Kathleen Ameche’s The Woman Road Warrior: A Woman’s Guide to Business Travel (Agate) crams Travel 101 into one slender volume. Here’s the straight stuff on fighting hotel noise, befriending a concierge, eating right on the road, and staying in touch with family while traveling. Bonus: lots of useful tips and checklists. While you’re packing, pack this book. — C.T.

If you use a travel agent, put his or her number in your cell phone’s speed-dial.

Always reserve late arrival at the hotel, just in case.

Request that courier packages and other deliveries be sent to the front desk, not to your hotel room.

If you’re sensitive to noise, ensure a good night’s sleep with earplugs. Or keep the TV on low for a white noise effect.

If you go out alone in a strange city, leave a note in your room telling where you’re going and what you’re wearing.