So, as any good traveler should do, I wrote a list of things that I need to take… I’m sure I’m missing something… Something I’m still trying to figure out is what the best way to get JPY converted from my dollar. Last year I just used an ATM when I arrived at the airport. This doesn’t seem like a bad option; TCF charges 3% + $3.00 dollars. I’ve looked at a few currency exchanges in Chicago, but most seem to be ruthless! Ruthless, I say!!!! 

List 1.0 by Dan L.

1. Passport
2. Drivers license
3. 2 copies of each, one set to be taken with, the other to be left at the apartment in a safe, known place.
4. Wallet/cards
5. Printout/ copies of flight reservations
6. JR pass exchange order
7. Contacts/glasses 
7. Fearless and insatiable appetite for learning

Must haves
1. 1 large luggage
2. 1 small/carry on plane and around city backpack
3. Clothes- 20 F to 60 f degree weather . Hat, gloves, scarf. Sleepwear/pair of shorts. No holy socks. 1 suit/formal attire in case of concert, etc
4. Travel shampoo/soap
5. Shaving shtuff
6. Towels
7. Hankerchef
8. Camera/rechargable batteries and charger/ mem cards/ camera cable
9. Laptop
10. Deodorant
11. Toothbrush/paste
12. 3 prong – 2 prong converter
13. Map to hostel
14. iPod cable

Probably should-haves
1. Compass
2. Maps
3. Language book/ dictionary
4. Notepad for observations
5. Mp3 player/ iPod
6. Pencil+pen

Am I missing something? Anybody?