Liz, I do the same thing you do… I have a standard size roller for my clothes, then I make sure my handbag is small enough to fit inside my laptop bag. This way, I can carry on everything and still conform to the “two bag” rule.

Here are my tips for business travel…

First, if you’re a frequent traveler, look into getting one of the new Clear cards. After providing some general personal information, you go through a background check, get your fingerprints and iris scanned, you’re cleared to travel. Instead of snaking your way through impossibly long lines before going through the security checkpoint, Clear travelers get to go through a special “Clear Lane.” You just hand over your Clear card, the machine verifies your fingerprint against the one on the card, and you’re all set to go through normal security screening procedures, but you get to go to the front of the line! To get a Clear card, go to http://www.FlyClear.com

Secondly, I travel a lot and therefore I eat alone a lot. If you’re not into crowds, dine just before or after the lunch and dinner rush times. Also, when you’re alone, it’s usually easier to get a seat at the bar or a dining counter rather than waiting for a table. Plus, if you’re in a chatty mood, you can chat up the bartender. If you have to eat at a table, don’t be shy about asking for a different table if you get seated near the kitchen or the rest room. Just because you’re dining alone doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a nice table.

For various reasons, sometimes servers will give sub-par service to single diners. Of course you should always be kind to your server, but when dining alone you’ll get better service if you smile, ask the server’s name and be the customer he WANTS to come back and check on.

Regarding jet lag, I try not to let jet lag affect me and usually it doesn’t. I adapt to whatever time zone I’m in by pushing through fatigue with coffee and by getting myself on the local meal schedule as quickly as possible.

~Monica

Avoid the plastic 1 quart bag altogether – I have assembled an entire bag of cosmetics that breezes through security without having to separate my toiletries. Look for natural-type crystal deodorant, cake eyeliner and mascara, and even hand lotion bars. No creams or gels to worry about!

2. Carry a small handbag that fits into your carry-all – I make sure never to check my luggage by carrying one roller bag and sliding my small purse into my tote bag that also houses my laptop and essential reading. No extra fees and no waiting for luggage!

3. Embrace the Dress – I personally thank Diane Von Furstenberg for bringing back the wrap dress. Her dresses and every single knock-off means carefree traveling, no ironing, and a professional, yet appealing look every time.