Sure, you can travel clueless to Washington. But wouldn't it help to know what to expect weather-wise in November and celebration-wise in August? Or which low-fare airlines travel to which of D.C.'s three airports? (Were you even aware that the capital has three airports?) Or what the options are for getting into town from the airport?

Destination: Washington, D.C. -- Red-Alert Checklist

Have you packed a current, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport? You'll need one to board a plane, of course, but even if you are not flying, you will probably be asked for photo ID when you're here. As a result of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, many hotels require some type of photo ID at check in. Government buildings may also require a photo ID for entry.

And while we're on the subject of IDs: Did you bring ID cards that may entitle you to discounts? Proof of AAA, AARP, or other membership, or of your status as a student can gain you special treatment or rates.

Have you booked theater and restaurant reservations? If you're hoping to dine at a hot new restaurant or return to an old favorite, or if you're keen on catching a performance scheduled during your stay, why not play it safe by calling in advance? Two weeks is realistic to reserve a table, and you can't book theater tickets too early.

Have you checked to make sure your favorite attraction is open? Some sites, such as the Pentagon, remain closed indefinitely to public tours, for security reasons. Other attractions, such as the Smithsonian's Arts and Industries Building, are closed for renovations. Call ahead for opening and closing hours, and again on the day of your visit to an attraction, to confirm that it is open.

Would you like to avoid the wait of a long line or the ultimate disappointment of missing a tour altogether? A number of sightseeing attractions permit you to reserve a tour slot in advance. The Library of Congress and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing are two sites that direct you to your senator or representative's office to request advance reservations for their "congressional" tours. (Advance tickets for congressional tours are not necessary to tour an attraction; they just preclude a long wait.) Specify the dates you plan to visit and the number of tickets you need. Your Congress member's allotment of tickets for each site is limited, so there's no guarantee you'll secure them.

The switchboard for the Senate is tel. 202/224-3121; for the House switchboard, call tel. 202/225-3121. You can also correspond by e-mail; check out the websites www.senate.gov and www.house.gov for e-mail addresses, individual member information, legislative calendars, and much more. Or you can write for information. Address requests to representatives as follows: name of your congressperson, U.S. House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515; or name of your senator, U.S. Senate, Washington, DC 20510. Don't forget to include the exact dates of your Washington trip.

If you purchased traveler's checks, have you recorded the check numbers and stored the documentation separately from the checks?

Did you pack your camera, an extra set of camera batteries, and purchase enough film? If you packed film in your checked baggage, did you invest in protective pouches to shield film from airport X-rays?

Do you have a safe, accessible place to store money?

Did you bring emergency drug prescriptions and extra glasses and/or contact lenses?

Do you have your credit card PIN?

If you have an e-ticket, do you have your photo ID and documentation, including the reservation confirmation number? To check in at a kiosk with an e-ticket, you'll need the credit card you bought your ticket with, your frequent-flier card, or the confirmation number.

Did you leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home?