Ten Travel Necessities

When preparing for a business trip or vacation, people often make up a long list of things to pack. This list will vary from one individual to another, but I can think of 10 items I always make sure I have before walking out the door. Traveling can be relaxing or it can be stressful; the latter will be experienced if the following are not included.

Proper Identification
This sounds obvious, but it is imperative to have necessary identification when traveling, and to know where it is at all times. My driver license and passport are always in an inside pocket or in the front pouch of my smallest carryon bag.

Overnight Luggage
Whether taking a car trip, traveling by plane, train or bus line, the smallest possible size overnight bag is invaluable. In it should be e-tickets/hotel vouchers, extra shirt and underwear, toiletries, glasses, notebook with plenty of empty pages, pens, pencil with eraser, and a calculator. It should not include anything that isn’t needed for the next 48 hours.

Cell Phone And Charger
In this day of instant communication, I think of my cell phone as an emergency communications device while I am traveling. I try to stay off it and enjoy the trip, but always have it with me.

Medical Coverage
Taking out travel health insurance may seem like a waste but it could turn into a life saver if something unexpected happens. For minor accidents, always carry a first aid kit. Even a small container that includes bandages, medicated cream, tweezers, peroxide, and gauze is worth its weight; it can go in the car's glove compartment, or in checked baggage when flying.

City Maps
Never go on a vacation or business trip without the proper orienting tools. If planning a sightseeing trip, practice looking at the map and memorizing how to get to important destinations before the journey begins, and take the maps for reference.

Addresses And Phone Numbers
Always copy down the street address and telephone number of all hotels, restaurants, and businesses that will be visited. I prefer to do this both on my cell phone and also on a separate piece of paper.

Luggage Identification
Regardless of how well a piece of luggage seems to remain closed and locked, I feel it is imperative to include my name and contact information on the inside of all suitcases, rolling duffels and other baggage. I would rather someone see this paper if my luggage is damaged and let them know my personal information than take the chance that nobody ever had a clue as to the owner.

Medications
Never forget any prescription medications, as an emergency refilling while on the road may be costly and result in a long delay of vacation plans.

Necessary Credit And Debit Cards
I always make sure I include cards that I used to make hotel or flight reservations. This can be useful if there is missing information at the ticket counter or hotel front desk. I never take additional cards, as they are a temptation to spend unnecessarily. One extra credit card for emergency is fine.

Umbrella And Rain Gear
Regardless of the climate that I am heading for, I do not fail to take along these seemingly insignificant items, and I have never regretted having them on hand; several times they have become the most important items I carried.

Non-essential items include camera, iPod, CD player, and notebook pc; the latter is important only if I am on a business trip, and even then I sometimes leave it behind. One thing I failed to mention on my list: comfortable walking shoes. Sorry, I promise I won’t forget them next time. . . . .

Your fellow traveler