International travel requires more preparation than domestic trips. Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth journey abroad.

Documents (Essential)

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date
• Visa: If required for your destination (check before booking!)
• Flight itinerary: Printed and digital copies
• Hotel reservations: Printed confirmation
• Travel insurance documents: Policy number and emergency contact
• Driver's license: If you plan to drive or as backup ID
• International driving permit: If driving abroad
• Copies of all documents: Store separately from originals

Before You Leave

2-4 Weeks Before

• Check passport expiration date
• Research visa requirements
• Schedule any required vaccinations
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel
• Research your destination's entry requirements
• Purchase travel insurance
• Register with your country's embassy (optional but recommended)

1 Week Before

• Check in online (24-48 hours before)
• Download offline maps of your destination
• Exchange some currency or notify bank for ATM use
• Arrange airport transportation
• Check our Airport Busyness Predictor for your departure
• Confirm all reservations

Day Before

• Charge all devices
• Download entertainment for the flight
• Pack according to airline restrictions
• Set out clothes for travel day
• Arrange pet/plant care if needed
• Set lights/thermostat for absence

Packing Checklist

Carry-On Essentials

• Passport and travel documents
• Phone and charger
• Headphones
• Change of clothes (in case luggage is delayed)
• Medications (keep in original containers)
• Toiletries in 3-1-1 compliant bag
• Snacks
• Empty water bottle (fill after security)
• Neck pillow and eye mask
• Entertainment (book, tablet, etc.)
• Pen (for customs forms)
• Power adapter for destination

Checked Luggage

• Clothes appropriate for destination weather
• Extra shoes
• Full-size toiletries
• Any prohibited carry-on items
• Luggage tags with contact info

Health & Safety

• Required vaccinations completed
• Prescription medications (with doctor's note if needed)
• Basic first aid kit
• Hand sanitizer
• Face masks (some countries still require)
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent (if applicable)

Technology

• Phone with international plan or local SIM strategy
• Power adapters/converters for destination
• Portable battery pack
• Camera and charger
• Laptop/tablet if needed
• All necessary charging cables

Financial Preparation

• Notify banks of travel dates and destinations
• Bring at least two different credit/debit cards
• Carry some local currency for arrival
• Know your card's foreign transaction fees
• Have emergency cash in USD or EUR (widely accepted)
• Know how to access money in emergency

At the Airport

• Arrive 3 hours before international flights
• Have passport ready at check-in and security
• Know your terminal and gate
• Fill out any required health or customs forms
• Exchange more currency if needed
• Buy any last-minute items (adapters, snacks)

Emergency Information to Have

• Embassy contact in destination country
• Travel insurance emergency number
• Bank's international contact number
• Emergency contact at home
• Local emergency number (not always 911)
• Hotel address in local language (for taxi)

Upon Return

• Know customs allowances
• Declare required items
• Have receipts for purchases if needed
• If using Global Entry, use the kiosk

The Bottom Line

International travel is incredibly rewarding, but it requires more preparation than domestic trips. Start preparing at least 2-4 weeks in advance, and use this checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten. Safe travels!