Medical kit: 1 sterile dressing, 10 adhesive bandages (various sizes), 10 antiseptic wipes, 10 ibuprofen 200 mg tablets, 8 blister plasters, 1 pair tweezers, 4 oral rehydration sachets. Keep one set in carry-on and one set in checked luggage; check contents every 6 months and replace expired items.
Documents: Make two paper passport copies, save high-resolution scans on an encrypted USB and a secure online folder, and store one paper copy separate from the passport. Add printed emergency contacts and the local embassy address plus phone numbers for medical assistance in each destination.
Money: Carry a primary EMV chip card and a secondary contactless card hidden in a different pocket or bag. Exchange a small amount of local currency to cover the first 72 hours of expenses and keep a cash reserve equal to roughly 20% of your planned budget. Record PINs in a secure password manager and memorize one backup code.
Connectivity and power: Download offline maps that include city centers plus a 50 km perimeter around planned stops; save GPS coordinates for accommodations, embassy, and nearest hospital. Bring a portable battery ≥10,000 mAh, a compact multi-plug adapter suited to the destination, and a simple local SIM or eSIM option if the stay exceeds seven days.
Health and coverage: Purchase medical evacuation coverage with minimum USD 100,000 and verify exclusions for high-risk activities such as scuba or alpine trekking. Keep prescriptions in original packaging with generic names and bring a 90-day supply when feasible. Obtain recommended vaccines at least four weeks prior to departure and keep vaccination records accessible.
Local safety: Learn five emergency phrases in the local language (police, doctor, hospital, “I need help”, “I am allergic to…”). Register an itinerary with your embassy or leave a detailed plan with a trusted contact, and send daily check-ins while in higher-risk areas. Photograph valuables and log serial numbers; use a hotel safe when available and avoid displaying expensive equipment in public.
Logistics and timing: Book first-night lodging within 90 minutes of scheduled arrival to reduce transit risk; plan major activities during daylight and keep at least a two-hour buffer between connections. Maintain a printed master sheet with addresses, local phone numbers, booking references, payment deadlines, and cancellation windows.
No-nonsense Trip Tips
Keep two passport copies: a printed version sealed inside checked luggage in a ziplock and an encrypted photo stored in a passworded cloud plus an offline phone folder labeled ID.
Carry local currency equal to three days’ expected spending, split between a concealed money belt and a separate pouch; bring one chip-and-PIN credit card plus a backup debit card kept in a different pocket.
Pack a seven-day supply of prescription medication in original bottles and include a one-page list of active ingredients, doses, and prescribing physician contact details.
Buy a local SIM on arrival with 5–10 GB when the stay exceeds 48 hours; enable airplane mode when not using data, install offline maps, and save tickets and reservations as PDFs in an offline folder.
Choose lodgings with verified 24-hour check-in and recent guest reviews over 50 entries; confirm access to secure luggage storage and on-site locks before arrival.
When using taxis, photograph the license plate and driver ID, request a printed receipt, and prefer licensed company apps or official stands; agree a price or confirm meter activation visibly before departure.
Purchase single-trip medical and evacuation coverage with minimum $100,000 medical and $50,000 evacuation limits; store policy number and emergency hotline in phone and on paper hidden among documents.
Limit main baggage weight to 8–10 kg for urban stays under ten nights; include one pair of neutral walking shoes, a 3-season compressible jacket under 1 kg, and two quick-dry shirts that can be machine-washed.
Create a daily buffer of two hours when connecting flights to ground transport during peak traffic; reconfirm domestic flights 24 hours ahead and check expected transfer durations via local traffic apps.
Share arrival time and a single contact method with one reliable local contact; set a daily 18:00 check-in window and update only if plans change materially.
| Item | Quantity | Reason | Storage tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport photocopy | 2 | Backup ID when originals lost or detained | One sealed in checked bag, one in phone folder |
| Primary credit card | 1 | Main payment method with chip-and-PIN | Carry in front pocket; photograph card back details |
| Backup debit/card | 1 | Access to cash if primary blocked | Stored separately from primary card |
| Local cash | 3 days’ worth | Small purchases and transport where cards rejected | Split between money belt and hidden pouch |
| Prescription meds | 7-day supply | Continuity of treatment | Original bottles plus printed summary |
| Power bank | 10,000 mAh | Phone and navigation backup | Carry in daypack external pocket |
| Reusable water bottle | 1 | Hydration and cost reduction | Collapsible model fits side pocket |
| Light rain shell | 1 | Weather protection without bulk | Compress into packing cube |
| Small padlock | 1 | Secure bags in shared accommodation | Attach to luggage zipper |
Calculate a realistic daily budget per city covering transport, meals and tipping
Use this formula: Daily = Transport + Meals + Tips + 12% buffer. Round up to nearest whole currency unit.
How to estimate each component
Transport – choose day-pass price when available, otherwise multiply typical single-ride cost by expected trips. Typical day-pass or daily spend ranges (USD): low-cost city $1–5, mid-cost European city $5–15, large North American city $8–20. Short taxi/ride-hail rides add $8–25 each; include one longer ride if itinerary requires.
Meals – build a three-meal plan: breakfast + lunch + dinner. Typical per-meal ranges (USD): low-cost city: breakfast $1–3, lunch $2–6, dinner $6–15; mid-cost Europe: breakfast $3–8, lunch $8–15, dinner $15–40; major US city: breakfast $3–8, lunch $10–20, dinner $15–40. If mixing street/local vendors and one sit-down meal, use midpoint values.
Tipping – apply local norms. Typical percent or amounts (USD): United States restaurants 15–20% of bill; Western Europe often includes service, otherwise tip 5–10%; Japan and some East Asian locations usually no tip; taxis: round up or 5–10%; guides: $5–20 per half-day. If unsure, add a fixed $2–5 per day to cover small tips.
Worked examples (USD)
Example A – Southeast Asian city (budget): Transport $2 day-pass; Meals breakfast $2 + lunch $4 + dinner $8 = $14; Tips $2; Subtotal $18; +12% buffer = $20.16 → round to $21 per day.
Example B – Western European city (mid-range): Transport $8 day-pass; Meals $4 + $12 + $25 = $41; Tips $5 (approx. 10%); Subtotal $54; +12% buffer = $60.48 → round to $61 per day.
Example C – Major US city (comfort): Transport $13 (metro day or single fares); Meals $5 + $15 + $30 = $50; Tips $9 (≈18%); Subtotal $72; +12% buffer = $80.64 → round to $81 per day.
Adjust every city by checking current local prices and converting currencies using live exchange data; use aggregated city cost indices when available (example source: Numbeo).
Pack a carry-on survival kit: delays, lost luggage, basic medical needs
Bring a carry-on sized to 22x14x9 in (56x36x23 cm) containing a 48‑hour replacement wardrobe, toiletries in TSA-approved 100 ml containers, a compact medical kit and emergency cash.
Clothing (48 hours): two quick-dry shirts, one pair lightweight trousers, three pairs underwear, two pairs socks, a lightweight rain shell, foldable flip-flops. Use a compression packing cube to save space.
Toiletries: travel toothbrush, 25 ml toothpaste, 50 ml deodorant, 100 ml shampoo, 100 ml body wash, razor, menstrual supplies, 70% alcohol hand gel 60 ml, 10 wet wipes. Keep liquids in a clear 1 L resealable bag to meet security rules.
Medications and first aid: prescription meds in original labelled containers plus printed prescription and prescriber contact; at least seven days supply of critical meds. OTC kit: 20×200 mg ibuprofen, 20×500 mg acetaminophen, 20 antihistamine 10 mg tablets, 6 loperamide 2 mg tablets, 10 oral rehydration sachets, single-use antibiotic ointment, 10 adhesive bandages, 2 sterile gauze pads, 2 antiseptic wipes, small digital thermometer, compact tweezers, single-use nitrile gloves.
Electronics and documents: power bank ≤100 Wh (typical 20,000 mAh), one multi‑USB cable, universal plug adapter, phone and laptop chargers. Scan passport and ID to cloud and personal email, keep a printed copy separate from originals, pack one emergency credit card plus ~USD 100 cash or local equivalent.
Delays and lost luggage procedures: photograph checked bags prior to drop-off; register baggage tag numbers; keep receipts related to checked items; attach a distinctive ribbon to checked bag. If luggage is lost, contact the carrier baggage desk immediately, submit a Property Irregularity Report, request daily status updates and obtain written confirmation of the carrier’s compensation policy.
Extras that save time: small sewing kit, travel-size stain remover stick, 2 zip ties, spare contact lens case, single-use eye drops, earplugs, lightweight neck pillow, two high-calorie protein bars, three electrolyte sachets. Store heavier items at the bottom to keep weight balanced and make the top pocket accessible for meds and documents.
Identify and avoid common tourist scams at airports, stations and markets
Keep passport, wallet and phone in a single zipped inner pocket; show photocopies or screen images when identity proof is requested.
- Airports – fake officials: Individuals posing as police or airline staff will ask to inspect passports or claim extra fees. Ask to see official ID, refuse to hand original documents, walk to the airline counter or security desk and verify staff badge numbers before complying.
- Airport – baggage helpers: Unofficial porters offer assistance, then demand high tips or steal items. Use only attendants wearing airport-issued uniforms and ID, keep luggage locked, attach a visible tag with your phone number, decline unsolicited help.
- Airport – fake taxis and transfer scams: Book transfers through the airline, hotel or reputable apps; if using a street taxi, photograph the license plate and meter, insist meter activation, agree a price in writing when meter absent, refuse unmarked vehicles.
- Stations – ticket touts and bogus offers: Scammers sell counterfeit or invalid passes at platforms. Purchase tickets only at official kiosks, station vending machines or operator apps; verify ticket coding at gates; keep digital receipts and screenshots.
- Stations – distraction pickpocketing: Groups create a commotion while an accomplice empties pockets or bags. Use front-worn bags with zipped compartments, wear valuables under clothing, keep one hand on bag when crowded, place phone in inner pocket when checking maps.
- Markets – short-change and sleight-of-hand: Sellers manipulate bills or swap high-value notes. Count change aloud inside your hand, insist on new bills when accepting large notes, use bank ATMs to obtain small denominations, walk away if pressured.
- Markets – bogus goods and bait-and-switch: Stallkeepers display one item then substitute a damaged or counterfeit version at payment. Inspect goods carefully before paying, haggle over final price before handing money, photograph serial numbers on electronics.
- All locations – ATM skimming and card fraud: Skimmers attach to cash machines and record PINs. Use ATMs inside banks, inspect card slots for loose or sticky parts, cover PIN entry with hand, enable transaction alerts on your banking app, prefer contactless withdrawals when supported.
- All locations – Wi‑Fi and charging risks: Rogue Wi‑Fi hotspots mimic official names or offer fake chargers that copy data. Disable auto-join, use a personal hotspot or trusted VPN, carry a power bank and a USB data blocker if public charging needed.
- Common scams that escalate: Reported tactics include fake charity appeals, staged emergencies to distract you, and counterfeit official paperwork. If an encounter becomes hostile, move toward a staffed office or uniformed officer, record badge numbers, note witnesses and contact local authorities or your embassy/consulate immediately.
Quick checklist to reduce risk:
- Keep originals secured; carry photocopies and digital backups.
- Use official counters, bank ATMs and licensed transport apps.
- Count cash and verify change in hand; refuse rushed transactions.
- Inspect vendors and machines; photograph IDs, plates and receipts.
- When in doubt, retreat to a staffed area and verify identities.
Source: FBI – Scams and Safety
Manage prescriptions, required vaccinations and how to access local medical care
Carry at least a 90‑day supply of prescription medications in original pharmacy‑labeled containers; include a signed clinician letter listing diagnosis, generic drug names, dosages and administration times.
- Pre-trip medical checklist:
- Obtain written prescriptions and printouts of active medication labels; save digital scans accessible offline.
- Request a clinician letter on clinic letterhead containing generic names, daily dose, indication, and contact details of the prescriber.
- Confirm local import rules via the destination embassy and national drug regulator; some countries ban or restrict specific controlled substances and require permits.
- Get vaccine records on an International Certificate of Vaccination or official clinic card; some ports of entry demand an approved yellow fever certificate.
- Vaccine timing and specifics:
- Yellow fever: single dose given only at certified centers; certificate valid 10 days after vaccination.
- Rabies pre-exposure: three doses on day 0, day 7, and day 21–28; schedule must finish weeks before exposure risk rises.
- Hepatitis A: first dose offers partial protection within ~2 weeks; complete the series per product leaflet when possible.
- Typhoid: injectable single dose typically needs several weeks to reach peak protection; oral regimens follow a multi‑dose schedule–consult a clinic.
- MMR and tetanus boosters: verify serology or past records; administer boosters according to local guidelines when immunity is absent.
- Allow 2–8 weeks prior to departure for routine adult immunizations when timing permits; urgent scenarios require clinic consultation.
- Medication carriage and storage:
- Place all essential meds in carry‑on baggage; keep a separate small emergency pack with a 7‑day supply and instructions.
- Insulin and other cold‑chain products: carry insulated cases and gel coolers that meet airline rules; store per manufacturer temperature ranges during storage and transit.
- Syringes and needles: carry prescriptions and clinician letter to present at security checkpoints; check airline and country syringe regulations ahead.
- Split supplies across luggage pieces to reduce total loss risk in case of theft or delay.
- Controlled substances and documentation:
- Identify active ingredient using International Nonproprietary Names (INN) and list equivalent brand names used abroad.
- If medication is a controlled substance, obtain any required import permits or a narcotics certificate from the destination’s health authority before departure.
- Carry contact info of your prescribing clinic and a licensed local clinic that can validate prescriptions if refills become necessary.
- Accessing local medical care:
- Before departure, save embassy consular lists of English‑speaking doctors, private clinics and accredited hospitals near planned stops; download those pages for offline use.
- Activate travel insurance with medical evacuation and direct‑billing options; store the insurer emergency number in both phone and paper form.
- Use international clinic networks (e.g., International SOS, local Red Cross/Red Crescent contacts) when seeking hospital referrals and second opinions.
- Identify at least two nearby pharmacies and a 24‑hour hospital in each major city on itinerary; note street addresses and local emergency numbers (emergency numbers vary: 112, 911, 000, etc.).
- For urgent prescription replacement, present original prescription scans, clinician letter and photo ID; many private clinics issue same‑day temporary prescriptions when documentation is adequate.
- Emergency steps when medical help is needed:
- Call local emergency number immediately if life‑threatening situation occurs.
- Contact insurer emergency line to request hospital recommendations and direct billing support; provide policy number and medical summary.
- Notify the nearest embassy or consulate to request a list of vetted medical providers and assistance with communication or repatriation planning.
- If medication was lost or stolen, go to a private clinic or hospital with prescription scans and the clinician letter to obtain a temporary refill while arranging a longer‑term replacement.
Keep a concise medical card in your wallet listing allergies, chronic conditions, current meds with doses, blood type if known, clinician contact and insurance emergency number; present that card to any treating clinician.
Set up offline maps, buy a local SIM and secure digital payments abroad
Download offline map packs now: Google Maps – Menu > Offline maps > Select your own map > Download; allocate 200–1,000 MB per city depending on detail; Maps.me – download country OSM file (20–150 MB); OsmAnd – install regional map files, enable voice guidance plugin, move ‘Tile cache’ to SD card to save internal storage.
Google Maps specifics: create multiple offline areas, refresh every 14 days to keep routing data current, maximum offline expiry ~30 days without connection; save walking and driving routes, star key places and export lists via the same Google account.
Transit and PDFs: download metro schematics, timetable PDFs and official operator maps into device Files app and mark ‘Available offline’ to avoid data use when consulting timetables or transfer diagrams.
Battery and hardware tips: use airplane mode while consulting pre-downloaded maps to conserve battery; enable iPhone low-power location mode (Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services > System Services) or set Android location to Device only when GPS required; carry a 10,000–20,000 mAh USB‑C PD power bank and a short USB‑C cable.
Local SIM and eSIM setup
Buy SIM at an official operator store instead of an airport kiosk; present passport or national ID; request prepaid tourist bundle details including data allowance, validity period, tethering policy and APN. Typical pricing examples: EU – €10–€25 (5–30 GB, 30 days); Southeast Asia – $5–$15 (10–30 GB, 7–30 days); Latin America – $5–$20. eSIM vendors: Airalo, Nomad, Holafly; confirm device eSIM unlock status and dual‑SIM capability before purchase.
Activation checklist: insert physical SIM, restart device, check operator name in status bar; if mobile data fails, enter APN manually (common values: ‘internet’, ‘web’ or provider-specific settings); note USSD top-up codes and SMS shortcodes; comply with local SIM registration rules where required. Disable global roaming in device settings when using a local plan to avoid unexpected charges.
Dual‑SIM management: iPhone – Settings > Cellular > Select plan > set default line and enable Allow Cellular Data Switching as needed; Android – Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > assign default mobile data and default voice line, toggle data roaming per plan.
Secure digital payments abroad
Carry one primary card with minimal loaded balance for daily spending and a backup card stored separately inside locked luggage. Enable real‑time push notifications in the issuer app and set a low daily spending cap via the app. Use chip + PIN where available; request contactless limit details from issuer and enable merchant PIN prompts when supported.
Use disposable virtual cards from providers such as Revolut, Wise, Curve or N26 for online purchases; generate a single‑use number, complete checkout, then delete the card to eliminate reuse risk. Keep a paper copy of emergency card numbers and international issuer phone numbers in a separate, secure place.
Network hygiene: avoid public Wi‑Fi for banking without a trusted VPN app; disable automatic Wi‑Fi join and Bluetooth discovery; when required, access banking apps over mobile data or VPN only. Prefer authenticator apps (TOTP) over SMS‑based two‑factor authentication where available.
Fraud monitoring and cash handling: reconcile receipts against app statements daily to detect unauthorized charges within 24–48 hours; keep small amounts of local currency for immediate use and exchange larger sums at official kiosks showing fixed rates; avoid informal street exchangers unless the net rate advantage exceeds typical commission by more than 3%.
Questions and Answers:
How can I stay safe when I arrive in an unfamiliar city at night?
Do some basic research on neighborhoods before you leave: find the area around your accommodation and note public transport stops and well-lit streets. Use licensed taxis or a reputable ride app from a known pickup point, and share your route with a friend or family member. Keep valuables out of sight, carry a copy of your passport separately from the original, and have a small amount of local cash for emergencies. If something feels off, trust your instincts and move to a busier area or a staffed venue. Having the local emergency phone number and the address of your lodging written down can save time if you need help.
What are common tourist scams and how can I avoid them?
Scams often rely on distraction, pressure or friendly approaches. Typical examples: someone offering unsolicited help with tickets, fake petitions, rigged games, or drivers who “forget” to use the meter. To reduce risk, learn the usual scams for your destination before you go and keep a polite but firm attitude toward strangers who pressure you. Use official ticket counters and fare meters, agree prices in advance for taxis without meters, and decline offers that seem too convenient or urgent. Keep small purchases to well-known vendors and keep cards and cash secured in a front pocket or money belt. If something feels off, step away and check with hotel staff or other travelers.
How can I pack for a two-week trip without bringing too much?
Aim for versatility: choose clothing that mixes and matches, layers well and can be washed quickly in a sink. Limit shoes to two pairs that serve different needs (one for walking, one for dressier occasions). Pack travel-sized toiletries and refill them on the road rather than carrying full bottles. Make a list of outfits rather than individual items and cut that list by about a third before packing. Use compression or packing cubes to organize and keep weight down, and check airline baggage limits to avoid surprise fees. Leave room for anything you might buy so you do not end the trip with excess weight.
What should I do if I get sick or injured while abroad?
First, assess the severity. For minor issues, visit a local pharmacy where staff can recommend over-the-counter remedies; bring a note with your allergies and ongoing prescriptions in the local language if possible. For more serious conditions, contact your travel insurance provider for guidance on approved clinics or hospitals and to confirm coverage. Keep copies of all medical records and receipts for claims. If language is a barrier, ask your hotel to call a local medical translator or use a reliable translation tool to explain symptoms. Always carry a basic first-aid kit and a list of emergency contacts, including your embassy or consulate.
How can I avoid causing offense and show respect for local customs?
Learn a few key cultural rules before you go: dress codes for religious sites, whether public displays of affection are frowned upon, and common gestures that might be rude. Use simple phrases in the local language such as “hello,” “please” and “thank you” — that effort is usually appreciated. Observe how locals behave in public settings and mirror their level of formality. When taking photos, ask permission, especially of people and inside places of worship. If you are unsure about a custom, ask a local or your host politely rather than guessing.