The Ultimate Checklist for International Travel

This is a collaborative blog post.

Photo by Francesco Ungaro

 

Are you planning to travel internationally soon? If so, make sure you use this checklist to help make your trip go as smoothly as possible! International travellers often face various challenges, from dealing with different currencies to finding their way around an unfamiliar city. Using this checklist, however, you can minimise the chances of running into any problems.

 

Before You Leave

It is crucial to lay out everything you need the night before your flight to have a stress-free morning. This includes your passport, boarding pass, travel insurance documents, and other vital items. It is also a good idea to pack your carry-on essentials such as your medications, lip balm, and a scarf in case the air conditioning on the plane is too strong.

In addition to your physical documents, it is essential to ensure you have all of the necessary digital documents saved on your phone or laptop (and don’t forget your chargers!). This includes things like your hotel reservations, rental car confirmations, and any e-tickets for events or attractions. Lastly, don’t forget to pack your international calling cards! While most people these days rely on apps like WhatsApp, Discord and Skype to stay in touch with friends and family while travelling, it is still a good idea to have an international calling card. This will come in handy if you need to make an emergency call or if you will be travelling to a country where internet service is spotty.

What to Pack

When you’re travelling internationally, there are a few things you’ll need to make sure you bring with you. This checklist will help make sure you have everything you need for a smooth trip.

First, be sure to have your passport and visa. If you’re unsure if you need a visa, check the website of the country’s embassy or consulate. You’ll also want to ensure your passport is up-to-date – it should be valid for at least six months after your return date.

Next, pack your carry-on essentials. These include items like your medication, a change of clothes in case your luggage gets lost, your travel documents, and anything else you might need on the plane.

Let’s move on to what to pack in your checked luggage. Start with the basics – clothes, toiletries, etc. – and then add any other items you might need, like a converter for electrical outlets or an adapter for plugs. 

Finally, don’t forget the little things! For example, a travel pillow can help make long flights more comfortable, and headphones will help block out noise on public transportation. A small backpack or purse is also essential for carrying your essentials while sightseeing. If you’re unsure about what else you might need, check out this comprehensive packing list from Smarter Travel.

Money Matters

Before you leave, make sure you have your finances in order. This means getting travel insurance, telling your bank about your upcoming trip, and exchanging some currency. You’ll also want to ensure you have a good credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Buy currency a few weeks before your trip to get the best exchange rate. And don’t forget to bring small bills for things like taxis and tips. No one likes getting stuck with a hefty bill they can’t use!

Staying Healthy Abroad

One of the essential things on your international travel checklist is staying healthy. This means getting all the necessary vaccinations and bringing any medications you need.

You should also ensure you have suitable travel insurance that will cover you in an emergency. And it’s always a good idea to know where the nearest hospitals and clinics are.

Dealing with Emergencies

No matter how well you plan, emergencies can happen when travelling. That’s why it’s crucial to have a few critical numbers on hand, like the embassy of your home country and the number for your travel insurance. It’s also a good idea to leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home in case they need to contact you in an emergency. And finally, make sure you know how to use your phone abroad to stay in touch with family and friends.

UNDERSTAND THE LAWS OF THE ROADS AND CUSTOMS

Each country has its own laws, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with these before you travel. This includes the local driving laws and customs regulations. For example, if you are planning a trip to the USA, you need to know that driving in Orlando is vastly different than driving in New York City. Also, if you are travelling to a country with strict customs regulations like Japan and Korea, make sure you know what items you can and cannot bring into the country. It’s also helpful to research local tips for things like tipping at restaurants or bargaining in markets.

In conclusion, following this checklist will help ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable trip. Bon, voyage!

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