How long have I been traveling? Over 30 years consistently all around the globe. Well, for the first time I did this very smart thang to assist myself if I lost my valuables or ID. I e-mailed the following information to myself and made sure it stayed on the e-mail web host (mine is Earthlink) that I use while traveling. That way, if I lost my money, credit cards, phone book or other pertinent details, I could go to any computer and retrieve it instantly. My list includes:

• passport number
• driver’s license number
• health and auto insurance numbers
• bank check numbers you have in your wallet (leave your register at home but know your balance)
• bank account number
• credit card numbers
• ATM card number
• important phone numbers of family and friends
• all phone numbers for reporting lost credit cards in the U.S. and abroad
• banking information including the bank manager’s name and phone number of where you bank.

Be sure to include the international 800 numbers for the credit card companies, as most U.S. 800 numbers won’t work overseas.

In an emergency where you realize your money or documents are missing, you can ask the hotel management to use their computer or dash to an Internet café and print out this info. Then you can alert your bank and credit card companies immediately. You’ll be thankful all your info is in one place so that in your dazed and confused state, you don’t have to think about who to call—it’s all in the e-mail.