by Becky Robbins

Created on: July 25, 2011   Last Updated: July 26, 2011

Once you book your vacation, the excitement builds. Although preparing for a trip can be overwhelming, there are steps to keep the stress at bay. Organizing your travel documents will allow you to find them easily and ensure you have everything you need.

Travel Document Binder: Leaving a copy of your important travel documents with a friend or family member is extremely important. To make it easy on both the friend or family member and yourself, placing all these documents in a binder will keep them in one place. You should include a copy of the flight itinerary, passport or other required identification, visa (if needed for your travels), a list of medications, and a list of emergency numbers. The emergency numbers should include consulates and embassies in the areas you will be traveling. Your doctor’s number is also important to include on this list. Not only will this travel binder be handy to keep an eye on departures and arrivals, but if a true emergency happens, you will be better prepared.

Passport/Visa/Identification: Depending on your travels, you may need a passport or some other form of identification. Some countries also have visa requirements. You will need to bring the original documents with you as well as copies. The copies of these documents are best stored in a folder or envelope in your suitcase. The originals should be handy, along with your airline ticket for your departure. Some people invest in a special document carrier they can wear, while others prefer to keep these items in their carry-on. Wherever you choose to store these documents, it is best to keep them easy to reach, but not easy to be pick-pocketed. Keep aware of your surroundings.

Flight Itinerary/Other Travel Itinerary: Although you want to leave a copy of this with a family member, you also want to have a copy with you. Having the flight numbers and departure times is important to prevent you from missing a flight. This is the same idea if you are taking a train somewhere. Many people prefer to keep this information in their carry-on, so it is close by, but not immediately with the visa, passport, and tickets.

Hotel Arrangements: You should also keep copies of any lodging arrangements handy. Not only will this keep the telephone number and address handy, but it will also help prevent miscommunication upon arrival. These arrangements are best kept with travel itineraries.

Traveling can be a lot of fun, but there is some risk involved. You want to ensure you have your documents well organized and easy to locate in case something happens. Those copies of identification may come in handy if the originals are lost and stolen. Keeping copies of lodging arrangements, transportation itineraries, and emergency contact information organized will also help in case of an emergency. Enjoy your travels and stay safe!

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