Protecting your possessions from loss begins at home --don't take valuables or irreplaceable objects with you.
You may want to take credit cards with you rather than travelers checks (see our page on the pros and cons of each), or some of both; in any case, you should write down the names, numbers, and expiration dates of any credit cards, driving licenses, etc., you will be taking with you, as well as a complete list of any travelers checks you plan on taking. Leave the list at home, and let someone there know where it is.
Develop a personal "paper trail," a folder of records to leave at home --so if anything gets lost or stolen, replacement will be a little bit easier. This set of records should include:
- the names, numbers, and expiration dates of any credit cards, driving licenses, etc., you will be taking with you
- a complete list of any travelers checks
- a photocopy of your passport that shows your name and photo (write your passport number on the copy)
- a photocopy of the first page of your airline ticket (showing departure and arrival dates, airline, and flight number)
- and relevant health insurance information.
Make two copies of the items above. Leave one with someone at home, and take the other with you. The Center for International Studies will also take a copy of your passport for their records and as an additional safeguard.
When possible, give someone at home any important overseas addresses and telephone numbers of places you'll be staying.
Bring an extra pair of glasses or contacts, if you wear them.
Read through all of the safety materials that have been given to you.
