Dragging along heavy bags when flying is necessary on some long overseas flights, extended cruises and group excursions. However, you don't always need luggage that must be checked every time you board plane, ship, bus or train.

Savvy seasoned travelers bring along just one wheeled carry-on. They never lose luggage, nor wait at airport merry-go-rounds after each flight hoping nothing was missing. Today's cost of a checked bag is $25 and going up, and record of lost and pilfered bags is from 5 to 12% per flight.

Is it worth it? Here are tried and true tips on making traveling less stressful, cheaper and no lost bags:

Do A Wheelie: Get bags made of flex fabrics within size limits for carry-ons. Be sure they have outside, zipper-closing pockets for quick access, and see-through webbing inside. If necessary, also take a backpack that fits under an airline seat.

Pack Less: The day before departure, lay out clothing, footwear, meds and other stuff considered absolutely necessary. Put it in nice neat piles. Then go through and take away 25%. You won't regret it, and the truly necessary stuff should fit nicely into your carry-on. If you've mistakenly left out any vital items, such as over-the-counter meds, you can always buy them at airport and hotel shops.

Wash & Wear: For trips longer than two or three days, take washables. Every night take items worn that day into the shower with you. Dry thoroughly with your towel and hang close to the room heat or outside air source.

Use 'Em & Toss 'Em: Take well-worn undies, shirts, socks, sneakers and other items. Trash ‘em after a day’s wear for a much lighter load on homeward trip, or more bag room for souvenirs.

With the usual summer price hikes, plus escalating problems in the Middle East, U.S. drivers can expect the already grossly inflated cost of gas at the pump to continue to rise. However, there are smart ways to save on driving costs.

Shop Gas Stations: Before filling up, check online for the best current prices in your area through such websites as www.gasbuddy.com. Also, because gas sign listings may change daily, fill up on Mondays and Tuesdays, because prices are often bumped up for weekends.

Car pool: Whether on a vacation trip or quick drive to the market, get together with neighbors, friends and/or nearby family members. At first it may spoil your lone driver freedom, but after getting used to it, enjoy the companionship.

Q: We’re sailing next month, and always have the same argument. A moderate drinker, I want to buy a package deal, where for a one-time fee, passengers can drink unlimited beer, wine and liquor. It’s a no-hassle way to enjoy the cruise.

My wife believes we’d save money if we just pay per drink. And, she insists, it also keeps us from overindulging in all-you-can booze. What do you say? SBD, St. Louis MO

Everyone knows about Geno’s and Pat’s, world-famous cheese steak eateries in South Philly. These days customers can also experience cheese steaks and more at Mac Mart, a mobile eatery that roams nearby neighborhoods.

You may find Mac Mart Cart downtown near City Hall below Billy Penn’s statue, at the University of Pennysylvania, the Art Museum and other areas. One of the most popular items on the menu is a genuine Philly cheese steak and macaroni special.

The truck earns its name by also offering, among other dishes, many varieties of delicious mac and cheese combinations. For the full menu, location schedules and booking for special events, go to macmartcart.com