What to Do Before Every International Trip (Even If You’ve Traveled Before)
Lucas, CA
Age Range: 40s | Food Preferences: Adventurous but picky about food quality (seeks highly rated local spots) | Group traveler (friends or couple trips), nightlife explorer, city-hopper | Mid-range to luxury depending on destination
There’s this weird myth in the travel world that once you’ve done it a few times, you can just “wing it.” Spoiler: Things change and it is not always possible.
Whether it’s your first or fifteenth trip abroad, there are always a few things that, if missed, can turn your trip from “perfect” to “problematic.” Delayed entry at the airport. Roaming charges you didn’t expect. Forgetting that one charger or prescription. I’ve been there—and this list exists so you won’t have to be.
These are the non-negotiable steps I take before every international trip, no matter how seasoned I feel. Type-A traveler approved. Chaos prevented.
1. CHECK ENTRY + VISA REQUIREMENTS
You don’t want to find out at check-in that you can’t get on the plane.
• Use sites like Sherpa to check visa requirements by passport/country
• Some countries require a visa in advance, even if you’re only visiting for a few days
• COVID/vaccine proof, proof of departure, or hotel reservations may be required
Always screenshot or print confirmations/important documents, especially for countries with strict border policies. I always like to make and print copies of my passport and important documents in the event that they may be taken or misplaced.
2. DOWNLOAD OFFLINE MAPS & LANGUAGE PACKS
You may not have Wi-Fi or data when you land.
• Use Google Maps to download your city/region
• Download language packs in Google Translate
• Save your hotel, rental, embassy, and airport on the map
You can reference my Top 10 Travel Apps post for links to all the apps I use.
Want affordable internet as soon as you land? I use Airalo to set up my mobile data before takeoff.
3. NOTIFY YOUR BANKS + GET A BACKUP CARD
Foreign transactions without notice = frozen cards.
• Call or log into your bank app to notify of international travel
• Bring a backup debit + credit card (kept in separate places)
• Know the foreign transaction fees for each
I also carry emergency cash in the local currency.
4. SCAN AND BACK UP YOUR DOCUMENTS
Losing your passport abroad is stressful. Don’t make it worse by not having a copy.
• Scan and email yourself your passport, ID, and travel insurance
• Store in a secure cloud folder + download to your phone
• Print one hard copy to tuck into your carry-on
Include insurance documents and emergency contact info too.
5. PACK PRESCRIPTIONS + HEALTH ESSENTIALS
Many meds aren’t available over the counter overseas.
• Bring enough for your entire trip
• Keep medications in original packaging
• Carry a doctor’s note if needed (especially for injectables or restricted substances)
I also pack a Mini Travel First Aid Kit that includes:
• Pain relievers
• Allergy meds
• Electrolyte packets
• Motion sickness tabs
6. DOUBLE-CHECK WEATHER + CULTURAL NORMS
Don’t assume “Caribbean = hot” or “Europe = cold” all of the time.
• Use AccuWeather or TimeandDate.com to check 10-day forecasts before your trip.
• Look up dress codes, modesty expectations, and customs
• Pack 1-2 layers or pieces for unexpected weather
7. RESEARCH LOCAL SCAMS + SAFETY AREAS
This isn’t fear-based — it’s smart planning.
• Search: “Top scams in [city]” before you go
• Ask questions like: Where do locals say to avoid at night?
• Check if Uber/Bolt is safer than taxis in that region
Especially important for solo, female, or melanated travelers.
8. SET A TRAVEL INTENTION (Optional but Powerful)
This is more personal—but everything changes when you travel with intention.
Ask yourself:
• What do I want to learn on this trip?
• What’s something I’ll say yes to?
• What’s one thing I’m not bringing home with me (mentally)?
This is especially healing for travelers who feel overwhelmed, burnt out, or disconnected.
Send this to that friend who always forgets something!
