There is always room for improvement when it comes to travel plans. Whether you are looking to cut expenses, lighten your baggage or cut out the common problems of travel, these tips are for you.

When you travel, it’s important to stop for the cheese as well as the big-time monuments. What that means is this: Go to Mt. Rushmore, sure. But first, you need to stop at the Jolly Green Giant Statue in Minnesota and get your picture taken. You need to actually go see the Corn Palace in Mitchell, SD, and Wall Drug. These places are kitschy, and that’s exactly why they’re essential. America is both a place of great beauty and great silliness, and both should be celebrated by the traveler.

Being careful about purchases while traveling will help you through customs. Remember anything you buy on your trip must pass through customs when you return home …