Here are nine things you should do in the run-up to your trip and before you leave for the airport.
Planning a trip is usually great fun, whether for a weekend getaway or a longer adventure. Booking flights and somewhere to stay are the main to-dos, but there are lots of little things that can slip through the cracks. Here are nine things you should do in the run-up to your trip and before you leave for the airport.
1. Make sure your passport is up to date.
While a standard adult U.S. passport is valid for ten years from the date of issue (or renewal), you should renew sooner than that. Many countries (currently about 75 worldwide) require at least six months of passport validity beyond your departure date. If your passport is going to expire in less than six months after you leave for an international trip, you could be denied entry. Additionally, some nations require your passport have between one and three completely blank visa pages, so check the rules for your destination. If your passport has details that are no longer accurate (for example, a name change), you’ll either need a new passport entirely or ensure the name on your ticket matches the one in your passport.
2. Check if you need visas and immunizations.
Some countries require visas and proof of immunization before you can board the plane. Start by researching the entry requirements for your destination; most governments have official websites or consular offices that provide detailed information about what is necessary to visit. Whether or not you need a visa depends on your nationality and how long you plan to stay. Most visas will be in your passport, but if a country offers an e-visa, it’s a good idea to print it out, too (just showing it on your phone may not be enough). Some countries have non-negotiable immunizations that need to be obtained before entry (for instance, a number of countries in Africa require proof of yellow fever vaccination). It’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or travel clinic for up-to-date information on vaccinations and health advisories (for example, such as where antimalarials might be recommended).
3. Consider travel insurance.
No matter how well you plan, there’s always the potential for accidents and unforeseen circumstances that can derail your vacation. Travel insurance can help safeguard against unexpected events, like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, or flight delays. Not only does it mitigate financial losses, but it also ensures you have someone you can call for help if things go wrong far from home. In some scenarios, like an expedition cruise to a polar region, the tour company will make travel insurance mandatory, so be sure to check requirements ahead of time. Some cruise lines offer insurance as part of their booking process, making it an easier—if not always the most economical—option. Keep in mind credit card insurance covers some things, but not all, and that different cards cover different things. Cancel For Any Reason Coverage (CFAR), which gained popularity during the pandemic, is another option to consider.
4. Make a safety plan.
Familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of your destination, and be aware of any political or health situations. The Department of State is a good place to start, although it’s quite conservative in its approach to safety issues. Consider looking for blog posts about “important things to know before visiting (insert destination here)” to see what else pops up. Be sure to share your itinerary with a friend or family member so they know your whereabouts in case of emergency. Signing up for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is another good idea; it’s a free service for U.S. citizens and nationals who are traveling abroad, which allows them to input information about their trip (where they’re going, how they can be contacted, etc.) so the State Department can help in emergencies (from finding local attorneys and doctors to leaving the country in the event of war or natural disaster).
5. Check whether you’ll need a special driving permit.
Different countries have different regulations when it comes to driving, and in some cases, the driver’s license issued by your home state won’t cut it. Depending on where you’re going, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) instead. They’re easy to get: the Automobile Association of America (AAA) issues permits in their offices and by mail for $20; all you need to do is submit a simple application, two passport-type photos, and a copy of both sides of your driver’s license. The IDP is currently valid in more than 150 countries. Some countries, such as China, don’t accept the IDP, instead offering their own temporary driving permit for travelers, so be sure to look up the rules in your destination.
6. Choose an international phone plan (or plan for a different option once on the ground).
Check if your current carrier offers international roaming options. If it doesn’t (or the cost is prohibitively expensive), consider purchasing a prepaid plan from a local carrier at your destination (though if you go that route, make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the local network). You can often purchase local SIM cards at booths in the airport. Another option is an eSIM (a digital version of a SIM card) from companies like Airalo. Some carriers, like Google Fi, offer automatic international service with no setup,/extra packages/SIM card necessary and at the same price as in your home country. Another option is to rent a Wi-Fi hot spot (available at phone stores). You could also just leave your phone in airplane mode and use Wi-Fi whenever you can get it.
7. Prepare your home for while you’re away.
You know the basics: taking out the trash, setting your thermostat, double-checking that all doors and windows are locked. Consider unplugging any non-essential appliances to prevent energy waste and reduce the risk of electrical issues. Empty your refrigerator of perishable items to avoid coming home to something unrecognizably moldy, and clean up any food crumbs that might attract pests. If you can’t arrange for someone to care for plants in your absence, consider buying a self-watering device. If you’re going on a longer trip, it’s also a good idea to ask a neighbor to collect your mail or ask USPS to hold it. If you want to keep an eye on your home while traveling, consider a security system or cameras.
8. Download in-flight entertainment.
Although most airlines offer in-flight movies and shows, there’s a chance the options won’t interest you (or aren’t in your preferred language). Download a few shows/books for offline watching/listening; this can save your sanity. It’s also a good idea to check with your specific airline to see if its in-flight entertainment is available only through a personal device (for example, United), which would require you to download an app before boarding.
9. Pack your bags.
Of course, what to pack for a trip depends on where you’re going and what you will be doing, but a systematic approach can make the process much smoother. Begin with your carry-on essentials: important documents (passport, visas, insurance information, and copies of reservations), medications, a change of clothes, basic toiletries, and any valuable items. (These go in your carry-on in case your checked luggage gets delayed.) For your main luggage, use the rule of three: lay out everything you think you need, then remove a third of it. (Most travelers pack too much and end up not using everything they bring!) Choose versatile clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched, and stick to a coordinated color palette to maximize outfit combinations. Pack wrinkle-resistant fabrics when possible, and use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space and keep things organized. Don’t forget essential items like a universal power adapter, portable charger, first-aid kit, and any specific gear needed for your destination (hiking boots? formal wear?). If you’re traveling to a destination with different weather than home, check the forecast and pack accordingly, including layers for unexpected temperature changes. Consider local customs and dress codes—what’s appropriate at home might not be elsewhere. Research any specific clothing requirements for religious sites or formal venues you plan to visit. Pack a lightweight, foldable bag for souvenirs or laundry, and always leave some space in your luggage for items you may acquire during your trip. Finally, to save time and reduce the chance of forgetting something important, make a dedicated toiletries bag that stays packed with travel-sized versions of your essential products. saves time and reduces the chance of forgetting something important.
Twist’s Take: Do these nine things before you leave on your next trip for peace of mind and better preparation.
