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.
