to do list

Embarking on a trip is an exciting adventure filled with new experiences and discoveries. However, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey requires more than just packing your bags. Proper preparation can make all the difference between a stressful travel experience and a seamless one. From securing important documents to managing health precautions and planning your itinerary, there are several crucial steps to take before you set off. In this pre-trip checklist, we’ll walk you through the essential things to do before your next trip, helping you travel with confidence and peace of mind. Let’s dive into the key preparations that will set the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Note: International travel requires additional prep and documents. Items asterisked (*) below are things specifically to prepare for international travel.

  1. Required Documents
    • ID / Driver’s License (with Real ID) / Passport
      • *Check Passport Validity (for international travel): Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
    • *Obtain Necessary Visas: Research visa requirements for your destination country and obtain any necessary visas well in advance.
    • Make Copies of Important Documents: Make copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and itinerary, and keep them in a separate location from the originals.
    • If traveling with minors, it’s also recommended to carry a copy of their birth certificate. TSA doesn’t require ID for children under 18 years old but some airlines do.
      • *If the minor is traveling internationally without all parents, you need a Child Travel Consent Form.
  2. Money Management
    • *Exchange cash for local currency: It’s generally good to have some cash on hand. Depending where you’re going, you may be able to get away with all credit card purchases or your home currency
    • Notify Your Bank: Let your bank know about your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your credit or debit cards.
  3. Digital Prep
    • Charge all devices
    • Download shows, especially when traveling with kids
    • Download offline maps (this is helpful internationally and in remote places)
      • Open the Google Maps app
      • Click your account (the circle in the top right of the search bar)
      • Select ‘Offline maps’
      • Click ‘Select your own map’
      • Zoom in to the area you want to download on the map
      • Select ‘Download’
      • Name your map by selecting the pencil icon
    • *Check outlets for where you are traveling to see if you need an outlet converter.
    • *Check Roaming Plans: If traveling internationally, check with your mobile provider about international roaming plans or consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival. You can also get away with just using Wi-Fi depending on where you’re staying.
  4. Health and Advisory Requirements
    • Check Travel Advisories: Stay informed about travel advisories and any safety or health precautions for your destination. Also, check the weather and flights for any unexpected travel delays before going to the airport.
    • *Visit a Travel Clinic: Depending on your destination, visit a travel clinic to receive any necessary vaccinations or medications for diseases prevalent in the region.
  5. Pack Accordingly: Pack appropriate clothing, toiletries, medications, and other essentials for your trip, considering the climate and activities of your destination. As you prepare for your trip, refer to this packing list to reduce the stress of remembering everything to pack.
  6. Secure Your Home and Arrange Care:
    • Empty mailbox and hold mail delivery when you’re away (you can request this through your post office)
    • Turn off A/C and any other electronics and lights not needed while you are away
    • Lock doors and windows and secure outdoor belongings
    • Water plants, run dishwasher and empty trash
    • Arrange care for pets (and kids if this is an adult-only trip (lucky, you!))

Conclusion

By completing this pre-trip checklist before you travel, you can minimize stress and focus on the excitement of exploring new destinations and creating unforgettable memories. So, as you embark on your adventure, rest assured that you’ve laid the groundwork for a seamless and stress-free experience. Safe travels and enjoy every moment of your journey!

The Travel Tripster