Traveling abroad can be an incredible experience, but proper preparation is key to avoiding hassles. Here’s your essential pre-travel checklist:
1. Documentation Essentials
Passport: Must be valid for 6+ months beyond your return date
Visas: Check requirements for your nationality and destination
Copies: Digital and physical copies of passport, visas, and itinerary
Vaccination Certificates: Some countries require proof (e.g., yellow fever)
International Driving Permit: If planning to rent a car
2. Money Matters
Notify Your Bank: Avoid frozen cards due to “suspicious” foreign transactions
Currency Strategy: Mix of cash (small bills), credit cards, and digital payments
Emergency Fund: Keep backup funds separate from main wallet
3. Health Preparations
Vaccinations: Check CDC or WHO recommendations for your destination
Prescription Medications: Bring original containers + doctor’s notes
Travel Insurance: Must cover medical evacuation (check adventure exclusions)
Local Emergency Numbers: Save ambulance/police contacts in your phone
4. Tech & Connectivity
Unlocked Phone: Buy local SIM or use international plan
Power Adapters: Research outlet types (bring a universal adapter)
Offline Maps: Download Google Maps for your destination
VPN: For secure browsing on public WiFi
5. Cultural & Legal Awareness
Local Laws: Research surprising regulations (e.g., Singapore’s gum ban)
Dress Codes: Especially important for religious sites
Basic Phrases: Learn greetings and “help” in the local language
Tipping Customs: Varies widely by country
6. Safety Precautions
Register with Embassy: US STEP program or equivalent
Avoid “Tourist” Behavior: Don’t flash expensive gear or look lost
Scam Research: Common cons in your destination (e.g., taxi overcharges)
Hotel Safety: Use door stoppers and check peepholes