A lot of time and planning goes into traveling abroad. So, how do you make sure you’re not forgetting something?
First, check out some of our top international travel tips. Then start checking off your to-do list.
Don’t have a checklist of your own? Not to worry – you can use ours!
Here’s the ultimate international travel checklist for your next trip:
Secure your international travel documents
You won’t be going anywhere without the proper documentation (and two copies of each)!
Passport
Apply for your passport six months before your trip.
If you already have a passport, verify that it will not expire within six months after your trip.
Visa
You will not need a visa for every international trip you take, but it’s vital that you check the travel requirements for the country you’re visiting.
Driver’s license
Stay smart and safe by bringing your driver’s license. Another form of identification is always good to have on you.
If you’re planning to drive once you reach your destination, you will need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Credit card(s)
Make sure you have your credit cards in order and have notified your bank and credit card companies of your trip before it’s time to go.
Itinerary
Every international trip needs a handy itinerary!
Take one copy with you and leave a copy at home so that someone knows generally where you are or plan to be at all times.
Check on the currency exchange rate
Look into the exchange rate of your destination before you travel. This will ultimately save you time and money once overseas!
Get vaccinated (if necessary)
Certain places require you to be vaccinated before entering the country.
In order to be prepared and avoid any road bumps, look into your destination’s vaccination requirements. It’s suggested that you receive your vaccinations six weeks before you leave.
Buy international travel insurance
Your personal insurance might not cover you in a different country. Look into your different travel insurance options, and once purchased, make sure you bring that information with you.
Packing list for your international trip
Packing for any trip can be tricky, and when you’re traveling to a destination that has different electrical outlets, it can get so much more so.
But not to worry—you won’t be forgetting any necessity this time around the globe!
Make sure you pack these international travel essentials:
Clothing to pack:
- – Layered clothing
- – T-shirts and tank tops
- – Pants and shorts
- – Sweaters or a jacket
- – Underwear
- – Socks
- – Sleepwear
- – Dressy outfit (if necessary)
- – Walking shoes
- – Sandals
- – Hat
- – Swimsuit
Note: The number of outfits you bring will be determined by two things: your trip length and destination.
You must determine how many outfits you’ll need for how many days you’ll be traveling, with one or two additional outfit options.
When it comes to packing for your destination, you must take into consideration the climate you’re about to enter. Check the weather forecast one week before your trip to determine the items you’ll need most.
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, a winter jacket is a must. If you’re headed to Egypt, your winter jacket will be useless!
Toiletries to pack:
- – Toothbrush and paste
- – Hairbrush and accessories
- – Hair and makeup products
- – Shampoo and conditioner
- – Facewash
- – Q-tips
- – Face and hand lotion
- – Sunscreen
- – Glasses, contacts, and contact solution
- – Deodorant
- – Prescription medications (with label)
- – Cologne or perfume
When you’re packing your toiletries, save yourself the hassle and remember the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule!
Electronics to pack:
– Cell phone and charger- – Camera and charger
- – Headphones
- – Laptops, tablets, iPods, etc.
- – Electric converters and adapters
Additional items to pack:
- – Sunglasses
- – Jewelry
- – Travel pillow
- – First aid kit
- – Books and magazines
- – Leave room for souvenirs!
Prepare your home for your international trip
Have a pet that you’re leaving behind?
Or some plants that will most definitely need watering while you’re gone?
How about a sense of security while you’re half a world away?
To have peace of mind during your trip, hand over your keys to someone at home. They can feed the cats, walk the dog, bring the mail in, and make sure that everything is in tip-top shape for when you return.
Research your destination
The last thing to do before heading out to your destination, is to research it!
You can’t step foot in a foreign city without some former knowledge in your back pocket, so study up. Read more about the customs of the people you will meet as to remain respectful and learn some basics of the language for easier conversation with the community.
A little knowledge goes a long way and will save you from getting into embarrassing or sometimes illegal situations!
Have you checked everything off the list? Then you’re ready to go!
For more international travel tips or to speak to one of our expert travel agents at Blue Horizon, call 1-800-939-4334 today.
