It's like buying a TV with a built-in DVD player. If one component ends-up not working, then the unit as a whole doesn't work. Finding the ideal combination of, or making changes to a package deal, can be restrictive, difficult, frustrating and time-consuming. And just because most ads for package deals to Chicago tout that you will save money, you may find otherwise. Also, you may get a better flight to Chicago, without spending more, when you purchase your airline ticket to Chicago separately. Yes, a Chicago vacation package could be ideal, but we like to urge savvy travelers to check into the alternative. You can easily check Chicago hotel room prices on i4chicago.com when doing your research.

Be sure to pack for the climate in Chicago and also for the season. Bring breathable natural fabrics for hot weather, and layers that can be added or removed for cooler weather. Remember that summers and winters are opposite in the Southern Hemisphere, with summer in December and winter in July.

Don't leave home without it! If you don't know Chicago well, it will be a huge advantage to buy a Chicago map and look it over prior to your trip. You'll be surprised how much you remember about the major streets and areas of Chicago once you've studied the map and gotten the big picture. It will help you get your bearings once you've arrived. Whichever attractions in Chicago you want to see, you'll have a better idea of where they are from your hotel and how to get there. Check the brochure rack in the hotel lobby for what to do in Chicago. There might even be a map of Chicago tourist attractions.

Before you embark on your trip to Chicago, search Chicago weather on a search engine and find the 10-day forecast for Chicago. It could help you decide which Chicago tourist attraction to see and do on which day.

There are benefits of taking your computer with you on vacation, such as staying in touch with family and friends and making or canceling reservations on the go. Take advantage of the internet in your Chicago hotel, or if unavailable, locate the closest internet cafe.

You may like to keep a small travel journal or notebook for your trip to Chicago to jot down place names, dates and phone numbers of newly acquired friends. These reminders will also be useful if you'd like to blog about your trip to Chicago after you return home.

Now, immediately, is the time to be sure you are happy with your room. If ANYTHING is bugging you, now is the time to ask for a different room or to have any issues cleared immediately. After you've spent the night, or even hours in your room, is NOT the time. Speaking of bugging you, it is a good idea to check the bed thoroughly. Yes, it can happen to any hotel, anywhere. Even the very best and very cleanest of hotels in Chicago could fall victim because the critters can travel the world in people's luggage. So now you can unpack, order extra towels, look at prices on the room service menu and start enjoying Chicago.

Isn't going out for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner a favorite thing to do for just about everyone and especially when on vacation? You might want to actually think about your Chicago restaurant route ahead of time to avoid - Where do you want to go? I don't know, where do you want to go?- To find a restaurant in Chicago that suits your fancy each day, peruse the Chicago Yellow Pages and ask friendly locals or other visitors for recommendations.

You probably based your vacation trip to Chicago because of what there is to see and to do in Chicago. But it never hurts to check a little further in case there is an attraction you don't know about. Check the brochure rack in the hotel lobby for What To Do in Chicago. There might also be a map of Chicago attractions. You know... the maps with the cute pictures on them. Just one more Chicago souvenir to take home!

Don't be afraid to try regional cuisine in Chicago. When dining out, ask about local Chicago specialties. You'll find that locally sourced ingredients make for the freshest and tastiest meals, and you'll be paying a compliment to your host city in honoring their traditions.

Local holidays in Chicago may have an effect on the availability of some amenities or attractions, but local Chicago festivals or parades will add to the enjoyment of your trip making Chicago even more memorable.

No matter what time of year you're visiting Chicago, there are amazing events to make your trip unforgettable. Contact the Chamber of Commerce or Visitors Authority in Chicago and ask for calendar of local events. This information may also be available on the website for Chicago. This will help you plan your activities to include local festivities you would like to participate in.

Don't forget the folks at home. Purchasing small souvenirs or gifts in Chicago will save you money over airport gift shop prices, and will be appreciated by friends and loved ones who were unable to be with you in Chicago.

Spontaneous side trips in Chicago can be made with the help of your hotel concierge, or a local Chicago travel agent. So don't worry about having to plan out every detail of your trip to Chicago before you leave.

If you are visiting Chicago for the first time make sure you decide on the Must See Sights and plan your itinerary accordingly. Guide books on Chicago can be an invaluable resource, listing directions, hours of operation and entrance fees.

If you plan to drive in Chicago it's best to reserve your rental car in advance. Not only will you get the best rates, but you will be assured of a vehicle being available for you, rather than taking your chances upon arrival. Make note that speed limits and other rules of the road may vary in Chicago and may differ from those you are accustomed to.

Subways, commuter trains, trams, monorails, cable cars, taxis, buses and ferries are all modes of public transportation. Not only is it convenient when traveling, but usually it's an adventure! When traveling around Chicago, you'll want to make the most of what is available and what might be, well...an adventure! Be sure to research Chicago transportation online, in advance, or speak with the concierge at your hotel.

When using taxis in Chicago make sure they are legitimate and licensed. Public transportation in Chicago is a viable alternative to taxis and will give you the opportunity to talk to locals who can give you pointers for great restaurants and side trips.

If your health insurance provider does not provide coverage for Chicago, look into purchasing medical insurance for travelers so that you are covered in case of emergency.

If your hotel room provides an in-room safe, be sure to use it for personal valuables and papers. Otherwise ask the hotel staff about safety deposit boxes. Always remember to thoroughly check all drawers, safes and closets before you leave your Chicago hotel room so as not to leave anything behind.

Waterless hand sanitizers are a boon to travelers, include travel size containers when you pack for your trip to Chicago. These will come in very handy when eating on the go during your sightseeing adventures.

Use common sense when in Chicago as you would anywhere. Don't draw unwanted attention by carrying excessive amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry. Avoid undesirable areas and stick with your group.

Be sure to bring with you to Chicago any and all prescription medications. Pay close attention to airport security regulations for medications, your prescriptions must be contained in their original, clearly labeled containers. It's also a good idea to carry a list of your medications and wear a MedicAlert for any medical conditions.