Research Trip Packing List

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