Hello Reader,

I hope your week is going well!

Keep Your Travel Papers Organized

I’ll admit, I’m not always the most organized person. But when it comes to travel, I’ve learned that a bit of preparation goes a long way.

Maybe it’s a Gen X thing, but I love having paper copies of my travel info with a digital backup.

Years ago, I got a cheap travel folder, and honestly—it changed my life. I’m on my second one now, mainly because I liked the updated features.

My current folder is made of plastic with handy top tabs to keep papers secure, even if I drop it or toss it into my bag upside down. It also has a pouch on the front.

So what do I keep in my folder?

• On the right side, I keep my Amtrak tickets (since I’m right-handed), along with other transportation tickets, Amtrak ticket schedules, and printed hotel reservation confirmations. I arrange them in the order of use.
• On the left side, I include dining and café menus, along with a few extra timetables for the Chicago Metra lines I use most, or any other information I need for the trip, such as tickets for what I plan to do or see once I get off the train. Basically, everything else.
• The small pouch, which I use to store transit cards I will need for the trip, is also where I keep my kiosk-printed Amtrak tickets. I often print them from the ticket machine because they fit in my pocket better, and those fit perfectly inside the pouch.

Of course, I also keep digital copies. My hotel confirmations are stored on my phone, and train tickets are stored in my Apple Wallet. But as much as I love technology, glitches happen, so I prefer having a backup.

Some travelers even use different colored paper for each part of their trip. As long as the paper isn’t too dark, it’s a smart way to stay organized.

How about you? Do you use a travel folder, or do you organize things differently?

I don’t expect you to travel precisely like I do (to be honest, even I don’t follow my system 100% of the time). But hopefully, this gives you some ideas to incorporate into your routine.

Do you think I should do a YouTube video on this topic?

Amtrak in Florida

This week, I posted a new entry in the 'Amtrak in Each State' series, and this week's lucky state is Florida.

If Florida is a state you want to visit or leave, here’s a starting point. Learn about Amtrak in Florida!

What has Kev been up to

Fall has hit the diary state, and I am not upset because it has been nice to break out the sweaters and hoodies.

Next week, I'll take my mom to Florida to spend some time with my sister and her family. Sadly, it's all skies and no tracks.

My new focus is on playing the organ for silent films. I have been playing a classical or church organ, but I plan to switch to the theatre organ soon. It does make things a little easier, and that’s what they were made for. But it’s a significant change for me.

While one might think an organ is just an organ, that is the case.

Looking at the Markers

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Until Next Week…

Happy planning and safe travels,
Kev Monteith