Traveling internationally, whether for work, vacation, or even to see family, is always something that is exciting. Going to a new country gives you the opportunity to experience new cultures, take in new sights and sounds, and enjoy different local customs.
However, traveling is not as simple as hopping on the next flight out of the country and requires a decent amount of preparation. It is also very easy to forget to bring everything if you do not have a list on hand.
If you are planning on traveling internationally, here is everything that you should pack so that you are fully prepared.
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Travel Documents
The very first essential to pack when it comes to international travel is your travel documents. This refers to both your passport and your visa, if necessary. It is impossible to travel internationally without a passport, so make sure that this is the first thing you pack.
Whether you have citizenship in one country or are a dual citizen passport renewal is essential if it has expired or will expire while you are out of the country.
Visas are needed depending on the country you are traveling to and your citizenship. While some visas are easy to obtain and can be applied for online and granted within minutes, others require months of applications, waiting, and lots of money. Sometimes, after all that, your visa can still be denied.
Travel Size Toiletries
Something that many people don’t think to bring with them while they are traveling internationally is travel-sized toiletries. All airlines for international travel have a restriction on the amount of fluid that can be carried in one container, and this usually means you can’t bring full-size toiletries with you on the plane in your hand luggage.
Having travel-sized toiletries with you while you are traveling is a great way to stay fresh, keep clean, and maintain cleanliness while still being able to pass through security without any problems. This can be anything from toothpaste to facewash and more.
Local Currency
Although most countries around the world work in a more digital fashion these days and will accept various different cards for transactions, there is a handful that still fully rely on cash or simply don’t have the means to accept international cards.
With that said, before heading out on your next big trip, it is always a good idea to exchange for some local currency before you leave so that you can be prepared on arrival. Cash is often used for tipping, paying for public transport, and more, and it is a good idea to have some on hand even before you arrive.
Power Adapters
One of the biggest nightmares of traveling internationally is the power outlets. They are different in every country, and it is likely that you will not be able to plug in your electronics from home without an adapter.
Power adapters are very easy to come by and are also very affordable. Before buying a power adapter, make sure you know what kind of electrical outlets they have in the country you are visiting.
Emergency Contact Information
Last but not least, the final thing that you should have prepared before leaving on your international trip is emergency contact information. No one plans to find themselves in an emergency while they are traveling, and accidents happen.
Having emergency contact information on hand at all times is incredibly important should you find yourself in trouble or in need of some help. This information is useful for hospitals and emergency care staff so that they can contact anyone who might need to know of what might have happened.