Passports

While I managed to get my passport with no
problems (it took about a month to get), I’ve heard horror stories about people
not getting theirs in time for their trip. Be sure to get there early for your
photograph (or better yet have one ready to go before hand). Visit the State
Department’s website and check the requirements if you’re renewing or
obtaining a new passport.  I did all my
paperwork using their online form and printed out and took to the post office
and got it taken care of quickly. Remember that they require a check or money
order for part of the passport fees, and that they require specific
identifications when proving who you are.

Money & Paper Goods

Wherever you head, you’ll need money. Purchase a
good money belt and keep your money, passport, tickets and anything else that
you couldn’t live without in there. Use a plastic sandwich bag to keep dry
anything that shouldn’t get wet.

Luggage

It’s always good to have a medium-sized bag to
pack everything. I prefer a convertible
bag that can double as a backpack. Try to limit yourself to no more than 20
pounds, following the rules given in the Packing section below.

Packing Tips

When preparing to travel, pack light. Don’t take
ANYTHING that is unnecessary. Here’s a short list of the absolutely minimum to pack for a
weeklong trip.

1. Shirts – take about 5, varying in
   sleeve length and material according to the weather where you’re
   travelling.


2. Sweater - something dark to hide stains.


3. Pants – take 2, one lightweight
   and one super light for hot muggy places.


4. Shorts – can double as a swimsuit
   for men.


5. Swimsuit


6. Underwear and socks – bring 5
   light ones.


7. One pair of shoes – comfort is the
   key here.


8. Jacket – something lightweight
   that will break the wind. Waterproof is not necessary unless you’re
   traveling somewhere where it rains (duh!).


9. Documents – take anything
   absolutely necessary.


10. Camera – go digital


11. Water Bottle – make sure it’s
    empty before going through airport security.


12. First Aid Kit – purchase a small
    one for camping.


13. Sunscreen – depending on
    destination

Research

Do the research on where you’re travelling. Know the
important things about the country, like political unrest, when to travel,
where to go (and not to go). Fodors offers some of the best overviews of these
concerns and more. Don’t forget to check the Internet for local papers on
what’s going on and what may be going on when you get there. Also, check the
State Department’s website for potentially dangerous events (like civil unrest).