Planning a Trip

This section is devoted to the where, when, and how of your trip -- the advance planning required to get it together and take it on the road. Browse through this section before you hit the road to ensure you've covered all the bases.

Destination Switzerland: Red Alert Checklist

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 ID cards that could entitle you to discounts such as AAA and AARP cards, student IDs, etc.?

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 pin numbers? 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?

Do you have the measurements for those people you plan to buy clothes for on your trip?

Do you have the address and phone number of your country's embassy with you?