"What do you think?"

Honestly? I think you have too much travel to too many places in too short a time. If you actually mean 21 days, after subtracting arrival/departure days and 1/2 to 1 full day every time you move from one town to the next -- you will you'll really have about 2 to 2.5 days per city.

I matched your packing list with mine and you seem well-organized. You may have thought of this already, europe2011, but if you bring the packing list with you, it will prevent you from leaving things behind in your hotels.

It may be chilly, but if you can possibly wear sandals when you arrive at any airport, you will not have to remove them on the security line --- while others struggle, you will just breeze through.

One thing that I brought on my last trip was was INVALUABLE was the new chewable Immodium tablets. Travel and different foods/drinks can give me "troubles" and they worked miracles. Don't forget packets of kleenex that you will likely use as TP in some spots.
Charger for your phone and/or camera?

poetess: I did think about bringing the packing list - thanks! Good idea about the shoes, too.

ekc: Immodium tablets are a great idea - thanks!
I do have kleenex, wet ones etc.. and the chargers on my list!

I have gotten really sick several times after flying so I researched it and took a few precautions last time and didn't end up getting sick on 5 flights. I brought some anti bacterial wipes, antibacterial gel, and nasal spray.

Once we boarded I wiped down the tray table and anything plastic around our seats with the antibacterial wipes. We both used sanitizer gel and nose spray every few hours.

It worked great and I plan to do this on every flight from now on. I don't care if I looked like a germaphob. I didn't lose the first week of my vacation to a stomach bug.

Have you got your IDP for Italy?
Do you know the rules of the road in the countries in which you will be driving?

Micehle_d - I have never got sick from flying, never. Nor has my husband who has flown a heck of a lot more than me (every week this last three months for instance). I think such precautions are rather ott tbh, and probably rather annoying for your fellow passengers.

Purex sheets for laundry. What a good idea. I also think anti-bacterial wipes on the plane are a good idea. Will keep these in mind.

Of course you are taking some zip lock bags in varying sizes I hope.

Maybe you should get one of those surgical masks like they wear in China, Korea and Japan. No ... wait... might make the aircrew and passengers nervous! ;^)

I too think you have crammed too much into your trip.

The main imgredient is that a trip is about the places and people you are visiting and it is not about you. The more you concentrate on which hotels, what I am going to eat, what about my clothes, the more you will miss your own trip.

If for any reason this may be your only trip to Europe or there may be one another, then I can udnerstand cramming in al lot. Otherwise dedicate some time to sitting at a cafe and watch the world the go by, it is part of the experience.

I agree your trip is too ambitious. But that said, all I would add is to bring a miniature flashlight. Can't tell you how many times it's come in handy: locating my daughter's contact lens on the floor of a dark airline, finding the keyhole in an apartment in Paris where the hall lights didn't work, locating the fuse box in a rental villa...I always bring one.

As for the Purellists, it would drive me nuts if someone started wiping everything in sight down with antibacterial wipes. I'm a firm believer in exposing myself to as much bacteria as possible. Perhaps that explains why the last time I was even a tiny bit sick was more than 30 years ago.

Sunscreen is much more expensive over there so bring enough if you'll be using it. Small flashlight is a very good idea too.
I email copies of passports and itinerary to myself as attachments so they can always be accessed. I also keep all the emails of my resevations, air, hotel, car "live'for the same reason as above.Just in case, give a freind or relative a copy of your passports. It helped me out in an emergency one time before I emailed them to myself.
Be ready to enjoy the unexpected.

Wash clothes, rechargeable batteries and charger, small portable fan that is 120/240 volts and plug adapters for chargers and a small extension cord with multiple plug-in on one end, small tube of sun screen, lip balm, washing machine tablets (they do not spill all over clothes if bag is broken), clothes pins, 30-40 ft of para-cord, small first aid kit with white tape,bandaids, neo-sporin, safety pins, roll of gauze, asprin or... stomach stuff already mentioned above, packaging tape, pen/pencil, small magic marker, pad to write notes on. Laptop is a maybe as is a cell phone. Print maps from google or mapquest and take with travel books. Discard when used. Itinerary with phone numbers to friend, child, etc. who can get in touch with you if needed. Have you notified you bank and credit cards about your travel plans? Check again to make sure it was noted. Remember, get cash from ATM as needed and be sure to have a under the shirt safe/money pouch, for extra cash and cc. Do not assume you can see or feel a pickpocket. They practice 24/7. It is their lively hood.

I never thought a small flashlight. Everything else I have thought about.

@ hetismij - Yep, got um! We are driving in Croatia and Slovenia.

@kay_p - Of course!

@ HappyTrvlr - Got some small bottles of sunscreen already! We have scanned and emailed those documents and have given copies to family, too.

Great ideas! I am feeling good about the thought I have given this trip! Then we can just fly there and enjoy!

Have you checked to see if you are driving in countries that might require an international driving permit? We never get one and go every year, but we are getting one this year as more and more countries require that you have it. You can get it at AAA and they also can take the required photo there. There is a discount for members but anyone can use the service.

Can't tell if you are American but if so, you can register with the State department (trip locations, dates there, etc...)-could be helpful if there is trouble, they will know you are there.

Also, do leave a passport copy with a friend or family member in case there is a problem.

I like to arrive with Euros, as well.

Have a great trip.

Might your bank have any branches or ATMs where you're traveling (or reciprocal agreements / surcharge-free ATMs)? If so, bring the address/location so you can find it easily.

I almost always bring laptop, if not for the internet access at least to download photos so I don't have to hang on to a bunch of memory cards.

If you want to cut down on the paper (and you have a kindle) you can load all your itineraries, maps, etc as pdf documents onto the kindle. as well as i do all my guidebooks as e-books rather than paper copies.

i also try to pack small snack (even if it's just a couple power bars) in case i'm too exhausted when i arrive to even go out and find myself food.

toiletries should definitely include feminine products, even if you think the timing's wrong. very hard to find when you need. and motrin. and those heating pads that attach with adhesive.

moleskin or those sticky pads you can put on the heel of your shoe when you realize it's rubbing you wrong.

lately i've been packing a small reusable cloth bag with me after going to too many stores in Germany, Netherlands and Poland that did not supply (or made me pay) for plastic bags.

an extra washcloth?

if you want to be careful, tape your name and contact, plus an emergency contact inside your luggage, just in case.

and if you want to be super-duper careful, register your travel with the State Department travel registry ( https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ )

Agree that yo are heading too mnay places in too little time - but perhaps you like a really high speed travel with no relaxation.

As for what to bring - I never go without:

A knife (small steak type - for fruit or making sandwiches snacks)
A small flashlight (have used it twice - once a power outage and once stuck in a hideous storm with a car with dead wipers)
A small complete medical kit (band aids, neosporin, Pepto, aspirin, Advil, dramimine, tweezers, Benadryl)
An extra pair of glasses (if you really need them)
A menu reader (a tiny book with 16 languages - we just take those of the countries we will
visit

What I wish I knew - many people that travel on tours are frightened (either just overall or of somehow being separated from their tourmates). I have been pushed, knocked into and stepped on by tour members in a public place who were horrified at being separated from the rest of the group - even by 2 people that got mixed up in the group. In one case I used my subway experience - a cocked elbow in the gut - to get rid of a guy who was really pushing me. For the hysterical nuns in Rome I stepped aside - they were old and REALLY scared.

Wow, sorry for sharing my tip.

Luggage tags:

I actually printed out SEVERAL of them for each luggage, each with a different destination address, so before taking a flight to Prague, I attach the tag with our Prague hotel address and phone number info.

Also our international cell phone number is on each of the different tags.

Otherwise, if a piece of luggage is lost on the way to Prague, it will do no good if the info there is of our home in Chicago....

Makes sense, no?

I never get on an airplane without earplanes. I hate it when my ears pop and I can't get them back to normal.

Like StCirq, I don't bother wiping down the plane. "I'm a firm believer in exposing myself to as much bacteria as possible." I deal with people so I'm exposed to germs and rarely get sick. I wash my hands frequently and drink plenty of water.

Your schedule seems a little packed, but you're already going to do it. Now, enjoy it. If you start to feel overwhelmed, don't worry, you'll know better next time. If it's the perfect pace then you'll know not to ask other people what they think next time. Know thyself.

Important fact to know: If you live in North America, find out when European daylight savings time starts!!! On my first trip to Europe, we had NO CLUE that Europe changed on a different date.

Thankfully, this only resulted in our arriving at Fiumicino far too early - our flight departure time had been changed and we didn't know the time had changed on departure morning! So went spend 3 extra hours at the airpot. Could have been worse!

hetismij ,
"I think such precautions are rather ott tbh, and probably rather annoying for your fellow passengers."

ParisAmsterdam,
Maybe you should get one of those surgical masks like they wear in China, Korea and Japan. No ... wait... might make the aircrew and passengers nervous! ;^)

StCirq,
"As for the Purellists, it would drive me nuts if someone started wiping everything in sight down with antibacterial wipes. I'm a firm believer in exposing myself to as much bacteria as possible. Perhaps that explains why the last time I was even a tiny bit sick was more than 30 years ago."

LSky
Like StCirq, I don't bother wiping down the plane. "I'm a firm believer in exposing myself to as much bacteria as possible." I deal with people so I'm exposed to germs and rarely get sick. I wash my hands frequently and drink plenty of water.


Hey everyone, I thought this might be of help to anyone who gets sick when flying. I never get sick at home, at least a decade since I've taken antibitotics, and that was after a surgery. I do not use antibacterial stuff at home specifically because I believe you need to be exposed to germs in order to build up a tolerance.

BUT and this is a big BUT, I have gotten very sick when flying...103 temp, 2 rounds of antibiotics, down 3 weeks last time. Does that sound like a fun way to start YOUR trip??? I don't think so. So I tried to avoid it.

Call me overly cautious, I didn't want to be that sick in a foreign country. I'm not talking a little cold here. I didn't "wipe down everything in sight or the plane". I wiped my tray table and armrest, took all of 5 seconds. Hope it wasn't too annoying! How is washing your hands often different than using gel every few hours???

I don't know if was because of the dry air drying out my nasal passages combined with germs or whatever, but I decided to be pro-active and it worked. Sorry if others thought it is OTT or annoying.

duct tape, Ocean Spray to help prevent nasal dryness on flight, an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing through security to keep hydrated while in flight.

On the Today Show, a couple of weeks ago, it was suggested to take antibacterial wipes to wipe down your tray and arm rest. I don't think those trays are ever cleaned, at least the ones I have encountered.

Thanks scatcat

When traveling anywhere my husband and I always pack half of each of our clothes (full outfits)in each others suitcase, this way if one suitcase is lost we at least have some clothes and also each pack a full change of clothes in a carry-on.

I always wish I'd packed less.

michele_d, I'm with you. I, too, wipe down the tray table lock, the tray table, and the arm rests. They are NEVER cleaned.

I also wipe down light switches, door handles, bath/sink handles, telephones and TV remotes in the hotels. I travel every week for business... I know what gets cleaned and doesn't. And, trust me, the bedspread is the first thing to go in my hotel room.

I also bring rubber flip flops that I can wear as slippers or in the shower so I don't get athelete's foot.

Go ahead, call me a germaphobic. I really don't care what anyone thinks. The front desk crews think I'm doing the right thing... in their hotels!

michele_d, I'm with you too. With three autoimmune diseases and at high risk for more, even a cold can kick my immune system into overdrive and leave me more or less bedridden for months -- if not hospitalized. So I take prevention very seriously, and would love to hear any suggestions you have for antibacterial wipes that travel well (small container, don't dry out, etc). Over the years I've gotten really good with not touching my face in public, using Purell before I eat, etc. But wipes for the areas of the plane I'll be in contact with for 10+ hours would be nice too.

Don't let the naysayers get you down. "An ounce of prevention" and all that -- it really is true. I don't care one bit if I annoy other people by looking out for my own health needs. The few inconspicuous things I do are far less damaging and intrusive to others than those who board a plane hacking and coughing from a cold, with no concerns for who they spread the germs to.

To the OP, lots of good suggestions already (though some of you look like you're preparing for a safari, not the major cities of Europe!), the only thing I would add is a very small multitool that you can keep with you. I have the Swisstech Utilikey on my keychain and use it for small odd jobs frequently. Used it today to cut the plastic tie on a package of hairbands I had just bought, so I could actually use them rather than wait til I got home to a full pair of scissors.

I have never in my life used anti bactieral wipes anywhere....bonkers!

Maybe that's why I have a functioning immune system

Help! Just realised that my post looks like it's directed at GlassCannon....it's not. If you have a medical condition that means your immune system is wonky, then you have to do everything you can to stay well, but for your average person who doesn't suffer this, it's just so unnecessary.

My diseased immune system has nothing to do with antibacterial anything. I wasn't coddled as a child -- I played in the mud, climbed trees, caught chicken pox from the neighbor kids, and wasn't told to wash my hands before dinner. My first autoimmune disease developed when I was 11 years old, during a very stressful time. My second showed up when I was 18, my third at 23. Now at 30, I just try to manage my symptoms, avoid/minimize relapses, and try to prevent developing a fourth. I do everything I have to do to live with these diseases.

Be grateful for your healthy immune system. Don't take it for granted. And don't give me the evil eye for doing something that affects you not one bit but makes my life infinitely more livable.

I'd make it my first order of business to get some coins because you'll need them for pay toilets. (Yes, there are pay toilets in Europe, and they're usually very clean, too.)

Ah alihutch, I posted at the same time you did, sorry about that. No offense taken. But my larger point still stands: anyone who thinks antibacterial wipes are OTT need to get over themselves. You can't tell by looking what someone else is dealing with, whether that's a bad previous experience, autoimmune diseases, or cancer. It doesn't affect tour travel experience, so stop worrying about it.

Glasscannon, I'd walked away from the PC and then your post trickled through my brain and I though OMG, that's gonna look horrendous and SO wasn't aimed at you!.... My brain seems to be in slo-mo this morning....
Glad that you still travel despite all...

Torch, penknife, string, a few washing pegs, roll of electrician's tape, a little home money, local dictionary, photocopies of everything, whole insurance documents, pocket size tissues

Small travel clock with lighted face for bedside. I had hotel rooms in Lisbon and Nice recently that did not have a clock in the room. When I called the front desk, I was told that this was not a service they provided and of all times I had forgotten to pack mine. Very inconvenient to try to read my watch in the dark.

ricksteves.com

good info for me most important

moneybelt everything of value there

insuremytrip.com #1 thing folks forget

viamichelin.com good roadtrip site.

mdtravelhealth.com travel medical kit

travel.state.gov monitor travel alerts etc

Have fun,

onebag.com for me great packing tips

try to sleep a tonne on the plane over

for me melatonin natural jet lag supplement

I'm just glad I already KNOW how people over there "dress" so i didn;t have to rely on a bunch of nameless strangers for advice.

Take an extra collapsible bag to bring stuff home.

Stuff = chocolate/souvenirs/etc

1. Remember that standards of politeness differ from country to oountry.
2. People in Europe are much less likely to smile at strangers than Americans, but anyone in France providing you a service, from a shopkeeper to a bus driver to hotel staff expects to be greeted with "Bonjour, Madame or Monsieur" _every_ time you encounter them, and they expect to be thanked and told goodbye as well. It is very similar in Italy.
3. On the other hand, you can expect to be pushed or jostled in crowds, even by ordinary people who are NOT pickpockets, in ways that would be totally unacceptable in the US. This is what makes pickpocketing so easy.
4. Remember that most of the people around you in the streets are not on vacation. They are in a hurry to get to work or eat their lunch or get through the supermarket so they can cook dinner. Don't work out your map route in the middle of the sidewalk, do plan what you want for lunch from the menu posted on the street, deciding on a backup if they are sold out of your first choice, and go to post offices, supermarkets, bakeries, banks, etc at off-hours.

What I found (after reading too much) was that I overprepared. I packed for every contingency and never used most of the stuff. Pack the emergency kit as I call it- If I were sick in a hotel room and didn't want to leave or know where to go, what would I take? They have pharmacies in Europe and it's kind of fun to go to pick up new deodorant/toothpaste if you run out.

My tips:

Keep it simple.

Take time to enjoy your trip.

If you don't dress up at home, you won't dress up on vacation.

Bring your favorite camera and most comfortable pair of shoes.

Two ATM cards.

Eat focaccia and pesto in Cinque Terre.

You DON'T have to go crazy shopping. Buy something special to remember the trip and maybe a trinket to put on your desk.

You'll go back.

Have fun!

1. Pack light. You can buy anything you might need in Europe.

2. If you live in a house, remember to turn off your water at the main. You would not believe how many people come home to a broken pipe. It doesn't have to be frozen sometimes they just break. If you live in an apartment you can probably turn it off where it comes into the apt.

1.Bring a smile, manners, and patience!! (Sometimes, reading the forum here is good practice for this! Learning to deal with all sorts with kindness and not retaliation is a good life skill to take with you everywhere!)
2.You probably already noted this but--be sure to have plug adaptors--and plenty of them--for all the chargers you will be taking.
3.Broken in shoes, but moleskin anyway, washcloths if you want to use them (ratty ones to leave as you go if you want), and a few ziplocs.
4.Definitely at least 2 atm cards, from 2 different accounts. Maybe one from a credit union if you have time to open such if you don't already have such; their transaction fees tend to be less.
5.And if you plan to take lots of digital pics, how will you store the pics? Lots of cards? Way to download pics? Don't run out of storage space.

bookmarking

The less you take, the better. But I'll add one item: the microfiber travel towel. After washing clothes in the sink, roll them in this towel to remove excess moisture. Then your clothes and the towel will dry quickly overnight and you will still have a dry hotel towel for your shower. (available at Rick Steves and REI).

@ granthammommy

Couldn't have said it better myself! Will think of you while eating in CT!!

Did you call your bank and let them know you're traveling? You don't want to have your cards denied.

Have fun! All great locations. Have a drink at sunset at Buza Bar, on the outside of the wall of Dubrovnik.

WOW - a lot of stuff... living in Europe, we just get on the plane! But if it's your first time to Europe a major adjustment might be ... the bathrooms. Yes, standards and cleanliness can vary dramatically. You might look at this article about Toilets in Rome for some insights (and pictures)... So I'd recommend bringing some wipes, small pkg of tissue, and perhaps, courage!

http://tinyurl.com/rome-toilets

Having lived in Europe now for more than 10+ years, we've seen a variety of toilet "options," including a hole in the floor of a train in Slovakia! Happy travels - Be safe and have fun!

Assuming Europe2011 is American, then I would take a flashlight rather than a torch!

Whenever I read of torches in mysteries written by English writers, I have visions of going thru Injun Joe's cave!

Earplugs are sometimes a good idea

If you like to read at night and must wear reading glasses buy the new non prescrition eyeglasses that have a light built in.

I am going to buy a pair for my trip in September.

I wish I had researched tipping practices in Europe, before we went. In our ignorance, we tipped like we do in the states-- adding a percentage to the charge card slip. I guess that was wrong, because the server may not have received the tip, plus it was too much. Stupid on our part.

In some countries, you simply round up the bill and leave the cash on the table. Simple. Duh.

Someone mentioned plug adaptors - I bring a multi-plug thing from home and then you only need one plug adaptor to plug in 4-5 things. Much easier, saves money buying the plug adaptors, and you may find you only have one plug in an older hotel room anyway. Although I'm not sure if this works as well for Americans with the voltage issue (?)

I agree as well with whoever said it sounds like some of you are going on safari I must confess I'm terrible at packing light, but I stock up on shoes and clothes, not first aid kits! Each to their own though

And a big yes for trying to understand a little bit about the cultural norms (and a few words of the language) if you can as well.

Here is the website..

http://www.panthervision.com/store/led-lighted-reading-glasses

Hi europe2011. Thanks for starting this thread. It's actually a really good refresher course for experienced travelers as well as newbies. Lots of good ideas here. It's fun to see what are the must haves for everyone.

joannyc , thank you

GlassCannon,
I just bought the wipes at my local grocery store. They are antibacterial. They came in a bright orange rectangular pouch, probably 20 or so in a pack. I put that pack inside a quart size baggie to keep them from drying out . They fit in my small purse perfectly for the plane ride. I just opened the pack two days ago to see if I needed more for our next trip and they were still damp. I used them on our last trip in Nov. 2009, so they held up good I think.

I try to be very courteous to those around me on the plane, but ultimately I don't want to get sick, so I take precautions. I actually look upon it no differently than those who take vitamins or eat healthy or exercise or whatever they feel they have to do to stay healthy. This is something I have to do, so I do it. If you looked at some of the wipes when I was finished wiping down you would know what I mean! Icky.

Michelle_d: I would 100% agree with all youve said.

others (who dont believe in bacterial infections): One can not become immune to MRSA (methicillin resistant Staph aureus). Once only common in hospitals, nursing homes, etc. there is now an epidemic of getting these staph infections in crowded areas such as prisons, gyms, and I would even say airplanes. It is actually very important to wipe down your tray on a plane and wash your hands with soap or use antibacterial often. Other airborne infections can be avoided with a mask, why not? But I dont think it will be too practical to fly that long with a mask on.
And as far as immunity to bacterial infections... ONCE YOU GET INFECTED WITH MRSA, YOU WILL BE A CARRIER, AND WON'T REALLY BE IMMUNE TO GETTING SICK... On the contrary, you put yourself at risk for much worse infections with it.
It is much better to be pro-active and avoid MRSA, Strep, E.coli, salmonella and others, then to get sick with it and ruin your entire vacation! Pleas wipe down you tray, and seats prior to touching them, and wash your hands often.

Just chiming in as someone who doesn't really do the anti-bacterial thing - if a seatmate on a plane wiped down everything in sight with anti-bacterial wipes, it would not bother me in the least. I just can't see how that would be annoying.

I see that you are traveling through Italy and Slovenia (and potentially Austria.) A word of caution, please note that if you drive into Slovenia from another country, stop to purchase a pass for your auto which allows travel on the major highways. I was stopped as I left Slovenia at the border.

This is available at convenience stores, fillings stations, etc. From experience, the fine is significant ($150E to 300E) for not having that sticker on my rental car. (I drove into Slovenia from Italy for the day.) Ignorance is not an acceptable excuse.

Austria also requires a sticker but not sure about Croatia. Rental cars rented in the specific country should have the sticker affixed (as purchased by the rental company) but not certain.

To answer the question in your title, I wish someone had told me that you have to ask for the check in Italian restaurants. You don't ask, they don't bring it. And even when you do ask, it can take a while.

Also I pack a clothes washing kit, which include tube soap (allows for varying wash sizes), inflatable hangers, a clothesline, and a plastic disk which acts as a drain stopper for any size drain. I suspect you will be doing lots of washing out clothes in your room.

Don't pull the string in the bathroom in Italy unless it's an emergency and you want the hotel staff to show up.

Jazzzy If I followed your logic, I would be 'wiping down' daily on trains buses and the underground. I only know of one peron who got MRSA...elderly and in hospital.
Am epidemic of MRSA from gyms and aeroplanes?.....first I've heard

It is not better to be 'proactive' as you call it, you are lowering your immune system..... Yes wash your hands after going to the toilet and also before preparing food, that's called hygiene, but anitbaterial stuff all the time, er, no.

Great thoughts, all. For those of you wondering, I am American (Kansas City). I haven't been to Europe in about 15 years. I went 3 times with different Youth Orchestra's - so not only has it been awhile, but we are planning this on our own. Thanks for the tips about the bathrooms. I have been to Beijing, so trust me I will be able to survive the toliets on this trip!

@ grassshopper - Done! I'll double check, too.

@ Huggy - I read about this before. I have it on list to ask about when we pick up the car. Thanks!

michele_d - Thanks. I figure it wouldn't hurt to start a discussion about this. Afterall, we all have had some kind of questions and it is helpful to know what I actually need vs. think I need.

alihutch: Yes, MRSA in gyms and airplanes. From your answers, I know that you're not in the medical field, but you must have access to google? Search MRSA in gyms or airplanes. You will get hundreds of thousands of articles on both. A lot of these articles are in layman's terms...

My logic is based on medical research and published data. No, dont wipe down trains and buses, unless you plan on eating and sleeping there for many hours (as one will en-route to Europe).

< It is not better to be 'proactive' as you call it, you are lowering your immune system..... > this statement is obsurd! You cant lower your immune system by wiping down anything! Obviously, you can keep denying it, but it won't make the fact any less true!

That's all I will say about that and good luck with a very eye opening research session...

"I'm a firm believer in exposing myself to as much bacteria as possible. Perhaps that explains why the last time I was even a tiny bit sick was more than 30 years ago."

Amen, St.Cirq. I'm convinced of that as well. It seems most of the people I know who are always getting sick or always bothered the most with food and travel issues are the ones who never allow themselves to get exposed to anything. I even firmly believe that a lifetime of drinking tapwater (well, not in third world countries) even helps me out. Those who refuse to drink anything but bottled water and make sure they are exposed to nothing are the ones who get really sick when they do.

Am I missing something??? Nowhere do I see plastic ponchos..If you are rained on, especially in CT you will know the you have been doused!!! cheap little thingys in small pacs..but worth their wieght and yours in gold. It's hard to find a plastic bag to put on your head in CT. And the Italians just roar with laughter!!!

"Don't pull the string in the bathroom in Italy unless it's an emergency and you want the hotel staff to show up"

Hahahah very true! We learned that on our last trip

Also, for our trip to Spain I wish I packed hair conditioner. Everywhere we stayed had only shampoo and by the time I decided I really needed conditioner I didnt want to pay $$$$ for it and our trip was nearing the end.

Tylenol, Qtips, bandaids (especially the blister kind), a travel sewing kit, extra ziploc bags, and a nail file are all things I wish I had brought or were very happy to have.

travel alarm clock. some of our rooms didnt have a clock.

More for Spain but I put together a mini food glossary from a bunch of other lists with the basics. Most lists out there have so many obscure things that I just wanted to know chicken/beef/pork/veal/etc, major vegetables, things I knew I wouldnt eat or would be seeking out, and a few terms like "what is this?" "may I please have the check?" etc. I kept a copy in my purse and found it helpful.

call your credit card company and let them know in advance that you will be abroad so they dont put a fraud alert on your card and cut off access.

@summer08bride....Tylenol in Europe is Panadol. No problem getting it.

It was after seeing this and other stories on bedspreads, TV remotes, etc. on the nightly news that I started cleaning my hotel rooms. I bring Clorox wipes.

http://www.divinecaroline.com/22250/39039-hidden-truth-hotel-drinking-glasses

"I'm a firm believer in exposing myself to as much bacteria as possible. Perhaps that explains why the last time I was even a tiny bit sick was more than 30 years ago."

Hmmm, I do what Michele_d does and I use wipies before I eat in restaurants....and I haven't been sick in probably 30 years either.

On the subject of laundry - I have found that hand soap and a gallon-sized zip-lock bag work very well for washing smaller things. I put clothes in the bag with water and soap, then close it up, let it soak for a couple minutes and then agitate the bag with my hands. After a couple minutes of agitation, I drain the water and add fresh to rinse the clothes. This method doesn't work well for large things, but it is great for undies, socks, and tops.

On the subject of laundry - I have found that hand soap and a gallon-sized zip-lock bag work very well for washing smaller things. I put clothes in the bag with water and soap, then close it up, let it soak for a couple minutes and then agitate the bag with my hands. After a couple minutes of agitation, I drain the water and add fresh to rinse the clothes. This method doesn't work well for large things, but it is great for undies, socks, and tops.

wow - from reading some of these replies, you would think you are going to the moon! Its Europe. Things are pretty clean there, they have laundry facilities, shops, pharmacies, etc... Lots of things could go wrong, but you need to consider the odds that they will actually go wrong.

granthammommy - offered some sound advice. Here's some more tips - don't over pack and don't over plan. leave stuff at home, buy things when you get there. Don't have every day planned out, give yourself a chance to do something different, something you didn't expect to do. Don't be afraid to get lost every now and then. Things that will help you:

ATM cards. Have a backup account, just in case. for some reason, my CapitalOne money market ATM suddenly stopped working on my last trip, luckily I had a second account to use for cash.

I brought a small, "netbook" computer. This was a huge asset. Finding free WiFi was easy, I was able to use it to call home via Skype, save/catalog photos, check for things to do, confirm travel arrangements and use online banking to help transfer funds to deal with my ATM card issue.

Finally - something I wish I had done before leaving. Get to know the local language(s). The time you spend before your trip learning a few key phrases, etc... will really pay off. If, for no other reason, it will give you some added confidence to attempt a conversation with the locals.

Someone mentioned bringing an extra pair of glasses and I want to reinforce this recommendation. Mine were stepped on and crushed on the plane going over as I slept. Luckily I had my prescription sun glasses with me, and was able to get a new pair of my regular glasses made in Rome - but it was terribly expensive and I was lucky to find a place that could do it in only three days. I will NEVER travel without a spare pair again.

If checking my main bag, I bring at least one full change of clothes in my carry-on luggage, and preferably two. This is especially necessary if you are a plus size woman, a very large man, or are otherwise hard to fit. I ignored this standard advice, and was very sorry when my luggage was lost for the first three days of my trip to Turkey. We shopped, but were unable to find clothing that would fit.

If you have a friendly family doctor I would ask for a prescription for an antibiotic....general antibiotic. Z Pak or something like that for upper respiratory problems....the planes always seem to cause some issues with people. You can always turn it back in (mine usually gives me a week of samples to take, but having the prescription bottle is probably a better idea).

If you wear glasses or contacts, take a copy of your current prescription.

If you take prescription medications, take copies of your prescriptions (or at least take the medications in their original containers).

Make sure you have the "generic" name of each medication (Prescription or OTC) you take. Even better would be to find out what that name is in the countries you will visit. The odds are likely quite small you will need that information, but it takes up little space on a paper or in an email to yourself. And in the event you either run out/lose the supply you brought or you fall ill/have to be admitted to the hospital, you will be glad you have the info.

A pair of small, light opera glasses. A lot of the art is high up.

Take at least a week's worth of extra medication. I was stuck at Heathrow for a week in December and was lucky that I could get what I needed from a nearby pharmacy but the dosage wasn't exactly what I'd been using at home. Plus eight billion other stuck travellers were at the same pharmacy.

And I'd suggest that you can buy most of the stuff you need (tissue, headache tablets, etc.) as needed wherever you are. But do carry tissue in your purse.

Make sure both you and your husband have a copy of the names and locations of where you are going to stay. My husband and I made our 9th trip to Europe, always traveling on our own, 3rd to Rome last spring. Usually he takes care of transportation arrangement, and I take care of lodging. For the first time in all our travels, we were separated on the way from the airport to the hotel.

I was so thankful we both had a copy of where we were headed. Long story, but despite his going back to to the train station where we were separated, and my staying in place, we did not find each other. Not sure what we would have done if we both had not known the location of the hotel. Have fun. PJK

Oh, and that reminds me. Pick up a business card as you leave your hotel and carry it with you. In a city where you don't speak the language, it's easy to just hand the card to a cab driver.

Yes, 2 ATM cards to 2 different sources of money. Once we encountered a problem with one account shutting us out and we had to use the other source. Initially very scary, until we tapped the back-up account.

bookmarking - very useful!

bookmarking too

Wow! Some people do pack a lot of gear. For us it's clothes and shoes (including sandals & walking), basic toiletries, prescription medicines, Immodium, phone charger, multi-region electric plug, ATM card(s), documents including international driving licences and doctor's note to substantiate prescription drugs (esp if going through Asian or Middle-Eastern airports), and copies of emails re any prebooking confirmations. Pretty much everything else (general pharmaceuticals, laundry products, first aid stuff (e.g. for blisters) we buy over there as needed.

Love the holier than thou people who think taking precautions not to get sick is somehow weird. As others have said, it's no skin off your nose anyway.

You just want to make other people feel they are doing something that YOU just wouldn't be caught dead doing. Well, ain't you special!

Go ahead, people, and wipe those seat backs, trays and armrests if you want to and to hell with those who think THEIR way is the ONLY way.

My first overseas trip I bought the biggest suitcase I could find--it was something like 42" and kept tipping over every time I pulled it. I brought a different change of clothes for every day, with color-coordinated shoes and jewelry for each outfit. That was almost 30 years ago and I never used the suitcase again--except to store my winter blankets in! I quickly learned to take carry-on only, and couldn't care less if I wear the same outfit over and over again.

I do however take my own toiletries and OTC meds. It's true that you can buy most things overseas, but it isn't always convenient to do so, particularly when you travel alone as I do.

Two incidents made me pack my own personal products: 1)a raging migraine at 11:30 p.m. when the hotel gift shop and local pharmacy were closed and 2)unexpectedly needing feminine hygiene products in a country where I did not speak the language and ended up having to mime what I wanted.

So my advice is to take a small baggie with essentials, even if only enough to get you through the first few days.

I agree with willowjane and we always take a filled broad spectrum antibiotic. It was only used once, but we were so glad to have it with us rather than to have to find a doctor who spoke English or try to explain in our very basic Italian that our friend had a sinus infection.

One thing I wish I'd known: the HUMIDITY in Europe in June. I packed all these no-wrinkle synthetic clothes which stuck to me in the heat. Yuck. Someone's advice above to place a cloth in the moneybelt on your skin side to absorb the sweat is a good tip.

Hello, everyone! I just joined this Forum. Hopefuly this will help with planning for my trip to Europe in Fall 2011. I contacted couple companies giving private tours in Rome and the prices they gave me are for group of people. I'm looking for people going on a cruise in the Fall 2011 to coordinate with for this tour.Anyone?

I absolutely agree about feminine products if they are relevant and if you are picky about brands.

Olenka - I suggest you go over to Cruise Critic - there should be a "roll call" for your ship's sail date - you can find fellow travelers there to share the tours.

Comfy socks or lightweight slippers to wear in the hotel; many hotel rooms do not have carpeting.

Goddesstogo, completely agree -- it's very handy to keep the hotel's business card with you.

I tried to skim the posts above, but didn't read them all thoroughly. Some of the suggestions are great ones, but it all depends on how much luggage you want to carry. I've become the carry-on only type, but that might not be necessary for you since you're renting a car. When moving from place to place by train, the one decent size suitcase (with a large purse) is the way to go!

In our trip to the Cinque Terre and other destinations by train in Italy, I found schlepping the suitcase up and down the stairs a pain. There are no elevators in most small train stations in Italy. So travel light . . .

I'm a great believer in preventive health measures, so swab your tray table diligently. I also take antibiotics, one for upper respiratory problems and one for GI problems.

One more cautionary note: do you and your spouse carry copies of your medical powers of attorney for each other? Otherwise if one of you is incapacitated, the other might not be able to participate in the decisions made in your care.

How are you getting from Plitvice to Dubrovnik? There's about a thirty-mile stretch along the coast that goes through Bosnia. We would have been charged a much higher rental rate because of that, so opted to take the ferry from Split-Hvar-Dubrovnik.

I am one of the "enjoy as many germs as possible" persuasion, but I don't mind in the least if anyone starts disinfecting their environment. There may be valid reasons like GlassCannon's or it may be a simple maneuver to feel safer.

I do however put a definite stop at taking an antibiotic. Main reasons:

1st: Most airway infections are viral: no use to swallow antibiotics. You cannot decide whether your infection is of viral or bacterial origin.

2nd: Broad spectrum is not equal to broad spectrum. Your typical bacterial spectrum in Europe will most probably be quite different from the one at home.

3rd: Don't prevent doctors from doing their job: Even an ineffective antibiotic will make sensitive tests to determine the type and sensitivity of bacteria to antibiotics useless.

4th: If taken without prescription by a doctor, you will probably stop taking the antibiotic as soon as you feel better, i.e. too early. This is the best way to induce resistance to antibiotics (big hello from MRSA).

5th: In all European countries professional help is available within a few hours. If you feel so sick as to need antibiotics, you should see a professional and not try some DIY.

So leave the muck at home (and every doctor who indiscriminately gives out antibiotic samples to lay people traveling abroad should have their license reviewed).

raspberry7 I have a very conscientious doctor who provides this prescription on the occasional time we travel on holidays. She has known us for over 20 years and knows that we rarely use antibiotics and wouldn't them.

I would like to think that at this stage of my life, I can generally tell the difference between a viral and a bacterial infection.

Sorry, I mean't to say that she knows we would misuse them. We do also know that it's important to take the entire prescription and not to stop part way through.

Cathies, I would be glad for you to say me how you can tell the difference between a bacterial and a viral infection without any test.

You should certainly be on the shortlist for the Nobel Prize (sarcasm intended)

Besides passport and money, I think 2-3 pair of comfortable shoes are the most important thing. I've never walked so much in my life as I do visiting Europe.

As far as your planning and packing you've done way more and are taking way more than I ever have, and I got along just fine.

Well aren't you a piece of work raspberry7 - a disgruntled GP perhaps?

raspberry7,

Your skepticism is a good thing, but my doctor told me it is not an old wives tale. While there is some controversy about it, and many medical caveats, an indication if a respiratory infection is viral or bacterial is the color of the sputum/mucus. The expectorate from a viral infection is often clear, while that from a bacterial infection is often thicker, and a yellowish or green color, due to the byproducts of the neutrophils fighting the bacteria.

Sounds like you've put a lot of thought into what to take. Besides the advice you've already gotten (basically, to take half as much stuff and twice as much money as you think you need), here are the things I never leave home without:
1) a mini-telescope. The one I have is about the size of a fountain pen. I think it cost about $50. Not a great optical device, but good enough so that I can see a road sign a block away, or the detail of a ceiling fresco.
2) a couple of little flashlights -- the kind that come on keyrings and give off a strong led light. I use them all the time to find the keyhole or to read at night if the hotel does't have have a decent reading lamp, or to find my way to the bathroom. But also love having an extra to give as a gift to someone who has done something wonderful for me. And one friend used one as her ante in a card game in Tanzania!
3) a universal drain plug for washing clothes
4) a compass -- so that you know which way to start walking when you get out of the metro.
5) I second the idea of having an extra week of whatever meds you take regularly - just to remove one of the stresses in case there's a volcanic ash eruption or something.

But mostly, remember that you can get just about anything there that you can get here (and some things that you CAN'T get here -- like ibuprofen cream!) So don't overdo it.

Have fun.

My dr. will not prescribe antibiotic unless I am sick..

nukesafe I was going to add that info to my response but when raspberry7 was so rude, I decided I couldn't be bothered. It is a good way to judge a virus v a bacterial infection.

If say, I developed a seriously sore throat or severe toothache I would be prepared to take the antibiotics and hope that it was bacterial. Obviously if it didn't improve I would seek medical advice.

@rasberry7: "I do however put a definite stop at taking an antibiotic."

My doctor gives me an antibiotic to take in case of infection. I have been bringing it (new ones when they expire) for at least 12 years. I have never used it. If I ever did get a cold, virus or flu, I would know the difference between that and an infection. You can also go to a doctor for confirmation but still take the med you have since it is a medication you know.

I understand there is far too much antibiotic usage and you're correct. But there are a lot of people, like me, who are not pill takers and don't abuse meds.

I also want to suggest to anyone who is going somewhere that they will use laundromats, Purex makes detergent/dryer sheets in one. We put a few in a plastic bag and in the bottom of our suitcase. It takes no space and it makes the clothes smell wonderful. When we go to a laundromat we don't have to spend a fortune on buying the little boxes.

I'm going to pick up some of the Purex sheets next time I'm at the store. Sounds like a great idea. Thanks for the idea.

I did not mean to imply that I ingest antibiotics for no reason. I do have them on hand in case of an emergency. I got a bronchial infection while in Croatia and saw a doctor who recommended "sea water" which seems to be the standard remedy for everything there.

indianapearl....perfect example.

My three BIG million-dollar travel tips.

Take a little computer with skype on it - and a webcam - so you can skpye with family and friends - AND use it instead of a cell phone - and for FREE.

Get all your paper - from books - copies of passports - everything - and scan them into your computer and onto a thumb drive.

Write a document with EVERY bit of information you may need and email it to yourself at your gmail account. If you don't have a gmail account - free - GET one at www.gmail.com Then you can access it wherever you are.

Also copy this file to a word file on your computer so you can search it there too.

I'll admit I haven't read every one of the above responses but...I didn't see:

electrical outlet plug adaptor
also, if you are driving make sure you know what the road signs mean...some are different than what you might be used to.

and one more thing... take time to do nothing .. you will be traveling for a long period of time.. sometimes its just fine to sleep in, sit with a coffee, read a book..do your laundry,,,.and unless you normally spend 24/7 together..allow for some separate time ...split up and meet again in a few hours..and enjoy your trip

7 weeks away...want to study this thread

@indianapearl:
We are flying from Dubrovnik to Zagreb then renting a car to drive to Plitvice and Bled.

In considering the original question - what do I wish I had known - I wish I had known that I would only wear about half of the clothes that I brought and use half of the stuff.

My family had only carry ons, but it would have been a lot lighter! I brought way too much that I didn't need - I could have found items I need there instead of bringing a bunch of things I never used. We found pepto equivalent and immodium there - in the event you need it find a pharmacy, why haul it thousands of miles "just in case"? Do yourself a favor and take out half of your stuff. Since you're going to so many different places you can wear the same things over and over - less stuff to keep track of!

I wish I had known that not only would we not drink the little "sealed" cup of orange juice from our breakfast on the plane, but that it would leak about halfway around Ireland and necessitate a trip to the laundromat. Expensive way to save a few p.

I just quickly perused through these so I apologize if I repeated anything:

*Someone mentioned a plug adapter but you'll also need a converter

*I always purchase travel health insurance. It is cheap and helps give me some peace of mind

*Call your credit card and ATM companies to let them know you'll be traveling so they don't think your card was stolen and shut you down

*Probably easily purchased but I always bring a cork screw for enjoying a bottle of wine in your room if so desired

*As someone else mentioned, an International Drivers license isn't a bad idea. Some countries require it. You can get it at your local AAA office.

*If you have a smart phone compliant in Europe, I purchased the cheapest International data plan for a month. It helped me find a few things in different cities like the nearest ATM and a restaurant I wanted to visit. Watch your minutes though as going over the plan is spendy!

Also, I emailed scanned copies of my drivers license and Passport to myself so I knew I could access them in even the worst case scenario.

Pack light. Several years ago, my young son went on a group trip to Australia. The suggestion from the trip sponsor to the kids was "Pack everything your mother thinks you need and pack everything you think you need in your suitcase. Then carry the suitcase for two blocks, bring it home and unpack all the stuff you don't really need." Good advice even for adults.

Good one, R_Larsen. Or as a friend used to say to me, "the way to pack is to pack everything you think you might need. Then take out half the stuff and double your money."

europe2011,
This won't apply to you since you only mention you and your husband, but I'll post this anyway so others that read this thread might benefit.

If you travel with a minor child and you are the only parent on the trip, you should carry a notarized letter from the other parent or guardian stating that you have permission to travel with the child outside of the country. This might seem a little overboard, but some countries are very leery of potential kidnapping situations.

Rome is so amazing with so much to see that I wore myself out on my first trip. I thought I could walk everywhere but I shoulda taken a bus or used the metro more. Which I did on my second trip (and will again next year!)

Maybe someone already mentioned it, but I scanned copies of all my pertinent paperwork to my yahoo email account so no matter where I was, I could quickly access all my info.

And if you shop and pick up a lot of things like I did - just bite the bullet and ship it home. Don't drag it around.

Oh...one more thing! Forget what your mother told you about always wearing nice underwear. Bring old underwear and throw it away after you wear it.

You will need a plug adapter but probably won't need a converter. Most chargers -- for cell phones, camera batteries, etc. -- work on a range of 110 - 220 volts, so no need for a converter. Look at the very small print on your charger.

The only problem might be a blow dryer, but you can buy those with dual voltages. My US blow dryer doesn't get quite as hot in Europe. The solution to this is to buy a blow dryer in Europe.

My head is spinning from so many tips!
I've travelled a lot in Europe (not coming from the States though). The tips on emailing yourself documents and anything else that will help you duplicate essential information is important. Everything else is useful but remember that unless you are planning on travelling to a very remote or backward area (and you're not! These are popular tourist areas), you can find a solution for everything. Maybe you won't find the products etc... that you are used to but everything can be found in shops etc... if you didn't forgot something.
Bring items of clothing etc... that you always use and are comfortable with. A plastic poncho may be practical but would you go to the mall with it in your own city? A collapsible umbrella works just as well!
We're a "take everything but the kitchen sink" kind of people. You are either a light packer or not. So if you take too much, don't sweat it! Just enjoy!

Okay everyone. Some of you would be proud of me and my husband. We shortened our packing list SO MUCH! We are now taking 1 carry on and 1 wheeled duffle. I have always packed too much and now I feel confident that I just don't need to. We have just what we need and will buy any 'in case of' items that may come up. We are still taking some Pepto and Dramamine, but I need that on any trip anyways.

We are going to do a trial packing of the bags this weekend... I let you know how it goes!

Thanks all!

@europe2011: Have a great time, and let us know how it all turns out!!

We do have shops in Europe, you know.

take some extra plastic bags.. zip lock or larger they always come in handy and take up no room at all

i no longer take a hair dryer.. all the hotels have them even if they are not top of the line

you can always ask for an iron and a board if you need one, and if the mattress is soft you can get a bed board in most hotels.

I second the no hair dryer recommendation!

Me too. I did make sure all of of places have them since I use one everyday at home.

Things I wish I knew before...

Free toilets means vacant! I thought they were locked.

Travel bags are the best....they are large zip locks for sweaters, skirts, etc. I use them for everything (and you can fit more clothes in your suitcase after you let the air out of these bags.)

A watch with a light when you push in on it so you can tell the time in the dark.

Code word to your spouse that absolutely means "Urgent! You're about to get pick pocketed" Used it twice in Rome. Our word was "COCA COLA".

There's a great restaurant in Dubrovnick over looking the water, high on the hill. I don't remember the food, but it was one of the best views we ever had.

You can never plan enough! That's half the fun.

I enjoyed all the messages (I use antibactrial solution every day at my desk. Won't leave home without it.) Loved the comment about "Nobel Prize".

Things I wish I had known:
-Most folks can drink the water without issue in the majority of Europe.
-Go to the grocery store or equivalent. It’s interesting to see how familiar food is packaged, but it is also an INEXPENSIVE place to get souvenirs. I have paid 10X as much for the same little bottles of liquor or candies at tourist shops & even duty-free than what I picked up at the grocer.
-Most taxis are legit, but some will try to rip you off or worse. Negotiate prices upfront & try to get one from a hotel or use a cab recommended by a local.
-If riding the local train/subway-type service, investigate the cost of a pass. You might get out a little cheaper to buy individual tickets, but it is a lot less convenient in my opinion. Plus, I get turned around frequently and make sudden decisions to get off the line so it likely saves me money.
-Try the stairs on occasion. You’ll get a different perspective than 98% of the other travelers.
-Mail stuff home – it isn’t that hard & beats lugging it around. I’ve done this in numerous countries without issue. Except for…
-I will NOT ask the concierge/desk to mail my postcards. A couple of “Sure, I’ll be glad to affix postage & mail that for you” from even the best hotels, but they never reached the recipients taught me that – especially when cards I mailed using the street boxes to same addresses from the same cities made it.
-Not in the mood for a group, ask the hotel about a "taxi tour". I've asked for English speaking taxis all over Europe and have seen places I would have missed and bought stunning art from artists I would have never seen otherwise. Yes, it cost more but it is well worth the investment.
-ENJOY your trip. Europe developed over centuries. Days, even months, aren’t going to allow you to see it all. Figure out what is important to you & roll with the rest.

My travel essentials:
•Packing tape wrapped around my pencil & a small notepad.
•Large padded envelop with cardboard insert & cardboard tube (I collect art & need to ship/transport it safely).
•Camera & lots of memory.
•XXL baggie – protects clothes/items, plus you never know when your bag is going to have a zipper mishap.
•2-sets of adapters (NOT the kind that are 4-in-1). Stayed in a few hotels that had the plug recessed excessively deep in the wall & only way to use was to "stack" the adapter from each set into each other so the device could be charged.
•Passport & copy (if traveling w/ someone, each has a copy)
•Copy of itineraries/lodging. I don’t like this practice, but it does come in handy & customs sometimes wants to confirm you have lodging & a plan to get out of their country eventually.
•Others have said it, but bring at least two cards – My credit union will stop my card at some point as it has happened EVERY trip but one (it doesn’t matter how many times I tell them I’m traveling). Rathering than stressing, I break out the other card until I can straighten it out.
•Minimal clothes & comfortable shoes – Pack & then take out at least half. Roller bag must close easily and not be expanded when I leave my house. If I can’t manage to lift it or carry it up flights of stairs, then I don’t need to take whatever is inside.
. .o I take clothes that I can donate if I accumulate too much stuff on my journey. I usually visit several places when I travel and love to buy souvenirs, plus goodies for me, so my bag comes home much fuller than when I left.
•Collapsible backpack. I have one from Eddie Bauer that I toss in my bag w/ my “plane stuff” in it. Flight complete then move that stuff in my carry-on if still needed & collapse bag till need as a Day Pack for the market. Too many souvenirs, no problem…I have a bag for that!
•Firm believer of taking a cell phone for each person (& make sure everyone has the other #s!). There are situations where Skype doesn't quite replace a phone. Mobal.com has inexpensive phones & plans (had 3 of these till our carrier went global last winter). If you take your Smartphone, call your provider & make sure the phone, not just the plan, is set up correctly before leaving.
. .o If not a cell phone, then have a plan for what to do should you get separated from your companions…You get on the tube/Metro/RER/elevator but the door closes before your BFF can, what now? (get off at next stop, meet at final destination, hope for the best??). Also, make sure there is always a meeting place at each new location in case of separation.

Travel Habits:
•I email copies of all credit cards/license/passports to myself. It is also serves as a “check-off” when I get home to make sure they all made it back. (Leave copies with a trusted friend at home also).
•When I plan to retrace my steps, I take photos along the way…major intersections & turns. It helps when all the amazing sites start running together.
•While I like to travel quickly & cover a lot of terrain, I make sure to allow time to enjoy the people & their country.
•I try to remember that things are going to be different than at home...that’s why I left…so don’t complain when it isn’t the same.
•I keep a tote in my house that I devote to travel accessories. Find a cheap pair of slip-ons for the plane or travel sizes of your favorite cosmetics, toss it in for the next trip.
•Smile & carry a map. Even when you don’t share the language, pointing to a destination on a map makes it much easier…just don’t do it at the top/bottom of stairs, middle of sidewalk, etc.

And finally, while I don’t bring antibacterial wipes, I find that when given a hot towel on the plane before a meal, I prefer to wipe off the tray table…My food will be setting there!! (I know these aren’t routinely cleaned on most airlines, regardless of cabin). My kitchen table is cleaned before we eat, why not a space that I’m going to be confined to for the bulk of a day.

cupofjo...good stuff and I thought I was pretty thorough and organized! love the separation plan...it happens and we haven't planned for it in the past

Good suggestion about buying your souvenirs at grocery stores. best deals!

Maybe someone else mentioned it, but: plastic shopping bags, large and many of them, to collect dirty clothes.

cupofjo, what a brilliant idea of taking photos so you know how to get back! Although I seldom get lost, it's a fantastic tip for people who are directionally challenged!

"Just chiming in as someone who doesn't really do the anti-bacterial thing - if a seatmate on a plane wiped down everything in sight with anti-bacterial wipes, it would not bother me in the least. I just can't see how that would be annoying."

Well, wait until Ms. Germophobe wants to wipe down YOUR tray and armrests etc. When I said no she claimed I was endangering her life LOL! (This seemed to really entertain the guy behind us, he "fake coughed" all the way from Atlanta to Orlando which had her rather hysterical)

Also, it is NEVER approrpriate so use a "germ" spray on a plane either at the seat or in the lavatory.

As for what to take.... I always remember the following advice.

Take half as many clothes as you think you need and twice as much money!

Remember that if anything goes wrong it'll probably make a good story later.

Like the time we didn't take along the hotel's card with address in Sevilla. I'll never forget watching my friend approching a middle aged couple and showing them the key to the hotel and asking in pretty bad Spanish if they knew where it was.

The woman grabbed her husband's arm and pulled him abruptly away from my friend. We could only figure the woman must have thought my friend (over 40 at the time) was propositioning the old fellow. We still giggle about her shameless ways.

LSky, good one! LOL!

I'm not a germophobe normally but I have gotten quite sick after flights, usually US Air!!! So my last trip to Italy on US Air I did wipe everything down with antibacterial wipes. And I didn't get sick!! So - can't hurt.

This is a long thread, and I admit I just skimmed thru the replies. My apologies if I've repeated anything mentioned already!

An adapter AND converter unless your appliances specify they'll tolerate 220. My mom learned the hard way the difference between the two when she plugged her curling iron into an adapter.......

Keep in mind some of the bathrooms may be pay toilets.

Although there are stores in Europe in which you can buy anti-diarrhea meds, having them on the plane or at 3am in your hotel room is worth carrying them thousands of miles.

bookmarking this one - thanks everyone!

Re sunscreen..Neutrogena tubes are only 3 oz so can go in your carry on luggage in the 1 quart baggie....

Some great tips and advice - thanks everyone!

Occasionally you may need to make phone calls within the country you travel to or back to the US. It is not that hard but it is a little different that here in the US.

To have some hassle while you are there, familiarize yourself with how to make a call from within the country you are in and how to call from that Country back to the US. (it wont take much time to do this).

Also, bring with you important phone numbers on something that will not be easily lost. (like numbers of the hotels or lodging places or of friends). It is mostly a matter of finding the country codes.--There are a few times where this would have helped me.

(that should read, ...To Save some hassle...")

Also on the topic on phone calls, it is very easy to purchase phone cards, and usually, at least in Europe, public phones available to use around town, especially around train stations.

I am not sure of the cost but I have heard that one can purchase a new SIMM card for your cell phone (fairly inexpensive), so you will be able to use your cell phone. But I have never done this, so cannot say for sure.