New York City Packing

Pack lightly: lay out only the necessities, then take half the clothes and twice the money. The Travelite FAQ (www.travelite.org) is a good resource for tips on traveling light. The online Universal Packing List (http://upl.codeq.info) will generate a customized list of suggested items based on your trip length, the expected climate, your planned activities, and other factors. Some frequent travelers keep a bag packed with all the essentials: passport, money belt, hat, socks, etc.

Luggage: Since you will moving around the city quite a bit, a suitcase or trunk will be unwieldy: you won’t want to lug a large bag through the subways. In addition to your main piece of luggage, a daypack (a small backpack or messenger bag) is useful.
Converters and Adapters: In New York, electricity is 110V, and 220V appliances don’t like 110V current. Visit a hardware store for an adapter (which will allow your plug to fit in US outlets) and a converter (which will change the voltage your appliance receives). Don’t make the mistake of using only an adapter unless appliance instructions say otherwise. For more information about appliances, see http://kropla.com/electric.htm.
Toiletries: Condoms, deodorant, razors, tampons, and toothbrushes are readily available in New York, but it may be difficult to find the brand you’re used to at home; bring extras if this might be an issue. Bring enough contact lenses for your trip, and be sure to carry a copy of your glasses prescription in case you need an emergency replacement.
First-Aid Kit: For a basic first-aid kit, pack bandages, a pain reliever, antibiotic cream, a thermometer, a multifunction pocketknife, tweezers, moleskin, decongestant, motion-sickness remedy, diarrhea or upset-stomach medication (Pepto Bismol® or Imodium®), an antihistamine, sunscreen, insect repellent, and burn ointment
Film: Film and developing in New York are expensive (about US$4 for a roll of 24 color exposures), but if you don’t want to bother with film, consider using a digital camera. Although it requires a steep initial investment, a digital camera means you never have to buy film again. Just be sure to bring along a large enough memory card and extra (or rechargeable) batteries. Less serious photographers may want to bring a few disposable cameras. Despite disclaimers, airport security X-rays can fog film, so buy a lead-lined pouch at a camera store or ask security to hand-inspect it. Always pack film in your carry-on luggage, since higher-intensity X-rays are used on checked luggage.
Other Useful Items: For safety purposes, you should bring a money belt and a small padlock. Quick repairs of torn garments can be done on the road with a needle and thread; also consider bringing electrical tape for patching tears. Other things you’re liable to forget include: an umbrella, sealable plastic bags (for damp clothes, soap, food, shampoo, and other spillables), an alarm clock, safety pins, rubber bands, a flashlight, earplugs, garbage bags, and a small calculator. A cell phone can be a lifesaver (literally) on the road; see for information on acquiring one that will work in New York City.
Important Documents: Don’t forget your passport, traveler’s checks, ATM and/or credit cards, adequate ID, and photocopies of all of the aforementioned in case these documents are lost or stolen . Also check that you have any of the following that might apply to you: a hostelling membership card ; driver’s license ; travel insurance forms ; ISIC ; and/or railpass or bus pass .