No matter how long you are planning on being away there’s plenty to get organized before you leave. In this guide we have put together a checklist of sorts to ensure you get on the plane as stress-free as possible, knowing that everything has been taken care of.
While this guide is best suited to a longer trip, there are many tasks that should be completed, regardless of the trip duration.
1. Research the Destination
- Learn some basic phrases in the local language
- Look into any cultural and religious differences
- Look into the best way to get around
- Make a list of the things you want to do and see
- Check power requirements for your destination (buy an adapter)

2. Health
- Look into which vaccinations you might require
- Stock up on any prescription medication you take
- Get a note from your doctor for any medications you need to carry with you
- Create a simple first aid kit

3. Important Documents
- Apply for/renew your passport (make sure there is at least 6 months validity from the date you intend to return)
- Research and apply for visas
- Get passport photos
- Make copies of all your important documents
- Organize any job specific documentation you might need (college transcripts, certificates etc)
- Check drivers licence validity/expiration (do you require an international licence?)
- Pack any specialized licences (eg. PADI)

4. Bookings
- Book your flights using our flight search
- Compare places to stay and book the cheapest room with our accommodation search
- Sign up for frequent flyer programs if you aren’t already a member
- Add any special seating and meal requests
5. Gear
- Consider replacing any old gear (backpacks etc)
- Create a list of what you are taking
- Take photos of any expensive gear and receipts (for insurance claims)
- Wash clothes
- Get spare batteries
- Pack your bag – check out our packing guide

6. Communication
- Unlock your phone from the network
- Call your carrier and enable global roaming (only if it provided free)
- Set up a free online calling service (eg. Skype, Google Hangouts, Viber, WhatsApp etc.)
- Install all important apps (Google translate, XE, Duolingo etc)

7. Safety
- Register where you are going with your government’s foreign affairs department
- Give friends and family an itinerary and how to contact you
- Take out travel insurance
- Create a list of important contact numbers

8. Money
- Make a trip budget using our trip calculator
- Contact your bank to tell them that you are traveling
- Get a credit card with no international fees
- Exchange a small amount of cash ($100)
- Find out what the exchange rate is for the countries you will be visiting so you have a better idea what your money is worth

9. Take Care of Business at Home
- Pay any outstanding bills
- Cancel or freeze and subscriptions and memberships
- Redirect your mail or arrange for someone to collect on your behalf
- Store your belongings
- Notify the tax office
- Notify the electoral office if you are unable to vote
- Arrange for someone to take car of any pets or plants
- Take out the garbage
- Dispose of any food that might go bad (especially fruit)
- Close bank accounts (if you are not returning)
10. Last-minute Preparations
- Confirm flights/check-in online
- Charge all your devices
- Ensure passport, tickets, wallet and other essential items are easily accessible
- Confirm any special meals (Vegetarian, religious etc.) and pack healthy snacks for the flight
- Arrange transport to the airport and allow a buffer time for traffic delays