International Travel Checklist

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I couldn’t consider myself a travel hyper-planner without sharing my international travel checklist. This is a comprehensive list of everything that I do before traveling internationally including everything from visas and applications, things to purchase, and more.

Hopefully this list will help you prepare for your upcoming trips and ensure that everything is taken care of before you go! It’s best used for short term trips up to about a 3 week to one month trip. For longer term travel there are more things to do, so be sure to read up on that separately.

Time-Dependent Tasks

1. Check visa and vaccination information (ASAP – months in advance)

Getting a visa can either be really daunting or completely unnecessary. It just depends where you are going and where you are from. For example, my family planned to go to China and the visa took us months in advance to get. On the other hand, when my boyfriend and I went to New Zealand, not only did we not need a visa, but the customs process was even easier because we are from the US.

When you check visa information, you’ll also need to see how long you can stay with the visa. That varies as well. I recommend using the search bar on this ‘dot gov’ website to search for your destination country. It will bring up a page that looks like this:

This page will tell you the contact information for US citizens in that country, visa, and vaccine information.

At this point, I would also recommend looking to International Driver’s Permits as well. Some countries require it and others can use your normal license on its own.

Lastly, check that your passport isn’t expired or expires within 6 months of your travel plans. That is usually the cutoff for customs.

2. Get some international currency (4-6 weeks out)

Many places have ATM’s that are readily available, but they also tend to charge fees for withdrawing money. Some banks also have their own fees if you use a foreign ATM. I recommend getting at least some currency so when you arrive at your destination, you already have something to work with.

It’s really easy! You can call your bank to see how long it will take for them to get your desired currency in. Some banks will allow you to arrange it over the phone, online, or if not, you can go into a local branch. They’ll either mail it to you or call you when they get it, and you go in to pick it up! Super easy!

I also recommend downloading some helpful travel apps that will make currency conversions a breeze while you’re abroad.

3. Purchase an international outlet converter and plugs (a week out, if shipping)

This is SO important! Make sure that you have the appropriate outlet converter and the right plugs.

The most important distinction is that outlets are different around the world, but the voltages that those outlets output are typically not something you have to worry about.

For small devices (phones, watches, kindles, etc.), your charger automatically converts the voltage, so you only need an outlet adapter, so you can simply plug in your device.

For large devices, namely hair curlers and straighteners, they do not convert the voltage so you’ll need to purchase a converter as well as the outlet adapter.

I have a 2-in-1 so I never have to worry.

Other Important Tasks

4. Put a hold on your mail and newspaper

Be sure that you put a hold on your mail and newspaper, if you are going to be gone for a while. You don’t really need everyone noticing piles of mail or newspaper indicating an empty house! You can do this pretty quickly online now.

5. Enroll in the STEP Program

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program is a U.S. government program where you can register your travels with a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. This is important so the Embassy can contact you in the case of an emergency in your destination, such as natural disasters.

You can enroll for free here.

6. Make copies of your documents

In case you lose your passport, ensuring that you have a copy can be so helpful! I generally make two copies, one for myself and one for someone back in the US. I would also recommend making copies of your driver’s license, so you have a second form of ID and for rental car purposes.

Now with the pandemic, you also definitely want a copy of your vaccination card. I recommend taking front and back photos on your phone, saving them as favorites so you can get to the quickly, and scanning digital copies just in case! You can never be too prepared when traveling.

7. Get traveler’s insurance

There’s a couple different ways to do this, but I think it’s really important to get some sort of coverage for yourself. You never know what’s going to happen.

First, you can generally get traveler’s insurance when you book flights. It can be helpful for specific airline coverage and generally has some sort of health coverage as well.

However, I recommend using Safety Wing to get insurance. They cover so many things including lost baggage, trip cancellation, overseas medical and dental, medical repatriation,, and more! I have also found that they are by far the cheapest with the most coverage.

8. Notify the bank of your travel plans

Before you travel, notify your bank of your travel plans. You don’t want them to freeze your cards because you forget to tell them you were going abroad. Most banks have the option to set travel plans in their app! You can also change it at any time.

As our cards get RFID chips, more and more banks no longer require you to notify them. I’d look into your individual bank and see what’s necessary on a case by case basis.

9. Pack!

Everyone either loves or hates this part. For me, this step is when I actually get excited! It’s really happening!

Double check the weather and be sure that you have the proper attire. Do some research and make sure that you’re wearing culturally appropriate attire as well.

Don’t forget your currency and outlet converter that you just got!

And if you’re really great at packing be sure to use good carry on luggage or your favorite suitcase.

10. Prepare for your flight

The final step is to plan your flight. You should arrive at least 3 hours before your departure time for international flights. Make sure you are following carry-on and TSA rules.

Don’t forget your passport!

My Travel Essentials

• Travel Insurance – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing.
• Travel Card – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
• Get Your Guide – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
• Booking.com – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com, the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
• Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
• Give the Gift of Travel – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
• Staycation Idea – Check out Resort Pass, which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

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