Even for short international getaways, a little extra planning goes a long way. Here’s my go-to checklist for a stress-free departure and an easier return—because no one wants to be Googling “Do I need a visa for Portugal?” at the airport gate. 😅 Heads up: this post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase. I only share products I truly use and love!
🗂️ 1. Print + Share Your Itinerary & Travel Docs
I print out flight info, hotel confirmations, tour bookings, and copies of my passport and visa (if needed), and keep everything in a folder in my carry-on. I also email or text a copy to someone I trust—just in case something goes sideways.
📅 Bonus Tip: Some countries require proof of return travel or hotel bookings at immigration—have them easily accessible!
🛂 2. Check Passport Validity & Visa Requirements
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months past your return date (many countries require this!). Double-check visa requirements well in advance—some countries need online applications, others require embassy visits or visa-on-arrival.
💉 3. Research Vaccines, Health Precautions & Travel Insurance
Depending on your destination, you might need vaccines or preventative meds (looking at you, yellow fever + malaria). I check the CDC website or talk to my doctor a few weeks out. In a pinch, I have used Passport Health before and had a good experience at the location I visited.
And yes—travel insurance is worth it for international trips. It covers unexpected things like canceled flights, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. I’ve had to use travel insurance on trips to Sri Lanka and Morocco—one of those things you hope you never need, but are so glad to have when you do.
🐾 4. Book a Pet Sitter with Rover
Same as domestic—my go-to for taking care of Amaretto. I leave detailed care instructions, emergency contacts, and always schedule a meet-and-greet if I can.
🐾 New to Rover? Use my referral link for $20 off your first booking!
💳 5. Notify Your Bank + Bring Multiple Payment Options
I always alert my bank and credit card companies about my travel dates and countries. I bring a mix of cards (Visa + Mastercard just in case), and a little local currency for places that don’t take cards. Bonus if you have a card with no foreign transaction fees!
🗣️ 6. Learn a Few Key Phrases + Download Language Apps
A few basics like “hello,” “thank you,” and “where’s the bathroom?” go a long way. I download Google Translate and make sure the language is available offline. I use the camera feature A LOT for any written materials that I need translation help for.
📱 7. Download Travel Apps + Enable International Phone Plan
Apps I never travel abroad without: Google Maps (offline), currency converters, WhatsApp (for international texting), and airline/train apps. And don’t forget to check your phone plan! I either activate an international day pass (I have Verizon and their day passes are so easy to use), or I’ll get an eSIM or local SIM when I arrive.
💊 8. Pack a Mini Health Kit + Enough Prescriptions
Same rules apply—bring enough meds for your trip plus extra in case of delays. Some countries require you to carry medications in original packaging or with a doctor’s note, so I always check.
🔌 9. Bring the Right Electrical Adapter + Power Bank
Not every country uses the same plugs, so I bring a universal travel adapter and a portable charger for on-the-go power. Nothing worse than being at 3% with no outlet in sight. I have used this universal travel adapter for years—the 4 USB ports have been a lifesaver when my husband has forgotten his at home.
📬 10. Pause Mail & Deliveries, Or Ask a Friend
I pause Amazon subscriptions and ask a neighbor/friend to keep an eye out for mail or packages. Some post offices let you put your mail on hold—it’s worth the 2-minute online form.
💼 11. Set an Out-of-Office Reply & Backup Your Devices
Even if it’s just a week away, I set an OOO email and back up my phone and laptop before I leave. I also use cloud storage or an external drive to make sure those precious vacation pics are safe.
🛏️ 12. Clean the House Before You Go
There is nothing better than coming home to a clean house and fresh sheets after an international flight. I toss anything perishable, empty the trash, and run the dishwasher before heading out. One appliance I always leave running while we’re away is our air purifier—it helps keep the air feeling fresh and prevents that stale, closed-up smell when we get back.
🧳 13. Double Check Airline Rules + Weigh Your Bag
International flights can have very specific baggage rules—especially if you’re flying with low-cost airlines in Europe or Asia. I weigh my bag ahead of time and check if I need to pre-pay for carry-on or checked luggage. I know it sounds wild, but I went years without a luggage scale—I used to just do the step-on, step-off trick with my bathroom scale. But my sister recently gifted me this luggage scale, and it’s completely changed my pre-travel game. So much easier and way more accurate!
🌐 14. Print Emergency Info & Know Local Numbers
I write down the address of the U.S. embassy or consulate, my hotel info, and emergency contact numbers. It feels old-school, but if your phone’s lost or stolen, it’s a lifesaver.
🍽️ 15. Schedule a Grocery Box or Delivery for Your Return
I love coming home to a GreenChef box after a long trip—no jet lag grocery runs or sad takeout. If I know I’m landing late, I’ll schedule delivery for the next day so I can unpack, sleep, and still eat well.
Thinking about trying GreenChef? Use my referral link to get a free week of meals—perfect for recharging after long-haul flights. 🥗💚
What’s your must-do before traveling abroad? Drop your go-to tip below! 🌍👇
#InternationalTravelChecklist #TravelTips #PassportReady #JetSetPrep #AmazonAssociate
