International Travel Checklist

The excitement of heading off to an international destination for the first time can make you nervous about leaving something behind. Use our international travel checklist to bring only the items you need. Not only will you save money on extra baggage charges, making a list beforehand will ensure you don't forget anything important.

Know What to Wear

If you’re heading out to purchase a new wardrobe for your overseas vacation, you may want to think twice. Looking like an American tourist can make you a target for crime. Save some room in your budget and suitcase to buy wardrobe items at local shops. Not only will you look more like a local, you'll come home with some beautiful souvenirs. Bring the basics—and of course—comfortable walking shoes.

Thwart Illness

Stomach problems happen. Up to 70 percent of international travelers are affected by bacteria in food or water. Risks are lowest in well-developed areas like Europe, Australia and Japan. Pack some anti-diarrhea tablets that come in a foil sleeve—you can easily tuck one into a wallet or purse when sightseeing. If water quality is iffy at your destination, check to see if purified bottled water is available. But, be warned, it can be pricey in some areas. Otherwise, make a small investment and put a travel-sized water purifier, such as a SteriPEN, on your international travel packing list. You'll get ready-to-drink water almost immediately and you won't have to deal with the off-putting taste of chemicals or the hassle of boiling water.

Take Care of Yourself

The old adage about the best-laid plans of mice and men often going awry definitely applies to international travel, so pack a small self-care kit to keep with you at all times. Should you find yourself delayed without modern conveniences, items like a partial roll of toilet paper—with the cardboard tube removed and tucked in a baggie—can be invaluable. Also pack a few travel-sized sundries, such as deodorant and soap, an inflatable sleep pillow and a water-resistant pocket blanket that can double as rain protection. A small, but powerful, flashlight and a watch with an alarm also come in handy.

Get Smart

While savvy travelers know that apps like TripIt can help you keep all your travel docs virtually handy, there are several others you'll want to download onto your smartphone. Google Translate's two-way talk feature transforms awkward conversations into language-barrier-dissolving communications. If you're traveling off the beaten path, Smart Traveler, the U.S. State Department app, updates you on local travel warnings ranging from natural disasters to political unrest. Other travel apps, like Historypin and Findery, connect you with local history and provide insider insights for points of interest. The apps are free and available for both Android and iOS.

Take Lots of Pictures

Unless you're a professional photographer, more and bigger camera equipment isn't always better. A camera displayed prominently around your neck or in a large camera bag on your shoulder can attract attention from potential thieves. Today's smartphones take high-resolution photos, but some can limit your storage options. Pack a blue tooth-enabled external storage device, which remains tucked discreetly in a pocket or purse, to store your photos. All family members can use the device simultaneously, even through the walls of your hotel room.

Charge Ahead

Keeping your electronics charged when traveling internationally can be challenging, but adding just a few items to your packing list makes it a breeze. Invest in an international AC adapter that’s compact and lets you easily switch between European, U.K., Australian and U.S. outlets at the touch of a button. Expand your ability to plug in with a travel surge protector—some have a couple of USB ports, as well. Use it to charge a high-capacity USB battery pack you can put in a purse or pocket while you're on the go.

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