The Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist: Everything You Need to Do Before You Take Off

Wandering through a small village in Milos, in the Greek Islands.

So, you’re about to take off on your next big adventure… exciting! By now, you’ve (hopefully) booked your flights, secured your accommodation, and mapped out some must-see spots. But before you throw your bags in the car and head to the airport, there are a few key things you need to take care of to ensure your trip is stress-free and smooth sailing.

Having travelled extensively over the years, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that a little preparation can save a whole lot of hassle later on. So, let’s dive into the ultimate pre-travel checklist… everything you need to consider before you board that plane!

1. Pack Smart (and Light!)

Packing is one of the most crucial parts of trip prep, and yet it’s where so many people go wrong. Here’s how to get it right:

• Check the Weather: Are you heading somewhere tropical, cold, or windy? Your packing should match the conditions.

• Look Up Local Packing Lists: Travel blogs often have destination-specific packing lists, which can help you remember essentials you might not have thought of.

• Know Local Regulations: Some places have unique restrictions. When I travelled to Palau, I discovered that non-reef-safe sunscreen was illegal, so I made sure to pack an eco-friendly alternative.

• Pack Less Than You Think You Need: Trust me, you won’t wear everything. Stick to versatile pieces and minimise bulky items like shoes.

2. Health & Safety Considerations

Before you set off, take a moment to consider your health and safety:

• Vaccinations & Medications: Do you need any shots for your destination? If you take prescription medication, bring enough for your trip, plus a backup plan in case you lose it.

• Travel Insurance: If you can’t afford travel insurance, can you really afford to travel? Accidents happen, and the last thing you want is to be stuck with an unexpected hospital bill. I always opt for the highest level of coverage, including natural disaster protection.

3. Money Matters

• Currency Exchange: Will you need local currency upon arrival? I always recommend having at least a small amount of cash for transport and initial expenses.

• Bank Notifications: Let your bank know you’re travelling to avoid card blocks. (Yes, I’ve made this mistake before… it’s not fun.)

• Best Payment Methods: Will you rely on credit cards, a travel money card, or cash? Make sure you have multiple options.

4. Sort Out Things at Home

Before you leave, take care of anything that needs attention while you’re away:

• Pet & Plant Care: Organise someone to look after your pets and water your plants.

• House Security: Arrange a mail hold or ask a neighbour to collect it. Lock all windows and doors before leaving.

• Work & Bills: Set up autopay for any upcoming bills so you don’t come home to overdue notices.

5. Know Your Baggage Allowance

• Check ALL Your Flights: Just because your international flight allows 30kg doesn’t mean your domestic connection will. Avoid expensive excess baggage fees by double-checking your allowances.

6. Plan Your Arrival

Landing in a new country can be overwhelming, so have a basic arrival plan:

• Airport Transport: How will you get from the airport to your accommodation? Taxi? Train? Uber?

• Accommodation Details: Have the address and contact details handy, and check if they offer airport transfers.

• Local SIM Card or eSIM: Do you need a local SIM for data? Research your options before you arrive.

7. Tech & Entertainment

• International Travel Adapter: Make sure you have the right power adapter for your destination.

• Offline Google Maps: This is a game-changer! Download maps in advance so you can navigate without data. I used this when hiking in Palau’s Rock Islands… it was a lifesaver.

• Download Movies & Music: Load up your phone or tablet with entertainment for long flights or train rides.

• Backup Your Photos & Free Up Space: Running out of phone storage mid-trip is frustrating. Delete unnecessary files and upload photos to the cloud before you leave.

8. Book Key Attractions in Advance

Some experiences book out well in advance… don’t leave it to chance!

• Research Must-See Attractions: During my recent trip to Spain, it was important to pre-book places like Sagrada Familia and Alhambra.

• Look at Tour Company Itineraries for Ideas: I often check itineraries from companies like Intrepid Travel to see which stops they include. If a tour company prioritises a location, there’s probably a good reason for it!

9. Travel Documents & Emergency Plans

• Backup Copies of Documents: Have digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and itinerary. Store them in multiple locations.

• Emergency Contacts: Keep key contact numbers written down in case you lose your phone.

• WhatsApp for Accommodation: If you’re staying in Airbnbs or boutique hotels, add their numbers to WhatsApp before you leave. Many international hosts use it for communication.

10. Language & Local Apps

• Learn Basic Phrases: A few simple words in the local language can go a long way.

• Download Essential Apps:

• Google Translate for language assistance.

• Currency Converter for quick exchange rate checks.

• Local Transport Apps for navigating public transport.

11. If You’re Travelling Solo…

• Let Someone Know Your Itinerary: Check in with friends or family regularly so they know you’re safe.

• Stay Aware & Trust Your Instincts: Research local scams, avoid risky areas, and always have a backup plan.

12. Do Some Pre-Trip Research

Even if you love spontaneity, a little research makes a big difference:

• Save Locations on Google Maps: I pin cafes, attractions, and experiences so I can easily find them later.

• Look Up Travel Guides & Blogs: Lonely Planet, local travel blogs, and YouTube vlogs are great sources of inspiration.

Ready for Takeoff!

The goal of this checklist isn’t to overwhelm you… it’s to help you feel prepared so you can focus on what really matters: experiencing your destination to the fullest.

Have any pre-travel tips of your own? Drop them in the comments, I’d love to hear how you prepare for your adventures!

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