Never Miss a Thing: The Complete International Travel Checklist for Stress-Free Trips

Planning an international trip can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be!

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time traveler, having a comprehensive international travel checklist ensures you’ll be prepared.

Your Complete International Travel Checklist

Scroll down to find our detailed checklist for international travel that covers everything from 6 months before departure right up to the day you take off!

3-6 Months Before Travel

• Check passport validity (ensure at least six months beyond your planned stay) and that you have enough blank pages for stamps
• Research and apply for visa requirements for destinations and transit countries (check visa requirements here)
• Create a travel itinerary with key attractions, logical routes between destinations, and flexibility for spontaneous exploration
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (ideally before making any bookings) – We recommend SafetyWing.
• Book your flights (we use Skyscanner) and accommodations (we use Booking.com and VRBO)
• If traveling with children, check if you need extra documentation

1-2 Months Before Travel

• Schedule necessary vaccinations and health check-ups (you can check vaccinations required here)
• Book your rental car (we use DiscoverCars) and verify if you need an International Driving Permit
• Register with your country’s travel advisory program like STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program)
• Book transportation, tours and popular attraction entrance tickets in advance – we book all these through GetYourGuide
• Pre-book airport transportation (and/or airport parking) for both departure and return flights.
• Research and book transport (if needed) from airport to hotel

2 Weeks Before Travel

• Prepare your finances:
  • Notify banks and credit card companies of your travel plans (important for international travel)
  • Check if your cards work internationally and understand the fees
  • Consider applying for travel bank cards/credit cards with no international fees (recommended for frequent travelers)
  • Exchange some money to local currency for immediate needs upon arrival
  • Create a detailed budget for your trip (if you are the budgeting type of traveler)
• Research mobile/internet options (roaming plans, eSIMs, or local SIMs) – to make things easier we love purchasing our SIM cards online before the trip.
• Check for travel advisories or safety concerns for your destination country (you can check it here)
• Arrange for prescription medication refills to last your entire trip
• Arrange for house and pet care during your absence
• Purchase international travel adapters, travel essentials and any electronics you need such as power banks (I love this tiny power bank) etc.

1 Week Before Travel

• Prepare all your documentation:
  • Make physical and digital copies of important documents
  • Create a list of emergency contacts
  • Write down your accommodation address in the local language
• Pay upcoming bills and pause subscriptions you won’t need
• Download essential apps (maps, translation tools, booking apps, airline apps)
• Check luggage requirements for your airline (weight and size limits)
• Research local customs, etiquette, and appropriate dress codes for your destination
• Create a detailed packing list based on your planned activities
• Start packing (if you love to pack early)
• Notify neighbors about your trip so they can keep an eye on your property

1-2 Days Before Travel

• Complete online check-in if available
• Prepare your home (timers for lights, clean the house, clean out fridge from perishables, take out rubbish)
• Charge all electronic devices and portable power banks (I love this tiny power bank)
• Check weather forecast for both destinations
• Finalize your packing:
  • Pack a basic health kit (medications, bandages, sanitizer) – I love this travel first aid kit.
  • Create a comfort kit for the flight (eye mask, earplugs, etc.) – this is a great comfort kit on Amazon.
  • Organize your carry-on strategically (essentials at the top)
  • Make your luggage distinctive with bright tags (this is a great bright tag and strap set)
  • Pack liquids in sealed bags for airport security
• Take photos of packed luggage contents for insurance purposes
• Print or save digital copies of all required documentation
• Download your favorite music, books, podcasts, movies, tv shows etc. to use offline on planes (not all planes have WIFI or entertainment screens)
• Plan your travel outfit for flight day the night before (choose comfortable, layered clothing, easily removable shoes for security, and consider your destination’s arrival weather)

Day of Travel

• Double-check that you have all essentials:
  • Passport and ID
  • Boarding passes
  • Payment methods
  • Phone and charger
  • Emergency contact information
  • Accommodation details
• Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight
• Keep travel documents and electronics easily accessible for security
• Take a photo of where your car is parked if driving to the airport
• Photograph all bag tags and luggage receipts once checked in
• Turn off data roaming on your phone to prevent unexpected charges once you land overseas

Final Thoughts on Our Complete Traveling Internationally Checklist

Planning an international trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming!

With this comprehensive checklist, you’re now equipped to handle everything from passport requirements to packing essentials.

Looking for more travel wisdom? Don’t miss these helpful guides:

• Items You Forgot to Pack
• How to Book Cheap Flight Tickets
• First-Timers Flying Tips

Explore our blog for even more expert travel tips, destination guides, and insider secrets to make every journey your best one yet!