Fat Passport

Item

Comments and where to buy

Camera(s) and charge kits

Everyone should carry a digital pocket camera, pretty much all the time. If you’re more serious about photography, then you should also get a digital SLR. See my digital camera article for more info. Check CNET for buyer’s guides and reviews, and buy at places like Amazon, eBay , or Buy.com .

Hard camera case

I use a lightweight hard case to protect my digital pocket camera on travel days.

Extra memory card

Bring an extra memory card for your camera(s), in case one gets full or has a problem. For example, get a good, fast SD card.

Lens cloth

A smudge on your lens can mess-up all your pictures. Regardless of what camera you carry, also carry a special lens cloth to keep your lenses clean and your pictures clear.

Cellphone and charger

Many travelers carry cellphones while on the road. Talk to your carrier to ensure phone & service are covered at your destination.

MP3 player and charger

Great if you like either music or audio-books, as you’ll have idle time in planes, airports, and elsewhere. iPods are a traveler favorite.

Laptop

First take a look at my article "should you bring a laptop?" If you decide to bring one, a sub-notebook PC is the ideal way to go. Research at CNET, consider ultra-portables if budget permits (Sony , Fujitsu , and Dell have some great choices), and if pressed for money consider buying used on eBay.

Online backup account

Not something you “pack,” but something you setup. See my article on how to Never Lose A Precious Photograph, and use something like Mozy if you're carrying your own laptop.

Calculator

Handy for calculating exchange rates, tallying expenses, etc. Note that many cellphones include a calculator.

Electrical plug adapters

Different countries use different types of electrical outlets, so you may need to carry plug adapters if you’re bringing electronic items that need recharging. Go to Magellan's to learn all about adapters and/or to buy what you need.