Coordinate your clothes around one or two basic colors. This cuts down on the number of shoes and accessories you have to bring. Take as few clothes as possible. Always check the weather of the country where you are going before packing, this will help you to pack appropriate clothes. Don't buy loads of new clothes - be ruthless when packing - most people can manage with half what they take. Take an extra duffel bag - it can be used as a day bag and to bring back a few souvenirs. A small first aid kit could be very useful for minor injuries. A wide brimmed hat or cap can be very useful for preventing sun stroke on very hot days. High factor sun cream will help to minimize the risks of sun burn and skin cancer. Good quality sun glasses will make you look cool and stop you from cooking your eyes. Ear plugs can be a real 'God send' when there is a loud snorer in your dorm! Headache tablets for hangovers etc.

Don't pack your passport in your rucksack - keep it in your hand luggage with your tickets. Do not carry your passport around, leave it in the safe in your hotel. A photocopy will suffice if local law states that you need to.

Read up about your destinations before leaving so you can enjoy yourself straight away on arrival. Carrying maps around looking perplexed, and stopping to look at monuments or buildings, obviously shows that you are from out of town, and may attract the wrong type of attention.

Do not pull large amounts of cash out of your pocket. This will catch attention, no matter what country you are in. Carry only enough cash to make it through the day and leave the rest in the hotel’s safe. Don’t draw attention to yourself, avoid wearing flashy jewelry.

Try to think about where you are going that day and carry sufficient cash for that and any unforeseen extras, plus a card. That should cover all you need and will limit any losses if anything did happen. Avoid making long distance calls from your hotel room; it's likely to attract a huge premium.

Do not accept drinks from anybody that you have just met, especially if in dubious surroundings or do not know, they could be laced with any type of concoction.

Try not to go on "wonderful trips" or to a "super shopping centre" rides with people who approach you in the street. This could lead anywhere, and will probably cost you a lot more than by taking a normal taxi. Ask your concierge.

Be careful about sharing your traveling plans with strangers.

Stick to the main roads and avoid taking shortcuts down narrow alleys and/or poorly lit streets.

Always be aware of what is going on around you.

Be very careful if you are asked to sell or part with your personal items. Many countries have restrictions on items foreigners can sell or give away and you can get into serious trouble for violating those laws.

Never accept gifts or packages from unknown parties.

Don’t accept items from locals to carry out of the country and deliver or mail to someone they know.

Approach any "special deals" with caution, especially if you have to go off the beaten path to get them.

Know the laws about exchanging money. Only use official exchange facilities since this is another area that can get you into trouble fast.

It is always advisable to take overseas insurance before travelling abroad.

During Journey

* Reduce the pain of popping ears; suck a sweet, swallow hard or gently blow your nose.

* Try to drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated- the cabins highly pressurised air is very dry.

* Minimize jet lag by adjusting your watch to 'local' time along your journey.

* Walk around a little on the plane to help circulation and make the most of any refuel stops for a good stretch.