Here is a handy checklist of items to bring on your trip. Print this page and use it to make sure you don't forget anything important.

What to bring on vacation:

Travel documents
Valid drivers license or state issued ID
Proper documentation, which may include an original birth certificate, marriage certificate, passport and/or Visa. (check with your agent for specifics)
Children under 18 may be required to have a notarized letter from parent/s absent (check with your agent for specifics)
Money/Credit Cards/ATM Card
Cell Phone
Prescriptions/medications: should be kept in original container
Spare eyeglasses, contacts
Clothing, undergarments, socks, stockings
Jacket/Coat
Laptop - or maybe not
Magazine/book/puzzle/playing cards
Gum/snacks for the trip (fruits and vegetables not allowed past customs upon arrival)
Camera, film, batteries, camcorder/recharger
Headphones
Toiletries/soaps/shampoo/shaving cream/hair gel
Electrical Adapters
Travel Iron
Jewelry, belts, accessories
Band aids, aspirin (small first aid kit)


In addition for beach vacations:

Swim Wear / Cover Up
Shoes / Sandals for the beach
Beach Bag
Sun Glasses
Beach Towel
iPod / Head Phones
Snorkel / Scuba Gear / Scuba Certification Proof
Sun Visor / Hat
Sun Tan Lotion / Aloe Vera Gel
Plastic bag for wet swim suits, clothes

Good to know before you go:

Liquids are currently restricted to 3.5oz, which most be packed in clear containers / plastic bags
No lighters allowed on carry-ons
Verify flight numbers and departure times at least 24hrs. in advance.
Always pack at least 1-2 days of clothing and essentials such as jewelry and prescriptions in your carry-on bag
Any metal objects such as shavers, tweezers, nail files and pocket knifes are required to be in checked luggage or will be disposed of by security.
Most hotels check in time is at 4pm and check out is generally by 11am-please check with your agent for specific details. Generally hotels can provide guests with a courtesy room.
Most hotels provided blow dryers, in room safes, and pool towels.
Hotel restaurants may have a dress code which can require men to wear long pants, along with a no sandals or t-shirt policy.

Prior to departure check list:

Make copies of your travel itinerary, passport, visa and credit cards before you go, leaving one copy with a family member, bring another copy with you but separate from the originals.
Clearly label each piece of luggage and remove old destination tags to avoid confusion.
Don't pack anything valuable, fragile or perishable.
Contact credit card companies and advise them of out of the state/country travel.
Arrange for someone to take care of pets.
Arrange for transportation to and from the airport.
Arrange for mail/newspaper pick up.
Go to bank. (One dollar bills are great for tips and vending machines.)
If needed exchange money.
Purchase film, batteries, snacks, reading materials, etc. (see what to bring list)
If necessary arrange for someone to place trash out for collection.
Ask someone to water house plants while you‘re gone.
Leave someone a key, contact information and itinerary.
Make a copy of passport and credit cards.
Notify alarm company of your absence.
Pay bills due while your absent.
Check with cell phone service provider for possible national / international coverage.
Adjust house thermostat.
Adjust settings for pool/spa.
Iron clothes/pick up dry cleaning.
Discard perishable food.
Empty trash.
Unplug small appliances.
Surge protect computer/sensitive electronics.
Fill prescriptions for medications needed during travel.
Check that faucets are not running.
Make sure answer machine is on.
Water houseplants.
Check luggage tags for accurate identification.
Confirm flight numbers and departure time.
Set alarm system.