International travel can be an exciting adventure but it can also bring many unpredictable situations, if you are not prepared for those situations they can quickly turn into life threatening situations.  We have put together this travel packing list to better help you plan your next trip.

Wha t to expect in this travel packing list; International travel usually requires a passport.  Most countries also require a visa and possibly even a work permit if you will be conducting company business for an extended period of time.  Visas, which allow you to enter and leave these countries, usually consist of special notations and stamps which are added to your passport by government officials. 

Many countries require immunizations for entry into the country; therefore, you should carry your immunization book with you. 

To complete your travel checklist please review the following:

Getting Ready

• Passport with required visas (passport should be valid for at least six months from start of trip). Get all visas in advance.
• Get all immunizations brought up-to-date in advance.
• Advise your family and co-workers NOT to discuss your travel plans with strangers.

Items To Leave At Home

• Your itinerary with spouse or friend.
• Copy of your passport (photo and visa pages) and other travel documents.
• Unneeded credit cards.
• I.D. and membership cards (i.e. office cardkey).
• Expensive and religious jewelry.
• Penknife or anything that looks like a weapon.

Travel Documents To Take With You

• Passport with required visas (passport should be valid for at least six months from start of trip).
• Visas for entry into countries to be visited, including those which you will transit.
• Health book (record of immunizations).
• Airline tickets (many countries require round trip ticket for entry).
• Drivers license – State (i.e. Indiana).
• Camera
• Fax, telex or letter stating that your visa will be available upon arrival for countries who do not issue visas outside their country.
• Traveler checks (exchange for local currency as needed at a bank).
• Major international credit cards (ie. American Express, Diners, and VISA/MasterCard)
• Airline frequent travel cards.
• Telephone numbers at destinations and addresses in countries to be visited – may be needed for landing cards.
• Copy of your passport (photo and visa pages) and other travel documents.

Travel Medical Insurance

• If you are traveling overseas or away from your home country, you may wish to purchase medical insurance for your trip
• Travel Medical Insurance is very inexpensive and can be a nice item to have in case of emergencies.

Other Items To Take With You

• Prescription medicines in clearly labeled containers.
• Small first aid kit.
• Card listing allergies and medical conditions.
• Plain, nondescript luggage.
• Business cards (pack in checked luggage).
• Foreign language/ pocket dictionary.
• Alarm clock, battery or wind-up.
• Adapters for electrical items (most overseas locations have 220 volts, 50 Hz electricity.
• Personal appliances (hair dryer, etc.) – 220 volts.
• Flashlight, smoke alarm, door stop, etc.
• Family pictures (this may reduce homesickness).
• Photos – black and white passport size – approx. 20. You may need a photo to obtain passes, permits, etc.

Before Departure and At The Airport

• Count your cash before leaving in an inconspicuous location.
• Get export papers from US Customs for computers, video cameras, etc. to make US Customs clearance easier when you return.
• Check in early and go through security immediately.
• Stay away from windows, trash bins, etc.
• Never agree to watch someone’s luggage.
• Report unattended bags and packages.
• Note the location of exits.
• Move away from disturbances.
• Take care of personal needs before boarding since long delays and waits are common.

On The Plane

• Select a seat near an exit, if open seating is allowed.
• Check around for luggage left by previous passengers.
• Put your carry on bags in overhead rack or under the seat in front of you.
• Count rows and note paths to exits.

Arrival At Destination

• Reconfirm your future flights – local office may be able to assist.
• Exchange a small amount of US dollars for local currency at the airport for taxi, tips, etc. You will usually get a better exchange rate at a bank.
• Register with consulate if staying several days.
• Check for exits and emergency instructions in your accommodation.
• Plan your escape in case of fire.
• Be sure your phone works — call the desk.
• Check the door locks – use doorstop if necessary.
• Don’t leave your key at the desk.
• Always put valuables in the security boxes.

When Traveling About

• Keep phone numbers of local contacts with you.
• Keep your money out of sight – never count it in public.
• Learn to operate the telephones the first day.
• Always carry your passport, leave copy in security box — unless local customs require otherwise.

General Comments and Hints

• Always remember that you are a guest in another’s country.
• Obey all laws of the country you are in – no drugs – no smuggling.
• Baggage – Most airlines allow two bags (max. 70 pounds each — some size restrictions apply) for direct travel to and from the USA.
• Check bags to your final destination.
• Know what you are hand carrying for someone else.
• Cash – Many countries require that you declare all of the cash (sometimes traveler checks as well) which you are bringing into the country.
• Count your cash before leaving in an inconspicuous location.
• Keep your currency forms with you.
• Never discuss financial matters in public.
• Travel Documents – Check all travel documents before leaving to ensure that they are valid for the duration of your trip, including extensions.
• Airline Tickets – Check your airline tickets to ensure that routing is as planned and that you know ALL of your stops.
• Packing Hints – The clothing you pack should always be appropriate for the climate and activities on your itinerary. In general, packFamiliarize yourself with the currency and exchange laws of the countries you plan to visit.
  • Clothing that is wrinkle-resistant, drip-dry and comfortable.
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Versatile styles that can go from casual to dressy.
  • Toiletries in unbreakable plastic bottles.
  • Include soap and washcloth.
  • Pack in your carry-on bag
    • An all-weather coat – Europe can be cool anytime of the year.
    • A supply of any medication and extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts lenses.
    • A change of clothing.
    • Duplicate suitcase keys.
• Tape your name, address, and passport number inside your suitcases.
• Take a pocket calculator for converting currency, etc.
• Take prescription slips for any necessary medication and eyeglasses.
• Carry a small notebook with your camera to record where photos were taken. Most countries prohibit photographing military and governmental facilities.
• Keep sales receipts handy for customs.
• Get someone to write your hotel address in the local language and keep it with you.
• Avoid ice cubes wherever you’re advised not to drink the water.
• Avoid raw vegetables wherever you’re in doubt.
• Most visas are valid for 30 to 90 days from issue – check validity with your schedule.
• Many airports require payment of an airport exit tax – be sure you have the correct amount in the correct currency.