Use a scanner hooked to a computer to scan your passport and paper tickets, if you have them, and email them to yourself. You do have a web based email account, don’t you? If not, use Gmail or Yahoo, it’s free! This way if you misplace those documents, you can access the web anywhere in the world and print out a copy to use in an emergency.

Take a large piece of paper with your name and cell phone number on it and after you are done packing, put it right on the top of your clothing. If the name tag on your luggage goes missing and the airline is trying to figure out who it belongs to, they can call you.

Split up those valuables.

Keep your cash, Traveler's Cheques and credit cards in different locations. This way if you happen to get robbed or lose your wallet, you will have a backup means of getting home.

When traveling by airplane always consider the possibility that your flight may be diverted because of mechanical problems or weather.

The well seasoned traveler has a change of clothes including socks and underwear in their carry-on. It's also a good idea to pack your toothbrush in the carry-on, just in case. Being prepared by having a well, thought out carry-on bag, also comes in handy in the event that the airline misplaces your luggage.

In 2010 the Department of Transportation reported that US airlines mishandled an average of 3.57 bags for every 1000 passengers. So statistically that's not that bad unless your luggage is lost!