Pack smart
It’s all too easy to bring too much with you on vacation. Avoid over packing by makings lists in the weeks before you go and cutting out anything that’s really unnecessary. Check the weather forecast for your destination in the final days before the trip and make modifications as needed. It’s a good idea to bring some clothes that you can layer, so if the weather is warmer or colder than expected, you can add or remove pieces, such as jackets or button-down shirts. As for toiletries, find out whether the hotel or place you’re staying will have them for you—no need to pack shampoo if it’s available when you get there.

Prepare an Emergency Kit
If you’re taking a road trip, prepare an emergency kit before you leave. In a secure part of your trunk or car, bring a flashlight, jumper cables, blankets, nonperishable food, and water. Many pre-packaged emergency kits can be found at auto parts or convenience stores. Tend to your car’s maintenance ahead of time. Be sure to get an oil change and check your tires. If you’re unsure about your tire pressure, visit a local gas station and ask for the attendant’s advice.

New Airline Guidelines
If you’re traveling by plane, be prepared for the new safety guidelines for carry-on items. If you are bringing any kind of liquids, try to pack them in your checked suitcases. If you must carry liquids onboard, bring a clear, quart-sized, zip-top plastic bag. All liquids, including shampoo, lotions, gels, and any liquid-based makeup, must be carried on in 3-ounce bottles and placed in a bag—only one plastic bag is permitted per passenger. Make the most of your family’s plastic bags by bringing just one tube of toothpaste for everyone and buying other items, such as sunscreen, after you reach your destination.

Keep Valuables in a Safe Place
Once you’ve arrived at your vacation spot, find out if there’s a safe with a lock where you can place valuables, money, credit cards, and other important personal belongings. If you’re going to the beach or out sightseeing, make sure all the valuables you take with you are never out of sight. It’s best not to walk with items in a backpack, which is easy for thieves to get into within seconds without your knowledge. Keep bags and purses tucked underneath your arm, not hanging over your shoulder. Leave at home any expensive jewelry you don’t really need with you but would be upset to lose.

Play It Safe
Nothing ruins a vacation like getting sick. Avoid illness by making sure you and your family members wash your hands often to prevent the spread of germs. Also, drinking tap water in some countries is a no-no. Do research before you leave to find out whether or not you should buy bottled water during your trip. Avoid any questionable food, which can cause a variety of infections. For motion sickness, try taking ginger supplements or drinking ginger tea for a week before you travel. Before you go, review your health insurance and find out about travel-related policies for obtaining medical treatment. Bring enough necessary medication for the length of your trip and keep your physician’s contact information on hand—if you run out of meds, you can call and ask him to fax a new prescription to a nearby pharmacy.