Health Insurance An insurance package that covers your health, possessions and cancellations is imperative.

Immunizations Immunizations are critical – especially if you are planning to visit 3rd world countries. Many immunizations require a specific time period to take effect or require certain follow-up shots – so plan well ahead. You should record any immunization shots received on an official health certificate as this is often a requirement of visa applications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can advise you on current recommendations for your intended destination.

General Food and water are one of leading causes of illness for travelers. These simple tips can drastically reduce your chances of illness:

- If water is suspect, don’t take risk. This includes ice, food washed and prepared in water and swimming pools. Buy bottled water or boil/sterilize existing water.

Lonely Planet Lonely Planet is king of all guidebooks. They have a book that covers just about every destination in world. The information is comprehensive and is tailored towards budget traveler. Detailed maps are also provided. On a downside, because of Lonely Planet’s popularity, anything that is recommended is usually swamped with tourists.

http://www.lonelyplanet.com

Rough Guides Like Lonely Planet, Rough Guides offer comprehensive and invaluable information more suited for a slightly older reader. The country background history is best of all guidebooks put together. The range of guidebooks is lacking though (compared to hundreds of Lonely Planet titles) and if your a picture junkie, Rough Guides may not be for you.

http://www.roughguides.com/