Travel is more popular than ever. An estimated 5.2 billion passengers are expected to travel this year. Planning a trip requires a lot of preparation and it is easy to forget essential items. To help you prepare well, here’s a checklist to go through before you start your journey.

1. Travel Documents

Your planning starts with having the right paperwork ready and on time. Some documents can take weeks or even months to obtain, so be sure to start working on them well in advance.
Checklist: Passport (valid for at least six months), visa (if required), boarding passes, travel insurance, and ID cards.
Pro Tip: You should store your important documents in a waterproof folder in case your travel bag isn’t secure.

2. Electronics and Connectivity

Mobile phones are not only for storing documents, apps and taking photos but also an important device for staying safe. For your chargers, check the power outlet type and compatibility (110V vs. 220V) for your destination.
Checklist: Mobile phone, power bank, chargers, adapters, and headphones, data enabled sim cards
Pro Tip: You can download offline maps, travel apps, and entertainment apps before departure in case you encounter network issues.

3. Personal Care and Medications

While toiletries, skincare products, and first-aid supplies are usually available at most destinations, do not assume your preferred brands will be accessible everywhere, especially when traveling internationally. If possible, keep backups of your medication in your carry-on.
Checklist: Toiletries, skincare, sunscreen, prescription medications, and first-aid supplies.
Pro Tip: Use travel-sized bottles for toiletries to save space and check airline requirements for carrying liquids.

4. Clothing and Packing Organization

Pack your clothing based on your destination’s climate and your planned activities. It’s always a good idea to pack an extra set of clothing in your carry-on in case of delays or lost luggage. Organize your belongings to allow for easy access.
Checklist: Weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, and packing cubes.
Pro Tip: Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and minimize wrinkles.

5. Money and Home Preparation

Being financially ready and securing your home before departure can prevent unnecessary stress. Prepare cash and cards for your trip, and ensure your home and belongings are safe.
Checklist: Local currency, credit cards, id card, unplug unnecessary electronics, adjust the thermostat, set light timers, double-check that doors and windows are locked, and notify a trusted neighbor if possible

Pro Tip: Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid issues with card usage.

6. Essential Travel Apps

Travel apps have made navigation and booking very convenient. Here are some apps that you can pre-install. Data connections might not be stable everywhere

Checklist: Google Maps, your hotel and ticket booking apps to easily access all your bookings, Uber, Lyft, or local ride-hailing apps, Google Translate

Pro Tip: You can use an AI travel agent to create and manage your itinerary. It can help you gather all the information in one place and personalize your itinerary for a better experience.

There’s nothing wrong with a little adventure or uncertainty while traveling. However, a lack of preparation should never stop you from fully enjoying your trip. With the checklist above, you’ll hopefully have everything you need for a great experience. Safe travels!