I learn something new each time I travel

You'd think that given the amount we (as The Team) travel, that we'd have things pretty much figured out, and there wouldn't be any surprises.

Think again.

1. Don't bring ice packs -- unless it's for medicine or breast milk

On our last trip to Chicago, we traveled as a family -- meaning our 2 year old was in tow. For the 4 hour plane ride I packed a cold case with her lunch and snacks, and to keep it all fresh I also included 2 ice packs. That was a no-no. Both ice packs were confiscated.

Quick Solution to the Ice Pack Dilemma: Bring an extra Ziploc. After my ice packs were "disposed of," I headed to the Sbux counter for my Americano fix and requested ice for my Ziploc. Problem solved. I added the home-made ice pack to my cold pack and we were good to go.

Check the TSA site for more information on allowable and prohibited items. I found nothing referencing ice packs, cold packs etc.?? It appears a specified amount of dry ice is allowed.

2. Confirm that you are being served BOTTLED water and be prepared to PAY

Yes, it does seem obvious doesn't it? In fact, I didn't even think the airlines served "tap" water any longer. I was wrong. An no matter how "safe" the airlines may claim the water is, you've got to wonder about the quality when the EPA in 2008 proposed new standards for testing water on aircraft. The EPA's final ruling is scheduled for 2009.

In my instance, when I received my first glass of water I confirmed that it was bottled--especially since I was also refilling my daughter's cup. The next time around I was a little preoccupied and very thirsty. I ordered the water, gulped it down and then hacked! The taste was foul. It had a formaldehyde aftertaste and was just plain gross. I asked the flight attendant if there was something wrong with it and she just stared at me blankly. I then queried whether it was bottled water. NOPE! Anyway, I told her it tasted wrong etc. She was rather defensive, and I let it go. Really it was my fault for not asking in the first place.

Bottom Line: Make sure it's bottled--for your health and the taste.

And, if you are really thirsty make sure you have cash on hand, because some airlines are now charging for water! Just this last week, US Airways announced that it would now charge $2 for bottled water.

Luckily, it's 3 days post travel and the water didn't make me sick and I learned a few things along the way...Did I mention that having a portable DVD player is a savior to those will small ones? We purchased ours at Target for $89!!