Either iView Media, which is a powerful image cataloging program, but kind of slow for image browsing, or PhotoMechanic, which is a lightening fast image browser, but doesn't make specific image catalogs. I'd recommend PhotoMechanic, and just store your shots in file folders sorted by either day shot, or location. Both programs will let you do put detailed cut line right into the image files, with PhotoMechanic having the edge for that. If you're traveling, that's a chore you should do every night before you go to bed. Trying to sort out all your photos when you get home is a real nightmare.
For the PC platform, Lightroom seems to be the ticket for RAW conversion, and it dovetails nicely with Photoshop. It isn't, however, an effective image browser when compared to something like PhotoMechanic. Being a Mac guy, I like Aperture, but it isn't a very good image browser either.
Make CD or DVD back ups as often as you can, and mail them home to yourself. It's a cheap way of keeping an independant back up of your work. Laptop and luggage can easily go missing on the road.
David Buzzard's Technical Blog
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