Whether you are going on a weekend trip, a three-day business trip, or traveling internationally for an extended period, what you pack or do not pack can significantly impact the outcome of your trip.
Carry-on |
Regardless of the destination or duration of your travel, you should consider packing versatile and adaptable articles.
On Your Person
- Comfortable and appropriate footwear- Cash in the destination Currency
- Passport & other personal Identification
- Country contact info
- Dummy/Throw-away wallet
- Business Cards
- Charge Card
- Transport tickets
Carry-on
- Medications- Copies of passport and ID
- Vaccination certificates
- Prescription notes
- A change of clothes
- Map of destination
- Coat, raincoat or umbrella
Checked Bag
- Versatile and adaptable clothes- Mobile phone charger and international adapters
- Toiletries
- 'Emergency-Bag,' see below
Checked Bags |
The 'Emergency Bag'
The 'Emergency Bag' is a bag just big enough to accommodate personal security items and other belongings that will be of use to you should you need to evacuate your place of stay in a hurry. You can pre-pack your 'Emergency Bag' with your personal security items before you travel; however, when you arrive, you should finish packing your 'Emergency Bag' with other items identified below.
Emergency Bags |
Personal Security Items
- Flashlight and batteries- Emergency foil blanket
- Personal attack alarm
- Compass or GPS
- Roll of duct tape
- Personal first aid kit
- Multi-use tool
- Smoke hood
- Doorstop
Clothing
- A hat (to block sun or for warmth)- A change of clothes
- Extra pair of socks
- Light jacket, shell, or poncho
- Scarf or bandana
What to NOT Pack
Note that the final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint. Below is a general list of items to NOT bring. Click here to visit the TSA website for specifics.
- Drugs without a valid prescription note- Unlabeled, non-prescription medication
- Illicit substances
- Fuels and Lubricants
- Alcohol
- Weapons
- Classified information
- Aerosols
- Pornography
What Pack Upon Arrival
- Address lists and contact numbers- Filled water bottle or bottled water
- Transportation tickets
- Copies of passport and ID
- Meal bars or granola bars
- Cash