The ultimate international travel checklist for a worry-free trip

While what you pack and do before traveling will vary based on your destination and travel style (such as backpacking or family travel, for example), several key tasks and items should always make it onto your list. Think of this international travel checklist as your go-to guide for hassle-free travel.

While essential items like travel documents, prescription medications, and chargers are a must, a few pre-trip steps can set you up for smooth sailing — or flying! So to make sure you're fully prepared, keep this handy international travel checklist close before every trip abroad.

Travel documents

The most essential items to pack are your travel documents. While what documents you’ll need depends on your destination and personal circumstances, some are absolutely non-negotiable. Without them, your dream trip could hit a roadblock before it even begins. Check if you need any of the following documents for your international travel packing list:

• Passport/ID. You can’t travel internationally without one. Some countries accept an ID, but most require a passport. Double-check if your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after your trip — it’s a common requirement that, if not met, could leave you stuck at the airport. 

• Visa. Depending on your destination, you may need a travel visa for entry. Requirements vary, so find out what’s needed for your destination well in advance. Some visas take weeks to process, so don’t wait until the last minute to apply.

• Travel tickets. Whether they’re for a flight, train, or bus, you’ll need tickets to get where you’re going. Keep them handy, either digitally or printed (ideally both) — you don’t want the stress of fumbling for a ticket while everyone’s waiting in line behind you.

• Travel insurance policy. It’s your safety net for unexpected mishaps, like canceled flights, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. You hope you won’t need it, but you’ll be glad to have it if something goes wrong.

• International driving permit (IDP). If you plan to drive abroad, some countries require an IDP along with your normal driver’s license. Check the rules for your destination and apply for an IDP in advance.

• Proof of vaccination. Some countries may require proof of yellow fever or other vaccinations for all arriving travelers, while others only ask for it if you're coming from a region with a risk of exposure. Check the entry requirements for your destination and have your vaccination records on hand.

• Medical documents. It might seem like a lot of work, but it’s a good idea to gather and bring any important health records, especially if you have chronic conditions or take medication regularly. Some countries may ask for proof of medical supervision (for certain medications, for example, to prevent people from bringing in potentially dangerous prescription drugs), so it’s helpful to carry a note explaining your medications, just in case.

• Emergency contact information and instructions. If you're traveling alone, keep a list of important contacts with you in case of an emergency — ideally in a place where someone is likely to find it, like your wallet. If you have a medical condition, include a note in the local language explaining your condition and the treatment you need.

• Customs documents. You may need to declare pets or items such as gifts, electronics, or cash. Check the rules for your destination and have the necessary paperwork ready to avoid delays or fines at the border.

• Custody documents. If you're traveling alone with children, border officials may require you to show proof of custody or permission from the other parent.

• Copies of important documents. Make copies or take photos of your essential travel documents, like your passport, visa, and insurance policy. Having backups will speed up the replacement process if any of these documents are lost or stolen.

Medications and personal health essentials

Don't forget to pack your medications and take care of any personal health essentials. When you're traveling, it may be tricky to find what you need abroad, so having everything on hand helps you stay prepared. Let’s break down the key items you need to pack or take care of:

• Prescription medications. These are must-haves for international travel. Bring enough to last for the entire trip and keep them in their original packaging. Also, carry any prescriptions written by your doctor to avoid any customs or security issues.

• Over-the-counter medications. Pack basic over-the-counter remedies like pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets. Some medications can also help if you're dealing with food contamination or trying new cuisine for the first time.

• Medical devices. If you rely on medical devices like inhalers, EpiPens, or diabetes supplies, pack extra.

• Vaccinations. Check which vaccines are recommended or required for your destination. Some vaccines need multiple doses or time to take effect, so plan ahead.

• Portable first aid kit. Pack a small first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers, and anything else you might need for minor injuries or illnesses on the go.

• Travel health insurance. Check that your health insurance covers your trip abroad. If it doesn't, contact your insurance company and get travel health insurance that includes emergency care and medical evacuation.

• Feminine hygiene products. Make sure to pack enough feminine hygiene products for your trip, especially if you’re traveling to a place where they might be hard to find. Reusable options like menstrual cups or pads are great for saving space and reducing waste.

Financial preparations

Financial preparations are an essential part of an overseas travel checklist.  

• Notify your bank. You don’t always need to notify your bank or credit card company, but it’s a good idea to do so. You can inform these organizations through your bank’s mobile app or website or by calling customer service. Notifying your bank can help prevent your card from being blocked unexpectedly.

• Get backup payment cards. Bring a couple of backup payment cards, ideally stored digitally in a secure wallet app like Apple Pay or Google Wallet. You can link cards from global money transfer apps like Revolut, Wise, or PayPal to your digital wallet to avoid high transaction fees and easily manage currency conversions abroad.

• Exchange currency. Some local shops may not accept cards, so order some local currency before traveling abroad to cover any immediate expenses upon arrival. However, don’t exchange all your money, because you might get better exchange rates at your destination.

• Set up an emergency fund. Set aside extra cash and keep a backup card separate from your primary wallet, such as in a wallet app. If an emergency arises and you need to spend more than planned, keep extra funds in a separate account that you can easily transfer to your primary account.

• Check ATM fees. Check your bank’s ATM fees for international withdrawals and see if they partner with global networks to reduce or waive fees. Also, make sure your PIN is four digits because many international ATMs require this format.

Pre-trip preparations

Before you head off on your dream vacation, make sure to include these essential tasks in your international trip checklist:

• Find a reliable house or pet sitter. Arrange for someone you trust to care for your pets, water your plants, or collect your mail. Whether it’s a neighbor, family member, or professional sitter, make sure they’re clear on the tasks they need to handle while you're away.

• Notify your home security service. Let your security service know your travel dates so it can enhance security while you're away. Some services even offer a vacation mode that includes extra monitoring.

• Pay bills before departure. Pay any outstanding bills before you leave to avoid worrying about late fees or missed payments.

• Pause or cancel subscriptions. Temporarily suspend services like food deliveries, cleaning services, or streaming subscriptions that you won’t need while traveling.

• Download essential travel apps. Install apps that will make your international trip smoother, like translation tools, currency converters, and local transportation apps. You can also use apps to book activities, manage itineraries, and make reservations on the go.

• Prepare your home. For longer trips, turn off utilities like water and gas, set timers for lights to make it look like you're still home, and arrange to have packages held or redirected to prevent them from piling up at your door.

• Research your destination country. Get familiar with local customs, transportation, safety tips, and top attractions to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Research your destination country

Researching your destination country should be at the top of your international travel checklist. Let’s check some of the key aspects that you should research about your destination country:

• Climate. Research the climate of your destination to help you plan activities and pack accordingly. The weather will influence what you can wear and what you can do — whether it's outdoor adventures, sightseeing, or indoor experiences.

• Language. Learning a few simple greetings, like “hello” or “good morning,” and polite phrases such as “please” and “thank you,” can help you connect with locals.

• Local customs. Research common etiquette, such as tipping practices and dress codes. Some places may have specific expectations, especially regarding how men and women interact or what’s considered polite in public spaces.

• Places to visit and local events. Plan a rough itinerary with key places to visit, such as historical landmarks, parks, or museums. Look up local events, such as festivals, performances, or cultural celebrations, happening during your stay.

• Cuisine. Exploring the local food scene is one of the most exciting parts of travel. Research local dishes to try and find authentic food spots. Get familiar with cultural food practices, such as eating with your hands or dining while sitting on the floor, to fully experience the culture.

• Common scams. Learn about common travel scams or tricks aimed at tourists in your destination. Whether it's overcharging at tourist attractions or street vendors trying to deceive you, knowing what to watch out for will help you stay safe.

• Local laws and requirements. Some countries have unique rules that might surprise you, like dress codes, restrictions on public behavior, or alcohol laws. Knowing what’s allowed (and what’s not) can help you avoid awkward situations or costly fines.

Pack your carry-on bag

If you’re traveling light or have checked baggage but still need extra space, here’s what to pack in your carry-on for your travel abroad:

• All essential documents. Keep your passport or ID, visa, flight tickets, hotel reservations, and other important documents in your carry-on. Store copies of these documents in separate, secure compartments — preferably hidden ones if available.

• Wallet. Pack your wallet, credit cards, and a small amount of local currency for emergencies. Keep these essentials secure but easy to reach, such as in a zippered bag with safety features.

• Medications and personal health items. Pack any necessary medications, including prescriptions, as well as a basic first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, band-aids, and antiseptic wipes. Personal health items — except, perhaps, feminine hygiene products — should all be placed in your carry-on.

• Chargers and travel adapters. Remember to pack your chargers and a travel adapter to keep your devices powered up once you arrive. A portable power bank is also a must, especially during long flights or layovers when outlets are scarce.

• Headphones. Whether you want to block out noisy passengers, enjoy a movie, or listen to music or a podcast, headphones are a must-have for making long journeys more enjoyable.

• Entertainment. Pack a book or magazine or download movies or shows to stay occupied. Long flights or layovers can feel endless without something to keep your mind engaged.

• Snacks. Pack non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, trail mix, or even instant oatmeal for a quick energy boost during long flights. You can also bring crackers, rice cakes, or protein bars.

• Just enough clothes. If you’re not checking a bag, pack just enough clothing and an extra pair of shoes. Plan to wear layers to maximize space and have more options. If space is tight, think about what you can buy once you arrive at your destination.

• Toiletries. Pack travel-sized versions of your essentials, such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush, and facial wipes. If you wear contact lenses, pack your lens case, solution, and a spare pair of lenses. For liquids in your carry-on, remember the 3-1-1 rule — each container must be 3.4 ounces or less, all liquids must fit into one clear, resealable plastic bag, and you’re allowed only one bag per passenger.

• Travel pillow. On long flights or overnight trips, a neck pillow can be a game-changer for comfort. Since many airlines don’t consider a neck pillow part of your carry-on, you can bring it along without using up valuable packing space.

• Any valuables. Keep important items like jewelry, a watch, your laptop, phone, camera, or travel documents in your carry-on — not your checked luggage. You don’t want to risk losing them. Also, note that certain types of batteries have to be carried on even if the device itself gets packed.

Pack your checked bag (optional)

While you don’t NEED a checked bag for international travel, it can be useful for longer trips, when traveling with small children, or when you need to bring bulky items like sports equipment or gifts. Plus, with an extra bag, you can bring items to make your trip more comfortable, like extra shoes, clothes, towels, or a hairdryer. 

While you could buy some of these items at your destination, bringing your own can save you both time and money. Keep in mind that checked bags have specific guidelines you may want to follow:

• Double-check the weight. Make sure your checked bag meets the size and weight limits set by your airline, cruise line, or train service. Weigh your luggage at home to avoid surprises at check-in or boarding.

• Use baggage locks. If you’re traveling to, from, or have a layover flight in the US, use a TSA-approved lock — security officers can open it for inspection without damaging it. For trips outside the US, consider using any sturdy lock or even cable ties for extra safety.

• Make your luggage appear distinctive. Add unique touches like a bright ribbon, bold luggage tags, or fun stickers. Use a colorful luggage cover or personalized patches to make your bag easy to spot and less likely to be taken by mistake.

• Properly pack sharp objects. If you’re traveling with sharp items like disposable razors, scissors, tweezers, or nail clippers, pack them in your checked bag and wrap or sheath them securely to protect baggage handlers and inspectors. Note that some sharp objects, like certain knives or tools, may be completely prohibited, so check airline rules before packing.

• Protect against spills. Pack liquids and spill-prone items in resealable plastic bags to keep your belongings safe from messy leaks. A simple reusable plastic bag can save you from a suitcase disaster.

• Pack sports equipment wisely. Items like bats, golf clubs, and hockey sticks, which could be used as bludgeons, are usually not allowed in the cabin on planes and must be packed in checked luggage. Policies on ships and trains can vary, so check with your operator in advance.

What NOT to pack for international travel

Now that you know what to pack for international travel, let’s discuss what NOT to pack. Certain items — some of which may not be immediately obvious — can pose a risk when traveling internationally, whether by plane, ship, train, or other modes of transportation. To make sure your trip goes smoothly, avoid packing the following:

• Hazardous and explosive Items. Don’t pack dangerous items like flammable liquids, fireworks, certain lithium batteries, and aerosol sprays in either your carry-on or checked baggage. Always check your airline's website for a full list of prohibited items to make sure your luggage complies with safety regulations.

• Sharp items (in carry-on baggage). Sharp objects like razors and scissors are generally prohibited in carry-on luggage due to safety concerns. Keep them out of your carry-on — these should go in your checked bag, safely packed to avoid injuries or security delays.

• Valuable or irreplaceable items (in checked baggage). To avoid the risk of loss or damage, keep valuables like jewelry, expensive electronics, and important documents (like passports) in your carry-on. Don't pack anything you can’t afford to lose in your checked baggage.

• Fragile or easily breakable items. Avoid packing fragile items like glassware, ceramics, or souvenirs that might break during transit. Baggage handlers aren’t exactly known for their gentle touch, so your items might come out battered or broken. Also, avoid packing anything in outside zippered compartments that don’t lock.

• Weapons or self-defense Items. Firearms, pepper spray, and stun guns are prohibited in carry-on luggage and are heavily regulated in checked bags. Make sure you know the rules before packing any self-defense items.

• Illegal items. It may seem like common sense, but it’s worth repeating — never pack illegal drugs, guns, or unlicensed medications. These are strictly regulated and could lead to serious legal trouble, even if they’re legal in the country you’re traveling from. Always double-check the laws of your destination country.

• Cash in large amounts. Avoid packing large amounts of cash in either your checked or carry-on baggage. If someone finds out you're carrying lots of cash, you can become a target for theft. You may also have to declare it.

• Other prohibited or restricted items (country specific). Each country has its own rules about what you can bring in. Many, like Australia, restrict foods and agricultural products to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. In Egypt, drones are heavily restricted and require special permits. Always check your destination’s customs regulations to avoid carrying items that could lead to legal trouble.

Prepare for departure

A few extra preparations can make your trip much smoother. Here are some important steps to take in the week before or on the day of your departure:

• Check the weather forecast. Make sure your travel outfit is both comfy for the trip and appropriate for the weather at your destination. Layering is a smart option if you’re transitioning between different climate zones.

• Download travel apps. Download an offline map, a translation tool, and a few local apps to help you find great places to eat or explore. Research transportation options and download the apps you'll need to get around. Also, consider downloading a currency converter if needed.

• Charge your devices. Fully charge your phone, earphones, and any other gadgets you'll need on your trip. Don’t forget a portable charger — it’s a lifesaver when you’re on the move and can't find an outlet.

• Keep liquids and electronics within easy reach (for air travel). If you’re doing any last-minute bag rearrangements, make sure your liquids, electronics, and anything you'll need to take out for security are within easy reach.

• Confirm your travel details. Double-check your departure time and any updates on your terminal, platform, gate, or meeting spot for bus departures — these can change last minute.

• Arrive early. Aim to get to the airport at least 2 hours before your flight, or arrive 1-1.5 hours ahead for trains and buses. For cruises, aim for at least 2 hours before departure. Arriving early gives you enough time to check in, go through security or boarding procedures, and handle unexpected delays

• Familiarize yourself with customs forms. Research the required customs forms for your destination country in advance. Filling them out ahead of time will speed up the process at customs and save you from scrambling last minute.

• Decide how you’ll stay online. You can rely solely on Wi-Fi hotspots, international roaming, a local prepaid SIM card, an eSIM, or a combination of these options.

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Find a way to stay online throughout your trip

Before you leave, decide how you’ll stay connected during your trip. Will you rely on public Wi-Fi and hope every place you visit has a hotspot? It’s crucial to plan ahead — once you arrive, you may need internet access right away to book a cab or find your way to your accommodation.

You have four options to stay online throughout your international trip:

1. Use Wi-Fi hotspots.

2. Use international roaming.

3. Buy a local prepaid SIM card.

4. Get an eSIM.

While public Wi-Fi can be convenient, it’s not always available when you need it. Plus, unless you use a VPN, public Wi-Fi can expose you to security risks. International roaming might seem like an easy option, but it’s often the priciest. Unless you’re willing to splurge, it’s best to skip it. You could also buy a local SIM card upon arrival, but finding a reliable vendor and provider may take time and effort.

A better alternative? Get an eSIM. With an eSIM, you skip the hassle of traditional SIM cards — no need to search for a store, show your passport, or swap out physical SIMs. It’s more reliable than relying on Wi-Fi hotspots and much cheaper than international roaming.

You can order your eSIM online before your trip. Simply download the eSIM app, follow a few easy steps, and your eSIM will be ready in less than two minutes. Many eSIMs require manual activation, so make sure to activate it before you leave. With Saily, however, your eSIM will activate automatically when you arrive at your destination, so you can stay connected without any extra steps.

Plan for emergencies

Emergencies can strike without warning, but a little preparation can save you a lot of trouble. Plan ahead to handle unexpected situations with confidence.

• Keep emergency contacts handy. Make a list of key emergency contacts before you travel, including your country’s embassy, local emergency services, your bank’s international hotline, and your travel insurance contact. These contacts can be lifesavers if you face an emergency, like losing your passport, needing medical help, freezing a stolen card, or filing an insurance claim.

• Prepare for lost or stolen cards and devices. Act fast if your bank card, credit card, or phone go missing. Use your bank’s app or website to block or freeze your cards immediately. Contact your phone carrier to lock your device, or use tools like Find My iPhone or Find My Device to locate it or erase its data remotely.

• Report lost luggage ASAP. If your luggage doesn’t arrive, report it to the airline or transport provider immediately and request a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). This internationally recognized document is a must for tracking your bag and filing claims with the airline or your travel insurance. Save receipts for essentials you buy, like toiletries or clothing, because your insurance may reimburse you. 

• Get travel insurance. Choose a policy that covers health, accidents, cancellations, and lost property. Keep your policy number and contact details handy, and know how to make a claim or get medical help if needed. For example, if you fall ill abroad or your luggage gets lost, your insurance can save you from unexpected expenses.

• Prepare for medical emergencies. If you’re traveling solo and have a medical condition, keep a note on you in the local language with details about your condition and instructions for help in an emergency.