12. Lapel pins Bobby pins are perfect for keeping upturned cuffs or pressed-open lapels in place when you pack blouses. You can also use the pins to clip receipts or reminders on the clothing. Mary Meisenhelter, York, Pa.

13. Women and children last The early-boarding opportunities airlines offer to travelers with young children are great, but they can add as much as 30 minutes of confined time for our toddler. Now my husband boards at first call with all our carry-ons, and my daughter and I wait until final call. By the time she and I get to our seats, my husband has everything organized. My daughter and I just buckle in. Amanda Pekrul, Charlotte, N.C.

Buzz off (illustration by Jon Cannell) [enlarge photo]

14. Fishing for info The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a great resource for environmental programs and outings throughout the U.S. (fws.gov/offices/statelinks.html). In southeast Tennessee, for example, you can join a freshwater biologist on an underwater fish-viewing excursion in the Conasauga River, and in Colorado you can take part in a wildlife watch workshop. Sherel Purcell, Toronto, Ont.

15. Handle with care When I'm staying in a hotel, I always wrap my cell phone charger cord around the handle of my suitcase and then put the suitcase near an electrical outlet. The bag serves as a stand for my phone while it's charging, and I never forget the charger since it's attached to the handle of the suitcase. David Rhoads, Derwood, Md.

16. Finders beepers An audible electronic key finder--the kind that emits a loud beep or a ring when activated--can be a godsend when you travel. Keep the small remote locator on you, and put the receiver disc in your luggage, handbag, camera case, etc. You can press the locator button to help thwart a thief trying to steal your bag. And, of course, the device can help you find your keys. James Pennington, Portland, Ore.

17. A safe bet in Vegas I never visit Las Vegas without the latest edition of the American Casino Guide. It has tons of two-for-one meal coupons, along with gaming and entertainment coupons and gambling tips. If you use it wisely, the book can pay for itself in a day. Mary Ellen Maille, Colchester, Vt.

18. Stop, look and listen Instead of spending money on guided tours in Rome, I registered online with SoundGuides and downloaded the self-guided tours onto my MP3 player (sound-guides.com). The company offers 39 tours of sites all over the city, as well as a historical overview and info on non-touristy areas. The website also has complete guides to Venice, Paris, and London. Monica J. Pileggi, Frederick, Md.

19. Easy rider If you're flying out of Reagan National Airport on an evening flight but have to check out of your hotel early, the Metro can help you to enjoy your last day in D.C. without the burden of lugging your bags around. Ride the subway to the airport in the morning, check your bags, and get your boarding pass. Then ride back into the city, spend your day seeing the sights, and return to the airport later on the Metro. Matthew Richard, Syracuse, N.Y.

20. Get cultured Traveling abroad often involves sampling unusual food, which can lead to stomach problems. Some types of yogurt have active live cultures that are believed to help digest food and prevent stomach infections. I eat some as soon as I arrive, and I've usually kept the demons at bay. Kevin McCalmon, Broomfield, Colo.