When you're traveling to another country there's nothing like a few comforting touches of home. One of the easiest things to slide into your backpack is a travel clock. Before you get your passport stamped, make sure you stop by a travel store or an outdoor sports store to pick up a travel clock. Once you're off on your travels you'll be happy you did.

Now you may be thinking, 'I'm going back packing. I'll be on my own time. No schedules, free as a bird!!!' Once you're on the road for a few days you'll learn that this is not the truth to backpacking.

Starting with the beginning of the trip, you'll have to be aware of flight plans and once you get to Europe you'll have a crash course in train schedules. Keeping track of what time it is so you can make it to your next destination becomes a part of the every day backpacking experience.

The other thing that you may have overlooked are the check-in times for those cheap, but effective hostels that you want to stay in so you can save your money for other, more adventurous things. Most hostels have an early, set time for check in and if you miss that time, you are not only out of time, but also out of luck.

So now that you understand the need for a travel clock on your European vacation, it's time to learn about some of the other bells and whistles available in these little, sleek travel companions. Not only do they keep the time where you are, but many come with world clocks that tell you what time it is anywhere in the world. This will deter the amount of accidental phone calls home to Mom and Dad at 4am when you thought it was 4pm.

Unsure about the currency exchange in Greece? If you've selected the right travel clock, it will come with a quick currency exchange feature. This feature can help you from getting ripped off buying baklava or from paying too little on that shot of Ouzo.

If you're into more rugged travels, consider a weather resistant travel clock that you can attach to your backpack just like a carabineer and carry with you everywhere. It may not have all of the features as stated above, but they're sure to last through your entire trip.

Consider the time and money that can be saved on your next trip by bringing along a travel clock. Choose the one that works for you and get on with the trip!