Care of equipment is so often neglected. I've seen many cameras
with dirty finger marks on lenses and viewfinders, and generally
being thrown about. 

Whilst a camera is a tool, and tools should be used, not kept in
cases - they should be kept in good order or results will suffer.
Lenses MUST be clean, for example.

I don't advocate big camera bags and boxes, specially for holiday
use - but I do advocate CARE. Keep the camera clean. If the lens
has a thread at the front - that is ALL SLR's and some compacts,
then fit an ultra violet filter. They are just a few pounds and
protect the lens. If they get damaged, the cost is minimal.

If the compact has a lens cover, then USE IT ! Carry some tissues
and keep the camera body and INSIDE clean. If sand or grit are
involved, BLOW them out, don't rub. And, when you blow, don't
spit !

On holiday, I carry cameras, lenses, flash and films in polythene
bags with neck seals. They are kept in these unless in use. They
are always in these on the beach except for the few minutes it
takes to take some shots.

Unless your camera is KNOWN to be water/sand proof, treat these
two elements as it's worst enemies.

Don't leave film and equipment in direct sun, especially in the
hot countries. Film deteriorates rapidly if it gets hot.

Don't use your camera to open bottles ! - I exaggerate, but just
a bit !!!!!