Dos and Don'ts of Packing

If you only read one sentence of this blog post, here it is, "Travel light!"
Traveling internationally may entail a completely different strategy when packing your bags.

For example, when I travel domestically, I usually pack a few granola bars and/or read-to-eat snacks just in case I get hungry.  When I travel internally, I refrain from bringing any food products as most countries will want to do a customs inspection on anyone bringing in food or animal products.

Here's a quick list of items to bring:

• Prescription medication in original containers.  Any medication you bring with you should be clearly labeled as to its contents.  Anything that is questionable could be confiscated by authorities.
• Photocopies of your travel documentation (passport, visa, reservations), driver's license, and credit cards.  I also scan in my travel documentation and upload it to a secure online location.
• Charging cords (and proper AC adapters) for your electronic devices.
• Mobile Device - Even if you don't plan to pay roaming charges for your mobile device, it can still be used over WiFi and/or as a travel alarm clock and calculator.
• Unlocked Mobile device - If you are going to be traveling for a while, you may want to invest in an unlocked device and purchase a SIM card for local use.  If your current mobile device is 'out of contract' then you can request the 'unlock code' from your carrier.  It is a good idea to let your carrier know that the reason you are asking for the 'unlock code' is for international use and not for use with a competitor.
• Travel Converter/Adapter Set
• Hand Sanitizer
• Pens & notepad - You will need to fill out customs forms on the plane. Don't be that guy who didn't bring a pen.
• Digital Camera and memory cards
• Walking shoes - Comfortable shoes.  There will be walking on your trip.
• Appropriate Clothing
• Toiletries
• Umbrella/Poncho/Jacket - Appropriate outerwear depending on where you are going
• Pocket-sized tissues and/or disinfecting hand wipes
• Swimsuit & flip flops- Even if you are going to the coldest place on earth, there is usually a hot tub at the hotel.  Depending on your hotel, you may decide to wear flip flops while you are in the shower.
• Backpack / small bag to carry souvenirs while walking around
• Moneybelt

Items to avoid:

• Expensive jewelry
• Clothing that screams, "I'm an American."  You want to try to blend in.
• Shoes that scream, "I'm an American." Again, you want to try to blend in.
• Your Hairdryer - Hairdryers are notorious for being the wrong voltage and/or blow up your conversion adapters.
• Food products
• Any contraband / prohibited items by the local authorities

If you are cruising, I also recommend bringing a power strip and/or extension cord with multiple outlets as most cabins only provide 1-2 outlets.

I previously recommended bringing toilet paper, but I have not used that item on my last 5 international trips.