Pre – International  Travel Checklist

• Passport and License
  • Locate your Passport. What is the expiration date?
  • Will it still be valid on your return date?
  • Do you need a Visa?
  • Does someone you trust have a copy of your ID?
  • Will you be renting a car?  Is it legal to drive with your license in the countries you are visiting?

 (Tip: AAA sells  International Driving Permit (IDP).  This is a translation of your U.S. license into 10 languages, costs ~$20 and you’ll need 2 passport photos)

• Money / Credit Cards / ATM Cards
  • Verify expiration dates on credit and ATM cards. (Tip: Research ATM cloning at your destination.  Use an ATM card for an account without too much $ in it, just in case.  Stick to ATM’s at banks rather than shopping centers.)
  • Does your credit card or car insurance cover car rental insurance?

(Tip: Check the fine print or call to confirm.)

• Travel with some cash (not too much). 

(Tip: In developing countries, credit cards don’t  always work.)  

• If you are changing currency, note that in some countries, wrinkled, faded or slightly torn bill are not accepted.  When you get local currency, make sure it is valid.  Some countries change accepted bills often.

• Travel Info, Transit & Safety
  • Do your flight, train, and accommodation dates all line up?
  • Do you have confirmed rides to and from the airport? Backup rides?
  • In most countries Ride Share like Uber is safer than street taxis.

(Tip: Overnight flights can shift your arrival date.)

• What Ride Share services are used where you are traveling?
  • Check for Travel Warnings.
  • Gummies – DO NOT travel with THC / CBD gummies. It’s a bad idea for a hundred reasons.  Check pockets in your luggage, jackets for any hidden leftovers.

• Internet / Phone
  • Get an unlocked cell phone.  Cheap older phones can be in the  $100 range.  A local chip can is a simple way to get the best local coverage. 
  • E-Sims  are convenient but can be hit or miss.   
  • Your current phone plan may include coverage to some countries.  Make sure you won’t get hit with roaming charges.

• Luggage
  • Confirm luggage dimensions and weight meet airline rules.

(Tip: Budget airlines often charge for carry-ons and even personal items.)

• Suitcase Leash** – A cheap dog leash with a clip can be used to tether you carry-on to you during chaotic travel.
  • Ribbon / Cord – Tie one to your luggage before you pack.  Black and navy-blue bags are easy to miss on the carousel.
  • Add a baggage tag with your contact info on both carry-on and checked bags. (Tip: Business card-sized tags work well.)

• Home Prep
  • Are pets, plants, goldfish, and kids set with sitters (if not traveling with you)?
  • Are bills due while you’ll be traveling on autopay or online?
  • Do any accounts require cell phone verification?  Will your phone work abroad?
  • Adjust the thermostat to save money & energy, but don’t risk frozen pipes or plant death.
  • Check if your internet provider offers a “pause” option for trips over a month. You could save enough for another  whale shark adventure!
  • If gone for months, is your paper mail on hold or being forwarded?

•  Flight Comfort
  • Pre-TSA, Global Entry, Clear – makes security easier. Not having to take out the electronics and liquids, and usually faster lines.
  • Scarf, Sarong, Sweater, Jacket (Air conditioning can be on full blast in airports.)
  • 2 Granola / Protein bars  (Tip: So you don’t eat overpriced  junk.)
  • Empty thermos or water bottle (There is too much plastic in the world.)
  • Eye mask – for long flights
  • Neck pillow
  • Gum or mints (helps with ear pressure)
  • Avoid “risky” food or drinks before flying — midair GI distress is a nightmare.
  • Load your tablet or phone with movies, audiobooks, etc. Not all flights offer entertainment.
  • Shoes easily removed in TSA, Electronics easy to pull out for security.
  • Thin Slippers / Slipper socks for long flights

• Health
  • Research top-rated hospitals or clinics near your destination.
  • Are they near your accommodations?
  • Vaccines – Check to see what is recommended for your trip. Some may require weeks between doses.
  • Do you have any ear or sinus issues? If so, take care of it before you fly.

(Cabin pressure can make them worse.)

• Will any prescriptions run out while you’re away?
  • Can your doctor prescribe a 90-day supply? Will your insurance allow it?
  • Are any of your medications or supplements  restricted where you are traveling?  Supplements like Kava Kava, Kratom &, St. John’s Wort are restricted in some European countries.