With many travel guides out there, it can be difficult to find what you need from the thousands of guidebooks, advice, and brochures.

The information you’re about to read, however, is selected to pinpoint many aspects of travel planning that are essential to you having an enjoyable experience.

Don’t bring any unnecessary valuables with you. You don’t want to have to keep track of these valuables at all times, and even worse, they could get stolen.

When embarking on a cruise, find a hotel nearby that has free parking, and spend the night before the departure. Always ask about parking deals and discounts, even if you don’t find any advertised.

When you get to your hotel room, check the alarm clock. Lots of travelers have had the unpleasant experience of being awoken by an alarm set by someone else. Be certain to turn off any alarms to ensure a restful experience.

Store your travel items in one place. Avoid wasting time searching for all the little things you only use for traveling. Buy a cheap “travel” bin and store all necessary items there. If it can fit under your bed, that it is even better.

Make sure you include identification information in your luggage, besides the ones on your luggage tag.

It is not unusual for exterior luggage tags to become detached from the bag along the way. Be certain that you have good identification both inside and outside of your bags. In this way, if the tags are accidentally removed, your bag can still be returned to you.

When making coffee in a hotel room, you should use melted hotel ice. Ice water frequently tastes better than tap water, so fill up your ice bucket so it can melt as you sleep. In the morning, you can brew your coffee with filtered water that tastes fresher.

When traveling overseas, it is wise to prepare for emergencies beforehand, including the loss of your U.S. passport.

The United States maintain website and embassies in most places. Department of State has a site that provides information on what you need to do in a different country. This information should be with you at all times. Usually, you can get a replacement within a couple days.

Most automobile rental companies require the minimum age to be at least 18 years old, and in some cases it might be 25. Chances are a rental agency will charge an under 25 driver a higher rate, and also a credit is needed. Some cities do not allow senior citizens to rent cars. Always ask when you call about any special restrictions.

If you are heading out of town, make efforts to secure the “local” rate for your desired hotel. Many hotels offer local deals in order to fill empty rooms.

If you know a friend that lives in the city you will be traveling to, ask your friend to call the hotel and see if it offers a local rate. Obviously, this can save you a nice chunk of change.

Now that you have selected your dream trip and have a packing list, you can relax and fantasize about your destination. Pack up your bags, get your rest and prepare yourself to travel.