DO A CLEAN SWEEP

Don't be foolish and carry every credit and debit card you own. Pare down and take out the following: Credit cards for local department stores, extra gas cards, gift cards for stores you're unlikely to visit, your Social Security card, those receipts you forgot to put in your tax file and useless scraps of paper.             

8 Items That Should Be In Your Wallet

Here's what you should bring, based upon your destination.

1. Two Credit Cards

The two cards you select should offer frequent flier miles and have emergency card replacement if the card is lost or stolen. (To find out, call the customer service number on the back of the card.)

The cards' expiration dates should not occur while traveling. Give yourself several weeks. During the days following 9/11, many Americans were caught abroad with credit cards that expired while they were waiting to get back home. Illness and severe weather can also delay your return home.

Once you've selected your two cards, notify the issuers that you will be traveling -- to prevent them from freezing your account when they see numerous transactions coming in from different geographical areas.

And, find out your credit limit. Some hotels and car rental companies put a temporary charge on your credit card in anticipation of your bill. If your credit limit is low, this could create a prevent you from using your card elsewhere.

$TIP: Most card issuers charge a 3% currency conversion fee

which including the 1% standard fee charged by Visa and MasterCard; AMEX charges a 2% fee.

However, as we go to press, the Capital One credit card  (800-695-5500, www.capitalone.com) is not adding on this fee.

2. Your passport and if required, a visa.

Make a photocopy of the opening pages, including the ones showing your number and your photograph. Put this in a separate place.

3. Traveler's checks

Senior citizens can often purchase checks without a fee at their credit union or bank.

If you're a member of AAA, on the Web site (www.aaa.com), click on "Travel". On the left, under "Resources," click on "TravelMoney Card." Over 100 foreign currencies are available as well as AAA Travelers Checks. In both cases, if you order over $1,000 worth, next day delivery is free.

4. US dollars

Take more dollars, obviously, if you're traveling in the US; less when going abroad. Plan to always have at least $25 to $50 in $1 bills for tips; increase that amount if you're going away for a long time or taking a cruise.

5. Foreign currency

Have enough to get you from the airport, train station or cruise port to your hotel and through the next morning. You'll need local cash to pay for a taxi plus tips for the driver, doorman, bellhop and room service delivery person. Plan on at least $100 in local currency, most of it in small bills so you don't wind up tipping more than you wish.

You can order foreign currency in advance of your trip from American Express, most major banks and as stated above from AAA as well as from International Currency Express (888-278-6628, www.foreignmoney.com). Check fees carefully.

6. Your medical card & a list of medical needs

Carry you medical insurance card. Make a list of your prescriptions, doctors' names and their telephone numbers and hospital affiliations plus the name and contact information for your pharmacy.

7. Your driver's license

As an extra precaution, if you have time get an International Driving Permit ($15) from your local AAA (www.aaa.com). Recognized in 150+ countries, it makes it easier to communicate with foreign authorities and get courteous attention.

8. Contact list

Jot down the names of one or two people who should be informed in case you have an emergency. For each including their street address, home and office telephone numbers and e-mail addresses.

  COPY THAT

Now make a list of everything in your wallet-to-go, including credit, debit and traveler's check numbers. Put a copy in your luggage and leave one at home with a friend, relative or colleague.

$TIP: Keep track of where your copies are located. If someone gets a hold of this piece of paper, it's as good as having your wallet. When you return home, shred all copies of your in-my-wallet list.