Girls have to give up a lot when they backpack in a thriving city like New York – think makeup, haircare, and comfortable beds! I can impart my sound knowledge and tips regarding female travel as well as recommending some good tricks when visiting the Big Apple!

You must leave any non-essentials behind. The last thing you want whilst away is trying to lug your heavy backpack from place to place, and struggling rather than enjoying the sights the city has to offer. If you must take makeup, take waterproof mascara and some lip gloss... that's it. Plus, New York has so many shops that you may have to end up posting things back home anyway.

Be savvy with the clothes you pack. Obviously make sure they are lightweight, but also things that can be worn in different ways are a good way to cut corners, I found long vests and tees that double up as little dresses very helpful. You will pick up lots of bits and pieces as you go round as there are so many little thrift stores, bookshops, and the more famous department stores to explore. Taking favourite jewellery or accessories is a definite no-no.

Also make sure you try out the sprawling subway network, but make sure to plan your route carefully so that at no point during the stay you find yourself in the dark on your own in an area you don't know.

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I've just come back from New York, and my locks on my case were broken by the customs people there because they thought my case was 'suspicious'.

I've since heard that you need to have a so-called Travel Sentry Lock (TSA Approved) for travel to the USA.

These allow customs officials to open your cases without breaking the lock and they can secure your bag again after checking it.

Wish I'd have known before because I need a new case now!. I've just bought six for my family from a website called www.tripneeds.com they have these locks quite cheap.

I think Amazon also sell them as well, but they cost more.

Take my advice and get some of these locks before you travel to the States - it's worth it!

www.tripneeds.com

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