5) Plastic
As in, all your plastic cards. Bring along your health insurance card, loyalty program cards for airlines and hotels, and discount cards like AAA or Student ID (some places honor student discounts). Credit cards are useful in an emergency. A Visa or Mastercard is always a good idea. Notify your bank or credit card company of the dates of travel and where you might swipe your card. Mention your layover countries, too– you may want/need something in the airport. This prevents your card from getting blocked due to a “suspicious transaction.” Bring an official photo ID, like a drivers’ license as well. You can carry this around for ID purposes instead of your passport (lock it in the room or hotel safe). Lastly, stick a small paper card in your wallet with emergency phone numbers. Should something happen, the folks helping you can get in touch with someone at home.
