Your Pre Travel Checklist

Everything to Handle Before You Go on Vacation

You’ve booked your dream trip and the countdown is on! But before you zip up your suitcase and head out the door, take a moment to walk through this travel checklist.

Most travel stress happens before the plane takes off—when you’re trying to remember everything from holding the mail to refilling prescriptions. This guide is here to help you avoid last-minute panic and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

As a travel advisor, I know that the journey begins long before you arrive. A smooth departure starts with thoughtful planning—so here’s your essential travel checklist, broken down by timing.

Just After Booking

• Check your passport: It should be valid at least 6 months after your return date.
• Review health requirements: Make sure you’re up to date on tetanus or other immunizations.
• Check your luggage: Wheels working? Zippers intact? Replace anything that’s worn out.
• Start a packing list: Note what you might need to buy—clothing, accessories, or adapters.
• Set your travel budget: Don’t forget to include tips, meals, and emergency funds.
• Review your itinerary: Make sure all key reservations are confirmed or in progress.

1–2 Weeks Before Departure

• Organize all travel documents in one place (passport, ID, confirmations).
• Hold your mail or ask a neighbor to collect it.
• Line up help at home: Pet sitters, child care, lawn care, etc.
• Book airport transportation both ways.
• Refill any prescriptions.
• Download travel apps: Airline, maps, translation tools, etc.
• Make copies of documents and store them separately from the originals.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations.
• Contact your alarm company.
• Exchange currency or order foreign cash if needed.
• Add an international plan to your phone if necessary.
• Designate an emergency contact: Share your itinerary and give them a spare key.
• Buy any last-minute travel accessories (chargers, toiletry containers, etc.).

1–2 Days Before Travel

• Put lights on timers for home security.
• Adjust your thermostat to save energy.
• Unplug small appliances (coffee makers, toasters, curling irons).
• Lock all windows and doors.
• Double-check key contact info: Your advisor (hi!), hotel, babysitter, airport driver.

Travel Day – Or Night Before

• Clean out the fridge and pantry to avoid surprises when you return.
• Take out the trash.
• Close blinds or curtains.
• Take photos of your luggage in case of loss or delays.
• Take a photo of where you store your keys—you’ll thank yourself later.
• Check that everything is turned off and unplugged (oven, appliances, lights, etc.).

This travel checklist is your secret weapon for a smoother, more relaxed departure. Taking care of the details early means you can step into vacation mode with ease—and focus on what really matters: making memories.

If you’re ready to start planning your next adventure, let’s talk travel.
Click here to schedule a call with me.

P.S. If you found this helpful, feel free to bookmark it or share it with a friend. Safe travels!