Heading to the Caribbean? Read these helpful tips!

Before your trip:

Buy film or an extra memory card for your camera before you leave. You will not get a break buying film for your camera in a tourist destination. Look for a sale where you live and buy lots of your film there.

Packing/Luggage:

Clearly mark your luggage with a distinctive tie so you can retrieve it easily from the luggage carousel.

Mark every piece of luggage inside and outside with your last name and first initial only. Do not use a title (Mr.). Do not put your home address or destination address on the luggage unless your destination is a hotel or resort.

If you are traveling as a couple, each of you should put one complete outfit in the other's suitcase in case one suitcase is delayed or lost. It is also a good idea to carry a change of underwear and socks in your carry-on.

Use a twistie. Use garbage-bag ties to secure the zips (as well as locks) on your luggage. This measure annoys and may deter a potential thief.

Flight:

Be familiar with the security restrictions for carry-on items, particularly fluids. However make sure that you carry essential items such as prescriptions with you, in quantities that will see you through 48 hours if your luggage is mislaid.

Make sure you bring your plane ticket or E-ticket receipt, passport and a pen onto the plane with you- you will invariably have to fill in an arrival form and customs declaration form - which are normally distributed in flight.