Well, it finally happened. No matter how good your pre-trip checklist is, no matter how much you prepare, it is bound to happen to you as well. I found myself in New York City, in the heart of the Big Apple, and I realized I didn't have my USB adapter. There was no way to get digital photos off my CompactFlash units to my laptop, and I knew I would need to do so as I tend to take quite a few photos.

Oops.

Needless to say I had to find an adapter, and quick. Many, many souvenir and digital camera shops operate in the city, and some of them operate, let's politely say, on the borderline of honesty. I went to one to purchase a USB adapter, and noticed the price was $89.95. Ouch!

If I hadn't known the *real* price of a USB adapter, I might have paid the money. However, I did know the real cost, and was able to haggle my way to a significantly less price. Many people, though, would have been glad to pay the higher price, not knowing what such things usually cost.

Obviously, it is best to remember to bring everything with you on a trip. However, mistakes and emergencies happen, so if you can, get a good idea on what the following accessories may cost just in case you need to buy a spare while on vacation:

* Lens cap
* UV filter
* Digital camera battery
* Battery charger
* And, of course, a USB adapter

Print This Tip

Get E-Mail When New Tips are Online

Return to the Digital Travel Photography - Trip Preparation page.