Travel Resources

Before you hit the road

Identification
When you travel, always carry at least two forms of identification on your person, including a photo ID; a passport and a driver's license or birth certificate is usually adequate. Keep in mind that in many cases, carrying legal identification is the law. Never carry all of your IDs together; split them up in case of theft or loss, and keep photocopies of all of them in your luggage and at home.

Packing
Pack lightly. Lay out only what you absolutely need, then follow the mantra, "take half the clothes and twice the money." The Travelite FAQ (www.travelite.org) is a good resource for tips on traveling light. The online Universal Packing List (http://upl.codeq.info) will generate a customized list of suggested items based on your trip length, the expected climate, your planned activities, and other factors.

Luggage: If you plan to cover most of your itinerary by foot, a sturdy frame backpack is unbeatable. (For the basics on buying a pack, see Camping Tips.) Toting a suitcase or trunk is fine if you plan to live in one or two cities and explore from there, but not a great idea if you plan to move around frequently. In addition to your main piece of luggage, a daypack (a small backpack or courier bag) is useful.

Clothing: Avoid clothing that will offend locals or make you stand out. No matter when you're traveling, it's a good idea to bring a warm jacket or wool sweater, a rain jacket (Gore-Tex(r) is both waterproof and breathable), sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and thick socks. Flip-flops or waterproof sandals are must-haves for grubby hostel showers. Remember that when you're traveling, no one but your companions will know if you continually re-wear the same three outfits, so you can save precious pack-space by taking less clothing. Still, you may want one outfit for going out, and maybe a nicer pair of shoes. If you plan to visit religious or cultural sites, remember that you will need modest and respectful dress.

Sleepsack: Some hostels require that you either provide your own linens or rent sheets from them. Save cash by making your own sleepsack: fold a full-size sheet in half the long way, then sew it closed along the long side and one of the short sides.

Converters and Adapters: In Europe and most of Asia, electricity is 230 volts AC, enough to fry any 120V North American appliance. Electrical appliances with 220/240V won't work with a 120V current, either. Europe-bound Americans and Canadians should buy an adapter (which changes the shape of the plug; US$20) and a converter (which changes the voltage; US$20). US- and Canada-bound visitors from outside North America will need the same. Don't make the mistake of using only an adapter (unless appliance instructions explicitly state otherwise). Australians and New Zealanders (who use 230V at home) won't need a converter in Europe, but will need a set of adapters to use anything electrical. For more on all things adaptable, check out http://kropla.com/electric.htm.

Toiletries: Toothbrushes, towels, cold-water soap, talcum powder (to keep feet dry), deodorant, razors, tampons, and condoms are often available, but may be difficult to find; bring extras. Remember to pack prescription medicine and a copy of your prescription. Contact lenses are likely to be expensive and difficult to find, so bring enough extra pairs and solution for your entire trip. Also bring your glasses and a copy of your prescription in case you need emergency replacements. If you use heat-disinfection, either switch temporarily to a chemical disinfection system (check first to make sure it's safe with your brand of lenses), or buy a converter.

First-Aid Kit: For a basic first-aid kit, pack bandages, a pain reliever, antibiotic cream, a thermometer, a Swiss Army knife, tweezers, moleskin, decongestant, motion-sickness remedy, diarrhea or upset-stomach medication (e.g., Pepto Bismol or Imodium), an antihistamine, sunscreen, insect repellent, burn ointment, and a syringe for emergencies (get an explanatory letter from your doctor).

Film: Film and developing in Europe can be expensive, so consider bringing along enough film for your entire trip and developing it at home. Less serious photographers may want to bring a disposable camera or two. If you bring a digital camera, watch it carefully-such devices are prime targets for pickpockets. Despite disclaimers, airport security X-rays can fog film, so buy a lead-lined pouch at a camera store or ask security to hand-inspect it. Always pack film in your carry-on luggage, since higher-intensity X-rays are used on checked luggage.

Other Useful Items: For safety purposes, you should bring a money belt and small padlock. Basic outdoors equipment (i.e., plastic water bottle, compass, waterproof matches, pocketknife, sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat) may also prove useful. Quick repairs of torn garments can be done on the road with a needle and thread; also consider bringing electrical tape for patching tears. If you want to do laundry by hand, bring detergent, a small rubber ball to stop up the sink, and string for a makeshift clothes line. Other things you're liable to forget are an umbrella; sealable plastic bags (for damp clothes, soap, food, shampoo, and other spillables); an alarm clock; safety pins; rubber bands; a flashlight; earplugs; garbage bags; and a small calculator. A cell phone can be a lifesaver (literally) on the road (see Communication Tips for information on acquiring one that will work at your destination).

Important Documents: Don't forget your passport, traveler's checks, ATM and/or credit cards, adequate ID, and photocopies of all of the aforementioned in case these documents are lost or stolen. Also check that you have any of the following that might apply to you: a hostelling membership card; driver's license; travel insurance forms (see Travel Insurance); ISIC (see Identification), and/or rail or bus pass.

Accommodations
Choosing accommodations is a balancing act; at the very least, travelers prioritize among price, location, facilities, cleanliness, and safety when deciding where to stay. Initially, you'll have to choose whether to stay in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse, dorm, campsite, or private home.

Beyond Tourism
The connection between travelers and their destinations is a critical one, and in spite of the growing 'ignorant tourist' stereotype, many travelers care passionately about the communities and environments they explore. But even conscientious tourists can inadvertently damage natural wonders and harm cultural environments. There are several options for those who seek a cultural experience more informative and integrated than tourism: opportunities for volunteering abound, both with local and international organizations; studying, either through direct enrollment in a local university or in an independent research project, is also instructive; and working will both immerse you in the local culture and fund your travels.

As a volunteer, you can participate in projects from castle-cleaning in France to protecting the endangered Loggerhead turtles in Greece, either on a short-term basis or as the main component of your trip. Those who study abroad often find the immersion to be much more rewarding and genuine than the typical experience of a camera-toting tourist. With hundreds of programs, students can select from a full spectrum of fields that cater to their individual interests. Many travelers also structure their trips by the work that they can do along the way-either odd jobs as they go, or full-time stints in cities where they plan to stay for longer periods of time. Indeed, many big cities are eager to employ foreigners, especially for work which requires interaction with tourists. Those planning a volunteer, work, or study trip should keep in mind that most countries require a work permit or special visa for work or study; there may also be differences in requirements depending on the length of your stay.

Travel Insurance
By footing the bills for emergency expenses, travel insurance protects disaster-wary travelers, for a price. Vacationers frequently visit unfamiliar environments, trek to less-developed countries and engage in risky activities, making insurance even more appealing. The decision to purchase travel insurance depends on the risks you'll be taking and on the policies which may already protect you.

Travel insurance covers four basic areas: medical/health problems, property loss, trip cancellation/interruption, and emergency evacuation. Though regular insurance policies may well extend to travel-related accidents, you may consider purchasing separate travel insurance if the potential cost of trip cancellation or emergency medical evacuation is greater than you can absorb. Prices for travel insurance purchased separately generally run about US$50 per week for full coverage, while trip cancellation/interruption may be purchased separately at a rate of US$3-5 per day, depending on the length of stay.

Medical insurance (especially university policies) often covers costs incurred abroad; check with your provider. Citizens of EU/EEA countries are entitled to certain medical services while within the union (you'll need a European Health Insurance Card). Canadian provincial health insurance plans increasingly do not cover foreign travel; check with the provincial Ministry of Health or Health Plan Headquarters for details. US Medicare does not cover foreign travel. Homeowners' insurance (or your family's coverage) often covers theft during travel and loss of travel documents (passport, plane ticket, railpass, etc.) up to US$500.

ISIC and ITIC provide basic insurance benefits to US cardholders, including US$100 per day of in-hospital sickness for up to 100 days and US$10,000 of accident-related medical reimbursement (see www.myisic.com for details). Cardholders have access to a toll-free 24hr. helpline for medical, legal, and financial emergencies overseas. American Express (US 800-528-4800) grants most cardholders automatic collision and theft car rental insurance and ground travel accident coverage of US$100,000 on flight purchases made with the card.

Insurance Providers

STA (www.statravel.com) offers a range of plans that can supplement your basic coverage. Other private insurance providers in the US and Canada include: Access America (800-284-8300; www.accessamerica.com); Berkely Group (800-797-4514; www.berkely.com); Globalcare Travel Insurance (800-821-2488; www.globalcare-cocco.com); Travel Assistance International (800-821-2828; www.travelassistance.com); and Travel Guard (800-826-4919; www.travelguard.com). AFTA (02 9264 3299; www.afta.com.au) operates in Australia and Columbus Direct (020 7375 0011; www.columbusdirect.co.uk) in the UK.

Passport Tips

New Passports

Citizens of Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and the US can apply for a passport at the nearest post office, passport office, or court of law. Citizens of South Africa can apply for a passport at the nearest office of Home Affairs. Any new passport or renewal applications must be filed well in advance of the departure date: most passport offices offer rush services, but the sometimes-exorbitant fees make it a better idea not to procrastinate. Citizens living abroad who need a passport or renewal services should contact the nearest consular service of their home country.

Passport Maintenance

Be sure to photocopy the page of your passport with your photo, passport number, and other identifying information. Also photocopy any visas, travel insurance policies, plane tickets, or traveler's check serial numbers. Carry one set of copies in a safe place, apart from the originals, and leave another set at home. Consulates also recommend that you carry an expired passport or an official copy of your birth certificate in a part of your baggage separate from other documents.

Lost Passports

If you lose your passport, immediately notify the local police and the nearest embassy or consulate of your home government. To expedite its replacement, you will need to know all information previously recorded and show ID and proof of citizenship. In some cases, a replacement may take weeks to process, and it may be valid only for a limited time. Any visas stamped in your old passport will be irretrievably lost. In an emergency, ask for immediate temporary traveling papers that will permit you to reenter your home country. Your passport is a public document belonging to your nation's government. You may have to surrender it to a foreign government official, but if you don't get it back in a reasonable amount of time, inform the nearest mission of your home country.

Citizens living abroad who need a passport or renewal should contact their nearest embassy or consulate.

Australia: Info 131 232; www.dfat.gov.au/passports. Apply for a passport at a post office, passport office, or overseas diplomatic mission. Passports AUS$144 (32-page), valid for 10 years. Children AUS$68 (32-page), valid for five years.

Canada: Canadian Passport Office, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Ottawa, ON K1A OG3 ( 613-994-3500 or 800-567-6868; www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca). Available online, at post offices, passport offices, and Canadian missions. Passports CDN$85 (includes $25 consular fee); valid 5 years (non-renewable).

Ireland: Pick up an application at a Garda station or post office, or request one from a passport office. Apply by mail to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Passport Office, Molesworth St., Dublin 2 ( 01 671 1633; fax: 671 1092; http://foreignaffairs.gov.ie/), or the Passport Office, 1A South Mall, Cork ( 021 272 525). Passports IR45; valid for 10 years. Under 18 or over 65 IR10; valid for 3 years.

New Zealand: Send applications to the Passport Office, Department of International Affairs, 47 Boulcott St., Wellington, NZ ( 0800 22 50 50 or 4 474 81 00; fax: 4 474 80 10; www.passports.govt.nz). Standard processing time is 10 working days. Passports NZ$80; valid for 10 years. Children NZ$40; valid for five years.

South Africa: Department of Home Affairs. Can contact the Department of Home Affairs in Pretoria ( 012 314 8911) or any regional office of the Department of Home Affairs. Processing time is 3 months or more. Passports ZAR120; valid for 10 years. Under 16 ZAR90; valid for five years.

UK: Info 0870 521 04 10; www.ukpa.gov.uk. Request application from passport office, main post office, travel agent, or online. Apply by mail, in person at a passport office, or complete the online form. Passports UK30; valid for 10 years. Children UK16; valid for five years. Call to inquire about Premium and Fast Track service.

US: Info 900-225-5674 (US$0.35 per min.); www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html. Must apply in person at any federal or state courthouse, authorized post office, or Passport Agency (in most major cities); see "US Government, State Department" in the telephone book for addresses. Processing takes 6 weeks. New passports US$60; valid for 10 years. Under 16 US$40; valid for 5 years. May be renewed by mail or in person for US$40. Add US$35 for 2-week expedited service.

US and UK citizens residing in the US can take advantage of the Center for International Business and Travel (CIBT; 800-925-2428), one of several agencies which secures visas to almost all countries for a variable service charge. Be sure to double-check on entrance requirements at the nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date information before departure. US citizens may also consult www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/travel/foreign/foreignentryreqs.html.

Some Essential Wisdom
In your passport, write the names of people who may be reached in case of a medical emergency, and also list any allergies or medical conditions. Matching prescriptions to foreign equivalents is not always easy, safe, or possible. Carry up to date, legible prescriptions or a statement from your doctor with trade names, manufacturers, chemical names, and dosages. While traveling, be sure to keep all medication in your carry-on luggage.

Be sure to double-check on entrance requirements at the nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date information before departure. US citizens can also consult www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/travel/foreign/foreignentryreqs.html.

Passports must be valid for at least six months before (and at least 30 days after) date of entry. Travelers required to use a visa must hold a passport that is valid for at least 90 days to six months after date of entry.

Useful Links
Planning a trip, whether you're traveling across your native city or around the world, is always easier with ample resources at your fingertips. Below is a list of links that can assist with booking flights, finding the best prices on accommodations and activities in your destination, and making your stay as comfortable as possible. Also listed are websites that give free translations, dispense advice on wilderness trips, and offer alternative approaches to to the philosophy of tourism. To supplement the generic information given in these sites, check the links listed in your destination's "Essentials" section.

Atevo Travel: www.atevo.com/guides/destinations. Detailed introductions, travel tips, and suggested itineraries.

Backpacker's Ultimate Guide: www.bugpacific.com. Tips on packing, transportation, and where to go in the Pacific and New Zealand. For information specific to Europe, try www.bugeurope.com.

BBC: http://www.bbc.co.uk. Current events info on every region of the world, each its own clearly marked section.

BootsnAll.com: www.bootsnall.com. Numerous resources for independent travelers, from planning your trip to reporting on it when you get back.

Business Enterprises for Sustainable Travel (BEST)www.sustainabletravel.org supports travel that helps communities to preserve natural and cultural resources and to create sustainable livelihoods. The website has listings of local programs, innovative travel opportunities, and internships.

CIA World Factbook: www.odci.gov/cia/publications/factbook/index.html. Tons of vital statistics on geography, government, economy, and people of almost every country in the world.

Foreign Language for Travelers: www.travelang.com. Provides free online translating dictionaries and lists of phrases in a multitude of languages.
FIFA www.fifa.com/en/index.html contains copious information on the world's most popular sport.

Geographia: www.geographia.com. Highlights, culture, and people of every world region.

Hippocrene Books: www.hippocrenebooks.comInternational cookbooks for those interested in sampling a worldly variety of flavors.

How to See the World: www.artoftravel.com. A compendium of great travel tips, from cheap flights to self defense to interacting with local culture.

Hunter Publishing: www.hunterpublishing.com. Has an extensive catalog of travel guides and diving and adventure travel books.

Lycos: travel.lycos.com/destinations. A wealth of information is available on cities and regions worldwide, including general introductions and links to history, news, and local tourism sites.

Microsoft Expedia: www.expedia.msn.com. This site has everything you'd ever need to make travel plans on the web: compare flight fares, look at maps, make reservations. FareTracker (free) is a monthly mailing about the cheapest fares to any destination.

MyTravelGuide: www.mytravelguide.com. Country overviews, with everything from history to transportation to live webcam coverage of nations worldwide.

PlanetRider: www.planetrider.com. A subjective list of links to the "best" websites covering the culture and tourist attractions of countries around the world.

Solo Travelers

www.travelaloneandloveit.com Everything you ever wanted (and needed!) to know about traveling alone.

Tourism Offices Worldwide Directory: www.towd.com. Lists tourism offices for all 50 states and Canada, as well as consulate and embassy addresses.

Travel Docs traveldocs.com. Lets you download visa applications for any country and will process the documents for you for a fee.

Travel Intelligence: www.travelintelligence.net. A large collection of travel writing by distinguished travel writers.

Travel Library: www.travel-library.com. A fantastic set of links for general information and personal travelogues.

TravelPage: www.travelpage.com. Links to official tourist office sites worldwide.

World Health Organization www.who.int. Especially useful for travel to the developing world, but also provides news on the latest health-related developments worldwide.

World Hum: www.worldhum.com. An independently produced collection of "travel dispatches from a shrinking planet."

World Travel Guide: www.wtgonline.com. Helpful practical info.

Excerpted from letsgo.com. For more information, visit letsgo.com.

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