In this section, we cover everything you need to know to make trip planning a snap, from when to go to how to shop for the best airfare. Browse through it to get started and make sure you've touched all the bases.
Destination Germany: Pre-Departure Checklist
Are you carrying a current passport?
If you purchased traveler's checks, have you recorded the check numbers and stored the documentation separately from the checks?
Did you stop the newspaper and mail delivery, and leave a set of keys with someone reliable?
Did you pack your camera and an extra set of camera batteries, and purchase enough film? If you packed film in your checked baggage, did you invest in protective pouches to shield film from airport X-rays?
Do you have a safe, accessible place to store money?
Did you bring your member ID cards that could entitle you to discounts such as AAA and AARP, student IDs, and so on?
Did you bring emergency drug prescriptions and extra glasses and/or contact lenses?
Did you find out your daily ATM withdrawal limit?
Do you have your credit card PINs? Is there a daily withdrawal limit on credit card cash advances?
If you have an e-ticket, do you have documentation?
Did you leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home?
Did you check to see if any travel advisories have been issued by the U.S. Department of State (http://travel.state.gov) regarding your destination?
Do you have the address and phone number of your country's embassy with you?