Pre-Vacation Checklist | Top 5 Things You Need To Do Before Traveling
Preparing for a trip is just as important as the vacation itself. But, we understand that most people dread the organizational side of travel (like Jenni). Still, skipping out on proper planning can lead to unnecessary stress later on. While it can take a bit of effort to get everything in order, the time and energy you invest now will pay off once you’re able to fully enjoy your time away. In this post, we’ll walk you through five essential steps to take before heading off, so your vacation can be as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Have a Plan
The more you plan before you leave, the less you’ll have to worry about when you arrive. This includes booking your flights, accommodations, and transportation. If you’re renting a car, get that confirmed early so you won’t be scrambling for options when you land. These are some of the most important aspects of travel, and getting them sorted ahead of time eliminates two of the biggest stressors people encounter: How will I get around? Where will I stay?
If you’re not planning to drive, familiarize yourself with the local public transportation options. Knowing in advance how to get from A to B will help you feel confident when navigating a new place. Some travelers even map out routes to key attractions or restaurants before arriving. Being prepared means fewer surprises, leaving you with more time to relax and explore.
If you’re not into planning, consider booking a cruise with an all-inclusive line like Viking. They’ll handle all on-ground transportation and flights for you, so all you have to worry about is choosing which shore excursions you want to go on.
Consider Travel Insurance
One thing many people overlook is travel insurance—but it’s a safety net you don’t want to skip. We recommend securing your travel insurance well in advance to avoid any last-minute headaches. The right insurance policy can cover cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and other unexpected issues that might otherwise ruin your trip.
When choosing travel insurance, take time to compare policies and read reviews to ensure you’re selecting a reliable provider. If you need to file a claim, it’s important to know that you’re backed by a company that offers solid customer support. We often book our travel insurance through who we’re traveling with (i.e. the cruise line, airline, etc.). Some travelers recommend IMG Travel Insurance, but do your own research to find the right fit for your needs.
Notify Your Bank About Your Travel
Before you head off, make sure to notify your bank or credit card company about your travel plans. Many financial institutions monitor for suspicious activity, and if they see charges from a different country or even a different city, they might block your card for security reasons. A quick call or notification through your banking app will save you the frustration of dealing with declined transactions while traveling. Additionally, it’s a good idea to carry more than one form of payment, just in case one method becomes unavailable.
Making a Packing List (or at least pack before the day of…)
Create a packing list that covers everything you and your travel companions will need. It’s easy to assume you’ll remember everything, but without a list, something important may get left behind. Go through each day of your trip and think about what you’ll need—from clothing and toiletries to electronics and travel documents.
Once you have your list, make sure to give yourself enough time to buy anything you don’t already have. A last-minute shopping scramble is the last thing you want before a trip! Even if you don’t want to make a packing list, having everything packed and ready ahead of time ensures you won’t be rushing or stressing when it’s time to leave.
Double (and Triple) Check Your Travel Documents
Finally, take a moment to double-check your travel documents. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date—some countries won’t allow entry if it’s close to expiring. If visas are required for your destination, apply well in advance to avoid last-minute panic. It’s also helpful to print out copies of important documents, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and insurance information, in case you can’t access them digitally during your trip.
We’ve found that making a copy of your passport is also great security just in case your passport is lost or stolen while on your trip, you’ll be better off with the copy than with nothing at all.
Enjoy a (Mostly) Stress-Free Trip
We hope this guide helps you prepare for your trip with confidence. No one wants to arrive at their destination only to realize a crucial reservation wasn’t made, or that something important was left behind. While there are always ways to handle the unexpected, a little preparation can go a long way in preventing unnecessary stress. With thoughtful planning you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment of your well-earned vacation.
Something to remember… things happen. No matter how well planned or thought out your trip may be, always remember that hiccups will come. Flights will be delayed. Luggage will be lost. Take a deep breath and remember, altered plans or unexpected delays are not failures and it’s all part of the journey.