Phylicia StitzelAs a seasoned traveler, I have learned the importance of careful planning and preparation when it comes to embarking on a big international trip. So, I thought it would be good to share my “First-time International Travel Checklist” with you! When I traveled to Vietnam and Laos, I learned a lot about traveling internationally, and had some experiences that were a first for me – even though I’d traveled to other many other countries before, there was still more to learn. In this blog post, I will share valuable tips for preparing for your first-time international travel checklist you should check and then check again before departing.
Table of Contents
Start Planning Ahead:
When it comes to international travel, planning ahead is key. Take care of important documents, such as travel visas and considering an International Driving Permit well in advance. There have been many times when I’ve visited countries or was researching and saw you can “obtain your visa upon arrival” but why stress? It’s best to eliminate the added stress and potential language barriers by securing them before your departure. By managing these details early on, you can focus on enjoying your vacation without worrying about paperwork.
Another trick that I started using when I was preparing for my Laos/Vietnam trip with my daughter (age 10 months at the time) and my father (early onset Alzheimer’s and age 66 at the time) was making a “travel folder”. This had all my PRINTED, yes printed, boarding passes, visas, passports, important numbers, medical documents (which I adapted after COVID-19 hit with our negative test results). This way I had all the papers that we needed, and they were all together in a safe place in my backpack. I also took photos of everything and uploaded them to my Google drive in a folder I could easily access as a backup.
Pack Early and Thoroughly:
To avoid the last-minute rush and the risk of forgetting essential items, start packing for your trip as early as possible. Consider creating a packing list, taking into account the specific needs of your baby. Remember to pack items like chargers, adapters, passports, and any necessary documents. By packing early, you can minimize stress and save money by avoiding the need for expensive last-minute purchases.
Here is a list of the items I include on my checklist:
Packing Checklist
Manage Your Finances:
One of the worst scenarios while traveling is being unable to use your cards overseas. To prevent this headache, order the currency of the countries you will be visiting ahead of time. Additionally, bring some USD as a backup plan. It’s also crucial to inform your bank about your travel plans to ensure smooth access to your funds. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your trip without any financial obstacles.
Another great tip is to pre-order currency for your destination. Though having USD as a backup is always a smart idea, I am grateful that when I’ve traveled overseas, I’ve pre-ordered my currency through my bank, and it helps eliminate a costly transition at the airport for the exchange in the terminal.
Research Transportation Options:
Depending on how adventurous you are, you might want to consider all the transportation options available to you when you arrive at your destination. Traveling around Europe, for example, public transportation is easy to access. But if you are traveling in Africa, you might not have as many options. OR you do have options but due to language barriers or stressful scenarios to figure out, the best option might be to hire a private tour guide, driver, or to sign up for a tour that provides transportation.
Don’t Forget to Have Fun:
Finally, the most important tip for any traveler, especially those with babies, is to remember to have fun. Despite the concerns and anxieties associated with international travel, embrace the adventure and enjoy the journey. The memories you create will far outweigh any temporary stress or challenges you may encounter. Cherish the opportunity to explore new cultures and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Preparing for an international trip for the first time doesn’t have to be stressful (I know easier said than done) but with careful planning and organization. it doesn’t have to be so daunting. By following these essential tips, you can embark on your journey with peace of mind, knowing that you have prepared for all possible scenarios.
If you are traveling with a baby – here is my list of travel tested and baby approved toys that will make your life so much easier!
