The ultimate international travel checklist

You’re in the right place if you are wondering what to bring when travelling abroad. This is the ultimate travel checklist for young, adventurous travellers.

• Plan your trip
• Travel tips

Travelling can be one of the best things in life. Packing can be stressful for some, especially if this is their first trip.

The internet allows travellers to share their travel tips and resources. A travel checklist can help you prepare for your trip and reduce the stress.

I have been travelling overseas for the past five years and have made several trips with Worldpackers. My travel checklist is based on my research and personal travel experiences.

These essentials are with me on every trip. Then, I will share them with Worldpackers! This list should help other travellers pack more comfortably for their trips abroad.

The Ultimate International Travel Checklist

This international travel checklist will help you decide what to bring with you. This international travel checklist will be divided into several categories:

• Travel Essentials
• Enjoy the Entertainment
• Clothing
• Additional Recommended Items

This list is only my personal preference. It is not set in stone, and you are free to add or remove items to suit your country and travel itinerary.

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International Travel Essentials

These are the items you will almost always need to bring on a trip overseas.

1. Sturdy Travel Bag

Travel bags can vary depending on how you travel and for how long. But I have always been a fan of a classic backpack.

Buy a large one to last for several months or a smaller one for short trips.

You’ll need a bag you can rely on every day when you travel. Stick with a rolling suitcase if you like it.

2. Day Bag

Bring a smaller bag with you for day trips.

You can use a small backpack or a large bag to explore during the day. It also works as a carry-on bag.

3. Universal Travel Adaptor

Many countries have different-shaped outlets on the wall.

Before you travel, make sure to pack an adaptor so that you can charge all your electronic devices.

If you love to travel, get a universal adaptor that you can use in any country.

4. Reusable water bottle

Pack a reusable, high-quality water bottle to save money while on vacation and reduce plastic waste.

You may have to purchase filtered water if you live in a place where the water is not safe.

You can also buy a reusable water bottle that has a built-in filtration system to clean your drinking water.

5. Passports and Visas

Your passport is a must when travelling abroad. Make sure it’s up to date and will not expire.

Be sure to check visa requirements prior to your departure.

Nowadays, most visas are electronic, but you may still need to send in your passport for the visa to be printed.

Don’t wait until the last moment! Make electronic and paper copies of important documents just in case.

6. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a good idea in case of illness or injury abroad.

Research and choose a plan which works for you.

7. Medicines

Talk to your doctor about your medications before you travel, and make sure you have enough for your entire trip.

8. Debit or credit card

Pack your debit or credit cards to withdraw foreign currency from ATMs.

Avoid transferring money to the airport. Instead, transfer money to a local bank. You’ll save money because airports charge high commission rates.

You can save money by getting a credit card that does not charge fees for foreign transactions.

International Travel Entertainment

You will find these things useful when travelling. I could not survive a long bus or plane ride without entertainment.

9. Book

A good book is always a welcome companion when travelling. However, they can be heavy and bulky, so don’t bring too many. Or, invest in a Kindle.

10. Journal and Pen

It is easy to keep a journal of your memories.

If you have never journaled before, consider doing so on your next overseas trip. Journaling is a great way to relax and declutter the mind.

It’s also handy to bring your pen when filling in landing cards or immigration documents on planes.

11. Camera

If you want to record the sights of your trip, you will need a camera.

Include all accessories, including a bag to carry your items, a battery, charger, mp3 player, etc.

12. Headphones

Travel headphones are a must-have. For long journeys, a podcast or music collection is ideal.

13. Earplugs

If you are staying in a city with a lot of noise or in a dorm at a hostel, consider packing earplugs.

You may be kept awake by noises coming from outside or noisy travellers in your hostel. Earplugs will help you sleep better by blocking out noise.

Travelling abroad? What to wear

Clothing preferences vary from person to person. In addition to the obvious necessities like shirts and shorts, pants and socks, I will list a few helpful packing tips.

14. Comfortable Walking Shoes

When you travel, you’ll likely be walking a lot. Pack your most comfortable shoes for every day.

It’s not fun to have blisters and sore feet due to uncomfortable shoes when you travel!

15. Comfortable Clothes

Comfort is always more important than fashion when it comes down to travel.

You should pack clothes that you will enjoy wearing. Your outfits should not distract you from the environment around you.

16. Two or Three Nice Outfits

Packing a few nice outfits is advisable, even if you plan to wear them only on special occasions.

Dressing up for a special occasion is fun, whether it’s a dinner party or a performance.

You want to maximize the space available in your luggage. So, only pack a couple of nice outfits. Save the rest for practical clothing.

Check out this article if you want to know how you can enjoy the nightlife wherever you are:

17. Rain Jacket

Travelling with a good rain jacket is a must.

Umbrellas are bulky and unwieldy in windy conditions. On rainy days, a nice rain jacket will keep you dry and warm.

18. Hiking Boots

If you want to hike and connect with nature, buy a pair of high-quality hiking boots. I’ve been on a few hikes with sneakers, and I wish I had better footwear the entire time.

Packing them is a hassle, so only do it if you are an adventurous traveller and will be going hiking in the wilderness. They’re worth it, though!

19. Sun Protection

It’s still important to wear sun protection, even if it’s cold.

While travelling, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will help protect your skin. Consider using lip balm with SPF.

Recommended Other Items

These are some random items I always pack when travelling abroad.

20. Travel-Sized Toiletries

You can choose to bring your toothpaste or deodorant. You can either buy it when you arrive at your destination or pack your own.

Pack your own if you need less than 30ml of each.

If you are travelling for some time, you may find it easier to buy the product when you get there.

21. Student ID Card

Always travel with your student ID card if you are a student.

Student discounts are available on many tours and attractions abroad. Flash your student ID and save some extra money.

22. Some Plastic Bags

It may seem odd, but it’s a great idea to take a couple of plastic bags on your trip.

It’s easier to keep your wet swimsuit or dirty clothes in a plastic bag until you get to your next destination.

23. Microfiber Towel

The microfiber towel tower is much smaller and dries faster than a standard towel. It’s ideal for backpackers with limited space.

24. Luggage Locks

Pack a luggage lock if you are worried about pickpockets. It will secure your bag’s zipper.

A luggage lock is a great addition to the lockers in most hostel rooms.