Things to Consider when Travelling in Europe/Germany

UPDATED 2/26/2013

• If you are bringing jewelry with you, keep it in your carry-on bag, in a ziploc like liquids. When you go through security, remove the bag of jewelry, like your bag of liquids. TSA and international equivalents are worried about stolen/fraudulent jewelry, and sometimes check jewelry to make sure it can legitimately belong to a single, private collection. Taking your jewelry out of your bag will save time. If you leave it in, they may require you to pull it out so they can verify that it is yours, and run it through the scanner a second time. Don't ever put jewelry in your checked bag. You might never see it again.
• Double check your electronics to see if they work with 220V outlets. If your electronics are not compatible, and you plug them in, they will most likely be destroyed. Remember, simply plugging them into a converter won’t cut it.
• Unless you plan to be inseparable from your phone, or are staying overseas for an extended period of time, don’t buy an international cell phone plan or minutes. If an emergency arises, just using your phone that one time will usually be cheaper than paying for international plans.
• Don’t bring ridiculous shoes. A lot of streets here are made with uneven cobblestones and this making walking dangerous in even sensible shoes. Also remember, 2 pairs of sensible shoes should be enough. The second pair is in case the first pair gets wet or gives you blisters. Shoes are heavy and take up valuable poundage in your checked bag.
•  Remember to leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs.
• Bring clothes that will work for multiple outfits and save space in your suitcase.
• Find out if your bank and credit cards have international agreements that allow you get cash without paying transaction fees. International transaction fees can add up quickly.
• Remember to clear space on your camera’s memory before you arrive to leave lots of room for new pictures.
• Try to sleep on the plane ride over. You’ll arrive here in the morning and you don’t want to waste your entire first day sleeping off jet lag.
• European cities are old—centuries old. They were built before cars were; as such they are usually not designed for drivers. There are many areas in the center of cities that are pedestrian only. Be prepared to walk—a lot.
• Bring clothes for all kinds of temperatures. The weather can vary greatly and change quickly. It’s helpful to be prepared for dramatic weather changes.
• If you are travelling in summer bear in mind that some places have dress codes—no bare shoulders, no shorts, and for women, no skirts above the knees. If you outfit is inappropriate you will be denied entrance, even if you already paid in advance for tickets.
• Keep your phone off or in airplane mode, otherwise it can still receive calls and you will be charged international roaming charges. You won’t need to use your phone while you are here. Get away from it all!
• Dress nicely when flying. Airline staff will be more likely to respect and assist you.
• Wear your coat on the plane; don’t check it in your bag. This keeps weight out of your bag and it will help you stay warm when you’re flying at 30,000ft.
• Bring all allergy and Rx medicines you think you might need. Some countries have bans on importing ALL foreign (US) drugs. Be prepared, do not run out.
• Bathrooms cost money in Europe. Go on the plane, the train, or in the restaurant where it’s free.