Panama Travel Checklist

Documents to take with you

• Passport and required visas, and record of immunizations. Keep them handy at all times.
• Airline round-trip tickets. This are important in case the country requires return verification.
• State drivers license. You may also need a an international driver's license.
• Traveler checks. Possibly also pre-purchased foreign currency available at your local bank.
• Internationally accepted credit cards. Use these for all purchases except tipping or smaller transactions.
• Travel itinerary. Include all telephone numbers and addresses for destinations.
• Proof of Purchase. Important for items such as a laptop so there can be no question of ownership.
• Copies. Have two of everything in case one set gets lost!

Insurance

• Medical insurance. Find out if your medical insurance is valid in other countries in case of an emergency. If not, consider purchasing a travel medical insurance policy.
• Driver's Insurance. Some automobile insurance coverage is portable to other countries. If your coverage is portable, you can save buying car rental liability insurance.
• Traveler's insurance.

Important items to pack

• Prescription drugs. These should all be clearly marked and in childproof containers.
• Basic first aid kit. Include salt tablets for arid countries.
• Medical cards. These should state any allergies or medical conditions.
• Luggage. Plain and durable is best.
• Foreign language/English paperback book. Be familiar with basic terms.
• Battery or wind-up alarm clock. Be sure to set it and your watch on local time.
• Electrical adapters. Most countries uses 220 volts.
• Personal appliances. Hair dryers, curling irons and electric razors.
• Flashlight. This comes in handy in case of a blackout.

Items to leave behind

• Itinerary. Leave a copy with family or a friend
• Passport copy. Including all pages and photo and all other travel documentation
• Unnecessary credit cards. Any cards you will not be using, leave at home.
• Expensive jewelry. Other than your wedding rings and watch, any other jewelry should be costume.
• Knives. Really, any sharp object that may be mistake as a weapon.

When you arrive at your destination

• Reconfirm your next day itinerary. Also check on any future flights, hotels or car rentals.
• Exchange currency. Have enough small currency for tipping and small purchases. Banks normally give the best exchange rate.
• Consulate contact. Register with the Embassy for visits beyond a few days.
• Check for hotel exits and emergency instructions. Know where to go in case of a fire.
• Verify telephone service. Call the desk to be sure your phone works.
• Check locks. Be sure that they work. Never leave your room key at the front desk.
• Public transportation. Inquire with hotel staff which sources of public transportation are the most economical and the most reliable.