproof jacket for rain, snow, and wind. Wind can be a real issue in Wyoming, especially when you are driving across the plains.

Don’t Miss the Rodeo

Rodeos are a big part of life in Wyoming. Frontier Days in Cheyenne is one of the biggest rodeos in the country, but you can find local rodeos all over Wyoming in the summer and fall. It’s a super fun experience and a great peek into the cowboy culture of Wyoming.

Things to Do in Cheyenne Wyoming

Don’t Miss Out on Local Cuisine

Wyoming is a ranching state, so beef is a prominent item on every menu. The burgers and steaks are fantastic, but you might also see some more unique items on the menus in Wyoming. They serve a lot of bison meat, which is a healthy alternative to beef. Elk is another meat commonly served at Wyoming restaurants. Rocky Mountain Oysters are a thing, too. (Hint: they are not oysters!)

Don’t Pass Up a Gas Station

Since Wyoming towns are so spread apart, we recommend filling up your tank every chance you get. You never know where the next gas station will be and you don’t want to take the chance of running out of gas. Make sure you stock up on water and snacks as well. If you happen to have any car trouble, you could be waiting a while, so you’ll be glad you have supplies on hand.

Top Ten Road Trip Essentials

Don’t Miss Out on Chatting with the Locals

The people of Wyoming are super friendly and helpful. For the most part, they seem to be very chatty and enjoy making small talk with travelers. They aren’t necessarily outgoing or boisterous, but once you start talking, they are very forthcoming with tips and recommendations for your Wyoming trip.

Don’t Expect Budget Prices in Jackson

When you visit Jackson, expect to pay top dollar tourist prices for everything. Wyoming is very affordable, but the saying in Jackson is that the billionaires have driven out the millionaires. It’s very pricy, from real estate, lodging, activities and eating out. And don’t call it Jackson Hole; that refers to the entire surrounding valley, not the town.

Don’t Wait to Make Reservations

Wyoming is very popular for visitors; from summer in Yellowstone to Frontier Days in Cheyenne. Demand nearly always outpaces the supply of lodging, so if you plan to visit any of Wyoming’s cities, make sure you are looking ahead. If you are visiting Jackson in the summer or during ski season, you’ll also need dinner reservations for most places.

Don’t Think Wyoming is Just Yellowstone

Yellowstone certainly draws the most visitors to Wyoming, but there are many more things to do in Wyoming after you’ve visited Yellowstone. Cheyenne is a great city with a number of museums and festivals, and there’s Devil’s Tower National Monument in the northeast corner of Wyoming. Of course, there’s also Grand Teton National Park and skiing in Jackson.

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Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from planning a Wyoming road trip. It’s a beautiful state with two of the best national parks, plus so many other places to visit in Wyoming. Want more of our US road trip tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

What Not to Do When Visiting Grand Teton National Park

Posted on December 28, 2020December 28, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Grand Teton National Park. While many travel blogs will tell you the fun things to do when visiting the Grand Tetons, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you visit Grand Teton National Park.

Don’t Be Afraid to Go Off the Main Road

There’s a great scenic loop through the park, but there are also a lot of side roads and viewpoints along the way. Make sure you leave time to explore some of them. Of course, make sure your vehicle is capable of any roads you decide to follow, but get off the pavement and see what’s out there!

What Not to Do on a Road Trip

Don’t Mess With the Animals

The Teton Mountains are stunning, but what really draws visitors to this National Park is the wildlife. You could see moose, bison, elk, bears, and maybe even wolves. The animals might even seem tame sometimes, but they are not! Make sure you read all the literature they give you in the park and know the rules for observing wildlife. Visitors are hurt or killed every year because they approach the animals and get too close. Don’t be that guy!

Don’t Wing It!

You may be tempted to just go with the flow on your trip, but it’s super helpful to do some research ahead of time. This region is flooded with tourists in the summertime so lodging is in short supply. If you want to stay at one of the Grand Teton National Park lodges, you need to start thinking about reservations almost a year in advance!

Don’t Sleep In

If you really want to see some wildlife in the Tetons, don’t sleep in! Early morning is the best time to see wild animals, and there won’t be as many other visitors around. You won’t have to wait for parking at some of the overlooks and popular viewpoints. Early morning light is much better for photography, too!

Don’t Forget Your Good Camera

If you have a good camera setup, this is the place to use it. Especially if you have a telephoto lens. It’s the only way to get those wildlife shots safely. You should stay at least 100 yards from animals, but with a good lens, you’ll get some great shots! But don’t bring your drone; they aren’t allowed in the park.

Jackson is a nice popular (and pricey) place to stay.

Don’t Miss Out the Cultural Attractions

There’s more to the Tetons than great scenery and cool wildlife. Jackson is a cool town from the “Wild West” and they have a lot of stuff to do as well. There’s a theater playhouse where you can see live performances, visit tons of bars and restaurants or enjoy other outdoor activities like whitewater rafting or ziplines. There’s also a National Wildlife Museum just south of the park which is a great educational introduction to what you might see in the park.

Don’t Hike Off-Trail

There are so many great hiking trails in the Tetons; even if you aren’t a big hiker, take a stroll down one of the shorter trails. Just don’t stray off the trails! You are safer on the trails and have less chance of getting lost or running into wildlife.

Don’t Forget to Dress in Layers

Weather in the Tetons is all over the place. Even in the summer and fall when the days are hot, the nights and early mornings will be cool. It’s not uncommon to have a 30-degree temperature swing throughout the day. So, you need to have layers of clothing that you can easily add and remove as the day goes on.

Don’t Plan on Stocking Up in the Park

You should make sure you have what you need before entering the park. That includes warm clothing and snacks. There are a few lodges and general stores in the park where you can purchase a few things, but you will pay a premium, and the selection can be hit or miss. It’s easier just to stock up on ice, gas, and snacks before you arrive at Grand Teton National Park.

Top Ten Road Trip Essentials

Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

Even if you visit the Tetons in winter, you’ll need sunscreen! You’re at a high elevation and the sun is strong. It doesn’t take long to get a sunburn here.

Don’t Discount the Altitude

When you visit Grand Teton National Park, you’ll be anywhere from 6,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level. It’s enough to make you short of breath or even give you a headache the first few days. Don’t plan any big hikes for the first day or two, so your body can adjust to the altitude.

Don’t Rely on Cell Service

Cell service is not reliable throughout the park. The lodges and visitor centers will have WiFi, but a lot of the park does not have coverage. If you’re relying solely on your phone’s GPS to navigate, you might want to download some maps so they’re available offline. Grab a map when you enter the park; it just might come in handy!

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Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from visiting Grand Teton National Park. It’s a beautiful national park with amazing scenery and tons of cool wildlife. Want more of our Western US travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

Things to Do in Cheyenne, Wyoming

Posted on December 22, 2020December 19, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming. Cheyenne is most famous for Frontier Days, one of the largest rodeos in the United States. We recently stopped in Cheyenne on a “great American road trip” through the Western States. Cheyenne is relatively small, with about 60,000 residents, but it’s a quintessential Western frontier town. Here are our recommendations for things to do in Cheyenne Wyoming!

Frontier Days

Cheyenne’s Frontier Days is the largest outdoor rodeo in the United States, and it takes place each summer. It’s the biggest event in Cheyenne, so the city is packed during Frontier Days. If you are visiting during Frontier Days, be prepared for crowds and make sure you reserve your Cheyenne hotel way in advance.

Even if you miss Frontier Days, there are usually some fun rodeo events going on. We visited in the fall and got to see a double-lasso competition at the rodeo arena. There’s always something fun happening in Cheyenne!

Downtown Cheyenne

The downtown area fills a space of about six to eight blocks and makes for an easy afternoon stroll. There are shops, museums, and restaurants. They also have some fun murals to check out. Just beware that shops tend to close early here, so get your souvenir shopping done in the afternoon.

What NOT to Buy When Souvenir Shopping

Cheyenne Depot Plaza

This former Union Pacific Depot is now a National Historic Landmark, and a popular open-air market in Cheyenne. You’ll often find farmer’s markets and live music here on the weekends, so it’s a great place to stroll around and meet locals. There’s also a small train museum, which is super interesting, as Cheyenne was a major transportation hub during the railroad days.

Cheyenne Museums

There are some great museums in Cheyenne, many of them detailing the history of Wyoming and the frontier lifestyle of the past. A few Cheyenne museums that you should check out include:

Wyoming State Museum
Cheyenne Depot Museum
Nelson Museum of the West
Frontier Days Museum
Cowgirls of the West Museum
Messenger Museum

Other things to see in Cheyenne include the State Capitol and the Governor’s Mansion.

Cheyenne Day Trips

From Cheyenne, it’s less than an hour to Fort Collins, Colorado, and Rocky Mountain National Park. You can also make a day trip to Scott’s Bluff National Monument in Nebraska. The University town of Laramie is also less than one hour from Cheyenne. These day trips make Cheyenne a great place to stay when exploring southeast Wyoming and Northern Colorado.

Where to Eat and Drink in Cheyenne

Cheyenne has a handful of good breweries, and it’s part of the Wyoming Beer Trail. The Accomplice Brewery is right downtown, as well as a few others. Just don’t drink and drive! Downtown Cheyenne is very walkable, and Ubers are readily available if you don’t want to walk.

What NOT To Do on a Road Trip

Of course, when you’re in Wyoming, good steak is plentiful, and you’ll find several old-school Western Steakhouses in Cheyenne. You can also try some cuisine that is unique to the West, like bison, elk, or “Rocky Mountain Oysters.”

Where to Stay in Cheyenne

There are plenty of places to stay in Cheyenne. If you want to stay right downtown, there are several historic hotels to choose from. If you prefer chain hotels with modern amenities, you’ll be staying on the outskirts of town near the interstate.

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Cheyenne is a great city to visit, even if it’s just a day trip from Fort Collins. It’s easy to get around and the people are super friendly. Just be prepared for a wide range of weather; we had 90 degrees and snow, all in the same trip! Looking for more tips on road trip destinations in the United States? Check out these other blog posts:

Ten Shocks of a Nicaragua Vacation

Posted on December 21, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about Nicaragua, an amazing country in Central America. We loved visiting Nicaragua, but there are a few things that might surprise you when you on your Nicaragua vacation. That’s why we’re sharing the top things that will shock you in Nicaragua!

Taking the Chicken Bus

Taking a chicken bus is kind of a traveler’s rite of passage in Central America. It’s called the chicken bus because you’ll probably find some chickens (or other livestock) on board. They’re the main way to get around between cities in Nicaragua. A lot of them are old yellow school buses that have been repurposed as public transportation. You can upgrade your transportation to a private driver or express bus, but you really should try a chicken bus at least once during your Nicaragua vacation!

Riding in the Back of a Pickup Truck

Besides the chicken buses, another way to get around in Nicaragua is the pickup truck taxi. If you grew up in the 80s, this is a fun throwback to riding around town in the back of a truck. It’s a great way to travel short distances between towns or around town. Don’t be surprised if you see three or four people on one motorcycle, too!

Taxi Sharing

Another shock may come if you are riding around in a taxi and they stop to let another passenger in. When you take a taxi in Nicaragua, you’re paying for one seat, not the whole car. If you want the whole taxi to yourself, you need to let the driver know, and be prepared to pay much more for the ride.

Prices in Nicaragua

It’s truly shocking how cheap it is to visit Nicaragua. You can get a decent hotel for $25 to $35 per night. If you eat at the market, you’ll spend about $2 for a whole meal. Even in the main tourist areas, the prices are shockingly low. We ate in the main square and paid less than $20 for seven people!

What to Know Before You Visit Nicaragua

Poverty in Nicaragua

Those cheap prices come at a cost. Nicaragua is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, so you will encounter poverty during your visit. While bargaining is part of the culture when shopping here, keep in mind how much you are really bargaining over. Rather than hand out money, we will often buy food for someone, especially children that are out begging for money.

Riding in the back of a truck was normal.

Rice and Beans

In Central America, you’ll be shocked at how many variations of rice and beans you will have. At every meal. You’ll have rice and beans with your eggs at breakfast, rice, and beans with chicken for lunch, and maybe beans and rice with beef for dinner. Rice and beans are two of the cheapest foods, so they’re very popular in a poor country such as Nicaragua. Besides rice and beans, you have to try some of the street food in Nicaragua as it’s excellent!

What to Eat in Nicaragua

Volcanoes in Nicaragua

Volcanoes are so prevalent in Nicaragua that they’re actually on the flag. Volcanoes are a major tourist attraction in Nicaragua; you can surf down volcanoes, swim in a volcano crater, or watch the lava flow at night.

Nicaragua Beaches

Besides volcanoes, Nicaragua has some fantastic beaches! And many of them are practically empty. Tourism in Nicaragua has been slower to take off compared to other Central American countries, so they see far fewer visitors than Costa Rica or Belize. Of all the places to visit in Nicaragua, the beaches are a must!

Power Outages

This is still a developing country in many areas, so you find power outages in the more rural areas. They’re pretty common and nothing to worry about, but you don’t want to be caught off guard. Often times it’s just a flicker, while other times you may have no power from five minutes to an hour.

Heat & Sun in Nicaragua

It can get really hot in Nicaragua! Yes, that’s kind of obvious, but don’t underestimate the heat in Nicaragua, especially when planning out your day. Late afternoon is nearly unbearable, so that’s a good time for a siesta or a swim. Stay hydrated and bring lots of SPF!

Touring the isletas by Granada was a highlight.

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We were shocked at how much we loved Nicaragua; it’s really an ideal family vacation destination. It’s affordable and there are a ton of fun things to do, especially if you love nature and the outdoors. Looking for more tips on travel in Central America? Check out some of our other blog posts!

Ten Shocks of an Ecuador Vacation

Posted on December 20, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about Ecuador, an amazing country in South America. We loved our Ecuador trip, but we had a few surprised along the way. Some good, some we wished we had a head’s up before arriving. That’s why we’re sharing the top things that will shock you in Ecuador!

Currency in Ecuador

The United States Dollar is the currency used in Ecuador. It’s not like some places in Mexico that take U.S. dollars because there are so many U.S. tourists. In Ecuador, it’s actually the only currency. So, getting and converting currency is one less thing you have to worry about; go ahead and bring your U.S. dollars from home and save money on withdrawal fees. Just make sure you bring small bills; nothing larger than a $20 bill.

Ten Rules for Tipping in Ecuador

Prices in Ecuador

Don’t worry about bringing too much cash from the States because Ecuador is super affordable. You can have a nice lunch for about $4, so your money really goes a long way here. Hotels, food, and transportation are all very cheap in Ecuador, so if you’re looking for a budget-friendly destination, I highly recommend Ecuador. We paid less than $40 per night for a really nice guesthouse in Cuenca!

Price to Visit Galapagos Islands

While most of Ecuador is very affordable, a trip to the Galapagos Islands is not! You can expect to spend at least $3,000 for a decent Galapagos tour. You can do a land-based tour to save some money, but the best way to see the Galapagos is on a cruise, and they will cost you. You do get what you pay for, though! Don’t just pick the cheapest tour without doing some research, because you might be sorry.

Biodiversity of Ecuador

You expect biodiversity in the Galapagos Islands, but it’s something you’ll find nearly everywhere in Ecuador. First, you have underwater wildlife; rays, sharks, and sea lions are abundant in Ecuador. On the other side of Ecuador, you have the Amazon rainforest, with thousands of species living there. Between the plants, the animals, and the scenery, Ecuador is truly a diverse country with many different types of areas to explore.

Food in Ecuador

There are a couple of shocks when it’s time to sit down for a meal in Ecuador. First of all, yes, they do eat guinea pigs. It’s called cuy in Ecuador, and they are raised as food just as cows are in the United States. This is more specific to the mountainous areas, and you’ll find it in Peru as well. It’s roasted on a stick and sometimes served whole on a platter.

Corn is a major staple in Ecuador, but I was still shocked to see popcorn served at restaurants as a side dish. Who doesn’t love popcorn? We’re just used to seeing it at the movie theater, not in a dish at a restaurant! They sometimes even sprinkle it on a dish.

Bathrooms in Ecuador

The biggest thing you need to know about toilets in Ecuador is that they can’t handle toilet paper. There will always be a bin next to the toilet where you should throw your toilet paper. Don’t flush it! There’s usually a sign to remind you as well.

Stray Dogs in Ecuador

You will probably see a ton of stray dogs running the streets of Ecuador. Yes, there are a lot of strays, but even pets in Ecuador tend to roam the streets. Many people own “outside” dogs so they just run around. Regardless of how cute they are, I don’t recommend running up and petting every dog you see.

Altitude Effects

Quito sits at 9350’ and Cuenca at 8400’ so you can expect to experience some symptoms related to altitude. The biggest shock is how much gas you’ll have at a high elevation! Have some sympathy for your travel companions when this happens!

How to Deal with Altitude Sickness

Temperatures in Ecuador

Many people assume Ecuador is hot everywhere. It’s on the equator, so it’s a reasonable assumption, but that’s not the case! Ecuador definitely has hot climates, but there’s a pretty wide variety of weather in Ecuador. With Quito being nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, it’s a lot cooler, even cold sometimes. There isn’t much seasonality, however, so you will pretty much always need a jacket in Quito.

Sun Intensity

One assumption that does ring true is the intensity of the sun. Being on the equator means the sun is at it’s most intense. Add some elevation to that mix and it’s super easy to get a sunburn in Ecuador. Definitely make sure you pack some sunblock for your Ecuador vacation; it’s one thing they tend to overcharge for. Bring bug spray, too!

Ecuador Locals

The people in Ecuador are amazing! They are so kind, helpful, and welcoming. Even before we left for Ecuador, I had so many people reach out to me, excited to give us their best tips for Ecuador travel. They have great pride in their country, and this also helps to make it feel very safe to visit Ecuador.

Tourism in Ecuador — So much fun in Ecuador.

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Of course, we can’t forget the biggest shock of them all: Panama hats are from Ecuador, not Panama! Yes, shocking, I know! We were shocked at how much we loved Ecuador; it’s really an ideal family vacation destination. It’s affordable and there are a ton of great places to visit in Ecuador, especially if you love nature and the outdoors. Looking for more tips on travel in South America? Check out some of our other blog posts!

Traveling Must Haves: Toiletries

Posted on December 19, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Family Travel: Our Travel Toiletries List

Hey there, fellow travelers! Of the many questions we get from our YouTube viewers and blog subscribers, what to pack for a family vacation is always a frequent one. We’ve shared a few packing lists specific to a destination, but today we’re sharing our toiletries packing list. These travel must-haves are the things we never leave home without, plus a few extra “nice to have” items. We like to travel light, so everything on this toiletries packing list is well worth the space and weight.

Packing Cubes: Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized while traveling. I have one packing cube that I use exclusively for my toiletries. My packing cube of choice is a Sea to Summit cube that probably has over 300,000 travel miles on it. It holds up well! Here are some of the toiletries that I bring along on every trip.

Six Carry-On Essentials

Washcloths: these aren’t often supplied in hotels outside of the U.S. I like EZ-Towels, which are a compressed towelette that expands when wet. You can buy them in a tube of ten, which is perfect for our family trips. I also really like Norwex cloths with Bac-Loc, which locks out bacteria. They are self-cleaning and they dry quickly, which is important for travel!

Laundry Detergent: we do laundry while traveling a lot! I like the Norwex brand laundry detergent because a little goes a long way. You can get two sinkfuls of laundry out of a teaspoon of detergent. I like to store it in a silicone resealable bag from Blue Avocado. They are sturdier than a regular Ziploc bag so you can use them over and over.

Reviver Clothing Swipes: since we tend to take longer trips, and try to pack light, these Reviver Clothing Swipes are a lifesaver between laundry days. We do re-wear our clothes a few times before washing, so these wipes are great for giving your worn clothes a scent-boost. Febreze is great, but that cuts into your carryon liquid allowance, so I like having a non-liquid alternative.

Poo-Pourri: When you have four people sharing one bathroom, it’s nice to have something to keep the WC smelling fresh. I always have a travel size of Poo-Pourri in my bag!

Everything You Need to Know About Traveler’s Diarrhea

Downy Wrinkle Release: we really pack our clothes down to fit into two carryon suitcases. Downy Wrinkle Release is great for fixing some of the wrinkles, and it also adds a fresh scent to our clothes.

Sewing Kit: a travel sewing kit always comes in handy, and barely takes up any room. Most hotels will provide one if it’s not already in the room, so grab one and throw it in your travel kit.

Contact Lens Solution: if you wear contact lenses, you’ll need lens solution each night!

Thermometer: When traveling with kids, if they get sick, I want to be able to see if they have a fever. Without hunting down a thermometer and then converting from Celcius to Fahrenheit.

Manicure Kit: No, this isn’t about vanity. These little manicure kits come in handy so often when traveling! Tweezers, nail clippers, and a nail file get used often on our trips.

Saline Spray: I do not get on a plane without saline spray. It keeps my nose from drying out in the dry plane air.

Shampoo Bar: Naples Soap Company makes a great shampoo bar that I bring on trips. It saves me from bringing liquid shampoo and is better quality than what most hotels provide. They also make a conditioner bar.

Silicone Travel Bottles: if I do pack a liquid shampoo or conditioner, it goes in a silicone refillable travel bottle. You can fill them with your own product from home, and they are much more resilient than a typical plastic travel bottle. I haven’t had one leak yet!

Origins Face Wash: the reason I like this Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash so much is that it’s a cream-to-foam cleanser, so you barely need any at all to clean your face. That means a small travel size can last for one or more trips.

Foreo Luna: as I get older, I pay more attention to my skincare routine, and the Foreo Luna is a gamechanger. It’s a bit of an investment at first, but it really deep cleans your skin, and it can last up to 400 uses on a single charge. It barely weighs anything, so it’s easy to take along and keep up your skincare routine on the road.

Moisturizer: travel can really take a toll on your skin. From different climates and humidity levels, I try to maintain the same skincare routine I have at home. I love Nerium Day Cream and Night Cream. I love that it’s just one step to moisturize and you’re done. While it’s not the most practical packaging for travel, it does simplify my skincare routine. I also really love the Nerium Eye Serum, which works wonders after an exhausting long-haul flight.

Shaving Cream: I love Cremo Shaving Cream because a little bit goes a long way. A 3-oz tube has lasted Mark and me over 12 weeks of traveling.

Luggage Locks: I also love our Sea to Summit luggage locks. They are lightweight and TSA-approved. I tend to lose keys or worry about losing keys, so this lock has a key-card that unlocks it. I can slip it in my wallet with the rest of our credit cards and it’s much less likely to be lost.

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After much trial and error and years of traveling, these are my best travel toiletries that come with me on every trip. What traveling must-haves would you add to this list? Anything we should test out on our next trip? Let us know in the comments. If you’re looking for more travel packing tips, check out these blog posts:

What Not to Do When You Visit Alabama

Posted on December 18, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Alabama. While many travel blogs will tell you the fun things to do in Alabama, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you visit Alabama.

Don’t Forget to Pick a Team

Alabama football is a serious business. Everyone is either Crimson Tide for the University of Alabama or an Auburn Tiger for Auburn University. There is no middle ground, so pick a side and stick to it! We are big fans of the Georgia Bulldogs, but when we visit Alabama…Roll Tide!

Don’t think football is the only sport in Alabama! Talladega, anyone?

Don’t Forget the First Mardi Gras Celebration

New Orleans likes to lay claim to America’s Mardi Gras celebration, but the first one ever was held in Mobile, Alabama. It’s still a great celebration in Mobile! It’s one of our favorites because they throw Moon Pies off the floats…pretty tasty!

Don’t Worry About Driving in Alabama

Driving in Alabama is a piece of cake. The roads in Alabama are really nice; since they don’t have such drastic weather changes, the roads don’t buckle as they do elsewhere. It is a long state, so if you are taking an Alabama road trip, it takes about five hours to drive from the northern border to the coast. It’s a nice drive, with rolling hills. You do need to drive, though, as public transportation is pretty rare in Alabama.

What Not to Do on a Road Trip

Don’t Skip the Small Towns

Although the highways in Alabama are nice and smooth, you should take a few exits and travel the backroads. The small towns that were bypassed by the interstate system are some of the best places to visit in Alabama, and they are also where you’ll find some of the best southern food. Skip the chain restaurants and check out authentic Southern food at the dozens of mom and pop joints you’ll see along the way.

Don’t Forget Your Southern Manners

They are all about manners in the south, so don’t forget to be polite and say please and thank you. You are expected to hold the door for the person after you, even if they’re a bit farther behind.

Things that Will Shock You in the South

Alabama travel — Alabama white sauce with your BBQ, just try it, you will love it!

Don’t Skip the Alabama White Sauce BBQ Sauce

When you order barbecue in Alabama, you might be surprised to find a white sauce on your food. In Alabama, they have white barbecue sauce. It sounds weird, it looks weird, but it’s delicious. It’s a mayonnaise-based sauce, and you have to try it! And don’t forget to wash your food down with Southern sweet tea!

Don’t Assume Alabamans are Simple

Many people think of Forrest Gump when they think of Alabama, but the people of Alabama are not simpletons. Sometimes the accent leads to assumptions about intelligence, or lack thereof. But there are many smart people in Alabama. It’s where Space Camp is held! Astronauts are not dumb!

Don’t Forget About Alabama Outside of Gulf Shores

Some of the best places to visit in Alabama are the Alabama vacation spots along the coast. But there is a lot more to Alabama than just the beaches. Mobile and Montgomery are great cities where you can learn more about the Civil Rights Movement. Selma is known for an important march in the Civil Rights Movement. Huntsville and Birmingham are two other Alabama cities worth visiting. In the north of Alabama, you have lots of forested hills that are great for hiking and outdoor recreation.

Don’t Visit Alabama in July or August

Alabama summers are notoriously hot and humid. They also tend to get tropical storms in late summer and early fall, so that may not be the best time to visit. Northern Alabama is not as hot as Southern Alabama, but it’s still ridiculously humid.

Don’t Forget Your Bug Spray

Along with heat and humidity come some pretty big bugs. The mosquitos are notorious, and you’ll probably run into a palmetto bug or two. (That’s a fancy word for flying cockroaches) If you plan to spend any time outdoors in Alabama, make sure you have your bug spray!

BBQ Alabama tourism — Even the little man was loving the BBQ.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from visiting Alabama. It’s a really neat southern state with a unique culture and there are a lot of fun things to do in Alabama. I really hope you will decide to visit Alabama because it’s worth it! Want more of our Southern US travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

10 Things That Will Blow Your Mind About Nebraska

Posted on December 16, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Nebraska Road Trip Shocks

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about travel in Nebraska. This part of the Midwest is often referred to as “flyover country” and many Midwesterners groan about the long drive across Nebraska to get to the Mountain West. We drove across Nebraska this summer, and there were some things that surprised us on our Nebraska road trip.

Nebraska is More Than Corn Fields

Yes, the state mascot is the cornhusker, so corn and cornfields are definitely a major part of Nebraska. And while there are a lot of cornfields in Nebraska, there’s actually more than that. The topography isn’t totally flat. The western part of the state has really cool sandstone buttes at Scotts Bluff National Monument and Chimney Rock.

Driving Through Nebraska

If you don’t fly over Nebraska, then you’ll probably have to drive through it. It is seven hours to drive across Nebraska, and if you’re like many Midwest families headed to the Black Hills, you will drive across it at some point. Stretches between towns are long and desolate, so make sure you fill up your gas tank whenever you can. Fortunately, driving through Nebraska is pretty easy. The roads are nice and the speed limit on the interstate is 75 miles per hour.

We were shocked, though, at how short the highway on-ramps are. They don’t give you much room to merge and get up to speed!

Nebraska Weather

The weather in Nebraska is all over the place. They get hot humid temperatures in the summer and bitter cold and wind in the winter. Sometimes you can get both in the same day! Don’t always trust the forecast; have layers to bundle up when it’s cold and to remove when it’s hot.

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Midwest US Travel

Things to See in Nebraska

The best way to break up the long drive across Nebraska is to check out some of the sites along the way. Many Nebraska tourist attractions are not far from the highway, so you won’t get too far off route exploring. There are some great museums in Nebraska, including art museums in Lincoln and Omaha, the International Quilt Museum, a Pioneer Village, and the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum. The Henry Doorly Zoo is one of the best zoos in the United States.

Friendly Locals

It doesn’t take long to realize how friendly everyone in Nebraska is. Total strangers will wave or nod as you pass by on the road, especially if you get off the beaten path. Everyone we met in Nebraska was super friendly, interested in our travels, and helpful with recommendations for their favorite things to see in Nebraska. They don’t want anything from you; they’re just naturally friendly.

Love for the Cornhuskers

Nebraska loves their Cornhuskers! While cornhusking is a job that many teenagers do in the summer, in this case, we’re referring to the University of Nebraska sports programs. Of course, the Big 10 Football team is the biggest, but they get behind every Cornhusker team. And they travel all over to follow their teams. My hometown at the University of Illinois fills with Nebraska license plates anytime the Cornhuskers are coming to play the Fighting Illini.

Nebraska Time Zones

If you are driving across Nebraska, don’t let a time change catch you off guard! Most of Nebraska is in the Central Time Zone, but the Western part of the state is in the Mountain Time Zone. Keep this in mind if you’re planning to visit any attractions in Nebraska. If you’re driving west, you’ll gain an hour, and if you’re driving east, you will lose an hour.

Nebraska Food

Nebraska has invented some pretty tasty treats over the years and has managed to keep some of them secret from the rest of the world. The Reuben Sandwich and Kool-Aid both come from Nebraska. They also really like their Dorothy Lynch dressing. It’s a Nebraska staple, similar to French dressing, but they put it on everything!

Simply Jocelyn shares the best things to eat in Nebraska!

Ask any Nebraska native what food they miss most from home, and many will say “Runza.” A Runza is a beef and cabbage sandwich, or bread pocket. There’s even a fast-food chain called Runza. You have to try one when you visit Nebraska.

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We really enjoyed our Nebraska road trip this summer. Sure, we didn’t intentionally visit Nebraska, but we made sure to explore a bit of the state rather than just passing through. I’m so glad we did! Interested in more Midwest travel destinations? Check out these other blog posts:

Theme Parks in Europe vs. The United States

Posted on December 14, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! When traveling with kids, amusement parks are likely going to make an appearance on your family travel itinerary. We have visited amusement parks all over the world, and we have noticed some key differences between amusement parks in USA and those in Europe. There are also some similarities that might surprise you!

Proximity to Major Cities

I’ve noticed that European amusement parks tend to be closer to major cities than those in the United States. For example, Isla Majica in Spain is located right in the city. This makes it easy to include the amusement park in your regular sightseeing of the city. In the US, the amusement parks are more of a destination on their own, where the town has grown up around the park.

What Not to Do in Orlando

In Europe, an amusement park visit can easily be integrated into part of your travels, while in the US, the amusement park is usually the main focus.

amusement parks in europe — Isla Magica in Spain

Park Size

Given that US parks are often built on the outskirts of cities, they often have a lot more land on which to expand. Theme parks in Europe tend to be located closer to the cities, so they also tend to be on a smaller scale than their American counterparts. So, you can usually cover a whole European park in a day, whereas you might want to purchase a multi-day pass for U.S. amusement parks.

Accommodation Choices

In the U.S. you’ll find more parks that have accommodation options that are right on the property. Disney World is a perfect example, where they have many different resorts that are incorporated into the park, making it easy to travel back and forth to the park. In Europe, you will likely be staying in a city center and then taking a train to get to the amusement park. Along with on-site accommodation, you’ll also have free shuttles to and from the parks in the United States.

Park Themes & Mascots

In Europe, an entire park tends to have a central mascot or theme throughout the property. With American parks being much larger, they tend to have many more sections, each with their own theme.

Technology

In general, American amusement parks tend to have more technology integrated into your experience. Disney is definitely the leader here, with many other parks following suit. You can get a wristband for your visit, which gets you access to lines and you can even charge food and souvenirs to a credit card using a wristband. European parks are starting to catch up, so always check to see if the park you are visiting has an app you can use before and during your visit.

Family-Friendly

It seems like the European amusement parks are more family-friendly for visitors with small children. Of course, American amusement parks are kid-friendly, but they also have a lot of rides and attractions catering to older kids and adults looking for an adrenaline rush. You won’t find as many rider restrictions in Europe, which means fewer unhappy kids who aren’t tall enough for a ride.

Ride Length

At U.S. amusement parks, it can feel like you wait hours for a 30-second ride. In the European parks, it definitely feels like the rides are a bit longer, so you’ve got more active time vs time spent waiting in lines. Unfortunately, long lines are universal, so make sure you have comfortable shoes no matter where you are traveling!

Food Options

Both European and American amusement parks tend to have the same quality food. In general, you’ll have mostly fast-food options with a bit of local fare thrown in. We’ve seen more “local” type food at the parks in Europe, but you’ll have hot dogs, burgers, and fries at pretty much every amusement park in the world.

Amusement Parks Games

One thing all amusement parks have in common? Enticing ways to lose money! You would think that once you’ve paid your entrance fee, you should have plenty of entertainment for the day, but that’s not the case. All parks seem to have that amusement parks games area, where you can spend even more money for a chance to win prizes.

Admission Prices

We have found European amusement parks to be significantly more affordable than those in the United States. Because European parks tend to be smaller and part of a larger family vacation, they don’t have outrageous ticket prices as you would see in the U.S. It makes it easy to enjoy your day without worrying about how much money you are going to spend.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Disney World

Fast Passes

Both European and American amusement parks have introduced “fast passes” that allow you to skip the line for some of the most popular rides. Make sure you do your research ahead of time to see how they work and whether you need an app to keep track of them. If you only have a few passes, use them in the afternoon when the lines are longer.

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No matter which continent you are traveling on, a trip to an amusement park will definitely mean fun times for the whole family! In Europe, some of the best amusement parks include Isla Majica in Spain, Prater in Vienna, and Gardaland in Italy. Looking for more family travel tips? Check out some of these blog posts: