International Travel Checklist

Traveling abroad? There’s so much to remember! Here’s a travel checklist to help you prepare for your trip!

Before Departure

< Locate your passport & check its validity. Imagine packing for your trip and not being able to locate your passport - or, you have your passport but you didn’t realize it expired last month! Believe it or not, this happens to a lot of people. Always locate your passport and note the expiration date before booking your trip. If it does need updated, you’ll know right away and hopefully have plenty of time to get a new one and you’ll be able to avoid having to pay for rush service. Processing times vary so check with the state department, but always allow a minimum of 14 weeks for regular service and 10 weeks for expedited service. Remember, your passport must be valid six months after your date of return and have at least two blank pages for stamping.

> If necessary, obtain a visa. This should be done several months in advance as the process can take a while.

> Review CDC guidelines for your destination. Do this when you book your trip so you can prepare. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in denied boarding, denied entry, and/or government-imposed fines. Guidelines can and are changing all the time so be sure to check back again the week before your departure.

> Consider enrolling your trip with the U.S. Embassy so you can stay up to date on any alerts that may pop up in your destination.

> Traveling with children? Children traveling with one parent, or someone who is not a parent/legal guardian, or children traveling in a group may require special documents (such as a child consent form) to travel. Do this well before departure so you’re not in a rush.

> If you have any health conditions, obtain a letter from your physician listing all medications, dosages, and reason for taking. Keep this with you to assist airport security, customs, and emergency response teams. Confirm your health care coverage for domestic and international travel and learn what providers are available in your destination.

>Don’t wait until the last minute to pack. Check the weather forecast for your trip and pack appropriately.
In case of lost luggage it’s a good idea to:

  • Pack half your clothes in your companion’s bag (and vise versa). If your bag is lost, at least you’ll have a few things to help you get by.

  • I recommend packing everything in 1 carry-on and 1 back-pack, if at all possible. You’ll find that you really don’t need as much as you think you do, but if you must check a bag then you’ll definitely want to pack 1-2 days worth of clothes in your carry-on, along with basic toiletries. This way, you’ll be prepared should you have any delays or changes to your flight schedule.

  • Leave valuables at home. Like expensive jewelry, purses, excessive amounts of cash, non-essential
    electronic devices.

  • Follow me on Instagram for more packing tips!

> Inform your credit card company and/or bank of your travel plans. Make a copy of all credit cards (front and back) and keep in a secure place.

> Leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a loved one at home.

> Make at least two copies (front and back) of your passports. Leave one copy at home with a family member, and bring one copy with you in your carry-on luggage. Keep this copy in your hotel safe. Should your passport be lost or stolen, these copies will help you in replacing your passport.

> Download WhatsApp on your phone so you can stay in touch with loved ones and not have to worry about international coverage.


Elizabeth Dyer, Travel Advisor

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What is a Travel Advisor
The Busy Couple’s Guide to Vacationing in Europe

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