Travelling abroad is thrilling—the kind of adventure that expands your mind, tests your patience, and fills your camera roll. But let me tell you from experience: nothing sours that excitement like forgetting a charger, losing a document, or realising too late that your bank has frozen your card. That’s why having solid travel prep tips in place is a game-changer.
After more than a few bumpy starts, I’ve fine-tuned a personal list of travel prep tips that help me stay calm, organised, and ready for anything. Here’s everything I do before heading to the airport, so you can skip the stress and focus on the fun.
1. Start With a Smart Packing List
If you’re like me, your suitcase will try to sneak in extras. That “just in case” dress, those five extra pairs of socks—you get the idea. These days, I stick to a list tailored to my destination’s weather, activities, and culture.
The key? Pack light, pack right. Think breathable layers for warm climates, waterproofs for rainy zones, and always comfortable shoes.
Pro Tip: I roll my clothes to save space and use packing cubes to stay organised. I also never forget my toiletry essentials—nothing ruins day one like hunting down toothpaste in a foreign language.
2. Prep Your Electronics the Right Way
I learned the hard way how important it is to prep your electronics before a trip—my camera died halfway through one vacation because I forgot to charge the backup battery. Now, I never skip this step. Before I leave, I make sure all my devices are fully charged, my photos are backed up, memory cards are cleared and ready, and geotagging is turned off for privacy. I also double-check that everything—phone, Kindle, camera—is in proper working order. Another must? Download offline maps, travel apps, and your e-boarding passes in advance. You can’t always count on Wi-Fi when you need it most, and being prepared makes everything smoother from takeoff to touchdown.
3. Bring a Travel Adapter (Yes, Really)
Not all plugs are created equal. I’ve fried more than one hair tool by forgetting this rule.
I now travel with a universal adapter that covers all major socket types. It’s compact, inexpensive, and saves me from begging a hotel receptionist for a spare. Trust me, your phone charger will thank you.
4. Compare Flights Like a Pro
Gone are the days of booking the first flight you see. I use platforms like Google Flights, Hopper, and Skyscanner to compare prices across dates and airlines.
Sometimes, leaving a day earlier or flying from a nearby airport can save hundreds. Be flexible where you can, but book with care. The cheapest option isn’t always the best if it involves long layovers or zero baggage allowance.
5. Get Your Documents in Order (and Make Copies!)
Your passport might be the first thing you pack, but it’s not the only document you’ll need on hand. Travel insurance, ID, visa papers, and your full itinerary are just as important—and easy to overlook in the rush. I always keep both digital and physical copies of the essentials: passport and visa, insurance policy, flight tickets, hotel confirmations, and a list of emergency contact numbers. I even email everything to myself as a backup, just in case something gets lost or stolen along the way. Trust me, having quick access to these documents can be a lifesaver if your bag—or phone—goes missing mid-trip.
6. Buy Travel Insurance—No, Seriously
I used to skip it, thinking, What could possibly go wrong? Then I had a luggage disaster in Rome and a food poisoning scare in Bangkok.
Now, I never leave home without decent coverage. Look for a policy that includes medical emergencies, lost baggage, cancellations, and trip interruptions. It’s a small price to pay for major peace of mind.
7. Let Your Bank Know You’re Travelling
Getting your card declined overseas is… not fun. I speak from experience.
Before every trip, I notify my bank and credit card provider of my travel dates and destinations. It prevents fraud alerts from locking you out and gives you access to emergency assistance if needed.
Bonus tip: Travel with at least two cards and keep one separate from your wallet—just in case.
8. Keep Snacks and Essentials Handy
Not all travel prep is about gadgets and documents—some of it is simply about comfort. I always carry a small pouch packed with essentials that make a big difference, especially during long flights or unexpected delays. A reusable water bottle keeps me hydrated, while snacks like protein bars or nuts curb the hanger when food options are limited. I also bring a travel pillow for neck support, hand sanitiser and wipes for quick cleanups, and lip balm and moisturiser to combat the dry cabin air. These little comforts may seem minor, but they’ve saved me more than once when a layover dragged on or a meal was skipped. A little prep here can make your entire journey feel a lot more human.
Key Takeaways
Solid travel prep tips don’t just make life easier—they protect your peace of mind. From planning your packing list, charging your devices, securing documents, and notifying your bank, the right habits turn travel stress into smooth sailing.
Travelling abroad should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth, preparation helps you explore confidently and calmly, so you can focus on the best part of travel: the unexpected magic along the way.
Where’s your next adventure taking you?
