Pack a first-aid kit to tide you over the long journey. Don't forget your own music player and CDs in case you dislike the piped music in-flight. Bring along your list of telephone numbers for airlines, hotels, rental car agencies, bank and other essential contacts. This eliminates wasting time hunting for that elusive number. Bear in mind that you may not understand reading a foreign language directory.
Medication needs to be labeled with their prescriptions to identify the drug.
This facilitates clearing at Customs. Check that your luggage hasn't retired from travelling duty. Lubricate the wheels if there are any. Its no fun dragging a heavy suitcase around. Supply a lock for every piece of luggage.