Essential Travel Checklist: What You Need Before You Go

Traveling is an enriching experience that broadens our horizons, introduces us to new cultures, and creates unforgettable memories. 

Whether you’re jet-setting across the globe or embarking on a weekend getaway, being prepared is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey (trust me, not packing everything you need is rather frustrating). 

To ensure you have everything you need for your next adventure, I’ve compiled a checklist of essential items to pack before you hit the road (packing too much is a possibility, so make sure u find the perfect equilibrium of items to pack).

1. Travel Documents:

This IS the most IMPORTANT item to bring whenever your on holidays. 

Why? Well… if you leave your passport at home, you better hope you live near to the airport because, you will not be able to get on the plane without one. 

• Passport/ID: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
• Visa (if required): Research and obtain necessary visas well in advance.
• Travel insurance: Provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
• Itinerary: Keep a copy of your travel plans, including flight/train tickets, hotel reservations, and any pre-booked activities. I personally think that keeping your travel plans on your phone would be the best option (or you could also print it out). I for one, have learnt from the few times I’ve had to go frantically searching for the right booking details. Not fun. So make sure you organise it well. 

2. Money and Banking:

• Currency: Exchange currency or carry a mix of cash and credit/debit cards.
  
• ATM/credit cards: Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid card holds or declines.
  
• Emergency cash: Keep a small amount of local currency for unforeseen expenses. 

3. Health and Safety:

• Prescription medications: Pack an ample supply, along with copies of prescriptions.
  
• First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
  
• Vaccination certificates: Check if any vaccinations are required for your destination.
  
• Travel-sized hand sanitizer and face masks: Essential for maintaining hygiene, especially in crowded or high-risk areas. It’s also important to note that some countries may still have covid regulations and/or restrictions put in place, so before traveling you could check. I do think it’s better to be safe than sorry thus, I would personally pack it.

4. Clothing and Accessories:

• Weather-appropriate clothing: Pack according to the climate of your destination. I would suggest to pick maybe one or two outfits fit for the opposite weather you are expecting, just in case. If you expect it to be sunny, pack one rainy day outfit. 
  
• Comfortable shoes: Suitable for walking and exploring. A lesson I learnt is NOT to pack more than 2 pair of shoes, pick one pair for formal (if you know there is a formal event happening) and one pair for everything else. 
  
• Swimwear and beach towels (if applicable).
  
• Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun. 
  
• Travel-sized umbrella or raincoat: Remember to be prepared for unexpected weather changes.

5. Technology and Entertainment:

• Smartphone and charger: I don’t think this requires any further explaining, but depending on the country, it is important to note you may want to bring along an international plug. 
  
• Portable power bank: Ensure your devices stay charged on the go. 
  
• Camera or smartphone: For capturing memories of your travels😁!
  
• E-reader or books for downtime during travel. Don’t know what book to read? You can check out this blog post here. However, from my experiences, I don’t think it’s something that you need. Personally, every time I brought along a novel, I wouldn’t read it because there is so much fun to be explored while traveling. 
  
• Headphones or earbuds for listening to music or podcasts.

6. Travel Accessories:

• Luggage: Choose a durable, lightweight suitcase or backpack. Lightweight is in bold because I cannot put enough emphasis on it. Lightweight bags or luggage is a must have for traveling, because it makes it all that much easier and less tedious. Who wants to drag around a heavy luggage AND their items inside of it?
  
• Luggage tags: Clearly label your bags with your contact information.
  
• Travel pillow and blanket for comfort during long journeys. I personally don’t like to bring these as I find it unnecessary, however, I know a lot of people who love to bring travel blankets and pillows for the plane or a long car ride. 
  
• Travel locks: Secure your belongings while in transit or staying in shared accommodations. Most suitcases come with locks built in, but if yours doesn’t you may not need to bring this on your journey.  
  
• Travel-sized toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and sunscreen in TSA-approved containers.

7. Miscellaneous Items:

• Travel guidebooks or maps for navigation and inspiration. Perhaps you might want to pack it, thus, I’ve included it. Though, with the power of technology, I think it’s not worth the space or time, especially if you can access it through your phone. 
  
• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
  
• Snacks: Pack healthy options for energy on-the-go. Depending on the adventure you’re embarking on, you might not need to pack so much. Take for example going to the airport, I would suggest to bring something small. 
  
• Language translator app or phrasebook for communication in foreign countries.
  
• Ziplock bags for storing snacks, wet clothes, or toiletries.

Hopefully I have listed everything. If I have missed any other items that you think are essential to this list (or if you want to share your opinions 😃), you’re welcomed to use the comments section below. 

Remember to plan ahead, stay organized, and leave room for spontaneity to make the most of your travel adventures. Bon voyage!