by Jennifer E. Brown

Created on: October 25, 2008   Last Updated: February 07, 2011

When traveling, there are often two types of travelers. First, there are those travelers that pack their suitcase a week in advance. They want to make sure they all the items they might need on their vacation or business trip. These are the types that check and double check until they leave for the airport. On the flip side, there are travelers that are packing the night before an early flight. They throw items in their carry-on, and what they've forgotten they'll worry about later. Whichever type of traveler you are, there are always essential items that you shouldn't leave home without having in your suitcase.

1) Identification:

In the United States, your driver's license identifies you almost anywhere. If you leave this at home and you're in the security terminal, you'll be turned away. It's a form of identification they require to board aircrafts and to board cruise lines. It includes your photo, name and address if your luggage is lost. It contains your birthdate and a sobriety scan if you go out drinking. On the back it signifies you're a donor god forbid an emergency happen out of town. This holds all the information you'll need-leave home without it, and you'll be lost.

2) Keys:

I'm more specifically talking about doors that lock automatically, such as apartments. If you forget your keys and they're on the inside, this may delay your trip and make you miss your flight. Furthermore, if you have chosen to lock your luggage, keep these keys in a secure place to ensure you have them later on in your trip.

3) Money:

Instead of carrying cash, while traveling I carry traveler's checks. It's much easier to handle, and it's tendered the same as cash. Also, if you lose cash, it can't be traced or replaced. On the other hand, if you lose traveler's checks, American express sends you more. Make sure you're careful about all debit and credit cards. It's easy for someone to steal your identity, so a good tip is to put your hand over your number while sliding it. This prevents everyone from seeing your number. Furthermore, try to carry your money on your body instead of in your carry-on. This is much more secure, and will help prevent theft from luggage.

4) Travel Tickets:

The majority of the population isn't wealthy, and forgotten travel tickets can become an expensive mistake. It's a good idea to keep all airline, cruise and train tickets next to your money and/or identification. Each time you go through a security gate, you'll have to present this document. Also,

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>