Packing Checklist
Last Minute Reminders
Here are a few items you want to be sure to pack before leaving on your trip of a lifetime. Information on credit cards, CPAP machines and more found below.
- Passport
- Copies of Passport
- Second form of ID
- Flight Info
- Name tag
- Power Converter/Adapter
- Sunglasses
- Monies
- Toiletries
- Small umbrella
- Medication
- Camera
- Bible
- Eye Glasses
Credit Cards
Before You Go
Call your credit card company to let them know when and where you’ll be traveling. This can prevent your credit card company from viewing your charges as suspicious and declining them because they’re made in another country. Your pre-departure conversation with your credit card company is also a good time to ask about foreign transaction fees and a phone number that will work internationally if your credit card is lost or stolen.
Know the Currency
Improve your chances of being able to pay with credit cards by finding out which credit card brands are more popular in your destination country. Also be aware that other places may have additional criteria around credit card acceptance. In Europe, for instance, some merchants and machines may only accept “smart cards” encrypted with a chip or personal identification number (PIN), which most U.S. card companies don’t offer yet. This could limit the ATMs you can use, so it may be wise to carry a small amount of cash on you. Also look into the currency exchange rate so you know what you’re paying in U.S. dollars.
Travel Confidently
It’s easier to keep track of one credit card and store a second back-up credit card in a separate place in case you lose your primary card. It’s also wise to store financial information on an encrypted USB flash drive along with your passport. That way, if your card is lost or stolen, you’ll have access to account numbers and toll-free customer service numbers. When you go out, consider carrying your wallet in your front pocket or using a hidden belt, as your back pocket is an easy target for pickpockets.
Source: Wells Fargo.
CPAP Machines
The CPAP machine will need to come out of its case and be placed in a bin prior to being sent through the X-ray, but the facemask and tubing can remain in the case. We realize the X-rays bins aren't exactly sterile, so if you like, you can place your CPAP machine in a clear plastic bag before you put it in the bin. After your CPAP machine is X-rayed, it may need to undergo an Explosive Trace Detection test where a small white swab will be run over your machine and then analyzed for trace amounts of explosives.
