Going on holiday is exciting, but ensuring you’re fully prepared can make the experience even more enjoyable.
From important documents to packing essentials, having a checklist will help you travel with peace of mind. At Highlander Travel, we want you to make the most of your trip, so here’s our comprehensive pre-travel checklist to ensure your holiday goes off without a hitch.
1. Travel Documents and Essentials
Missing documents can turn a dream holiday into a stressful ordeal. Make sure you have these essentials ready:
Passport
Check that your passport is up-to-date and has at least six months of validity from your departure date. Many countries require this to allow entry.
Visas
Research visa requirements for your destination well in advance. Some visas can be obtained on arrival, while others may need to be arranged beforehand.
Boarding Passes and Itineraries
Print copies of your boarding passes and itinerary, or download them on your phone to access offline.
Travel Insurance
Ensure your travel insurance policy covers medical expenses, cancellations, and any adventure activities you may undertake.
Nicole’s Top Tip: Create both digital and physical copies of your essential documents and keep them in separate, secure locations during your travels.
2. Health and Safety Preparations
Your health and safety are paramount, especially when travelling abroad. Here’s what to consider before you go:
Vaccinations and Health Certificates
Check whether your destination requires any vaccinations or health certificates. Visit a travel clinic if you need vaccinations, ideally a few weeks before departure.
Prescription Medications
Bring enough medication to last the entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Carry a prescription from your doctor, especially if travelling with controlled substances.
First Aid Kit
Pack a basic first aid kit with essentials like plaster, pain relievers, and any medications for specific conditions like motion sickness.
Emergency Contacts
Note down local emergency numbers, embassy contacts, and contacts for family or friends at home.
Nicole’s Top Tip: Always keep any medications in your carry-on to avoid issues if your checked luggage is delayed or lost.
3. Financial Preparations
Managing your money effectively can save you from unexpected inconveniences. Here’s how to plan ahead:
Notify Your Bank
Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid your card being blocked for suspicious activity.
Currency Exchange
Exchange a small amount of local currency before your trip for immediate expenses like transport or tipping. For larger amounts, consider using card machines at your destination.
Credit and Debit Cards
Bring multiple payment methods, including a credit card and a debit card, to avoid issues if one method doesn’t work.
Travel Insurance for Valuables
If you’re bringing expensive items, check that your travel insurance covers them, or consider additional insurance for peace of mind.
Nicole’s Top Tip: Download your bank’s app to keep track of your expenses and manage finances on the go.
4. Packing Essentials
Packing wisely can make a big difference in comfort and convenience. Here’s a list of what to consider:
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Research the climate of your destination and pack accordingly. Layering is ideal for varied weather conditions.
Comfortable Footwear
Make sure to pack shoes that are appropriate for activities like walking tours, beach days, or hiking excursions.
Toiletries and Personal Items
While some essentials may be available at your destination, pack must-have items like sunscreen, skincare products, and any hair or dental items you prefer.
Electronics and Chargers
Don’t forget chargers for your devices, including a power bank for long travel days. If travelling internationally, pack a universal adapter to keep your devices powered.
Nicole’s Top Tip: Use packing cubes to organise your luggage and save space, making it easier to locate items while you’re on the go.
5. Digital Preparation
In today’s digital world, a few tech preparations can simplify your travel experience and keep you connected:
Download Travel Apps
Apps for maps, language translation, currency conversion, and itinerary tracking can be invaluable during travel.
Offline Maps and Directions
Download offline maps of your destination in case you lose internet access or want to save on data roaming charges.
Itinerary Backups
Store a copy of your itinerary, booking confirmations, and travel details on cloud storage, like Google Drive or Dropbox, for easy access.
Entertainment and Reading Material:
For longer flights, download movies, music, books, or podcasts in advance to make the journey more enjoyable.
Nicole’s Top Tip: Keep a small notebook or digital note with your accommodation details, contact numbers, and local transportation options for quick reference.
