International Travel Checklist:
Things You Need to Plan, Do and Pack
Before Your Next Trip Abroad
- Get organized and be prepared
- Avoid travel mishaps and frustrations
- Reduce stress and increase peace of mind
Ensure you’re not leaving anything out:
paperwork, logistics, packing, and much more
Important: Please read!
Good planning is everything, especially when you’re going abroad. The secret to a successful and worry-free trip is being fully prepared — but even experienced travelers sometimes fail to remember important things.
We’re happy to offer one of the most comprehensive pre-travel checklists online, including the key steps you should take before departure. Please read the entire page to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
Are you planning a weekend getaway, a business trip, a well-deserved vacation, a solo adventure, or to meet family or friends overseas? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Our lists can help you make sure you do not forget to do or pack anything important before leaving: from essential documents and pre-trip booking arrangements to flight must-haves and detailed packing lists that include all the things you should consider bringing with you in your checked luggage.
Whether you use our checklist months before a planned international trip or at the very last minute, we hope that it will help you track the progress of your pre-travel preparations and make sure you did not leave anything behind.
Are you ready? Let’s start!
Our free checklist below includes the following topics:
Trip Essentials
Here are a few very basic things you will almost always need (or want) to take care of before traveling overseas, no matter the destination. These travel documents and key trip arrangements are critical components of any planned journey outside the country.
- Passport
Make sure you and the other people you travel with have a valid passport (with enough blank pages!). Many countries require that your passport be valid for six months beyond your stay. If you need to get a new passport or renew an existing one, don’t wait until the last minute and apply several months in advance through the U.S. Department of State website. - Visa
Research whether you need a visa for your trip and contact the embassies of the countries you will be visiting for more information. Visa laws vary from nation to nation, so remember that while some visas are available instantly upon arrival, others can take months to process and obtain.
Visit iVisa.com to check your destination country’s visa requirements and apply for one online, if needed. - Airline tickets
A trip to any foreign country usually starts with a flight. It’s the fastest and most reliable way to get you from Point A to Point B anywhere in the world. Don’t forget to bring your boarding pass with you to the airport (either on your phone or printed out).
Don’t have plane tickets yet? Visit our flight booking resources page. - Accommodations
When traveling abroad, there are many accommodation options to choose from that can suit your unique needs, taste, and budget. Hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals are some of the most common choices, but there are alternative options as well.
Do you need a place to stay? Visit our accommodation booking resources page. - Travel insurance
Travel insurance helps protect you against injury and illness, and often also covers lost or delayed baggage, trip cancelation, and emergency evacuation. You never know what might happen on your journey (or even just before you leave), so having a safety net for unexpected medical expenses and other trip disruptions is extremely important.
Not insured yet? Visit our travel insurance resources page. - International driving permit
If you plan to drive a vehicle in another country, you might need an International Driving Permit (IDP). You can apply for one through the AAA. Make sure to also bring your domestic driving license. - Immunization records
Some countries require you to have certain vaccinations before you are allowed to enter their borders. Contact a travel clinic in your area for information and advice, verify your destination’s country vaccination requirements, and, if necessary – get vaccinated.
Airports
Big airports can be a pretty stressful environment: endless crowds, constant noise, long check-ins, security and passport screening lines, confusing terminal and boarding gate signs, flight delays…. the list goes on. Being well-prepared can make the difference between having a good (or at least reasonable) airport experience and a bad one.
- Getting from your home to the airport
There are different ways to get to the airport to catch your outgoing flight: getting dropped off by a friend or family member, public transportation, shuttle, taxi, ride-sharing services, or driving your own vehicle and parking it there. Either way, make sure you have a plan ahead of time.
- Airport Parking
Most airports provide long-term parking spaces for travelers who drive to the airport and want to leave their car there for the duration of their trip abroad until they return.
However, onsite airport parking can be very expensive, and if you’re looking for cheaper alternatives, you can use search engines like Parkos or Park ‘N Fly that offer discounted off-site parking options. - Airport transfer to your hotel
Once you reach your destination, there are usually several ways to get from the airport to your hotel or other desired location and back: public transport (train, metro, bus, etc.), taxi, Uber, and others.
Alternatively, you can use a private airport transfer, a convenient, chauffeured ground transportation service from or to the airport.
This pre-arranged service is geared towards business and leisure travelers and groups who may prefer to book a fixed-price ride in advance.
Need to book a transfer? Visit our airport transfer services resources page.
Destination Transportation
No two places are exactly alike, and every destination has its own unique mix of different transportation options used by locals and tourists. Before traveling to a new city, do your homework and learn how to move around efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.
- Public transportation tickets
Most major cities have a decent public transit system, which offers the cheapest way to travel locally and get from one place to another.
Before starting your trip, learn how the city’s public transport network works, how to buy tickets, and where. - Car rental
If you want to get to the places you plan to visit quickly and comfortably without relying on public transportation, enjoy the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want, and do things on your own time, consider renting a vehicle for your journey.
Need to rent a vehicle abroad? Visit our international car rental resources page. - Alternative transportation methods
In addition to the common ways to get around, there are alternative modes of transportation that may better suit your needs.Traditional bikes, e-bikes, and electric city scooters are some of the newer options, and many major cities offer travelers convenient ways to rent them.
In-Flight Entertainment
Flights can be painfully boring, especially the long ones. Downloading digital content and apps to your mobile device before you leave can help the time fly by faster.
Here are a few options that can help keep yourself or your kids occupied on the plane.
- Audiobooks (for adults and children)
Audiobooks.com – free trial
Everand – free trial
Kobo Audiobooks – free trial
Alternatively, if you prefer old-school, non-digital distractions, you can bring paper books and magazines, destination guidebooks, puzzle books (crosswords, sudoku, and word searches), or travel-friendly card games.
Destination Activities
Every global destination offers unique treasures to discover, explore and enjoy.
Websites like GetYourGuide and Viator help you find, compare and book interesting and fun things to do during your vacation, such as:
- Sightseeing tours
- Tourist attraction tickets
- Museum entrance tickets
- Child-friendly activities
- Theme parks
- Romantic experiences
- Food tours
- Day trips
- Excursions
- Public transport tickets
- Discount city cards and all-inclusive passes
Use these holiday planning marketplaces to get inspiration and ideas on the places you may want to visit and secure the activities you don’t want to miss.
Additionally, these platforms offer suggestions for last-minute options when you’re already at the destination and want to see what’s available for immediate booking.
Event Tickets
If you plan to attend a big music concert, sporting game, theater show, or some other major live entertainment event during your trip abroad, make sure to purchase tickets, preferably ahead of time.
Major ticket marketplaces such as Viagogo and StubHub can help you get more information about events at your destination during your planned visit.
Restaurant Reservations
For many travelers, having amazing food experiences can be one of their trip’s main goals.
Every destination has its own culinary gems: from famous Michelin-starred restaurants and authentic local eateries to traditional family-run establishments and hot foodie favorites.
Is food a big part of your next vacation? If so, research what the local food scene of the city you plan to visit has to offer.
If you want to eat at popular and trendy places, make a reservation well in advance before you leave to ensure you will actually get a table when you’re there.
Communication
As a traveler in a foreign land, you will probably want to stay connected and continue using your mobile phone so you can call, text, or use data from abroad. Here are a few things you should do and consider before deciding on the best course of action.
- Contact your domestic provider and get details about their international plans to avoid the high cost of roaming fees (typically expensive but a very convenient option).
- A second option is to buy a prepaid SIM card in the country you are visiting, either at the airport or a local store. This option requires your smartphone to be unlocked.
- If you have a relatively modern device that supports eSIM technology, you can use a digital SIM card instead of buying and installing a physical one.
This option, which can be purchased through services like Airalo or Ubigi, relieves users of the hassle of changing SIM cards or carrying multiple chips with them. - If you don’t need to be constantly connected, you can put your phone in airplane mode and only use free Wi-Fi, which is often available in public places, such as airports, hotels, public libraries, restaurants, parks, etc.
- Lastly, if you want to encrypt your internet connection, increase your privacy, and access websites and online services from back home while you’re overseas, consider signing up with travel-friendly VPN providers, such as ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access.
Health
Take a few simple steps to prepare to stay safe and healthy during your trip, including checking the CDC website for country-specific recommendations. Here are a few essentials to pack and bring with you.
- Rx medication (including your prescription papers or scan)
- Basic medications (headache, allergy, pain and fever relievers, sleep aid)
- Thermometer
- Eyeglasses, contact lenses, eyecare supplies
- First aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Birth control, condoms
- Vitamins and supplement
- Sunscreen
- Sunburn relief
COVID-19
International travel has changed significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic started.
The unpredictable nature of this global health challenge makes it important to take precautions, research your destination carefully, and plan what you need to do and pack.
- Consult the Center for Disease Control website for the most up-to-date guidance on traveling during COVID-19.
- Read carefully your destination country’s COVID-19 entry requirements.
- Know your airline’s COVID-19 policies.
- Vaccine passport (if required)
- Negative COVID-19 test results (if required)
- Fill, sign or issue any other COVID-19-related paperwork (if required).
- Face masks
- Hand sanitizer
- Disinfecting wipes
- Prepare an action plan in case you catch the virus while abroad
- Check if your travel insurance includes COVID-19 coverage
Financial
Taking care of a few important money matters before stepping on the plane can save you a few headaches down the road. Here are a few basic financial issues to address and things to bring with you on the trip.
- Cash money (in local currency)
- Credit card, debit card
- Frequent flier and other travel loyalty program membership cards
- A wallet
- Money belt
- Check due-dates for your regular bills; pay early if necessary or set up automatic payments.
- Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel dates and the countries you will visit so transactions aren’t blocked once you’re abroad.
- If you don’t currently have a will, consider making one before you travel through services like U.S. Legal Wills or LegalZoom.
Electronics
In an increasingly technological world, your digital devices (and their chargers) play a critical role as you explore the world. As a result, electronics and travel tech gadgets are an essential part of just about every packing list:
- Smartphone + charger
- Power bank
- Laptop, tablet, e-reader
- Camera, memory card, charger, and photography accessories
- Electric converters, adapters, and organizers
- Headphones
- Handheld electronic games
- Portable digital luggage scale
- Luggage tracker
- Travel door/window alarm
Travel Accessories
The right travel accessories are true game-changers that can improve every aspect of your flight, hotel stay, day-to-day activities, or other experiences and make your journey much more enjoyable and carefree. Here are a few examples:
- Suitcase/backpack
- Luggage tags
- Empty water bottle
- Travel pillow and blanket
- Sleeping mask
- Earplugs
- Airplane smartphone and tablet holder
- Locks
- Pen and paper
- Laundry bag
- Towel
- Snacks / Gum
- Sewing repair kit
- Stain remover
- Flashlight
Clothes
When packing clothes for your travels, keep in mind the length of your trip, the season, the area’s climate and expected weather conditions, the activities or events you will be participating in, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.
Would you like to maximize space? Using packing cubes and luggage organizers will allow you to fit more in your suitcase while keeping everything in perfect order. Here’s a clothing packing list that includes common essentials:
- Underwear, bras
- T-shirts
- Casual and dress tops
- Casual and dress bottoms
- Jeans
- Shorts
- Dresses, skirts
- Sweaters and sweatshirts
- Outerwear: coat, jacket, and raincoat
- Socks
- Activewear
- Loungewear and sleepwear
- Evening wear
- Swimsuit
- Other specific weather, location, event, or activity-related wear
Footwear
When traveling, be it in the city, the beach, or outdoors, our feet are the things that keep us moving, wherever they take us. When exploring a new place, a pair of good or bad shoes can make or break a day. Here are a few footwear essentials to consider packing according to the destination and the time of year.
- Walking shoes
- Hiking/Trekking shoes
- Sneakers
- Evening shoes
- Boots
- Sandals
- Flipflops
- Slippers
Fashion Accessories
A few useful items can help you feel and look more stylish, even when you’re at the peak of a mountain or on the road. Here are a few vital fashion accessories to pack with you, no matter where you travel.
- Sunglasses
- Watch
- Jewelry
- Purse
- Umbrella
- Gloves, hats, scarves
- Belts
- Ties
Toiletries
Essential beauty, grooming, and personal care items help keep you looking and feeling your best while away from home. Some brands can be difficult or even impossible to find overseas, so if you must use specific beauty products or other toiletries, bring them with you.
- A toiletry bag
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, mouthwash
- Deodorant
- Soap, shampoo, conditioner, face wash
- Shower cap
- Perfume/cologne
- Nailcare
- Tissues, toilet paper
- Feminine hygiene items
- Makeup, makeup remover
- Personal mini mirror
- Shaving kit and extra razors
- Tweezers
- Skincare products
- Brush, comb, and hair products
- Styling tools
Last but not least… a list of things to do before you leave:
- Check your airline’s baggage size and weight restrictions.
- Make backup copies of all travel documents and save them both in print and digitally (in your smartphone’s email).
- Prepare a document with the embassy’s address, phone number, local emergency numbers, and other important phone numbers (your bank, insurance company, airline, etc.).
- Learn a few basic words of the local language (hello – yes – no – thank you – please).
- Research a little bit about your destination country’s culture, food, history, politics, local laws, tipping practices, potential risks, etc.
- Learn about common tourist scams in the country you’re about to visit, so you can identify and avoid them more easily.
- Confirm your flight times 24 to 48 hours prior to departure on the airline and airport’s websites or apps.
- Check in online with the airline before you leave for the airport.
- Leave the house key, trip itinerary, and contact info with a family member or friend.
- Download handy travel apps to your smartphone, including airline and airport apps, maps, navigation tools, destination guides, currency converters, foreign language translation apps, etc.
- Arrange for the care of your pets, lawn, plants, and mail pickup.
- Charge all your electronics.
- Turn off the heater, air conditioner, lights, and electronics.
- Take out the garbage.
- Lock all doors and windows; pull all curtains.
- Set the alarm system.
Best of luck with your trip. Enjoy it!