Travel Tips

My big South America adventure begins tomorrow, so in preparation, I thought I'd share some of the travel tips that I've learned over the years. Keep in mind that my preferred travel style is backpacking.

• Use the Department of Foreign Affairs' Registration of Canadians Abroad service, so that they can contact and assist you in an emergency in a foreign country (If you're not Canadian, your country should have a service like this)
• Scan your important documents and email them to yourself (eliminates the need for printing and carrying multiple copies).
• Let your bank and credit card companies know that you will be traveling. The last thing you want is to be abroad and have your card denied because of "suspicious" purchases.
• Buy some little things that pack light to give to the kids where you are going, they love it! (Hair barrettes, bouncy balls, stickers, toy rings etc.)
• Carry a roll of toilet paper or small packets of kleenex in your purse or daypack...this one needs no explanation.
• Pack a pillow case so that in the event that you are without a pillow, you can make one by stuffing the case with clothes.
• Pack some garbage bags and ziplock baggies. In the event of a sudden downpour, it may mean the difference between life and death for your electronics.