International travel packing checklist

Skipping the weekend getaway and saving up for an international vacation? Whether you’re planning to backpack through Europe or daydreaming about relaxing on a tropical beach, our international travel packing checklist will help you prepare for the unexpected.

International travel documents checklist

Unlike a short weekend road trip, you’ll likely need to prepare some travel documents in advance of your international travel.

• Passport. When leaving the country, a passport is a must. Make sure to apply for a passport six to eight weeks before you plan to travel to avoid paying extra fees. If you already have a passport, double-check the expiration date for hassle-free traveling.
• Visa. When traveling to most countries, U.S. citizens don’t need to apply for a visa unless they plan to stay for several months. However, there are some countries that require specific tourist visas before you’re able to enter. Research well in advance of your trip, as visa applications can take up to a few months to be processed.
• Proof of medical insurance. Some countries require proof of medical insurance before entering. In general, it’s a good rule of thumb to bring your insurance card with you when traveling.
• Vaccine card or negative COVID-19 test. Some countries have COVID-19 restrictions in place, like requiring vaccinations or a negative test before traveling. Check online for any restrictions or requirements.
• Debit or credit cards. It’s a good idea to carry some cash on vacation, but you’ll most likely be using a debit or credit card for some of your international expenses. Before your trip, let your bank know you’ll be traveling to a different country to avoid having your transactions flagged or declined. You should also check to see if your credit cards charge extra fees for international use.

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Toiletries and other essentials

Pack your own toiletries, even if you’re staying at hotels that may stock some of your daily needs. While you should be able to buy some items once you’ve landed at your destination, you won’t want to waste precious vacation time at the local convenience store. Only pack liquids under three ounces if you’re traveling by plane—you’ll save space in your luggage as a bonus.

Most toiletries you use daily should earn a spot on your travel checklist.

• Shampoo, conditioner, and hairstyling products
• Hairbrush or comb
• Soap, including face wash and body soap
• Deodorant
• Shaving cream and razors
• Moisturizing lotion and sunscreen
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Hygiene products, including tampons and pads

Remember to pack any other vacation essentials that you’ll need while traveling or once you’re at your destination.

• Medications. Don’t forget your prescription medications when traveling. Also, consider bringing travel-size over-the-counter medicine like pain relievers. Some countries have restrictions on certain prescription medications, so make sure you look up the countries you’ll be visiting ahead of time.
• Electronics and chargers. Even if you skip bringing your laptop or other electronic devices on your trip, you’ll need to bring your phone. Make sure you pack a charger and check to see if the country you’re traveling to uses a different type of outlet. If so, you might want to purchase an outlet adapter before you leave.
• Other travel must-haves. International travel often requires long plane trips—bring items to make your experience more comfortable. Consider packing a neck pillow and eye mask for sleeping, noise-canceling headphones, a refillable water bottle, and a small bag or fanny pack for easy access to your ID, phone, and boarding pass. To capture memories of your trip, bring a camera or travel journal.

“Many people plan longer trips when traveling out of the country—if you’re going on vacation for more than a weeklong stay, you’ll likely need to get creative to save luggage space.”

Clothing checklist for international travel

Many people plan longer trips when traveling out of the country—if you’re going on vacation for more than a weeklong stay, you’ll likely need to get creative to save luggage space. Otherwise, you might end up splurging on additional checked bags. Here are the clothing essentials:

• Outfits. As a rule of thumb, you should pack one outfit per day, plus travel days. Save on space by sticking to items with a classic color palette that can be reused for multiple outfits. Accessories can also make your daytime outfits appropriate for dinner and other nighttime activities.
• Pajamas. You won’t need to pack a pair of pajamas for each night of your trip, but you should pack something to sleep in for every two to three days.
• Underwear and socks. Bring at least one pair of socks and underwear per day of your trip, including travel days.
• Shoes. Shoes take up precious space in your luggage, so streamline your choices to two or three pairs. One pair of casual shoes and one dressier pair, like nice sandals, loafers, or heels, should be enough for most trips. Remember to include a good pair of walking shoes—your feet will thank you!

Consider the weather when packing for an international vacation. Even if it’s cold in your hometown, the temperature of your destination could be warm and sunny. When in doubt, bring clothing items that you can layer, like light sweaters and jackets. Even tropical locales might get chilly at night!

After buying a plane ticket for your next trip, you’re ready to start planning your international travel checklist. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or vacationing outside of the country for the first time, a thorough packing checklist gives you peace of mind for any destination.

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