There are a number of things one should attempt to do or not do while traveling abroad.  Let's just say I learned the hard way . . . 

1. Under no condition should one leave ones passport at home on the copier when you have already driven to the Chicago airport to catch a flight.

2. Upon obtaining your passport and finally making it past those golden security gates be sure to pay attention to the signs instructing you to remove your computer from your bag instead of worrying about how you are not wearing socks and will shortly have to take your shoes off to walk through the metal detector.

3.  Wear socks to the airport.  Who knows what's been on that floor!

4.  When the man at customs tells you that, because your computer is a mac it cannot be taken on the plane, don't believe him.  He's pulling your leg.

5.  If the zipper on your suitcase is split when you pick it up from baggage KEEP AN EYE ON IT - mine ended up splitting completely except for one small part - kind of a miracle i didn't lose all my shoes and my pretty pink bags!

6.  When riding on a train and passing around luggage do not allow your train ticket to be misplaced before the nice British Ticket lady comes around to punch them.

7. When the nice British Ticket lady doesn't have you buy a new 16 pound ticket, do not accidentally answer her in a British accent (even if you do it well).

8. While unpacking your broken suitcase don't accidentally tear off the zipper, makes it tough to get the luggage back.

You know, you should really all thank me.  (Well me and my loved ones who helped my disastrous trip to London turn out as a success).  Because of us you won't have to learn any of these trendy travel trips the hardway