International Travel Checklist
Table of Contents
Planning details
Paperwork
Apply for your passport with all visas well ahead of departure. If you already have one, be sure that it is valid and that your renewal date falls well after you return.
Immunizations: Double check that you know what is required in every country you will be visiting and get your shots well in advance.
Communications
Reconfirm your arrival dates via fax or emails to your hotels or other accommodations, especially if they are going to pre-arrange any transportation services.
Hold services
Cancel newspaper deliveries and arrange for the post office to hold mail delivery.
Pet care
Arrange for a sitter, or for boarding.
House care
Arrange a house sitter, or someone to water plants and keep an eye on things.
Documents to take with you
Passport and required visas, and record of immunizations
Keep them handy at all times.
Airline round-trip tickets
This are important in case the country requires return verification.
State drivers license
You may also need a an international driver's license.
Traveler checks
Possibly also pre-purchased foreign currency available at your local bank.
Internationally accepted credit cards
Use these for all purchases except tipping or smaller transactions.
Travel itinerary
Include all telephone numbers and addresses for destinations.
Proof of Purchase
Important for items such as a laptop so there can be no question of ownership.
Copies.
Have two of everything in case one set gets lost!
Insurance
Medical insurance
Find out if your medical insurance is valid in other countries in case of an emergency. If not, consider purchasing a travel medical insurance policy.
Driver's Insurance
Some automobile insurance coverage is portable to other countries. If your coverage is portable, you can save buying car rental liability insurance.
Traveler's insurance.
Important items to pack
Prescription drugs
These should all be clearly marked and in childproof containers.
Basic first aid kit
Include salt tablets for arid countries.
Medical cards
These should state any allergies or medical conditions.
Luggage
Plain and durable is best.
Foreign language/English paperback book
Be familiar with basic terms.
Battery or wind-up alarm clock
Be sure to set it and your watch on local time.
Electrical adapters
Most countries uses 220 volts.
Personal appliances
Hair dryers, curling irons and electric razors.
Flashlight
This comes in handy in case of a blackout.
Items to leave behind
Itinerary.
Leave a copy with family or a friend
Passport copy.
Including all pages and photo and all other travel documentation
Unnecessary credit cards
Any cards you will not be using, leave at home.
Expensive jewelry
Other than your wedding rings and watch, any other jewelry should be costume.
Knives
Really, any sharp object that may be mistake as a weapon.
When you arrive at your destination
Reconfirm your next day itinerary
Also check on any future flights, hotels or car rentals.
Exchange currency
Have enough small currency for tipping and small purchases. Banks normally give the best exchange rate.
Consulate contact
Register with the Embassy for visits beyond a few days.
Check for hotel exits and emergency instructions
Know where to go in case of a fire.
Verify telephone service
Call the desk to be sure your phone works.
Check locks
Be sure that they work. Never leave your room key at the front desk.
Public transportation
Inquire with hotel staff which sources of public transportation are the most economical and the most reliable.
Download or Print this International Travel Checklist
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Presented by:
Nicole Nichols-West
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Introduction
Details
The world becomes a smaller, friendlier place when more people discover the excitement of international travel. Whether you are an experienced traveler, or this is your first time out of the country, there are many things you must plan for and consider before catching your flight or taking that extended cruise to South America. The success of your trip will depend on careful planning to be sure that you have exactly what you need for the countries you will be visiting. Part of the fun of traveling to other countries is the planning stage. You may already be tingling with excitement knowing that you are about to make a dream trip come true. If you already know something about the people, customs and weather of the country, you have a great head start! By using the checklist below you will be organized and on top of all the important issues. Then you can then relax and look forward to your trip with confidence.
Tips
Unlike travel within the United States, you will need a passport (or visa) to enter any new country. Due to heightened security, even crossing the borders into Mexico or Canada has become more complicated. Each country has their own regulations and restrictions with some even requiring immunizations before tourists can enter. You must be prepared for language and monetary differences which can be confusing if you have not done your homework. Americans are not accustomed to making many adjustments when they travel domestically. We sometimes forget that we are no longer protected by our government when we travel outside our borders. A wise traveler will be aware of possible pitfalls and will plan accordingly. Try not to feel intimidated or overwhelmed by the details of international travel. You can avoid the stress of last minute preparations by researching and early planning.
Who it's for
This International Travel Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.
- Avoid forgetting - keep all your International Travel essentials in one place (external memory)
- Save time - start from a proven International Travel structure instead of a blank page
- Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
- Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
- Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time
How to use it
How to use this International Travel Checklist
- Save International Travel Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
- Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for International Travel (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
- If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
- Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.