A calm, simple list for trips of one to three weeks. Print it, tick it off, and leave the worrying at home.
Two weeks before
- Passport valid at least 6 months after your return date
- Visas or entry forms checked for every country
- Travel insurance bought and policy number saved
- Prescriptions refilled for the whole trip plus a few extra days
- Bank and card company told about your travel dates
- Copies of passport and insurance saved to email or phone
Documents & money
- Passport and ID
- Boarding passes and booking confirmations
- Two payment cards, kept in different places
- A little local cash
- Emergency contact card in your wallet
Health & comfort
- Medications in original packaging, in your carry-on
- A written list of your medications and doses
- Spare glasses or contact lenses
- Neck pillow and sleep mask for the flight
- Compression socks if your doctor recommends them
- Lip balm, hand cream and a refillable water bottle
Carry-on bag
- Liquids in 3.4 oz / 100 ml bottles, in one clear bag
- Phone, charger and a travel adapter
- One change of clothes and a warm layer
- Reading glasses, book or tablet
- Snacks for the journey
Clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes, already broken in
- A light, packable rain layer
- A scarf or wrap for cold cabins and churches
- Outfits that mix and match, packed in cubes by category
- Sleepwear, underwear and socks for the trip
Before you leave home
- Check in online and note your gate time
- Weigh your suitcase to avoid overweight fees
- Lock checked bags with a TSA-approved lock
- Leave a copy of your itinerary with family
Tip: Pack your carry-on as if your suitcase might arrive a day late: medications, a change of clothes and chargers.
Want help choosing what to bring? Ask us, and a real person will answer.