First, here's what not to take along on your family history vacation: your original files, photos or documents. But do make room in your suitcase for these family history "road warrior" essentials:
- Paper for note-taking (some archives don't allow spiral-bound notebooks)
- Pens, pencils and pencil sharpener or mechanical pencil with plenty of refills (pens are forbidden in many libraries, so always pack pencils, too)
- Camera, flash, tripod and film; consider investing in a close-up lens for copying documents (ask permission before photographing in archives)
- Maps
- Change for photocopiers
- Essential charts and lists of what information you want to find where
- Self-addressed stamped envelopes to leave behind
- File folders
- Comfortable shoes
- Magnifying glass
Other handy items to pack:
- Insect repellent and umbrella if you plan to explore cemeteries and other outdoor sites
- Rice paper and crayons for tombstone rubbings (again, ask permission)
- Tape recorder for dictating notes or for taping an on-site translator
- Video camcorder
- Laptop computer with copies of your files
- Handheld scanner
- Gloves and trowel for clearing around tombstones, plus a plastic trash bag to kneel on
- Business cards with your name and address to leave behind
If you're planning a foreign trip, don't forget:
- Passport
- Voltage converter
- Little souvenirs or postcards from home you can leave as thank-you gifts
- Thick-soled shoes that can stand up to cobblestone streets
- Proper clothing—nix the white sneakers, sweat pants and sports-logo shirts