Ward's Rules
Rule #1
Never get on an airplane without a bottle of water.
Bring an empty water bottle to refill at the airport. Many international flights will not allow outside bottled water into the waiting area so bring a bottle you can fill.
If a flight is delayed prior to take off, or you have turbulence, you may have to wait hours before flight attendants serve beverages.
Rule #2
Never get on an airplane without food – a sandwich or at least some kind of meal bar.
Many flights do not serve meals or run out in-flight. Delays or turbulence can delay food service. Before boarding, pick something you like and bring it along.
Rule #3
Always carry toilet tissue or wipes.
Okay, we're getting down to the gritty details, but a small bit of stowed tissue can make a world of difference, when it matters.
Rule #4
Keep hand sanitizer handy and use it often.
Travel exposes us to germs we don't usually encounter, so keep hands clean and stay healthy. Use it on surfaces like armrests, tables and entertainment controls. Bonus points if you carry sanitizing wipes.
Rule #5
Take a photo of your passport and email it to yourself. Keep a copy on your mobile device.
Rule #6
Don’t eat food from street vendors. Just say no.
Rule #7
Avoid fresh produce that does not require cooking (like salad) or peeling (like oranges or bananas.) Avoid ice in drinks unless you can verify it is made with purified water.
Rule #8
Remember you are a house guest. Respect your hosts, their country, their customs and their culture.
Rule #9
Learn to say hello, please and thank you in the native language.
It will take you a long way.
Rule #10
Remain adaptable. No trip will go smoothly, so roll with it and enjoy the adventure!