Wear clean underwear. That's about the extent of the travel advice we were given by our parents when we first forayed out into the brave, new world. "Wear clean underwear" and maybe every once in a while a "Be careful." Sound advice, to be sure. But not exactly the type of wisdom that will save your fanny pack when a band of roving gypsies descends upon you and picks your pockets cleaner than an Oreck upright.

Travel is arguably more exciting now than at any other time. With more exotic destinations opening to tourists and previously impenetrable political barriers falling, the world is your oyster, your mussel, even your spotted blowfish. If you want to navigate the globe without your head spinning, there are a few common (and not so common) sense rules you should follow.

Before you plan any international trip, check out the US Department of State's website (http://travel.state.gov) for updates on any travel warnings, tips, necessary vaccinations and the latest entry requirements. Our constantly changing landscape means constantly changing rules and there's no better, or more accurate, place to get the latest facts.

One of those rules you are probably now well aware of is the need for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to be able to search your bags after they have been checked. That means any locks on your bags can, and most likely will, be broken to get the access they need. So how do you keep your gear safe while still following the necessary procedures?

TSA Travel Safe Lock A TSA Travel Safe Lock lets you secure your bags with a sturdy combination lock. Security screeners have a special set of tools and codes to open the locks without damaging them. Your gear stays safe from outside idle hands but accessible to the screeners working behind the scenes inside our airports.

Anyone who is familiar with Eagle Creek knows that we are constantly discussing the merits of what to pack and how to pack it. Usually that applies to your clothing and accessories. We only occasionally talk about the most important things you carry - your documentation and your money. But having the right piece of gear to carry these items is as imperative to your trip as the right backpack or duffel.

Let's start with what to bring. Your passport is an obvious necessity. What is less obvious is to make sure it's valid for at least six months after you start your journey. You might stumble on the island of a lifetime, or the soul mate of a lifetime, and your three week trip turns into a four month adventure. Anything can happen and it's always good to be prepared. As for credit cards and other identification, bring only those absolutely necessary during your journey. You probably won't find a Barney's in Ho Chi Minh City so leave that card at home along with the three extra Visas you signed up for to get the free t-shirts and toasters.

Undercover™ Deluxe Security Belt Smart travelers know that out of sight really does mean out of mind. The Undercover™ Deluxe Security Belt keeps all of your cash and documents hidden in a soft, adjustable pouch discreetly under your clothes. You can take it all with you so you always know right where it is. And you can keep it hidden so would-be-thieves don't.

No one travels to hang in their hotel room, so when you do head out into the crowded markets or for a long isolated walk, be aware of your surroundings. No need to be paranoid, just do as you would at home and avoid dark alleys, dangerous streets or potentially uncomfortable situations. Make sure you always carry small denominations of the local currency for tips, a bus ride or a phone call and invest in a detailed map of the areas you'll be roaming.

Traverse You can carry all these walkabout necessities in a comfortable daypack like the Traverse. It has a large main compartment with two-way lockable zippers so you can plop it down in a crowded café without worrying someone might slip a hand inside. The Traverse's Safeguard Panel® lets you hide important documents or extra money in a hidden pocket and it even has a reflective strip for nighttime visibility.

No matter where you go, a little planning and a bit of precaution will always lead to a smoother, more engaging and more memorable trip. All we ask is that you respect the local customs and take good care of yourself.

Oh, and wear clean underwear.