Essentials
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Be sure to photocopy all of your important documents and keep them in a separate bag than the original copies to protect against theft. Emailing yourself these photocopies can also be useful in case even your backup copies get stolen. Leaving behind photocopies of important travel documents with family is also good way to protect against against theft as well as keeping your loved ones informed of your whereabouts.
Domestic and International Travel
- Drivers license and/or other state issued ID
- Debit/credit cards
- Reservation confirmation print outs*
- Maps/directions*
- List of important emergency phone numbers*
- Prescriptions and other important medical documents
International Travel Only
- Passport
- Visa (if applicable)
- Phone numbers/addresses of US embassies and consulates*
- US Dollars in small denominations ($5/10)
- Other popular or local currencies you may need (staying safe)
*These items can easily be consolidated with a pocket mod. It takes more preparation, but far less space. You should determine what’s more important for your specific journey.
EMERGENCY KIT
A good emergency kit will consists of at least the following items:
- Bandages of various sizes
- Anti-bacterial wipes
- Gauze pads
- Medical tape (or another small roll of tape that doesn’t take up much room)
- Stomach medication (Imodium, Peptobismal, etc)
- Pain Reliever (Tylenol, Advil, etc)
- Extra prescription medications along with a written prescription
If you know how to sew, a sewing kit consisting of a couple of needles and a roll of thread can also be useful. A small strip of duct tape is also great in emergencies, but don’t bring an entire roll with you unless you are traveling by car. A flashlight is also good to have.

