For each trip, I come up with a packing list and basic checklist of everything I need to do before I leave. You don’t want to forget something crucial, especially if you are going abroad. Below are tasks everybody should consider for international travel plus a link to a free printable checklist you can use for your next trip!

Documentation

Passport

Having the proper documentation when traveling to another country is key. The first thing you’ll need is a valid passport. Many countries will not let you in unless you have at least 6 months left before your passport expires. Some also have a requirement on the number of blank pages it needs to have.

Visas

One of your first planning tasks is to check visa requirements. Visas may need pre-approval or can be approved on arrival. If you need pre-approval, you should check if an electronic visa (e-Visa) is an option. Depending on your country of origin, some countries will let you enter without a visa.

Countries requiring pre-approval can take months and lots of follow up so be sure to research well in advance. You should also look into any entrance or exit fees.

Copies

Make copies of your important travel documents. Print and scan copies of your passport and driver’s license in case they are lost or stolen. The copies will make getting replacements easier. I also bring copies of any rental car, hotel, and tour reservations.

STEP Program

If you are a U.S. citizen, I recommend enrolling your trip through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This helps the local embassy or consulate contact you in an emergency. You will also receive real-time notifications about safety conditions in your destination country. If you are not a U.S. citizen, check if your country offers a similar program.

Health

Vaccines & Medications

Numerous travel destinations need different medications or vaccinations. Get vaccinated before your trip to protect yourself. Countries may require specific vaccines before they will allow entry such as Yellow Fever.

Several vaccines last a lifetime but some have to be updated every few years. In addition to vaccines, you may need special medication for your trip like antimalarials.

Travel Insurance

There are many reasons to consider travel/health insurance. If you are prone to illness, visiting a dangerous area, planning to participate in adventure activities, or traveling with expensive gear – travel insurance is extremely helpful. Most will cover medical expenses and emergency assistance; trip cancellation, delay or interruption; baggage/gear; baggage delay; and collision damage.

Research

Travel Advisories

Check travel warnings and advisories for your destination. Review safety and security cautions like civil unrest, crime, road conditions, public transport, and typical scams. It’s important to know local laws and penalties. Things that are legal in your home country can have strict punishments in your destination.

Guidebooks, Guides, & Podcasts

Read guidebooks and blogs or listen to podcasts for tips, attractions, and maps of the area. It can be a great way to learn about amazing accommodations and restaurants. Research any holidays or events happening in the area. You can make plans to participate or choose to change your trip dates depending on your interest.

Even in tourist areas, you should try to learn simple phrases such as “thank you” and “good morning” in the local language. People appreciate if you show you are at least attempting to understand and respect the culture. Consider learning more of the language or carrying a dictionary/phrase book. There is no guarantee that people will speak English.

Contact Numbers

Find and save contact numbers for your embassy in each country. You should learn how to contact the local police or emergency response as well.

Pre-Book Tours

I recommend that you buy tickets in advance for places or tours you know you want to see. That way you are guaranteed a spot. Without pre-booking, the largest attractions can be sold out or have particularly long lines.

There are some exceptions to this – wait to book tickets if your travel plans are open and likely to change or if the ticket price is significantly cheaper if bought in person or with local currency.

Finances

Bank & Credit Cards

Notify your bank and credit card companies about your upcoming travel. This will keep them from putting a hold on your cards or stopping your ability to pull money from an ATM. You should also note the credit card numbers and how to contact the company abroad if you run into any problems.

Currency

When possible, get some local currency before your trip or pull a small amount from an ATM or exchange after arrival. You may need it as early as paying for transport to your accommodation. Not every place takes credit cards so it’s important to have at least a little currency available. You can always pull more out later.

If you are traveling with U.S. dollars, there are some tourist areas that will accept that in lieu of local currency; however, you need to research ahead of time to make sure it is an option. Don’t just assume they will be willing to take it.

Pay Bills

Pay your bills before you leave. This will help you have a stress-free time away. If you are leaving for a long time, consider setting up auto pay for while you are gone.

Technology

Travel Adapters

Make sure you have a travel adapter that works in the country. Double-check which adapter(s) you need before your trip. For most places, a universal adapter works. Sometimes a country’s plug type is not included on the universal adapter so you will need to buy a separate adapter. I had to buy one specifically for South Africa and Botswana.

Cell Phones & Wi-Fi

Depending on your travel destination, your phone’s global capabilities may or may not work. Often to use your cellular data abroad, there is an additional charge. If your plan doesn’t cover the area or the added cost is too high, there are other options: mobile Wi-Fi or a local SIM card.

Some travelers choose to rely on Wi-Fi only and plan their accommodations and restaurants with this in mind. I prefer to have the security of cellular as a backup.

Miscellaneous

Leave Itinerary with Family

Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends so they know where you are if something goes wrong or they don’t hear from you. This also gives them peace of mind while you are away.

Pack Clothes in Carry-On

One of my go-to tips is to pack an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bag. If your luggage is lost or delayed, you will want to have something to change into the next day. It is especially useful if you have been on a long-haul or overnight flight.

Along with the clothes, all your important documents and medications should be in your carry-on for the same reason.

International Travel Checklist Link to Library

I hope these tips and the associated travel checklist help when planning your next international trip. What is something you make sure to do before traveling globally? Leave a comment below!

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