The ultimate international travel checklist [2024]

Planning a trip overseas? Whether it’s for work or leisure, you’ll need to be prepared to make sure everything goes smoothly. Use our full international travel checklist to get on top of everything before you travel.

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Before you go overseas

Let’s start our checklist for international travel with the essentials to get organized before you even leave.

Sort your documents and visas

The first thing you’ll need to do is make sure you have a valid passport, and a visa if one is required for your destination, or any country you’ll transit through.

It’s important to note that some countries have specific rules about passport validity - to enter many European countries, for example, your visa must have 6 months at least left on it². Double check before you book flights in case you need to get a new passport before you leave.

Another important point is around traveling with children. To enter some countries with a child you may need an official consent from the other parent if both parents aren’t traveling together.

You’ll be able to find information about this on official sources such as the US State Department country pages³, or through the embassy of your destination country in the US.

Make sure to have travel insurance

Travel insurance can offer peace of mind in case anything goes wrong with your trip. You’ll find different insurance types, including insurance for your belongings, cover in case of delays or cancellations, and medical insurance.

There’s a huge array of different travel insurance types and policies, from some limited cover that may be offered by your credit card company for example, to full coverage packages which may have relatively high fees, but which offer a good support package if there are any problems during your trip.

Do your research to find the option that suits your needs and preferences.

Look out for health and vaccination requirements

Check if any specific vaccinations are needed for your destination, on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website⁴.

To enter some countries, specific vaccinations are mandatory - and in other places you’ll find health precautions which aren’t mandatory but which are highly advised due to specific risks.

Don’t forget to also look at the rules if you need to carry your own medication with you. Some countries have bans or restrictions on certain medicines which may be different to the US.

Check if any medication you need can be imported, and if you need to carry a doctor’s note with you when you go.

Sort your international money needs

You don’t want to be stuck without access to your money when you’re away - so look online to see if you have to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid your card being blocked.

It’s also well worth taking time to understand the foreign exchange rates wherever you’re headed, and considering travel-friendly credit or debit cards. These simple steps can make your money go further when you’re away.

Packing for your international trip

Once you’ve got your plans lined up it’s time to pack.

What to pack

Each trip is different, but an outline packing guide would include:

Passport and all required documents - plus extra copies in case of loss or theft Enough clothes and shoes for your stay - thinking about the likely temperature Toiletries and medication Electronic devices and chargers, including plug adapters Travel money and lists of contacts for your bank and insurance Details of your itinerary

There’s no single perfect travel packing list, as the items you need for a quick weekend somewhere sunny are going to be significantly different to a case for Europe in the winter - but spending some time before you leave will mean you remember everything you need, and avoid hassle on arrival.

Customs rules and regulations

Don’t forget, there are rules about what you can take in and out of most countries - including the US. Look online for information about restrictions in place in your destination - the State Department has handy advice to start you off⁵.

Staying safe when traveling internationally

It’s impossible to completely remove risk when you travel - but you can take a few steps to minimize the likelihood of anything going wrong.

Registering with your embassy

In some countries it’s possible to register with the local US embassy in case of emergency situations. This can be particularly important if you’re heading to a higher risk area.

Staying informed about safety alerts

Check resources like the US Department of State’s travel advisories for your destination country before you level - and sign up to STEP⁶, the official government route for issuing travel and safety advisories.

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When you're there

Your trip is underway! Here are a few more things to think about, to make sure everything goes smoothly.

What should you do upon arrival in a foreign country?

Once you arrive in your destination it’s worth taking some time to familiarize yourself with the area you’re staying in.

You can double check online or with your hotel to see if there are any particular places to avoid or be careful in.

In many places, popular tourist spots attract petty criminals and scammers for example, so keeping up to date with any issues can help you avoid unnecessary hassle.

Understanding local traditions and etiquette

To make sure you have a good time, it can help to be aware of local etiquette wherever you’re headed. The most important considerations can be found on the US State Department country pages, including any warnings or risks you’ll need to know about.

However, doing some deeper research here can help you have a better trip, too. Use online resources, forums and blogs to learn more about your destination to help you hit the ground running and make more of your trip.

Connectivity and communications

If you can’t imagine life without your cell phone you’ll definitely want to check your data and call plan before you go to see what coverage is like in your destination - and how much it’ll cost you!

In many cases, buying a local SIM is a good alternative if roaming costs are too high - online resources will help you decide which is best in your specific destination.

If your phone supports it, you might also want to look into getting eSIMs for when you're abroad. This way you won't have to worry about hushing to a provider when you first get into the country.

Know how to get around

Finally, think through how you’ll get around once you’re in your destination. If you plan to drive, bear in mind that you may need an international driving license⁷ - an official document that confirms your local US license is valid.

If you’ll be using public transport, look into different options including buses, trains, taxis and ride sharing. The options vary very widely by destination, and you may choose to avoid some methods of travel on safety grounds, depending on where you’re headed.

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No matter where you’re going, international travel can be an exciting prospect. Use this guide to make sure you’re well prepared, and don’t forget to look at Wise as a good way to manage your money and spending, across 40+ currencies.

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Sources:

1. Please see Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise Fees & Pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information
2. US State Department - travel checklist
3. US State Department - country pages
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - vaccination
5. US State Department - customs advice
6. STEP
7. International Driving Permit

Sources checked on 08.21.2023