Check your passport before you go to make sure you have a signed, valid passport and visa (if required). Make sure your passport will still be valid at least six months from now (you never know what might happen while you’re away). Check with your travel agent to see if you’ll need a visa in addition to a passport, this is vital specially if you consider last minute travel.

Just think about this: In the event you find yourself lying in the road after an unfortunate collision with a Parisian mini-bike, you’ll want to make things easier for your rescuers in case of an accident. Remember to complete the information page on the inside of your passport that gives the name, address, and telephone number of someone to be contacted in an emergency. Then make three copies of the page containing your photograph; this will make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen. Put one copy of the photo

• In carry-on bag.

• In luggage (not with your passport).

• With your office or family member.

Before you leave, there are a number of tedious details you need to take care of and should an emergency occur, you’ll be glad you did! Here’s your checklist:

• Update your will and insurance policies.

• Leave a copy of your itinerary and a power of attorney document with a family member or friend.

• Find out if your personal property insurance covers you for loss or theft abroad.

• Find out how to report the loss of a credit card from abroad (800 numbers don’t work when you call from abroad) your credit card company will have a number that you can call.

• Carry only the documents and credit cards you’ll need in a wallet or purse (all business documents might be subject to search, seizure, or copying).

• Pack your U.S. driver’s license (with your photo on it).

• Get an international driver’s permit before you leave, if you need one.

Make two copies of

• Credit card numbers.

• Traveler’s checks numbers.

• Telephone numbers to report lost cards.

• Airline ticket numbers.

(These items should be stored in separate locations to prevent a simultaneous loss of all of your records.) Again, it doesn’t matter if you are preparting to find bargains or to book last minute accommodation, being ready is the best tool to have the ideal holiday.