The 100 Years Club Installment #132: HOT STUFF #4 Escapes

Oh, the places we’ll go!

(Apologies to Dr. Suess.)

Those of us who love to travel are aware of that thrilling jolt we get when we hoist our bag into the overhead bin or board a train or climb into a car for a new adventure.

This week’s podcast is all about summer (and year-round) travel.

And my latest article for NextTribe (about music-based adventures) was just published.

Last year, I went on a wild excursion to Iowa, and I started the summer of 2025 with a “trippy” jaunt to Denver. Next, I head to New York City (for the Summer Fancy Food Show) and East Hampton.

Those of us who love to travel do it for many reasons:

• Seeing people we love (or perhaps just like)
• Exploring new interesting places and connecting with random strangers wherever we go
• Avoiding day-to-day responsibilities and having our beds made and coffee cups cleaned
• Relaxation (I’m about due for a total sloth vacation)
• Work or Bleisure Living

Among the gizmos and gadgets that make my on-the-road life simpler and happier are:

1. Packing cubes (enabling me to carry on my luggage most of the time)
2. A mini light, mic, and laptop stand (so I can ZOOM from anywhere and look/sound my best)
3. I bring along a portable blender for smoothies, along with individual protein packs
4. A paperback book (remember those?!) for flights without wi-fi or reading before bed or on a beach
5. This duffle has secret compartments and is easily squished under an airplane seat
6. My gym top eliminates the need for a sports bra and (if it’s not too smelly) can double as a shirt. These tanks and pants are among my summer travel staples
7. Honey…I shrunk my handbag! The Zion bag from Rareform is so compact that it’s forced me to stick to only those necessary items. It transforms into a fanny pack for concerts and activities
8. Comfy shoes are a must. I rarely go anywhere without rubber-soled sandals and my custom Converse sneakers. (My gold kicks make me easy to spot at trade shows.) Speaking of comfort, traveling in these is like wearing PJs. Even TSA personnel comment on my travel outfit.
9. If you’re going somewhere warm, still always pack a light sweater or fleece and a rain poncho
10. Although I haven’t yet dabbled with using AI for travel, here are some ways to incorporate it into travel planning and packing. (Robots can even help you pack a car!)

I’ve discovered the joys of senior hotel rates, points programs, and other tricks for upgrades and cutting costs, so I can free up more $$ for making memories at my destination.

Even today’s convenience stores (C-stores) can deliver unique experiences. When I take bathroom breaks when traveling, I can’t help but browse the regional souvenirs and snacks. (Who knew so many jerky and chips flavors exist?)

Can’t afford to journey far and wide this summer? Staycations can be pretty amazing.

So, pack up and hit the road!. Even if you’re going just a mile, a little escape is good for the soul!

Random travel facts:

	Where are consumers going this summer?
	How to travel with friends and avoid drama
	Don’t let these common travel glitches ruin a trip
	Wirecutter’s travel gear recommendations