RULE #1: BRING HALF AS MANY CLOTHES AND TWICE AS MUCH MONEY

Travelers seem to forget there are dry cleaners, washing machines and clothing shops everywhere in the world. You can always launder your clothes -- or buy new some new togs -- almost anywhere you travel. But acquiring cash on the road, even in these days of credit cards, bank cards and automated teller machines, isn't nearly as easy. So ditch that extra sports jacket or blouse and bring a couple of $20 bills.

RULE #2: PAY NOW, ARGUE LATER

Quick remedial action is the key to getting the airline seat, cruise-ship cabin, rental car, or hotel room you expected. He or she who hesitates is not only lost, but uncomfortable and unhappy, too. If you must, pay for the privilege of getting what you want, but get it on the spot. When you get home, write a letter of complaint demanding restitution for the inconvenience or the extra money you paid.

RULE #3: THE WELL-INSURED TRAVELER SLEEPS THE SOUNDEST

Prevention really is the best medicine. Check your homeowners policy: make sure it covers theft and other losses while you're traveling. Look at the fine print of your automobile policy to be certain it covers car rentals. Then purchase trip-cancellation and trip-interruption insurance. Most important of all: get medical-evacuation coverage, which covers the cost of flying you home in an emergency.

RULE #4: GET LOST

Everyone sees the Eiffel Tower in Paris. We all take tea in London. Anyone who has ever traveled has gawked at Sugarloaf in Rio and the lights of Hong Kong Harbor. But don't be a prisoner of the guidebooks: explore a twisty side street or poke your head into a little shop. Drive down a road that's not on the map. Travel is about discovery, so start exploring.

RULE #5: DON'T ASSUME YOU'LL NEVER BE BACK

Travelers attack popular tourist destinations like Hawaii or Tuscany as if they will never return. They obsessively try to see and do "everything." They march from sight to sight as if there's a prize for visiting the most attractions. But when they get home, they remember nothing because all the sights have run together in their minds. Do it the other way: Assume you'll be back and have time to burn. Want to linger at a café in Pienza rather than driving to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower? Do it. Want to sun on the beach another day rather than fly to another Hawaiian island? Go ahead. Travel is supposed to be fun, not a sightseeing marathon.

RULE #6: DON'T LET YOUR COMMON SENSE TAKE A HOLIDAY

Travelers have no special immunity against crime. Don't take unnecessary or ill-advised risks. Be streetwise, do your homework, and learn the local pitfalls. Exercise the same precautions on vacation as you do at home.