Bringing liquids like shampoo and suntan lotion?
The best way to keep your clothes and other items goop-free is to make sure the bottles are tightly capped and to seal them in a freezer bag.
Afraid of spoiling your film?
Carry all of your film in your checked bags. Some retailers offer special cases that protect film, so if you are wary, check into that option. Also, if you must, you can ask for a manual inspection of your carry-on to avoid x-ray inspection and potential damage. The best, although not the most cost effective, method is to buy your film after you have arrived and get it developed prior to your departure. This method ensures that none of your film will be damaged.
Bringing valuable items?
Obviously the safest place for valuables is at home, but it is often necessary to bring them along. Try to avoid putting valuable in checked baggage, however, as they are safer in your carry-on bags so you can keep track of them. Use the locks on your luggage, if you have them, but they are generally flimsy. I recommend buying a combination lock to secure the double zippers of your checked baggage. It may be cumbersome, but especially on long overseas trips with multiple transfers, it provides better protection. Be sure to keep the combination in a place other than inside the checked baggage!
Need to bring your medication?
Always carry your medication in your carry-on bags, which are less likely to be lost. Make a list of the generic names of your medication because in some places, brand names differ. To avoid security problems, keep your medicine in its original container, and if you are transporting a large quantity or a questionable drug, bring a letter from your doctor saying that you are legally allowed to have the drugs. When traveling abroad, be aware that some drugs are illegal, so be sure to check into that before you depart.
A few essential things to include in your carry-on:
· A change of clothing
· Passports, itineraries, and other important documents
· Any item of particular value · A list of everything in your checked baggage, and if you had time, photographs of the contents
· Any medications
· Emergency contact numbers (friends, relatives, doctors, etc.)
· Camera, batteries, and film
· Copies of your credit cards, travelers checks, and contact information for both
· Money for miscellaneous expenses like buses or porters.
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