Things of the first necessity
1. Don't forget your tickets and ID. Carry them and your other valuables with you, and wear a money belt. Never pack valuables in your checked luggage.
2. Backup Documents. Make copies of your passport, credit cards and tickets and keep them in a safe place in your luggage. If your passport is stolen, a copy will speed up the replacement process. Leave a second copy of your passport with a family member back home. You may also want to bring copies of other documents, such as your credit card?s rental car insurance coverage information, depending on your destination. It?s also a good idea to bring telephone numbers for your bank, credit card company and, if relevant, travel agency in case you need to contact them.
3. Personal Toiletries / Medications / Glasses. These essential items vary from person to person. Bring your medications in their original prescription bottles, not in a weekly pill organizer. If you use an organizer, pack it empty and set it up when you arrive at your destination. Don?t forget your glasses, especially if you aren?t sure you can buy contact lens solution while on your trip.
4. Map / Guidebook. Bring guidebooks and domestic maps with you.
5. Money Belt. Buy a money belt and use it. Save your daypack and purse for items you can afford to replace, such as maps and water bottles.
6. Wheeled Suitcase / Backpack / Duffel Bag. You can buy suitcases, backpacks and duffel bags with attached wheels, any of which can make transporting luggage easy, if not entirely effortless. If you?re planning to hike or walk over rough surfaces, consider a wheeled backpack or duffel bag so you can pick it up and carry it as necessary.
7. Rain Gear. Collapsible umbrellas, water-repellent jackets, ponchos and folding hats make all-weather travel bearable.
8. Daypack. You?ll need something to carry maps, snacks and bottled water while you explore. Keep your heavy wheeled bag in your hotel room and pack daily essentials in a daypack or tote. Daypacks, while not quite as stylish as totes, distribute the weight of your travel items more comfortably across your back and shoulders.
9. Travel Alarm. You?ll want to know what time it is and when to wake up, especially if you?re traveling with a tour group. Many people use the alarm functions on their watches or cell phones for this purpose. Others prefer a small travel alarm clock that?s easy to see in the dark.
10. Comfortable Shoes. Leave the high heels and beach sandals at home ? unless, of course, you?re going to the beach ? and pack shoes you can really walk in. Be sure to break them in before your trip begins. Blisters can ruin a perfectly-planned vacation.
2009-10-12
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