There are a lot of things to do before a trip other than just packing a suitcase – especially when traveling internationally. Once your passport and documents are in order and your itinerary finalized, here are 5 tips to help you enjoy your trip abroad to the fullest:

1. Take photos of important items

  • Passport – first three pages – make sure page three is filled-out
  • Credit cards – front and back
  • Travel Documents
  • Health & Travel Insurance paperwork
  • Medications labels – in case you need to replace them
  • Photo of luggage including carry on and personal bags

RFID Passport Slip

AAA Member Price: $13.50

This Passport Slip holds a passport along with 2 credit cards and blocks illegal scans of RFID chips embedded in passports and cards. It helps prevent identity theft by stopping sensitive personal data from being compromised.

2. Have your technology in order

  • Fully charge all devices and pack a mobile power bank
  • Back up your files and photos – in case of loss
  • Load all travel apps before you head to airport
  • Pack adapter plugs for different countries
  • Don’t forget ear buds for movies on planes, audio tours

ZGear Mobile Power Bank

AAA Member Price: $14.99

It’s important to always keep a back-up power supply charged and ready for mobile devices. Be sure to have one that holds enough power for at least two complete smartphone charges – like this one from ZGear.

3. Make sure your Luggage ID Tags only have the most pertinent information

  • Make sure your home address is NOT on your bag tag
  • Only include your name, cell phone number, email address and cell phone number of your back home person on your bag tag
  • Put an ID tag on all your luggage including your personal bag
  • Place a copy of your contact information inside your luggage

Linnea Luggage Tag

AAA Member Price: $7.00

Bright travel designs distinguish your luggage in a sea of black suitcases. Made of virtually unbreakable, pliable plastic, they include a tri-fold insert that keeps your information tucked away out of sight.

4. Pack Right For The Flight

  • Verify your airline carry-on and luggage restrictions
  • Pack everything valuable in your personal bag – including medications, electronics, etc. – stowed at your feet
  • Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag – stowed in the overhead compartment
  • Always travel with snacks and a refillable water bottle

Baggallini Overnight Tote

AAA Member Price: $135.00

Designed with travelers and unplanned layovers in mind, the Baggallini Overnight Expandable Tote fits works great as a personal bag and fits under most airline seats to keep valuables close at hand. It features plenty of room for a change of clothes, laptop, and more. Attaches securely to luggage with a pass through sleeve – and includes an RFID wristlet.

5. Make sure you've got your money figured out

  • Notify your bank and credit card companies – let them know where and when you’ll be traveling
  • Always travel with two separate credit cards (in case one is lost, canceled for fraud, etc.)
  • Confirm both credit cards do not have foreign transaction fees
  • Travel with a AAA Member Rewards VISA Card – No annual fee, no foreign transaction fee and earn cash back on a wide range of purchases
  • Always arrive with some local currency – available at AAA service centers
  • Stay organized – use a currency organizer instead of a bulky wallet
  • Wear an undercover RFID money belt – wherever there are tourists, there will be pickpockets

Baggallini RFID Currency Organizer

AAA Member Price: $24.50

Trade your everyday large wallet for the streamlined Baggallini RFID Currency Organizer. No more fumbling for the right amount – or the right type – of currency thanks to the multiple zippered exterior pockets: Euros in one, UK pounds in another, US dollars in yet another.

Eagle Creek RFID Money Belt

AAA Member Price: $24.95

The Eagle Creek under-clothing Money Belt has RFID blocking technology which helps protect personal information on Passport and credit cards. Features a soft adjustable elastic waistband and a moisture wicking and breathable mesh back panel for comfort on hot days.

With these five things sorted out, you’ll be ready to have a fantastic trip overseas and won’t need to worry about the small stuff so you’re able to enjoy your experience even more.