family checklist

One way to help protect your home while away on vacation is to make it seem like the homeowners are currently there. This can be done by setting up timer lights throughout the house. Lights can be placed on timers both indoors and out which will present an at home atmosphere. Those who perpetrate breaking and entering crimes will be less likely to target a home which has lights on and may opt for houses which are dark and obviously no one is home.

You may need a photo to obtain passes, permits, etc.

If you have any of these (AAA, Hertz, Avis, Hilton, etc.), going abroad may be a good opportunity to use them.

Can save you some money in Youth Hostels, trains, museums, planes, so get one if you qualify as a student.

In case all your money, or all your gear, is lost or stolen.

Memorize PIN codes to credit cards so that you can use them with ATM machines to get cash.

Where pickpockets are a problem, carry your wallet in your front trousers pocket.

Use ziplock plastic bags for any items that could leak or possibly break in transit.

These see-through, zip-up mesh containers keep your clothes tightly packed and well-organized.

It's pretty amazing how much you can put into a backpack if you do a good job. By using rubber-bands, squeeze clothes down to a minimal size.

Take a pair with pockets - doubles as a swimsuit for men.

Keeps your ears warm and works as a sleeping mask as well.

Easily stolen, so don't bring anything too valuable.

A waterproof mattress cover, in case your child wets it at night.

Ditch the bulky bath towel. There's only one way to go when traveling - microfiber travel towels. They dry quickly, are soft, incredibly absorbent, and roll up to take virtually no space.

Must be pretty sturdy. Glass may not be a good idea for some journeys.

Also handy for pulling out splinters

For international travel: consider unlocking your cell phone SIM card so you can use your phone there (purchase a local SIM in your destination).

With this adapter you and a friend can both listen to your music player at the same time

To avoid last minute gift-shopping make a list of all of the people you want to get gifts for.

May reduce homesickness