Travel Hack Database

Your ultimate source for travel tips and hacks!

Ultimate First-Time Traveler Checklist

Planning your first international adventure? Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure a smooth and worry-free trip. Your progress is automatically saved as you check off items.

3-6 Months
Before
1-3 Months
Before
1 Month
Before
1 Week
Before
Day
Before
🛂 Pre-Trip Planning (3-6 months before)
Research and choose destination
• Consider: weather, peak vs. off-season, budget, safety
• Check travel advisories and entry requirements
• Research best time to visit
• Coordinate vacation days with work or family
Check passport and visa requirements
• Ensure passport validity (usually 6+ months beyond stay)
• Research visa process and timeline
• Schedule visa appointment if needed
Start saving and set trip budget
• Estimate daily expenses (meals, transportation, activities)
• Compare costs with potential off-peak savings
• Consider setting up an automatic travel savings plan
Research travel insurance options
• Medical coverage, trip cancellation, lost luggage, etc.
• Check credit cards for built-in travel insurance
Get necessary vaccinations and health check-up
• Consult with a travel clinic for destination-specific vaccines
• Ensure routine immunizations are up to date
• Check prescription refill needs if applicable
Plan initial itinerary
• Draft a day-by-day schedule for must-see sights
• Identify festivals or major events that align with your trip
✈️ Bookings & Reservations (1-3 months before)
Book flights
• Compare prices across multiple dates
• Consider layover times and airport transfers
• Choose seat preferences & add special meal requirements
• Sign up for flight deal alerts for discounted fares
Book accommodation
• Read reviews & confirm location (check Expedia for deals on flight+hotel packages)
• Check cancellation policies
• Save booking confirmation & address in local language
• Check if your hotel offers airport pickup
Plan main activities and tours
• Reserve popular attractions early (e.g., tickets to museums)
• Book special dining experiences in advance
Book airport transfers if needed
Car rental or local transport pass
• Reserve rental car if planning a road trip
• Check if you need an International Driver’s Permit
• Compare multi-day rail or bus passes to save money
📱 Technology & Communication
Prepare phone for international use
• Check international roaming options
• Explore inexpensive eSim options like Airalo
• Research local SIM card availability
• Download offline maps & translation apps
• Verify phone’s compatibility with local networks
Buy necessary power adapters
Download entertainment for flights
Set up VPN if needed
Update and backup devices
• Update operating systems & apps
• Backup important data (photos, contacts)
• Ensure you won’t need large data updates abroad
💳 Finances & Documents
Prepare payment methods
• Notify banks of travel dates
• Bring backup credit/debit cards
• Research currency & exchange rates
• Check for credit card travel perks (lounge access, etc.)
Organize important documents
• Make copies of passport and ID
• Save digital copies in secure cloud storage
• Print confirmations (hotel, tours, flights)
• Prepare an emergency contact list (embassy, local friend)
Purchase travel insurance
Check COVID/local health protocols
• Verify vaccination or testing requirements
• Keep an eye on changing regulations
• Pack any necessary documentation (certificates, etc.)
🎒 Packing (1 week before)
Clothing and accessories
• Check weather forecast & local dress codes
• Pack versatile items, consider layering
• Include comfortable walking shoes
• Pack a small collapsible bag for souvenirs
Toiletries and medications
• Pack prescriptions in original containers
• Bring copy of prescriptions
• Consider travel-size toiletries
• Pack basic first-aid supplies
Electronics and chargers
Travel comfort items (neck pillow, earplugs)
Weigh and secure luggage
• Check airline baggage allowance
• Use TSA-approved locks or cable ties
• Label bags with name & contact info
🏠 Home Preparation (Day before)
Set up home security
• Lock windows/doors
• Use light timers or a home security system
• Turn down thermostat or set eco-mode
Arrange pet/plant care
Clean out perishables
Hold or forward mail
Pay upcoming bills
🛫 Departure Day / Travel Day
Check in online, print/download boarding pass
Re-check baggage rules & carry-on restrictions
Arrive at airport (2-3 hours early for international)
Keep passport, visa, and ID easily accessible
Confirm flight status and gate information
🏁 Arrival Preparations
Plan your arrival
• Confirm airport transfer or public transport
• Have local currency ready for tips or taxis (note that exchange rates are usually worse in the airport)
Know local customs & etiquette
• Review tipping culture & basic phrases
• Be aware of local greetings and norms
Enable local SIM or roaming on your phone
Update friends/family that you’ve arrived safely
Check into accommodations