• Don’t over pack! Travel as light as possible. Keep in mind that there will be times when you will have to handle your suitcase; you don’t want to have to lug around a heavy suitcase. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers and that can be mixed and matched and be sure to take comfortable shoes; a vacation is not the time to be breaking in new shoes. You may want to pack a hat and sunscreen as well, depending on the destination of your tour.
• Fly in comfortable clothing and shoes. Since temperatures can very when flying, it is advisable to bring a sweater on flights. Depending on your comfort level, you may consider packing a jacket suitable for your destination.
• Be sure to include a change of clothing in your carry on bag in case your luggage is late, lost or stolen.
• Drink plenty of water and juice on long-haul segments of your trip.
• Water is your best option as alcoholic beverages can cause dehydration.
• Divide your valuables by keeping your credit card and cash in separate places. You may consider dividing your valuables with your traveling companion.
• Consider calling your credit card company before you leave to let them know you will be using your card outside your normal activity.
• Check your phone service plan to make sure you can use your cell phone while on vacation. You may need to subscribe to added coverage.
• Plan early; nothing is worse than starting a vacation in a state of chaos.
• Pick up a larger scan disk for your digital camera. Be sure to bring enough photography supplies for your entire trip. If you have a video camera, bring along an extra battery, plus proper recharging equipment. Due to new security screening, it is recommended you store your camera and extra film in your carry-on luggage.
• Bring a notebook and pen, book or magazine.
• Rain wear or an umbrella are always good to have on hand (just in case).
• Reverse the batteries in electronic devices so they won’t go dead while you are traveling.
• Pack a sewing kit with extra thread, buttons, needles, scissors. Be sure to put this item in your checked bag.
• When traveling overseas remember an adapter and converter may be necessary if you plan to use an appliance with voltage that differs from the standard within the country visited. If your appliance has dual voltage you may still need an adapter for the plug.
• Pack a few healthy snacks for on your flight or at a later time.
• Make sure you have signed your passport and filled in the emergency information. Pack a copy of your passport/identification separately from the original. Remember to leave copies of your itinerary, driver’s license, passport, etc. with family or friends, so you can be contacted in case of an emergency or in case your documents are lost or stolen.
• To avoid being a target of crime, do not wear flashy clothing or jewelry.
• Do not carry excessive amounts of money. Apply for a Citizens Bank
• ATM/Debit Card or use your credit card.
• Do not leave luggage unattended in public areas and do not agree to watch items for a stranger.
• In case of an emergency abroad you may contact consular personnel at U. S. Embassies and Consulates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by going to website: http://travel .state.gov. You may also contact the Office of Overseas Citizen Services in the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs for assistance with emergencies at 1-888-407-4747, if calling from the U.S. or Canada, or 202-501-4444, if calling overseas. This number will also allow your family can call if they need to get in touch with you while you are traveling overseas or give you information concerning travel warnings and travel alerts. This website and the phone numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., EST, Monday through Friday, except U.S. Federal holidays.
• Always travel with prescription medications in their original container and packed in your carry-on bag. It is also a good idea to carry a few extra days worth of medication in case of a delay in your return schedule. If traveling abroad, it is always a good idea to carry a letter from your attending physician, describing your medical condition and medications prescribed for that or those conditions. If you have a unique medical problem you may consider wearing a “medical alert” bracelet.
• If you wear eyeglasses, take an extra pair with you. If you don’t have an extra pair then bring along a prescription from your physician so that you can have it filled, if needed.
• Don’t bring anything that you would hate to lose. Leave valuable or expensive-looking jewelry, irreplaceable family objects, unnecessary credit cards, social security card, library card, and similar items at home.
• Always keep in mind that you are not the only traveler on the trip, be aware of schedules and be on time.