The Complete Travel Preparation Checklist: 9 Steps for a Worry-Free Journey

While some tasks, such as reserving flights and accommodations, are clear must-dos before a significant trip, others—like verifying if you need a visa or an international driver’s license—can sometimes be overlooked. That's why a travel checklist is essential for a more seamless departure and to minimize anxiety.

Here are nine essential tasks to complete before heading to the airport, including home preparation and selecting a mobile plan, along with packing the necessary items.

Ensure your passport is current

A standard adult U.S. passport remains valid for 10 years from the issue date (or renewal), but it's advisable to renew it sooner.

Numerous countries (currently around 75 globally) require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. If your passport expires less than six months after your trip begins, you may face entry denial or deportation. Additionally, some countries mandate that your passport includes between one and three blank visa pages, so be sure to review the regulations for your destination.

Similarly, if your passport contains outdated information (for example, if you’ve married and changed your last name), you’ll need to correct that or update your flight ticket to align with your passport details.

Verify if you need a visa and vaccinations

To gain entry into certain countries, you may require specific visas and vaccinations before boarding your flight.

Begin by looking into the entry requirements for your destination. Most governments maintain official websites or consular offices that offer comprehensive details on what is necessary for visitation.

The necessity of a visa often hinges on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Moreover, some countries enforce mandatory vaccinations that must be received prior to entry (for example, several African nations require yellow fever vaccinations and certifications). Other countries might recommend, but not require, certain medications (like antimalarial tablets). It's wise to consult with a healthcare professional or travel clinic for the latest information on vaccinations and health advisories.

Think about travel insurance

Regardless of how meticulously you plan your getaway, there’s always a risk of accidents and unforeseen events that could throw everything off course.

Travel insurance can provide protection against unexpected occurrences, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost baggage, or flight delays. It not only helps to minimize financial losses but also ensures you have support if issues arise while you're away from home.

In certain situations, such as an expedition cruise to polar regions, the travel company may require insurance as a prerequisite, so it's essential to verify the requirements of your tour in advance. Some cruise lines offer insurance directly during their booking process, making it a convenient—though not always the most cost-effective—option.

Remember that credit card insurance provides coverage for certain situations, but not all, and the specifics can vary between different cards. Cancel For Any Reason Coverage (CFAR) is another option worth considering: it became popular during COVID and can still be beneficial in certain circumstances.

Even if you never need to utilize your travel insurance, having it can bring you peace of mind.

Develop a safety plan for yourself

Regardless of your destination, it’s smart to familiarize yourself with local laws and customs, as well as to research potential safety issues, especially those relating to the current political and health climate in that region. The Department of State website is a reliable starting point, though it typically takes a conservative stance on safety matters. You might also want to search for blog posts titled “essential things to know before visiting (insert destination here)” for additional insights.

Make sure to share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member so they are aware of your location in case of an emergency. Alternatively, you can share your real-time location with them via your phone. Enrolling in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is also a great idea. This free service for U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad allows them to provide trip details (including where they’re going and how to reach them), enabling the State Department to assist in emergencies, ranging from locating local attorneys and doctors to helping them evacuate in situations of war or natural disasters.

Verify if you’ll require a special driving permit

Driving regulations vary significantly from one country to another, and in some cases, your home state’s driver’s license may not be sufficient. Depending on your destination, you might need an international driving permit instead.

Fortunately, they’re simple to obtain. The Automobile Association of America (AAA) provides permits at their offices nationwide and via mail for $20; all you need is to complete a straightforward application, provide two passport-sized photos, and a photocopy of both sides of your driver’s license. These permits are currently recognized in over 150 countries. However, certain nations, like China and Ethiopia, do not accept international licenses as valid and instead issue their own temporary driving permits for visitors, so be sure to check the regulations for your destination. U.S. embassy websites and the Department of State can assist with this information.

Air travelers will soon be able to use their phones to text, make calls, and stream videos in-flight, just like they do on the ground, particularly within Europe.

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Select an international phone plan (or devise an alternative once you arrive)

If you wish to use your phone abroad, verify whether your current carrier provides international roaming options. If they don’t offer data internationally (or the fees are excessively high), think about buying a prepaid plan from a local provider at your destination (just ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with their network). Local SIM cards are often available at kiosks in the airport. Additionally, you can purchase eSIM cards (a digital equivalent of a SIM card) online from companies like Airalo.

Keep in mind that some carriers, such as Google Fi, provide automatic international service without the need for preauthorization or additional packages, charging the same rates as in your home country.

Another option is to rent a Wi-Fi hotspot (available at phone stores for as little as $7 a day; or Travelers Wifi can send one to you). Alternatively, you could keep your phone in airplane mode and connect to free Wi-Fi whenever available.

Get your home ready for your absence

You’re familiar with the essentials (like taking out the trash, adjusting your thermostat, and ensuring all doors and windows are securely locked), but there are many other tasks to remember. For example, consider unplugging non-essential appliances to save energy and minimize the risk of electrical hazards. While you might already know to remove perishables from your refrigerator, do you always clean up any food crumbs that could attract pests? If you can't find someone to water your plants while you’re away, think about investing in a self-watering system, like those from Cowbell Plant Co.

If your trip is longer, it’s wise to forward your mail or ask a neighbor to collect it to maintain the appearance of an occupied home; you can also request USPS to hold your mail. Installing camera security systems (with options like Ring and SwitchBot) is a smart move, allowing you to monitor your home while you’re gone.

Download in-flight entertainment

No one wants to be stuck on a lengthy flight without something entertaining. While most airlines provide in-flight movies and TV shows, the selections might not be to your taste (or in your preferred language). However, many streaming platforms allow you to download content for offline viewing, ensuring you’ll have enjoyable options at your fingertips.

It’s also prudent to check with your airline regarding their in-flight entertainment service, as it may only be accessible via a personal device, which means you’ll need to download an app before boarding (for instance, United).

Get your bags ready

What to take on your vacation largely depends on your destination, the expected weather, and your planned activities. However, the following lists can serve as a helpful starting point.

Apparel

Footwear (including hiking boots or water shoes; our editor always brings this boot on winter adventures)
Socks (we love Bombas)
Cold-weather layers (keep in mind that merino wool retains warmth, wicks moisture, and has natural antimicrobial properties)
Outerwear (outdoor brands are also expanding options in the plus-size category)
Sleepwear
Swimwear and other beach essentials
Hat (for sun protection or warmth)

Important personal documents

Passport
ID card
Confirmations for hotel, flight, and tours
Insurance card and contact number for travel insurance
Documentation for any medications that may be restricted in other countries (for example, Singapore has specific regulations)