The Vegan Nomad CEO

Planning a trip? Whether you’re heading to Europe, Asia, or somewhere tropical, preparation is key to a smooth and stress-free adventure. This ultimate pre-travel checklist covers everything you need to do before takeoff—so you don’t come home to a mess or face avoidable surprises abroad.

From packing tips to visa requirements, here are 7 essential travel to-dos before you leave.

1. Documents & Finances: Don’t Skip the Essentials

Before anything else, double-check your travel documents and financial setup:

•Check visa requirements: Visa rules are changing rapidly. Many countries now require eVisas or ETAs—even for short stays. For example, UK and Brazil recently added new entry requirements for Canadian citizens.

•Verify passport validity: Most countries require 6+ months remaining.

•Print or save digital copies of flights, hotels, and transportation.

•Notify your bank about your travel dates and countries.

•Review your travel insurance and ensure it covers your entire trip.

•Bring debit/credit cards and local currency for emergencies.

•Photocopy or scan your passport, ID, and cards—store them in the cloud and separately from the originals.

2. Pack Smart, Pack Light

Focus on essentials and smart packing:

Versatile clothes you can layer or mix and match

•Travel-size toiletries in a clear, TSA-compliant bag

•Medications + a copy of your prescription •Travel adapter, power bank, headphones •Reusable water bottle

•Laundry soap or laundry bag

•Luggage locks and durable name tags

3. Health & Safety First

Stay healthy and safe while abroad:

•Check for vaccine requirements at your destination

•Pack a mini first aid kit with travel essentials

•Bring hand sanitizer or masks if still needed

•Prepare an emergency contact list (paper & digital)

•Enable medical info on your phone (Apple Health, etc.)

4. Prep Your Home Before Departure

Avoid unpleasant surprises when you return home:

•Pause mail or ask a neighbor to pick it up •Arrange pet and plant care

•Unplug small electronics to avoid fire risk •Clean out the fridge (or freeze) and take out trash

•Set or turn off the thermostat and water (if needed)

•Schedule bill payments so nothing is missed

5. Download These Apps & Tools

Technology can make travel way easier—if you’re ready in advance:

•Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me)

•Set up an eSIM or international data plan •Download music, books, podcasts, and shows

•Backup your phone, photos, and important files to the cloud

•Translator, transit, and currency converter apps are a must

6. Work & Communication

If you’re taking time off work or running a business:

•Set up an email autoresponder

•Notify clients or key collaborators of your absence

•Prepare auto-scheduled content or delegate tasks

7. Final Countdown Checklist

Don’t get caught rushing at the last minute:

•Check in to your flight online

•Weigh your luggage to avoid fees and check luggage policies (as they might change) •Reconfirm your ride to the airport or train station

•Charge all devices the night before

•Grab healthy snacks for travel day

This 7-step travel checklist is designed to help you travel smarter, avoid common issues, and enjoy peace of mind during your trip. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or heading abroad for the first time, following this guide ensures you’re ready from passport to power bank.

Bon voyage! Don’t forget to share this list with a friend or save it for your next trip!