Traveling abroad is one of the most exciting feelings. Experiencing a new culture will bring a unique perspective to your day-to-day life. But going abroad also means having some nerves about not knowing what to expect. These nerves first kick in when we realize we don’t know what to pack or what we need.
Sure there are the basics, but it’s easy to forget something necessary for your travels. The dread that comes over us when we realize we have forgotten something is terrible. That’s why we’ve compiled the ultimate travel checklist for you!
Documents
It may seem obvious, but a passport that is not expired is the most important thing, yet it’s not unheard of to realize you forgot it when you approach airport check-in. Going to the government’s website and looking at entry and exit requirements is essential. There are specific regulations, whether you are abiding with Covid protocols or getting a visa.
There will also be information on what types of shots or vaccinations are recommended if you go to an area that may have more prevalent illnesses.
Appropriate Attire
We’ve all had that moment when we get to a destination and feel like we have nothing to wear. So we just throw everything we like into a suitcase without really thinking about what we need. However, some questions to ask yourself regarding clothing and attire can help this process out.
What is the weather going to be like? Will it be hot, rainy, or cold?
What activities will I be doing? Am I working out or sitting at the beach? Going through a rainforest?
What do the locals wear? Is this a religious community, or at there lots of mosquitos?
What pieces of clothing can I reuse and mix and match? Will I have access to laundry?
You can get a better sense of what you need and don’t need by answering these questions. Always focus on the priorities, then add accessories.
Essentials You Can’t Get Abroad
You can’t get the same things in a different country. This means remembering to pack items you need or want with a trip. Medications are certainly the first thing that comes to mind. Ensuring you have enough medication means checking in with your doctor plenty of time before the flight.
You also want to consider what products and toiletries you use. Skincare brands, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, etc., are very different from country to country. If you are sensitive to products having your own is essential.
The last thing is less essential but something to consider: food and snacks. Depending on your trip, you may want to consider a few food items from home. Longer trips without access to foods you are used to having can make you homesick, so I always pack a few bags of goldfish for a mood pickup.
The Plane Ride
Long plane rides can be dreadful, so packing your carry-on or something like Pakt’s travel backpack the right way is key to making it a good trip. I first prioritize things that are going to help me sleep. This could be an eye mask or melatonin gummies. Then I think about entertainment if I can’t sleep. A good book and magazine can keep me occupied. Thinking about these two categories helps you make the journey more enjoyable there.
Just Ask Yourself
The best way to comprise the ultimate checklist is to ask yourself questions about your trip. Most importantly, the questions should revolve around when you are going and how you will get there smoothly. This brings you to what you need to be admitted into the country. Government websites are very clear, so there is nothing to worry about if you follow their instructions.
Then you can talk about what you need for the trip in terms of what you are wearing. No one wants to be uncomfortable when traveling because this can ruin your whole experience. Taking some serious time to plan this aspect can make a huge difference in your trip.
Ultimately you also want to take care of the little things that can make your plane ride more enjoyable. The longer the plane ride, the more you may want to think about this.
