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The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad

Shannon McMahon

Editor Shannon McMahon is always planning her next trip and often writing in her travel journal. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ and on Instagram @shanmcmahon .

Shannon joined SmarterTravel in 2015. A former news reporter, she's lived in the south of Spain, spotted elephants in Sri Lanka, gone spelunking in the Caribbean, hiked Jordan's Petra Basin, interviewed Sao Paulo's Michelin-Star chefs, and explored China via bullet train. Travel trends, news oddities, and her visits to up-and-coming destinations are some of her favorite things to write about.

Her stories have also appeared online on USA Today, The Sun, Huffington Post, Business Insider, blog.TripAdvisor.com, Boston.com, and more. Her educational background is in journalism, art history, gender studies, Spanish, and film. She's been quoted as an expert travel source by CNBC, People.com, MarketWatch, The Washington Post, USA Today, and more.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Plenty of extra thick hair elastics. They tame my frizzy curls and come in handy in a surprising number of packing and hotel dilemmas."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Climbing (yes, climbing, it's steep!) the Great Wall of China before it's gone."

Travel Motto : "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." - Mark Twain

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window, of course."

Email Shannon at [email protected] .

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Traveling internationally is an adventure best planned ahead of time, and not just when it comes to booking flights and packing. Sure, showing up at your gate sans passport or forgetting melatonin for your red-eye flight can put a damper on your long-awaited escape, but most of your preparation should be dedicated to ensuring health, safety, and financial necessities are covered. To save you some prep time, we’ve compiled this international travel checklist for your next long-distance journey.

Focus on Safety First

One of the easiest and most important items on an overseas travel checklist is also arguably the most ignored. Travel insurance and State Department alerts can be incredibly important in emergencies abroad, but many tourists bet they won’t become part of the small percentage of travelers who require evacuation assistance or protection from hotel or flight cancellations.

Subscribing to the State Department’s STEP alerts for your destination can help you stay up to date on upcoming and current travel restrictions, strikes, and areas of political unrest. Any alerts you receive will let you know whether or not to plan for some unexpected obstacles in advance.

Travel insurance can cost as little as a few dollars per travel day and cover anything from replacing a broken camera to emergency medical attention, potentially saving you hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars.

Get Your Travel Documents and Credit Cards in Order

Make sure your passport and any necessary travel visas are up to date. Some countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months after your scheduled return, so make sure you won’t be turned away or delayed at customs because of an old passport. Not sure if you need a visa? See this list of every country that requires a visa for Americans .

Keep physical and digital copies of your passport and all your paperwork in case anything is lost, and give copies as well as your itinerary and contact numbers to family and friends whom you can contact in case of an emergency.

Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates so they don’t deny your purchases, and ask about international ATM fees so you can find out which ones won’t charge you. It’s always a good idea to bring multiple cards in case one stops working.

Don’t underestimate how helpful a cell phone photo of your passport can be. Whether you have to go to the consulate and report it lost, or are just filling out a customs card and need your passport number, it will likely come in handy. Email the image to yourself to have an extra digital copy in case your phone runs out of batteries or goes missing. You may also want to bring a spare copy of your passport photo on your trip; having it handy will speed the processing of a new document.

Your Questions About Online Passport Renewal, Answered

Get Vaccinated

It’s best to get the necessary vaccinations out of the way as soon as possible since it can take a few weeks to build full immunity. Some also require multiple doses, which may need to be administered over days, weeks, or even months. Talk to your doctor about getting the CDC-recommended shots , as the protocol for vaccines varies by country. For example, dozens of countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you’ve been to at-risk areas. A travel clinic can help you sort out which vaccinations and medications you might need.

Keep your vaccination certificate in your carry-on in case customs requires you to present it when entering the country.

Study Up on Your Destination

Whether you’re a travel app connoisseur or more of a paperback guidebook person, having some source of knowledge about your destination is invaluable. Read about the region you’re traveling to in advance to gain insight into important information such as currency exchange rates, useful phrases, tipping norms , appropriate clothing, and cultural/legal customs. It’s best to be prepared so you don’t land yourself in a compromising situation.

8 English Words You Should Never Use Abroad

Make Sure Your Home Is Cared For

There’s nothing worse than realizing once you’re six time zones away that you forgot to stop your mail delivery or ask someone to water your expertly cultivated house plants. Make sure your daily tasks are covered before you leave, or appoint a trusty friend to do them for you.

You can find a house or pet sitter to do your chores if you’re willing to list your home on TrustedHouseSitters.com . Plus, you could find lodging through the site for your trip abroad if you’re willing to spend some time with someone else’s furry friends.

Stay Connected

Want to stay in touch while traveling abroad? If you haven’t taken your phone overseas before, call your mobile provider to make sure it will work in the country you’re visiting and to ask about international phone plans that might be available. If your carrier’s plans are expensive, a mobile hotspot can be a cost-effective alternative.

Download the Necessities

Sometimes the most important thing you’ll pack is in your smartphone rather than your suitcase. Offline maps are your best friend when it comes to traveling with limited data or battery. You can find Wi-Fi in many places, but downloading offline maps through Google Maps or CityMaps2Go will allow you to follow your GPS without using up battery life and roaming data.

Downloading in-flight entertainment could also save you if your TV malfunctions on the long-haul flight. Streaming won’t be available without consistent in-flight Wi-Fi (which you shouldn’t ever depend on) but you can pre-download movies and TV shows through Amazon Prime , and music streaming service Spotify allows paying users to download tracks for offline use with the press of a button.

Don’t forget a portable backup charger . Watching hours of your favorite TV show is sure to drain your battery life, and there’s nothing worse than finally finding a Wi-Fi spot only to have your phone die.

The 10 Best Travel Podcasts

Check Your Destination’s COVID Policies

Make sure you’re aware of your destination’s most up-to-date policies regarding COVID and vaccination status. Check with the State Department website well before your trip to make sure you meet the requirements, and check in periodically to monitor for potentially changes. Similarly to the US, mask-wearing policies may be left up to the discretion of an event or venue, so its a good idea to have a few masks on hand when out and about.

Pack These Essentials

While the contents of your checked bag will largely depend on the climate you’re visiting, you’ll want most of your trip’s essentials on hand in your carry-on. Start with this international travel checklist of items to pack:

• Passport and visa
• Medications
• Insurance and ID cards
• Cash, debit cards, and credit cards
• Pen to fill out customs forms
• Portable charger
• Earplugs , eye mask , and sleeping pills
• Electrical converters and adapters specific to your destination
• Antibacterial wipes
• Sweater / scarf in case the plane is chilly
• Cell phone and charger

For more ideas, check out our ultimate packing list .

Consider taking photos of your packed suitcase (both inside and out) in case it gets lost. That way, airline employees will know what to look for, and you’ll know what was inside in case you don’t get it back and need to file a claim.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

An important item to check off the list: make sure you have a place to stay when you reach your destination! Book your hotel for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels .

Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ .

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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Packing for international travel can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the destination’s climate and culture. Even if you manage to bring everything you need, you could end up overpacking and lugging around a heavy suitcase.

To help make your packing experience easier, we’ve put together a comprehensive international travel packing checklist. Just remember to adjust the items on this list based on any specific requirements for your destination and the length of your stay.

The 9 Essentials That Should Always Be On Your International Travel Packing List

• Identification documents: passport, ID card, driver’s license, documents for your children, etc.
• Country-specific documents: visa, vaccination certificate, health forms
• Travel documents: boarding pass, booking confirmations, travel insurance
• Cash: local currency
• Medication: essential over-the-counter and prescription
• Clothing : enough to cover your whole stay
• Extreme weather gear : sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, rain jacket, cold-weather boots, etc.
• A bag of essential toiletries : shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant
• Electronics gear: country-specific adapters and chargers for your phone, tablet, laptop, etc.

Our Ultimate International Travel Packing Checklist for Men and Women

To download a condensed, free PDF version of our ultimate international travel packing list, click here .

• Electronics

Accessories

Miscellaneous

Some other items that you might need when traveling with toddlers and young children.

When traveling alone or as an adult couple, it’s generally possible to get by with the essentials. However, if you’re traveling with toddlers or young children, there are a few additional items that you should consider bringing.

• Baby food & formula
• Baby monitor
• Diapers and disposable diaper bags
• Toys & books
• Travel crib

Toiletries in Your Hand Luggage Must Follow the 3-1-1 Rule

If you’re bringing your own toiletries in your hand luggage, be sure to follow the 3-1-1 rule . This means your toiletry bag must contain no more than 3.4oz (100ml) containers, must be sealed in a 1-quart (1L) clear, plastic, zip-top bag, and each passenger can only bring one bag. This rule applies to liquids, gels, pastes, creams, and aerosols.

The Rules for Traveling With Electronics

The rules for traveling with electronics depend on the airline, country, and airport that you’re flying to and from.

When traveling to or from the U.S ., for example, you should be aware of the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) rules for electronics. These rules require that all electronics larger than a smartphone must be taken out of your carry-on bag and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening . This includes laptops, tablets, and e-readers.

It’s also important to note that some countries have restrictions on the type of electronics that you can bring into the country. For example, many countries, including China and Brazil, prohibit the import of certain electronics, like iPhones and iPads, and require you to declare these upon arrival.

Certain countries have restrictions around lithium batteries as well . This means you won ‘t be able to bring batteries with more than 100 watt – hours in your carry – on or checked luggage . To check the watt – hours of your batteries , check the label on the battery or the device itself .

Finally , you should be aware that some countries, such as South Africa and India, require you to register your laptop and other electronic devices with customs when you arrive . This is due to the increasing number of laptop thefts and other electronics – related crimes in those countries .

Unfortunately , there is no one – size – fits – all answer when it comes to traveling with electronics , so make sure to do your research before you go .

Don’t Forget the Size and Weight Restrictions for Your Baggage

Underseat bags.

• Must not be larger than 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 23 cm)
• Cannot exceed 17 lbs (8kg) when combined with the weight of your carry-on

Carry-on bags

• Must not be larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 23 cm)
• Cannot exceed 22 lbs (10kg)

Checked bags

• Must not be larger than 62 linear inches (157 cm)
• Cannot exceed 50 lbs (23kg)

No matter what size or weight restrictions you have, it’s important to make sure you pack smartly and efficiently . To do this, try to use packing cubes and consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This will help you maximize the amount of space in your luggage, so you can bring all the essentials without having to worry about the size or weight limits.

Which Items You’ll Need to Remove When Going Through Security

When you’re getting ready to go through security, there are a few items that you’ll need to remove from your carry-on bag and person. These include:

• Laptops and tablets
• All electronics larger than a smartphone
• Metal jewelry
• All liquids, gels, and aerosols
• Belts and other accessories

If you have any food items in your carry-on, you may also be asked to remove them for inspection.

It’s also important to note that some countries, such as the U.S., require you to remove your laptop, tablet, and other electronics from your bag even if you’re not checking them through security.

Which Items You Should Pack In Your Personal Item, Carry-On, and Checked Luggage

When traveling, it’s important to know which items you should pack in each type of luggage, as this will help you stay organized and minimize the amount of time you spend at the security checkpoint . Here is a quick breakdown of what should go in your personal item, carry-on, and checked luggage:

Personal Item

• Travel documents

Checked Luggage

As a general rule, it’s best to keep all valuables, medications, and important documents with you in your personal item and carry-on. This will ensure that you always have access to these items and that they remain safe.

Which Items You’re Allowed to Take for Free in Addition to Hand Luggage

When traveling, you’re usually allowed to take a few items for free in addition to your hand luggage. This typically includes a personal item, such as a laptop bag, a purse, or a briefcase, as well as a jacket or coat.

However, some airlines may limit the number of items you can bring for free, so it’s best to check your airline’s policy before you travel.

Tips on How to Save Space When Packing for an International Vacation

Packing for an international trip can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to end up overpacking or lugging around a heavy suitcase. To make your packing experience easier, here are a few tips on how to save space when packing for an international vacation:

1. Roll Your Clothes

Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help you save a lot of space in your suitcase.

2. Pack Lightweight, Versatile Clothes

Bringing lightweight and versatile clothes will help you save space and minimize the amount of clothes you need to pack.

3. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to keep your suitcase organized and maximize the amount of space in your luggage.

4. Wear Your Bulkiest Clothes

If you’re traveling to a cold destination, wear your bulkiest clothes, such as your winter coat, on the plane. This will help you save space in your suitcase.

5. Leave Some Space for Souvenirs

Make sure to leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs, as this will help you avoid having to buy an additional bag to bring them home.

6. Pack Multi-Purpose Items

Bringing items that serve multiple purposes, such as a scarf that can also be used as a blanket, will help you save space and avoid having to bring multiple items for the same purpose.

7. Invest in a Lightweight Suitcase

Investing in a lightweight suitcase can help you save space and make it easier to carry your luggage.

Don’t Bring These Prohibited Items

When traveling internationally, you should be aware of the items that are prohibited on planes and in certain countries. These items include:

• Flammable and combustible liquids
• Sharp objects
• Electronic cigarettes
• Hoverboards

Make sure to check your destination’s customs regulations and the airline’s policy before you pack, as some countries and airlines may have additional restrictions.

Don’t Forget These Long-Haul Essentials for a Comfortable Flight

Taking a long-haul flight can be tiring and uncomfortable, so it’s important to make sure you bring the essentials to ensure a comfortable flight. Here are a few items you should bring on a long-haul flight:

• Neck pillow
• Water bottle
• Travel blanket
• Compression socks
• Entertainment (books, movies, music, etc.)
• Disinfecting wipes

Many of these will be provided by the airline, but they may not be up to your standards, so it’s always best to bring your own.

What to Look Out for When Shopping for New, Sturdy Luggage

When shopping for new luggage, you should look for a few key features to ensure you get a sturdy and reliable suitcase. Here are a few tips on what to look out for:

While hardside luggage made from ABS is likely to be the cheapest on the market, it’s also the most prone to damage. If you’re looking for a suitcase that will last, opt for a polycarbonate or aluminum piece. If you prefer softside luggage, go for a high-denier nylon or polyester piece.

Read more:  The Ultimate Guide to Luggage Materials

Most hardside luggage is fitted with spinner wheels, which are great for maneuverability. However, take a look at the wheels to make sure they’re durable and have quality bearings. For softside luggage, in-line wheels provide excellent stability and can be rolled along almost any surface.

Make sure the handle is adjustable and sturdy. Ergonomically designed handles place the least strain on your wrists as you wheel your suitcase. You should also ensure that your suitcase has carry handles so it can be lifted with ease when needed.

Zippers & Locks

Opt for a piece with good-quality zippers and an integrated TSA lock. YKK zippers are considered the best on the market.

Many manufacturers offer a limited warranty that covers any defects in the material and workmanship. Make sure you read the warranty carefully and check the length of the coverage before you make your purchase.

The weight of a suitcase is largely dependent on the materials used to make the piece, and generally speaking, hardside suitcases usually weigh more than softside suitcases. If you’re considering a hardside suitcase, opt for one made from polycarbonate or ABS, as these are the lightest materials on the market. For softside luggage, nylon and polyester are the lightest materials.

Read More:  How Much Does an Empty Suitcase Weigh on Average?

Final Words

Packing for an international trip can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that anything you forget will likely be available wherever you’re traveling.

By following this international travel packing checklist and the tips provided, you can make sure you have everything you need for your trip without having to lug around a heavy suitcase.

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• Travel Products
• Packing Lists

The Ultimate International Trip Packing List

Here’s everything you didn’t know you needed to make your international trip as seamless as possible.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

We don’t tend to complain a whole lot when it comes to planning and preparing for travel. Sure, there are bad parts, boring parts, and stressful parts… but all the negative aspects of the travel process give way to some of the best and most memorable life experiences. The packing process may fall into the less-fun side of preparing for travel but, with the right mindset and strategy, it can make the whole trip.

Packing for an international trip specifically requires careful planning; sure, you can probably find forgotten items while abroad in many destinations but having everything already secured in your suitcase will make your trip a whole lot easier. Nobody wants to spend a half day of travel searching for something they forgot at home.

Packing Checklist for an International Trip

This guide will help ensure you’ve packed everything you could possibly need for an international trip, whether it’s your first time leaving the country or you’re a seasoned traveler. Having these items on hand — along with the appropriate clothing and shoes for your destination — will help make your trip as smooth and seamless as possible.

• Best Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Best Wi-Fi Hotspot: Simo Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot
• Best Camera:   Nikon ZF
• Best Tripod: Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand
• Best Portable Power Bank: Nimble Champ
• Best Noise-canceling Headphones: Apple AirPods Max
• Best Luggage Tracker: Eufy SmartTrack Link

Accessories

• Best Passport Cover: Paravel Cabana Passport Case
• Best Travel Wallet: Leatherology Travel Wallet
• Best Luggage Belt: Cincha Travel Belt for Luggage
• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Memobottle A5
• Best Packing Cubes: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
• Best Neck Pillow: Cabeau TNE S3
• Best Money Belt: Raytix Money Belt
• Best Compression Socks: Comrad Compression Socks

Luggage and Bags

• Best Lightweight Backpack: Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage
• Best International-sized Carry-on: Away The Carry-on
• Best Checked Bag: July Checked Plus
• Best Belt Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Best Travel Laundry Bag: Miamica Travel Laundry Bag
• Best Tote: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe
• Best Toiletry Bag: Away The Toiletry Bag
• Best Rolling Duffel: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel

We know, we know. You’re not setting out on an international trip to be consumed by your tech, but there are certain essentials that can make a good trip even better, whether aiding an itinerary, ensuring your safety, or simply entertaining you while in transit. Packing things like a reliable wi-fi hotspot and a portable power bank means you’ll always have access to your smartphone for emergencies (or just to use Google Maps to navigate your self-guided walking tour without having to pop into a cafe every few blocks).

Best Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Effectiveness 4 /5

Traveling abroad with a good adapter like the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is non-negotiable. It comes equipped with plugs for more than 150 countries but the convenient sliding design means you won’t have to fuss with (or be responsible for) multiple attachments. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated that this option comes with so many USB ports (four USB-A and one USB-C) as it cut down the need for multiple adapters and made it incredibly easy to charge all our tech at the same time.

Best Wi-fi Hotspot

Skyroam solis lite.

Do you remember the days of traveling before Google Maps? It’s hard to imagine a time when we’d actually have to ask locals for directions or hope we’re reading a paper map properly. The Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot makes modern travel even easier by ensuring you’re always connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network, wherever you are. It doesn’t require a SIM card or a contract and functions seamlessly in more than 135 countries around the world. It can also support up to 10 devices at a given time — which means your travel buddies will thank you, too.

Best Camera

Nikon zf mirrorless camera.

The Nikon ZF immediately catches the eye with its beautiful, retro-inspired body. Don’t let the decidedly cool aesthetic fool you though — this camera also makes it super easy to channel your inner photographer. The 24-megapixel, full-frame mirrorless camera is very simple and user-friendly but offers enough bells and whistles to quell more advanced photographers. It’s also incredibly small and lightweight which makes it great for throwing into your day bag (no oversized camera bag required!).

Best Tripod

Phopik aluminum extendable tripod stand.

Another way to ensure great vacation photos? Investing in a decent tripod stand. Selfies have their time and place but being able to set up a tripod to get group shots in idyllic settings will ensure frame-worthy visual souvenirs. The Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand is a great option for those who travel with both a digital camera and a smartphone as the convertible device can actually be used as a selfie stick and tripod for smartphones while also extending into a more stable tripod suitable for a heavier camera. It also packs down ultra-small when not in use so you won’t have to run around all day with a full-sized tripod under your arm.

Best Portable Power Bank

Nimble champ portable charger.

The Nimble Champ is a game changer for long travel days when you might not have the chance to wait by an outlet for your smartphone to refuel; the 10,000 mAh battery is more than enough to charge the average smartphone between three to five times in full. If you’re concerned about having your phone for safety purposes (like to grab an Uber, use Google Maps, call for help, etc.), a compact lightweight charger will also offer serious peace of mind. We like that this option is made using 99 percent certified recycled plastic so you can feel good about the sustainable choice. And, if you need even more juice, there’s a more powerful Nimble Champ Pro with a 20,000 mAh battery instead.

Best Noise-canceling Headphones

Apple airpods max.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Sound Quality 5 /5
• Battery Life 5 /5

The AirPods Max are admittedly a bit expensive but they’re worth the price point for the quality and overall ease of use, especially if you’re a lover of Apple devices. During the testing process, we found the user experience to be the best out of all the headphones we tried. We really like how easy they are to connect to an iPhone or MacBook without having to go searching into the Bluetooth settings (there’s a simple pop-up that’ll ask you if you want to switch and that’s that). We found the headphones very intuitive to use and the sound quality is excellent as well with a strong enough noise-canceling feature to provide serenity everywhere from the airplane to the subway.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Accuracy 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Popping a luggage tracker, like the Eufy SmartTrack Link, into your checked luggage will allow you to track a suitcase in real time which offers peace of mind and can help expedite the return of lost-in-transit baggage. This tiny tracker was our top pick during testing due to its ease of use and convenient size and shape. The durable square comes equipped with a hole in the top corner that makes it easy to add a carabiner or key ring onto the tracker to attach to internal zippers or other items, too.

It can be tricky to strike a healthy balance between actual travel essentials and products that seem useful in theory but actually just end up taking up precious space in your suitcase or carry-on. The following items are designed to make travel as easy and comfortable as possible and are all compact, easy to pack, and won’t end up weighing you down. They’re also highly practical for staying organized and put together while making your way through passport control or while taking public transport from the airport to your hotel.

Best Passport Cover

Paravel passport case.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

You might not think you need a passport cover, but this Paravel Cabana Passport Case is a particularly great option since it not only keeps your passport safe and secure but holds up to eight cards, too. During the testing process, we found the luxe material to also be durable, and it was very easy to get our cards and passport in and out of the slots without having to stretch things out. We also like that this one comes in several colorways and can be customized with a hand-painted initial as well.

Best Travel Wallet

Leatherology zip around travel wallet.

If you’re hoping to score something with a little extra space, the Leatherology Travel Wallet is a particularly great choice as it’ll keep all your stuff organized without becoming too bulky or heavy. The compact design has a slot for pretty much everything you could need including your passport, cards, printed boarding pass, coins, cash, and even a pen. During the testing process, we found that this option stood out for its buttery soft leather that feels much more expensive than it is, and for the expansive interior that could easily hold more than a couple of passports. 

Best Luggage Belt

Cincha travel belt.

The Cincha Travel Belt is one of those travel accessories that you don’t realize just how much you need until you have it on-hand while on the go. The travel belt is designed to attach your personal items — like a coat, shopping bags, and even your handbag — to the handle of your rolling luggage without worrying about it sliding around or falling off the top of your luggage. This is a particularly handy option to have on hand while changing terminals or taking trains to the city center when you don’t want to have to worry about lugging multiple loose pieces.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Memobottle a5 the flat water bottle that fits in your bag.

There are certain things that all responsible travelers should consider when setting off on a trip — and being a more sustainable citizen of the world is one of them. The easiest way to cut down on your carbon footprint while traveling? Investing in a reusable water bottle. The Memobottle A5 makes it easy to ditch single-use plastic while traveling without feeling like, you know, you’re carrying a massive water bottle around with you. It’s designed to be ultra thin and can fit in a briefcase or handbag. However, don’t let the thin size fool you. This water bottle fits a standard 750 milliliters which is the exact same as the single-use bottle of Smartwater in the airport shop.

Best Packing Cubes

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Design 5 /5

Packing the right amount of clothing for an international trip can be a bit of a daunting task which is why we’re such major advocates for the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes . The set of four cubes comes in a variety of sizes to help keep garments in order while planning for your trip. The compression cubes are also designed to squish down into the smallest size possible so you can fit even more into that carry-on roller without worrying about taking up too much space in the overhead bin or running out of room for souvenirs.

Best Neck Pillow

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

• Quality 4.8 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Think of the Cabeau TNE S3 as the neck pillow for travelers who hate carrying a neck pillow. The compact neck support folds down into a tiny bag that can easily be stored away in your carry-on or handbag while on the go. We loved this neck pillow during the testing process for its memory foam material and 360-degree support. It’s designed to attach to your seat and will keep you from that annoying head bobbing that can often happen when trying to sleep upright.

Best Money Belt

Raytix rfid money belt.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

Money belts might not be the most exciting of travel gear — but having this under-clothes accessory can offer major peace of mind if you’re nervous about carrying your valuables out in the open while on the go. The Raytix Money Belt was our top pick during our tests because of its smooth material that feels comfortable on the skin and a discreet size that doesn’t bulge when placed properly under your clothing. We also really liked that it was wide enough to comfortably fit a passport without having to wiggle the zipper in order to close the pouch.

Best Compression Socks

Comrad compression socks.

The Comrad Compression Socks do the impossible: make compression socks look cool and stylish. The double-dip ombre design is fun and aesthetically pleasing — especially compared to your average drugstore alternative — and the socks themselves are extremely soft to the touch. During the testing process, we found they offered gentle compression without being uncomfortable. They were breathable and we could easily wear them on a long-haul flight without any itchiness whatsoever either.

Selecting the right luggage for your international trip is half the battle. For example, if you’re hoping to avoid checking a bag at all costs, you’ll want something that is no bigger than 21.5 inches, and as lightweight as possible. If you’re looking for a suitcase that’ll handle the arduous checked baggage process, you’ll want to look for a hard-sided spinner with enough give that it won’t crack or puncture while in transit.

Choosing the right personal item and day bag is an equally important decision. Handbags and backpacks should be lightweight and multi-purpose, meaning that you’ll be able to use them at multiple times, like day trips to the country, jaunts around the city center, and evenings out.

Best Lightweight Backpack

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

Given the brand's reputation for high-quality bags , it's no surprise the Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage is forever our go-to travel bag when we’re aiming to pack light but stylish. Longchamp Le Pliage in general is kind of the perfect bag concept for travel as it packs down ultra small when not in use but can expand to a full-sized bag as needed. The backpack is no exception; it’s small and lightweight but stylish and large enough to fit a day — or night — of essentials without screaming tourist or looking too bulky. We also like that this option is made from a durable nylon and can withstand the bright sun and heavy rain without getting damaged.

Best International-sized Carry-on

Away the carry-on.

Packing for international air travel can sometimes be a little dicey, especially if you’re going to be flying on budget airlines with little wiggle room on suitcase sizing. The Away The Carry-on sits just below most international carrier limits so you won’t run into any surprises at the gate, but we also found that it’s incredibly roomy. During the testing process, we were able to fit everything we needed for a four-day trip with room to spare. The hard plastic shell is also incredibly durable — even when clobbered with a baseball bat — so it will hold up with heavy duty use, too.

Best Checked Bag

July large luggage.

• Organization 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5

The July Checked Plus is our top choice when it comes to the best checked luggage for international travel , especially if you tend to be an overpacker as it fits 110 liters worth of items. Even if you don’t fill it to the brim, we particularly like the number of pockets and organizational features inside to keep things sorted. During our testing process, we found it was incredibly easy to pack a fair amount while giving everything a designated spot. We also found the wheels and handle to be the smoothest we’ve found in a suitcase which made it easy to trolley the suitcase around through the airport and into the city.

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag.

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is, well, kind of everywhere, but it’s easy to see why. It’s incredibly lightweight and durable while offering a discreet but stylish solution to storing your daily essentials in a safe and secure manner. It’s also made of water-repellent polyester so you can get caught in the rain with less issue than a leather or cotton alternative. This option also comes in a huge variety of colorways to best suit your style, but we’re major fans of the classic black. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated how easily the zipper glides; it doesn’t pull or stick which makes it easy to quickly grab items like a wallet or passport out without having to use two hands. Plus, if you have even more to carry, there’s a 2-liter version , too.

Best Travel Laundry Bag

Miamica travel laundry bag.

The Miamica Travel Laundry Bag is another one of those items that is easy to forget or brush off as being unimportant but can actually make such a big difference while on the go. This lightweight laundry bag will take up no room in your luggage but makes staying organized while traveling so much easier. Whether you’re doing your own laundry in your hotel room or planning on sending the essentials off for dry cleaning, having a separate bag to store your dirty clothes in means you won’t have to rifle through your suitcase trying to decipher what is clean versus what needs to be washed.

MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote

• Portability 3 /5
• Ease of Use 3 /5

Don’t underestimate the power of a great tote while traveling as options like this lightweight MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe won’t take up much space in your luggage but can be a lifesaver if you somehow find yourself with more stuff to pack on your way home. We found this bag to be super roomy without overpowering us with a ton of built-in pockets and even a removable pouch to keep gear organized on the go. It’s also worth noting that this tote comes in a few different sizes from mini to large if you’re looking for something a bit bigger or smaller instead.

Best Toiletry Bag

Away large toiletry bag.

There are a lot of utilitarian toiletry bags out there but options like this one from Away both get the job done, and look good in the process. We found it very easy to pack and organize, thanks to an abundance of pockets and pouches to store everything from makeup brushes to delicate bottles. The material feels high-end and sleek but we found it to be secure and waterproof so nothing spilled out while in transit either.

Best Rolling Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 3 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel is our top pick for the best rolling duffel for international travel since it’s huge yet still incredibly easy to roll through the airport or tote by hand on public transit. We particularly loved that this bag came with its own packing cubes and could easily convert from duffel to backpack to rolling suitcase. Despite its multi-functional design, it really excelled at everything. We found the bag very smooth to roll and just as easy to grab and go when needed. The material also feels very durable; like it could withstand heavy use without having to be too precious with it.

Unfortunately, yes, there are quite a few items that you can’t bring on your international trip depending on the country you’re heading to. Take this into consideration when shopping for travel products. Some destinations don’t allow certain tech — like drones — while others are very strict about the medication you’re allowed to bring into the country. If you have any doubts or concerns about what you can and cannot bring to a certain locale, be sure to check the official TSA security screening rules and the screening rules of the specific country you’re planning to visit.

Every airline has its own set of rules when it comes to carry-on and checked baggage size and weight restrictions. The standard carry-on size outside of the United States tends to be a lot smaller, so you’ll want to ensure your hand baggage doesn’t exceed the restrictions of the airlines you’re flying. It tends to be about 26 pounds and 21.5 inches in height for most European carriers, for example, but always check with the exact airlines you plan to use.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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Filter by region, status and more

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Albania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Algeria.

American Samoa

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter American Samoa.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Angola.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Anguilla.

Antigua And Barbuda

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Antigua And Barbuda.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Argentina.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Armenia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Aruba.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Australia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Austria.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Azerbaijan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bahrain.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bangladesh.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Barbados.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belgium.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belize.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Benin.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bermuda.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bhutan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bolivia.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Botswana.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brazil.

British Virgin Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the British Virgin Islands.

Brunei Darussalam

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brunei Darussalam.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bulgaria.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Burundi.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cambodia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cameroon.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Canada.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cape Verde.

Caribbean Netherlands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Caribbean Netherlands.

Cayman Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Cayman Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Chad.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Chile.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter China.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Colombia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Comoros.

Cook Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Cook Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Costa Rica.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Croatia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Curaçao.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cyprus.

Czech Republic

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Czech Republic.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Denmark.

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Djibouti without restrictions.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Dominica.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Dominican Republic.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, need to quarantine to enter East Timor.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ecuador.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Egypt.

El Salvador

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter El Salvador.

Equatorial Guinea

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Equatorial Guinea.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Eritrea.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Estonia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Eswatini.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ethiopia.

Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).

Faroe Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Faroe Islands.

Federated States of Micronesia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Federated States of Micronesia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Fiji.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Finland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter France.

French Guiana

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter French Guiana.

French Polynesia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter French Polynesia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Gabon.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Gambia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Georgia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Germany.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ghana.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Gibraltar.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Greece.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Greenland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Grenada.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guadeloupe.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guam.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guatemala.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guinea.

Guinea-Bissau

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guinea-Bissau.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guyana.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Honduras.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Hong Kong.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Hungary.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Iceland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter India.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Indonesia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ireland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Italy.

Ivory Coast

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ivory Coast.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jamaica.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Japan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jersey.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jordan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kazakhstan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kenya.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kiribati.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kosovo.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kuwait.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kyrgyzstan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Laos.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Latvia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Lesotho.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Liberia.

Liechtenstein

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Liechtenstein.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Lithuania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Luxembourg.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Macau.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Madagascar.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malawi.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malaysia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Maldives.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malta.

Marshall Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Marshall Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Martinique.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mauritania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mauritius.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mayotte.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mexico.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Moldova.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mongolia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Montenegro.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Montserrat.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mozambique.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Namibia.

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Nauru without restrictions.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nepal.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Netherlands.

New Caledonia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter New Caledonia.

New Zealand

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter New Zealand.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nicaragua.

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Niger without restrictions.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nigeria.

North Macedonia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter North Macedonia.

Northern Mariana Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Northern Mariana Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Norway.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Oman.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Pakistan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Palau.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Panama.

Papua New Guinea

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Papua New Guinea.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Paraguay.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Peru.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Philippines.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Poland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Portugal.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Puerto Rico.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Qatar.

Republic of the Congo

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Republic of the Congo without restrictions.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Réunion.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Romania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Rwanda.

Saint Barthélemy

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Barthélemy.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Saint Lucia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Lucia.

Saint Martin

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Martin.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Samoa.

São Tomé and Príncipe

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter São Tomé and Príncipe.

Saudi Arabia

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saudi Arabia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Senegal.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Serbia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Seychelles.

Sierra Leone

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sierra Leone.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Singapore.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Slovakia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Slovenia.

Solomon Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Solomon Islands.

South Africa

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Africa.

South Korea

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Korea.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Spain.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sri Lanka.

St. Maarten

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter St. Maarten.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sudan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Suriname.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sweden.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Switzerland.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Taiwan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tajikistan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tanzania.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Thailand.

The Bahamas

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter The Bahamas.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Togo.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tonga.

Trinidad and Tobago

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Trinidad and Tobago.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tunisia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Türkiye.

Turkmenistan

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, will not be allowed to enter Turkmenistan.

Turks and Caicos Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tuvalu.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uganda.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United Arab Emirates.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United Kingdom.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uruguay.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uzbekistan.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Vanuatu.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Vietnam.

Wallis and Futuna

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Wallis and Futuna.

Western Sahara

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, will not be allowed to enter Western Sahara.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Zambia.

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Zimbabwe.

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How often is the data on this page updated.

We check for travel restriction information from government authorities daily, and update the page any time we get new information. The following information regarding travel restrictions for each country is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.

How many countries are closed to visitors?

As of Sep 11, 2 countries have completely restricted entry to non-citizens and 5 are open but require quarantine and/or a negative COVID test.

Where can I travel without COVID restrictions?

Currently you can travel from the United States to 197 countries without restrictions. Please check our map to learn more.

Are there any other types of travel restrictions besides COVID-19 tests and quarantines?

These are the two main types of restrictions or requirements needed to travel into another country. However, the COVID-19 testing options are continually widening as new methods are developed. Different countries may accept results from different or multiple test types, so be sure to check the individual country's specific requirements.

What should I do if I get COVID-19 while in another country?

If you get COVID-19 while in another country, follow the local authority's recommendations. These may include hospitalization, self-isolating and testing in that country. Be sure to contact your travel insurance company and travel provider as well and inform them of your situation.

What should I do if the borders of the country I am visiting close?

Depending on your home country, you may need to change your departure date and return home as soon as possible. If that's the case, contact your travel provider to find the earliest departure.

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The ultimate international travel checklist

If you’re wondering what to pack for traveling abroad, look no further. Here is the ultimate international travel checklist for the young, adventurous traveler.

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Oct 27, 2023

Traveling is one of the most rewarding things you can do in life. But for some people, the stress of packing can diminish the exciting anticipation of before, specially if it is the first time that you are planning a trip .

Luckily, the internet is able to connect travelers from all over the globe so we can share our tips and resources for common travel problems . Finding an international travel checklist online can ease some of the pre-trip stress and make you feel more prepared . 

I’ve been traveling abroad consistently for about 5 years, and I’ve done a few trips with Worldpackers. Based on my own travel experiences , and the research I’ve done in the past, I have created my own checklist for international travel .

These essential things to pack for traveling come with me on every single trip I take. So I’m going to share them with the Worldpackers community! Hopefully, this list will help other travelers feel more comfortable when packing to for a trip abroad .

The Ultimate International Travel Checklist

If you’re wondering what to pack for traveling abroad , look no further. This international travel checklist will be sorted into a few categories:

• Travel Essentials
• Entertainment

Other Recommended Items

Covid-19 safety.

Keep in mind, this list is just my personal preference . You don’t have to stick to the list exactly, and you can add or remove things to suit the country and your travel itinerary .

You might also like:  The greatest travel hacking guide you need for a stress-free trip , the best summer travel ideas  and know how much does camping cost.  

International Travel Essentials

Here are some of the things you almost always have to pack for a trip abroad.

1. Sturdy Travel Bag

Your travel bag of choice may vary depending on your travel style and how long you’re traveling. But I’ve always loved just a good old fashioned backpack. 

You can buy huge ones for months on the road, or an average-sized one for a short trip. 

But make sure you get a bag that is comfortable and sturdy, as you’ll depend on it every day while traveling. If you prefer a rolling suitcase, stick with that.

Aside from your main backpack, be sure to bring a smaller bag for day trips. 

A small backpack or large purse is handy for exploring during the day, and you can also use it as a carry-on bag.

3. Universal Travel Adaptor

Remember that many countries have differently shaped electrical outlets on the wall. 

Pick up an adaptor before your trip so you can charge your devices abroad. 

If you really love traveling, I recommend getting a universal travel adaptor so you can adjust it to fit any country in the world.

4. Reusable Water Bottle

To save money and eliminate plastic waste while traveling, pack a good-quality, reusable water bottle. 

If you’re in a country that doesn’t have safe drinking water, sometimes you have no choice but to buy filtered bottled water. 

Or, you can buy a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can clean your own water.

5. Passport and Visas

Your passport is one of the most important things to pack while traveling abroad. Make sure it is in date and won’t expire. 

Also, be sure to research visa requirements before you leave for your trip. 

Most visas are electronic these days, but sometimes you’ll have to mail in your passport to have the visa imprinted. 

So don’t leave this until the last minute! (Also make electronic and hard copies of all important documents, just in case).

6. Travel Insurance

It’s always smart to have travel insurance in case you get sick or injured abroad. 

Do plenty of research and pick a plan that works for you.

7. Medications

If you are on any medications, talk to your doctor before you go traveling and ensure you have enough to last you throughout your trip.

8. Debit or Credit Card

You’ll need money while traveling, so pack your credit or debit cards for withdrawing foreign cash from ATMs. 

Skip transferring money at the airport and do it at a bank in your destination; you’ll get more value for your money as airports often charge high commission rates. 

Consider getting a card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees so you can save more money while travelling . 

International Travel Entertainment

These things will make your life easier while traveling. I couldn’t survive a long plane or bus ride without any entertainment!

It’s always nice to have a good book while traveling. They can be quite heavy and bulky in your bag, however, so try not to bring too many. Or invest in a kindle!

10. Journal and Pen

Journaling is a great way to record memories from your trip. 

If you’ve never journaled before, consider trying it out on your next trip abroad. It’s a relaxing way to pass the time, and it helps declutter your mind. 

Also, it’s handy to have your own pen for filling out landing cards or immigration forms on planes!

Whether you have a fancy DSLR camera, a compact digital camera, a GoPro, or a decent smartphone, make sure you have some sort of camera to capture the incredible sights you see on your trip. 

Pack all the necessary accessories too, such as a carry bag, battery, charger, memory card, and more.

12. Headphones

Headphones are one of the most important travel essentials. A podcast or music playlist is great for long travel days, especially if you are a solo traveler .

13. Earplugs

If you’re staying in a busy city or in a hostel dorm room, consider packing earplugs.

 Noises from the street or partying travelers in your hostel can keep you up all night. Earplugs can help block out the noise and give you a good sleep.

Clothing for travelling abroad

Of course, you have to pack clothes for traveling, but clothing preferences will differ from person to person. So aside from the obvious essentials like shirts, shorts, pants, socks, etc., I’ll just list some helpful tips for packing.

14. Comfortable Walking Shoes

Traveling means exploring, which means you’ll probably do lots of walking. Definitely pack your most comfortable pair of shoes for wearing daily. 

There’s nothing worse than getting blisters or sore feet from uncomfortable shoes while traveling!

15. Comfortable Clothes

Again, when it comes to traveling, comfort is more important than style. 

So whatever clothes you are packing, make sure they are clothes you’ll actually enjoy wearing. You want to focus your attention on the world around you, not on your outfits.

16. One or Two Nice Outfits

Though you want to be comfy 99% of the time, I recommend packing 1 or 2 nice outfits for special occasions. 

Whether it’s a party, a nice dinner, or a show, it’s fun to dress up once in a while. 

But you want to optimize the space in your luggage, so only pack a few nice outfits and save space for the practical clothing items.

If you plan to enjoy the nightlife where you go, check this article: 15 best party places in the world

17. Rain Jacket

A good quality rain jacket is definitely a travel essential. 

I find umbrellas to be bulky and inconvenient in windy weather. A nice rain jacket can keep you warm and dry on rainy days.

18. Hiking Boots

If you plan on hiking and connecting with nature , invest in a good quality pair of hiking boots. I’ve done a few hikes in sneakers and just wished I had better shoes the whole time. 

They do take up a bit of room in your bag, so only pack them if you’re an adventurous traveler who will be hiking in nature. But they’re so worth it!

19. Sun Protection

Even if you’re traveling somewhere cold, it’s important to have sun protection. 

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are great ways to protect your skin from the sun while traveling. Also, consider lip balm with SPF in it.

Here are some other random items that I always recommend to pack for a trip abroad.

20. Travel-Sized Toiletries

It’s up to you whether you’d like to pack your own toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, etc. or buy it at your destination. 

If you only need 30ml or less of each, I recommend packing your own. 

But if you’re traveling for a while, it may be easier to just buy it when you arrive overseas.

21. Student ID card

If you’re a student, always travel with your ID card. 

Many tours and attractions overseas have student discounts. So flash your ID to save a little extra money!

22. A Few Plastic Bags

This might seem random, but having one or two plastic bags actually comes in handy while traveling. 

If you have a wet bathing suit or dirty clothes, it’s much more convenient to store them in a plastic bag until you reach your next destination.

23. Microfiber Towel

A microfiber tower dries quickly and rolls up to be much smaller than a normal towel. So it’s perfect for backpacking with limited space!

24. Luggage Locks

If you’re nervous about pickpockets, pack a luggage lock so you can secure the zipper on your bag. 

Most hostel dorm rooms have lockers where you can safely store your belongings, but a luggage lock provides extra security.

More packing tips at the  essential backpacking checklist for every trip .

Let’s face it, the world has changed a lot in 2020 due to the global pandemic. Traveling safely  now means you have to take extra precautions to keep yourself and others safe. 

So pack your face mask, hand sanitizer, any other medications or products you may need and consider our  Covid-19 recommendations and how to support the travel industry during the pandemic .

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Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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Mar 23, 2021

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The Perfect International Travel Packing List (+ Downloadable PDF)

Creating a packing list for your first international trip depends on various factors, like your destination, the duration of your trip, the season, and personal preferences. However, there are some things you’ll always need to put on your list, especially for a first time international travel packing list.

I’ve been to  over 30 countries  and can say, there are items you’ll always need and some you’ll need depending on where your going. That’s why I’ve also created a downloadable PDF of this international travel packing list with the ability to check things off your list and add your own additional items.

I hope this packing list will make planning your trip just a little bit easier! I know how much planning goes into your first international trip so if this is your first international trip or tenth, I’m excited for you! Cheers to traveling more and exploring the world.

If you want to download this, I have it for free in my  subscriber only resources ! It’s an editable PDF perfect for helping you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

Packing Tips

International travel means longer flights and ensuring that you are comfortable during your flight. Another challenge that comes with that is how easy it is to overpack in your checked luggage. Still, another challenge is carrying your bags around if you’re staying in historic places or are taking a lot of public transit/walking everywhere. Let’s tackle these challenges with some packing tips!

• Keep yourself comfortable on your long flight with a small bag of essentials that fits under your seat. I recommend bringing compression socks , a neck pillow/blanket , noise-canceling headphones , and wearing comfortable clothes. Plus, any electronics, a portable charger , your passport, and your wallet so they are always in your sight and on your person.
• Pack carry-on only if you can. It will save time and potentially money on bag fees. Plus, it will make packing and unpacking easier. You don’t have to worry about organizing as many things or overpacking. It helps you keep focused on what you need!
• I f you can’t pack carry-on only, bring your essentials in your carry-on . I recommend a few toiletries (toothbrush + toothpaste, hairbrush) and one set of clothes with you in your carry-on. Just in case. There’s nothing worse than getting to your destination, wanting to shower, and then your bag being lost (this happened to me in Peru ). Almost every hotel has shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, so those aren’t necessary unless you’re doing carry-on only.
• I would recommend no more than one carry-on bag that fits under your seat and one checked bag. It can be a lot to try to carry a big bag or a lot of stuff around with you!
• Don’t overpack – instead, plan your outfits. If you plan out your outfits and only bring things for those outfits, you’ll keep yourself from bringing too much. It’s easy when you are going somewhere new or international for the first time to want to bring a lot.
• Be aware of where you are staying when choosing a bag or bags to bring. Many historic hotels and areas do not have elevators. You may have to carry your bag up a few flights of stairs or up small side streets to reach where you are staying. A bag that you can easily carry is key! I recommend this bag from Patagonia . I love it so much, and they offer it in carry-on size!
• Utilize packing cubes to keep your things organized and your outfits clean.

Best Bags and Organization Items for your First Time International Travel Packing List

Yes, you need a packing list, but do you have a bag that will work well on your international trip? You’ll want something durable, easy to carry, and that you can use over and over. Here are my personal favorites.

Organization Packing Items

• Hanging Toiletries Bag : Many parts of the world (including cruise ships on the high seas) will not come with tons of storage space or large countertops.
• TSA Approved Travel bottles : perfect so you don’t have to throw out your favorite self-care products at the security check.
• Toiletry Bag : Easy to pack and water-resistant, this is a great toiletry bag. Comes in several colors.
• Packing Cubes : Packing cubes are a great way to organize your bag and make the most of the space in a larger bag.
• Travel Compression Bags : Use these bags to save space in your bag when traveling.
• Pill organizer : Great option for a travel first aid kit if you don’t want to buy the travel size of each medicine you’d like to bring or have prescriptions you take.
• Jewelry organizer : Great for keeping all your little pieces easy to get to and organized on a trip. This is something I held off on buying for a long time but now love having on trips!

Carry On Options

• North Face Backpack : Plenty of pockets and room as an under-the-seat carry-on.
• Black Hole® Duffel Bag 55L : My personal favorite and current carry-on bag. This is a great option if you want to bring just one carry-on.
• Travel Vest : If you bring the duffle, a great alternative to a second bag is this travel vest.
• Small Duffle Bag : This bag will fit under the seat while you’re traveling and hold your essentials. You can easily put it on top of the hard case luggage linked above for easy carrying.
• Hard case roller bag : Durable and easy to clean, hard case luggage is another great option.

Checked Bags

• Hard case luggage set :  consider getting a set with a carry-on and checked bags. Durable, easy to clean, and organization built in.

Essentials for International Travel

• Passport and visa : Ensure they are valid for the entire duration of your trip. Most places require your passport to be valid 6 months before the trip. Ensure you’re good to go!
• Travel insurance : Including health insurance, if not covered by your regular policy. Medical costs can be very different depending on the country you visit, it’s worth researching ahead of your trip what you need.
• Flight tickets and itinerary : Print or digital copies. I like to have a digital copy and send it to a friend/family for reference in case.
• Hotel reservations : Confirmation details.
• Money : Cash and credit/debit cards. Make sure you are aware of any foreign transaction fees. I recommend having some cash in local currency on hand before your trip (most banks will do this for you free of charge or for a small fee) and using ATMs (if they are reliable in the country you are visiting).
• Travel adapter and voltage converter : Ensure it’s suitable for your destination by researching the compatibility.
• Prescription medications : Carry enough for the entire trip. Keep these in your carry-on.
• Weather-appropriate clothing : Consider the climate of your destination. One outfit per day unless doing a hike or outdoor activity. Then an extra outdoor outfit for that day.
• Underwear and socks : One pair for each day.
• Pajamas: recommend one for every two to three days
• Comfortable walking shoes : Especially if you plan to explore on foot.
• Swimwear : Even if you’re not going to a warm destination, you may want one! If you are doing water activities two days in a row, pack two.
• Hat and sunglasse s

Toiletries and Personal Care

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner (in travel bottles )
• Soap or body wash
• Hairbrush/comb
• Straightener Curler Combo
• Lip balm with SPF
• Personal hygiene items
• Prescription glasses or contact lenses

Miscellaneous

• Travel-sized laundry detergent
• Reusable ziplock bags : Useful for various purposes
• Travel-size sewing kit
• Travel-size first aid kit : add Blister Pads , Immodium , Pepto Bismol , Benadryl  , and Advil
• Door Stop   (for safety)
• Foldable Backpack (for day trips)
• Travel lock

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Laptop/tablet and charger
• Portable Charger with Fast Charging Technology :
• Camera  for photos
• Noise-canceling headphones

In your Carry On (beyond electronics)

• Travel pillow/blanket (use code megelise for 15% off!
• Entertainment: Books, magazines, or e-reader
• Notebook and pen

Here is the downloadable and editable first time international travel packing list! Remember to customize this list based on your specific destination, the duration of your trip, and any unique needs you may have. Planning ahead will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey!

Related posts

Carry on Only Packing List: Must Haves and What to Leave Behind

What to Pack for Puerto Rico: Tips + Downloadable Check List

Vacation Outfit Planner: Free Downloadable + Editable Outfit Planner

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The Ultimate International Travel Packing List for a Stress-Free Trip

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You booked your flight. You scored the cutest Airbnb. Now it’s time to pack—oh, crap. What on earth do you bring when you’re traveling outside the U.S.? If you’re a natural jet-setter, it probably doesn’t seem like there’s much of a difference from a domestic vacay (aside from that whole passport thing). But if you’ve never traveled internationally, welcome to the club!

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time international voyager, there is one thing that stands between you and the most epic getaway of all time: a perfectly packed suitcase. Stuffing your entire life into a stowed bag, carry-on and personal item for a long trip can be daunting (what if you forget lip balm?!), but it but it doesn’t have to be anxiety-inducing.

We like to think of packing in three distinct steps:

• Checked luggage
• Personal item/carry-on (including toiletries, entertainment, legal documents and medications)
• The airport outfit (of course)

Once you break your list into organized segments, packing is suddenly way more manageable. Here’s how we do it:

Your ‘Traveling the World for a Year’ Checklist, According to Someone Who’s Doing It

1. Checked Luggage

This is the big one (obviously). If you’re traveling for longer than a week without access to a washing machine (or just don’t want to deal—that’s why you’re on vacation, right?), you’re going to want to pack every single thing you need in an tiny 26” x 18” box. Sure, most of the places you travel will have the items you might forget, but you definitely don’t want to risk it or spend any of that hard-earned travel money on boring necessities—that cash is better used on an extra bottle of Chianti at that fancy Michelin-Starred restaurant you booked months in advance.

Even if you’re checking a bag, the space is a bit tight. How on earth are you supposed to pack the seven pairs of shoes you absolutely can’t live without? It’s all about paring down and learning to play Jenga with your items.

Packing Methods: Some of us are avid rollers, while others subscribe to the “fold it or bust” packing technique. The verdict? Do whatever fits the most in your suitcase (without incurring overweight fees, of course). Rolling clothing is said to cut down on creases and wrinkles, which is especially helpful for satin and silk items. But sturdier pieces, like jeans, might actually take up more room when rolled, as opposed to folded flat and stacked. Some PureWow editors are also obsessed with packing cubes , i.e., the best way to compartmentalize your items if you want to know exactly where everything is without rifling through your whole suitcase.

How to Save Space: Once you’ve found the clothing packing technique that works best for you, it’s time to think about shoes and accessories. Now, we’re not going to tell you that you can’t bring those seven pairs of shoes we previously mentioned. But just know that they will add lots of weight and take up space that could be better used for something else. If you are packing multiple pairs of shoes or multiple handbags, just make sure you’re using them smartly by utilizing the space inside for storage, too. We like to pack socks, belts, jewelry bags and even toiletries that you don’t need in-flight into the cavity of each shoe and handbag, kind of like an innovative, DIY packing cube.

We also like to plan out our outfits ahead of time to make sure we’re bringing multi-functional pieces. If one pair of heels is taking up a lot of real estate, but we’re only going to wear them with one outfit, it might be smart to leave them at home and sub in some other, more versatile footwear choice. It’s a lesson in strategy, for sure.

Here are the basics we make sure to bring, every time:

• Sweater, sweatshirt or light jacket
• Base layers like T-shirts and camisoles
• Pants, skirts and shorts
• Multifunctional dresses (Ask yourself this: Can you wear it as a beach cover-up and out to dinner?)
• Undergarments (you don’t need three per day, but pack one for every day plus a few extra)
• Shoes you can walk in (and dance in)
• PJs (this is a good place to skimp by wearing the same ones for two or three nights)
• Jewelry (but don’t bring your entire collection—just the pieces you’ll wear every day)
• Hat (especially if you’re headed somewhere tropical)
• Swimsuit(s)
• Wet/dry bag

2. Carry-on/personal Item

It’s not unheard of to pack for an international trip in a single carry-on and personal item. We’ve done it and it’s the way to go if you’re jetting around to a number of different cities (Euro trip, anyone?). Plus, there’s no way the airline can lose your luggage if it’s safely tucked into an overhead compartment, right?

If you’re using your carry-on as your only piece of luggage, the above checked-luggage packing tips and essentials still apply, you just have to be even more conscious of space as you’ll have to fit all your clothing and all your in-flight essentials (yep, and TSA-restricted liquids).

Liquids and Toiletries: TSA’s 3.4 oz liquid limit is internationally mandated, so if you’re using a carry-on as your only luggage, you’ll have to leave the full-size toiletries at home. However, that doesn’t mean you have to blow your souvenir fund on travel-size items. We love leak-proof reusable containers that fit a small amount of your everyday products, and packing palettes that resemble pill organizers, that can fit multiple products in one convenient carrier. Make sure to put any oils or liquids you’re concerned about leaking in a Ziploc or reusable sandwich bag , for an added layer of protection.

If you’re staying at a hotel with ample amenities (this can also include an Airbnb or a friend’s house; just check ahead of time), then you can most likely leave shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion at home. But we highly suggest bringing along your skin-care routine so as to not throw your complexion out of whack while traveling. Even so, try bringing only the absolute necessities. Yes, that means the oil you always forget to use can stay at home.

Medication: This probably goes without saying, but if you require daily medication or just need something to help you sleep blissfully through a red-eye, make sure you pack it in your carry-on. While many countries have fully stocked pharmacies for things like cold and cough medicine or first-aid supplies, it’s harder to get your prescriptions sent over from America.

Here are the toiletries we always pack:

• Over-the-counter medication (Advil/Tylenol, Immodium, Pepto-Bismol, Dramamine, Benadryl)
• First aid kit (Band-Aids, alcohol pads, bacitracin)
• Shampoo, conditioner and body wash (if necessary)
• Facial cleanser, makeup-remover wipes and Q-tips
• Skin-care routine
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash
• Contacts and contact solution
• Face mist (it’s dry up there!)
• Hand sanitizer
• Cologne/perfume
• Hair products (dry shampoo, hairspray, air dry spray, etc.)
• Hair brush/comb, bobby pins and hair elastics
• Razor and shaving cream
• Moisturizer

Makeup: Yes, we all want to look #flawless in our vacay pics, but there are smart ways to bring along your cosmetics. We love stick products that won’t add to our liquid quota and also won’t melt or cause a mess en route to our destination. And even at that, we tend to bring the bare minimum, because who wants to fuss with a full contour and highlight regimen when there is food to be tasted and adventures to be had?

Here’s an example of the pared down routine we bring:

• CC cream or foundation
• Blush (powder doubles as eye shadow, cream can be used as lipstick)
• Highlighter (can also be used on eyes)
• Bronzer (again, eye shadow)
• Eyebrow pencil

In-Flight Entertainment and Comfort: If you’re traveling internationally, you have a decently long flight ahead. If you pack all the right things, the time will fly (pun intended), but if not, you could risk the most boring ten hours of your life. Seriously, what if the screen on your seat is broken?! A long plane ride can be a great time to catch up on Netflix, read a book, listen to music or even get some work done (but remember, once on land the computer gets stashed for the remainder of the trip!).

We make sure never to forget the below items:

• Cell phone and charger
• Laptop, iPad or E-reader and charger(s)
• International power adapter/converter
• Portable cell phone charger
• Headphones  (as much as we love our Bluetooth headphones, a pair with a cord is compatible with the seat-back TV)
• Camera or video camera, memory card and chargers
• Travel pillow , eye mask and ear plugs
• Scarf or shawl (that can also be used as a blanket)
• Pen (you don’t want to be stuck filling out your customs form when you touch down)
• Books and magazines
• Hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes
• Water bottle (just wait to fill it up after you get through TSA)

Legal Documents: This is the big one. We all know that a valid passport is our ticket to another country, but there are other documents you should always bring. For example, do you need a visa to travel to the country you’re visiting? Or are there medical documents you might need in case of emergency? There are also steps you can take to ensure your credit cards don’t get frozen for “suspicious activity outside the U.S.” Important: These documents should always get stashed in your carry-on or personal item for easy access at any time and less risk of being lost with luggage. Also, consider emailing a copy of those papers to a close family member or friend as backup in case your copies get lost.

Passport, Visa and ID: For starters, ensure that your passport is valid at least three months after the date of your trip. This means if you have a trip planned with a return date of June 1, your passport can’t expire until September 1 of the same year. Because, A. You don’t want to get stuck abroad with an expired passport (although that’s what the U.S. Embassy or Consulate is for, if it happens); and B. It takes about 6 to 12 weeks to get a new passport, so you should apply for one at least three months before the expiration date on your current documents. Since you don’t want to keep your passport on you while out and about abroad (more chances for it to get lost or stolen), make sure to bring your personal ID. Have a student ID? Take that, too as many museums and stores offer student discounts. Make sure to keep a copy of your passport in your email or on your phone, also in case of emergency.

Next, you’ll have to determine if you need a visa to travel to the country you’re visiting. Not sure? Here’s an easy list to check. Keep in mind that the visa process can take anywhere from two weeks to two months, so you’ll want to get the ball rolling as soon as your flights are booked.

If you’ve ever had to take a trip to the doctor while abroad, you know health insurance can be confusing, to say the least. Make sure to save space for all your health insurance cards and other necessary medical documents (just in case).

Lastly, you’re going to want to make photocopies of all your legal documents (passport, visa, IDs and health insurance cards) to prevent total mayhem if they’re lost or stolen. This will help speed along the process of securing a temporary passport (with a maximum validity of seven months) and getting replacements of your other items as quickly as possible.

Credit and Debit Cards: Now that most credit cards have a chip, they can be used whenever and wherever your heart desires. Double check whether or not your card(s) incur foreign transaction fees—if they do, you’ll have to keep those in mind with every purchase you make. We like to use our credit cards for actual purchases (because, points) and our debit card for taking cash out of ATMs. Hot tip: It’s usually easier (and less expensive) to take money out once you get to the country you’re visiting as you won’t have to pay the same fees you do at currency exchange hubs in the airport. Many U.S. banks also partner with international banks to omit the ATM fees. Just check with your bank before leaving if there are certain international ATMs you should look for. You’ll also want to make sure to contact your bank to let them know when and where you’re traveling so they don’t accidentally freeze your cards for suspicious activity. You can call them, visit a branch in person or even set a notice on your banking apps.

Remember what we said about making photocopies of your passport and visa? Do the same with your credit and debit cards—again just in case.

Here are the essentials:

• Passport/visa(s)
• Personal ID/Student ID
• Cash and credit card(s)
• Health insurance cards/document(s)
• Reservations and itineraries
• Hotel information
• Transportation tickets
• Emergency contacts and important addresses
• Copies of all these things in case you lose your wallet

3. The Airplane Outfit

You’ve mastered the art of the fold and roll. You maximized all the space inside your shoes and handbags. And your passport is ready for a new stamp (or six). The last piece of the puzzle? Figuring out what to wear to the airport. It might sound silly, but it’s crucial to a comfortable, long flight. 

First, consider airplane cabin temperature (usually plus or minus freezing) and the climate you’re traveling to. We like to dress in easy-to-peel-off layers in case we get hot mid-flight. A go-to formula usually looks something like:

• T-shirt or tank top
• Pants with stretch (leggings are great, but if you’re trying for style, cashmere pants are even more comfortable and polished)
• Sweater or sweatshirt (it’s a good idea to wear this on the plane so it doesn’t take up valuable space in your suitcase)
• Cozy socks (or compression socks if you’re serious about blood circulation)
• Easy on-off shoes (like slip-on sneakers —in case you have to take them off through airport security)
• Belt bag or crossbody (for your cell phone and legal documents) 

OK, now you’re ready to jet. Just download this packing checklist (and don’t forget the airplane snacks).

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Home » Travel Tips » 17 Steps to Take Before Your Next Trip – An International Travel Checklist

17 Steps to Take Before Your Next Trip – An International Travel Checklist

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: October 5, 2022

Getting ready for an international trip is always exciting. There is so much great food to eat, so many interesting people to meet, and so many new things to see and experience. Even if you’ve traveled abroad before, the lead up to the trip is usually filled with fun anticipation. But it’s a time for planning, too, to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as it can. This international travel checklist will help ensure that you are as prepared as possible for your vacation.

International Travel Checklist

Check passport.

The first thing on the trip checklist is your passport. You’re not going anywhere without it.

If this is your first time traveling internationally and you don’t have a passport yet, apply as soon as possible. If you already have a passport, check the expiration date. Many countries require that your passport be valid for six months beyond your stay, so think about renewing yours if your trip is cutting it close to the deadline.

Luckily, it’s easy to renew your passport, but allow at least a month. Also consider the number of empty pages in your passport. Some countries’ visas take up a full page and require you to have several completely blank pages.

Know visa requirements

A critical item on the international travel checklist is to check visa requirements well before your trip, possibly even before you book. Some countries require visas to enter the country depending on the origin of your passport.

US citizens can check the State Department website for details on the requirements of all countries. Americans can go many places without needing a visa, and some visas like Turkey and Egypt are easy to acquire at the airport. Getting visas to other countries such as China or Russia may require significant time and effort on the part of the traveler. Know about the documents needed to travel abroad ahead of time and plan accordingly.

Consider travel insurance

If your existing insurance doesn’t cover you and your possessions overseas or there’s a chance your plans may change, consider travel insurance . From health insurance to trip cancellation, there are different types of travel insurance policies that have varying coverage and prices to meet your needs. Travel insurance may not always be necessary, but it’s generally better to be protected.

Get required immunizations

Another important item in your checklist for international travel is vaccines. Depending on where you’re traveling, you may need to get travel immunizations–either booster shots for vaccines you’ve already received or new immunizations altogether.

The CDC travel website has a list of countries and their required and recommended immunizations. It’s also a good idea to go to a pharmacy or clinic that specializes in travel vaccines because they can help you uncover potential issues you may not be aware of. For instance, on our visit to South Africa and Zambia , we didn’t think we needed the yellow fever vaccine because it wasn’t required when traveling from the US to either country. Our travel pharmacist realized that it was required when traveling between Zambia and South Africa, though, which we would be doing. We didn’t think to check that on our own and could have found ourselves in trouble.

Depending on your insurance, certain immunizations may or may not be covered, so you’ll have to make your own decisions about what risks you’re willing to take. We tend to err on the side of caution because who wants to get sick and have their vacation ruined? Also, be aware that some vaccines are administered in a series over a period of time, so plan ahead. It’s one of the most important things to do before traveling abroad.

Check your dates

Ideally, when you book your travel, you’ll have a chance to research any holidays or other big events happening in your destination. If that wasn’t possible, now is a great time to check. It’s always good to know when your trip may overlap with holidays in your destination. That way you can manage potential transportation delays or the closure of certain attractions. This is particularly important if you have limited time in a destination and certain attractions on your must-see list.

Make reservations

Planning ahead is almost always a good idea, especially if you’re traveling in peak season. Make reservations for accommodations, major attractions, popular restaurants, and anything else you have your heart set on. Also add printing copies of your reservations, confirmations, and tickets to your travel abroad checklist. It will make your life much easier when you get to your destination, especially if you’ve paid for something up-front.

Take care of medical needs

Hopefully you’ve already checked whether you need travel immunizations, but that’s not the only healthcare consideration before traveling out of the country. If you take regular medication, make sure you have enough for your trip. If you wear contacts or prescription glasses, it will probably be helpful to have an extra set.

Get an International Driving Permit

Getting out to explore on our own time and route is one of our favorite things about travel. But being prepared is important. If you’ll be renting a car, add getting an International Drivers Permit (IDP) to your vacation checklist.

An IDP–along with your valid US driver’s license–may be helpful in some places but required in others. Recognized in more than 150 countries, the IDP provides important information from your driver’s license in 11 different languages. Luckily, it’s easy to get. Complete a brief application that you can find at AAA.com . The application requires a photocopy of your valid U.S. driver’s license, about $20 U.S. dollars, and two original passport-type photos.

For more information on getting an International Driving Permit and tips to take the stress out of driving abroad, check out our ebook, The Essential Guide to Driving Abroad .

Notify credit card companies

Contact your credit card companies (and debit card, if needed) to let them know where you’ll be traveling and when. This is also a good time to ask any questions about international fees or emergency contact numbers.

It’s also a good idea to have a PIN number for your credit cards. While chip credit cards are just becoming the norm in the US, they are standard in Europe and almost all transactions require a PIN.

Know how to access local currency

In addition to credit cards, it’s always good to have some local currency on hand. There are a few options–you can order some from your bank several weeks in advance or you can exchange money at the airport (they usually have terrible exchange rates). The route we take is just as we would at home–visit a cash machine when we need to.

Copy important documents

We include this tip in almost all of our articles about things to do before traveling internationally because it’s that important. Having copies of your boarding pass and passport could make your life a lot easier.

A hard copy boarding pass helps tremendously if you get upgraded at the gate or run into an issue like a cancelled flight. If you lose your passport while traveling, having a copy of it will make getting a replacement a tiny bit easier. Color copies of the first pages with your personal information and photo are the important ones. If you are traveling as a couple, it is good idea for each of you to carry copies of both passports, just in case.

Doublecheck your cell phone plan

If you don’t have an international cell phone plan or an unlocked phone, now may be a good time to consider making a change so you don’t get hit with huge fees. We can attest to the importance of this from personal experience. If you plan to use your US smartphone in Europe and you don’t have international coverage, you essentially have four options:

• Use your phone only when you have access to wifi and keep the cellular function turned off so you don’t accidentally incur high data charges
• Contact your provider to enable an international plan
• “Unlock” your phone so that you can use local SIM cards – this process is particularly easy if your 2-year plan has expired
• Rent a personal hotspot to give you access any time or anywhere you need it–we use ROAMING MAN and wrote in-depth about our experience with it

Do your research

We’re super type-A planners, so lots of research goes into our trips. It includes a combination of blogs, information from tourism boards, and guide books. Rick Steves guide books are our favorite because he provides great logistical information and Frommer’s guide books , which usually include nicer restaurants and recommendations for things like shopping, spas, and more high-end experiences that Rick Steves may not. It may also be a good idea to download any apps that you may want to access, such as translators, maps, and public transportation schedules.

Verify airline carry-on and luggage restrictions

Rules are always changing, so check out the Transportation Security Administration’s website for a list of what you can bring on the plane and for the latest security measures. Also make sure you know your airline’s luggage rules both for checked bags and carry-ons so you don’t get stuck with unexpected extra fees.

Download entertainment

There are few more unpleasant surprises than finding that your long-haul flight doesn’t have entertainment or that your TV is broken. To avoid hours of staring at the seat in front of you, add downloading entertainment before you leave home to your checklist for traveling.

Amazon Prime users can save movies and TV shows to their devices before their flights, and Spotify allows paying users to easily download music ( Try Prime free for 30 days ). You can also buy movies or shows to download via iTunes. To make sure you can binge watch as much as you want, don’t forget a portable backup charger so you have plenty of battery life.

Check the weather for your destination

This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to overlook — always check the weather for your destination. Make note of both the high and low temperatures as well as precipitation so you can be prepared.

Packing isn’t usually one of the most fun parts of the travel process, but it’s one of the most important. Travel as light as you can, roll your clothes, and don’t forget your eye mask, earplugs, and noise cancelling headphones. For more of our hard-learned packing advice check out our packing tips article and our suggestions for vacation essentials to have in your carry-on .

Do you have any additions for the international travel checklist?

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Sunday 5th of February 2023

Here are a few more recommendations for your travelers. 1. Verify the voltage requirements for the country visiting. 120v, 220v. You do not want turn fry your electrics due to improper voltage needed. Bring electric adapters needed for your devices. 2. Insure you have enough medication for your travel and a day or two extras for possible delays.

Monday 16th of January 2017

Great checklist. All of them are so important. The passport is a big one. I know many people who have got to the airport to get their flight and have been told they can not get on the flight because they don't have 6 months remaining on their passport. It's not the airline, it's the countries that won't let you in and will deport you on entry. Thanks for sharing Laura. :)

Friday 1st of July 2016

Include hard and/or soft copies of all your hotel, transport, and tour bookings.

Make a packing list! It truly helps when your write things down.

Dan Billanes

Thursday 30th of June 2016

Yes you need to know what electric outlet is used in the country you are traveling to...

Thursday 22nd of December 2016

Yes! The think I think of as I am sitting on the airplane. Don't be me! Bring electric adapters.

International Travel Checklist: 33 Essential Things You Must Do Before Your Trip

Traveling Internationally Checklist: Essential Things to Do Before International Travel

This is the all-important pre-travel things to do list for worldwide travel.  Go through this essential international travel checklist as soon as you book your trip. Some of the most important things need to be done well in advance–like checking your passport expiration date!  Refer back to the list as your trip gets closer.

International Travel Checklist

***Before booking your trip, check if there are any covid restrictions and requirements for travel.  Keep checking for any changes until you leave for your trip.

After Booking Your Trip:

♦ Check that your passports do NOT expire within 6 months of your return date (some destinations are 3 months.)  Many people are turned away at the airport daily for this mistake! 

♦Take a photo of each and make sure it is backed up to iCloud, or pack photocopies in your suitcase (keep them separate from your passports).  *When booking airline tickets, make sure to enter names exactly as they appear on your passports.

♦If Visas are necessary, give yourself plenty of time to complete the process.  *Choose dates with a cushion on either end of your time frame to allow for unforeseen date changes.  Take a photo of each.

♦ Book your trip on a credit card that offers free trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, car rental insurance, and does not charge a foreign transaction fee.  I use the Chase Saphire  Reserve Card.

♦ Get an ATM card that you can use at ANY international bank, without paying any fees.  Charles Schwab has an ATM that reimburses for any foreign bank fees for ATM withdrawals.

♦ Request a letter of proof of car insurance from a credit card company, for a car rental, if necessary.

♦Make sure you have completed any recommended or required vaccines .

♦ Check your medical insurance for coverage abroad and get any necessary medical documents.

♦ Check the carry on bag size on the websites of the specific airlines you are flying. 

♦ Purchase one of the Best Carry On Suitcases for your trip. Click here if you need a new carry on bag

♦ Line up someone to take care of your house, pets, etc.

♦ Get airport club passes or membership.  This makes the wait at airports so much better! Read How to Make Your Time In the Airport Quick, Easy & Fun

Checklist for International Travel 

Closer to your trip.

♦ Read Carry On Travel Packing List   and order any necessities that you don’t have.

♦ Check the weather for where you are traveling to so you can get an idea of the temperature. Pick out clothes that you plan to pack (shop if necessary.)

♦Email to confirm ALL of your reservations for accommodations and include any special requests and arrival times, transfers, tours, etc.

♦ Confirm any car rentals   *Check the pick up location and office hours, and get any special instructions if you will have an after-hours drop off.

♦ Get an international plan on your phones for texting, internet, or phone calls, then record any details about the plan in your notes.

♦ Download the airline apps for movies, check-in, etc.

♦ Get your seats on the plane by looking at the seating map.  Or, if you chose seats when you booked your flights, check to see if better seats have opened up.

♦ Download any necessary travel apps – Click here to read Best Travel Apps

♦Choose and download audiobooks   ( click here for Audible.com ), travel podcasts , walking tours , movies, or shows for your flights.

♦If you are driving to the airport, try to find an airport parking coupon and book online.  Put snacks and water in the car for your return.

♦If you are staying the night at an airport hotel, Click here for the latest prices on airport hotels

♦ Order special meals for your flights, or make a list of food to pack for your flight 

♦ Stop your mail if you don’t have someone picking it up.

♦ Call your credit card company to notify them of countries you are traveling to, so they don’t think your card has been stolen.

Just Before Leaving Home

♦ Print your Packing Checklist pdf   from signing up to be on my email list (scroll up, and enter your name and email in the box on the right margin) and check off items as you pack them

♦ Pack , using The Ultimate Carry On Packing List

♦ Take a photo of your passport .  In case something happens to it, having your passport number and photo will make the challenging situation easier.

♦ Print or take a screenshot of your boarding passes – Make sure that the spelling of all names is correct and matches your passports exactly.  

♦ Print your itinerary , as well as any tickets or vouchers, and put it into a page protector OR use the Google docs app for your itinerary and take screenshots of your other documents

♦If you are using a travel guidebook, Separate the pages by the area  

♦ Pay any bills that will be due while you are gone.

♦ Clean your house (or schedule your house cleaner for just before your return.)

♦ Clean out the refrigerator.

♦ Set your thermostat on hold with the desired temperature.

♦ Unplug everything possible to save energy.

♦ Turn a light on or set a timer for security.

♦♦♦Get all of this done early, so the evening before you leave, you can sit back, relax, and look forward to your trip as a well-prepared worldwide traveler!♦♦♦

Travel Resources

• Save time and money by using the best companies!  For a list of all of my favorite travel-related companies, check out Top Travel Resources
• Book your flight with   Skyscanner or read 8 Ways to Find a Cheap Flight
• Book your accommodations with Booking.com  
• Take carry on bags only! Get my ultimate Carry On Packing List , and learn how and what to pack for your trip!
• Get inspired by 66 Quotes About Travel

Happy Travels!

For more tips on travel, please read:

Detailed itineraries for Europe, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and North Africa

Make the Airport Quick, Easy, and Fun with these Airport Travel Tips

Plan Your Trip! How to Plan Worldwide Travel In 12 Steps

How to Find the Best Places to Stay For the Lowest Price

Get Tips on How To Make Travel Fun For Teens

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Can felony convictions hinder Trump’s international travel? Here’s what we know

Many countries have rules barring people convicted of felonies from entering. However, those rules vary widely and many leave room for exemptions.

Former President Donald Trump’s recent conviction on felony charges raised a host of other questions.

Can Trump still run for president? Yes,  he can . Can he vote in Florida? It’s  likely .

But the answer to another question isn’t as clear: How will Trump’s felony conviction affect his ability to travel internationally? Social media  users   claimed  there were dozens of  countries  that Trump can no longer enter because of his conviction.

Many countries have rules barring people convicted of felonies from entering. However, those rules vary widely and many leave room for exemptions. If Trump is again elected president and visits a country on official business, he would likely be granted entry, but it’s not guaranteed, experts said.

A Manhattan jury on May 30 found Trump guilty of all  34 counts  of falsifying business records in an alleged scheme to cover up a hush money payment to adult film actor Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election. Trump is scheduled to be sentenced July 11. Judge Juan Merchan has the power to impose travel restrictions at that time, limiting Trump’s travel outside the U.S.

Countries have discretion about when and how to admit foreigners

Many countries singled out in the social media posts about Trump limit entry for foreigners who have been convicted of felonies. Factors considered in whether to grant entry include the type of crime, when it occurred and the sentence length.

For example, Australia’s visitor travel requirements  stipulate  that “you must not have any criminal convictions for which the sentences total 12 months or more, whether or not you have served the sentences.” Because Trump hasn’t been sentenced, it’s unclear whether whatever sentence he receives would fall into this category. Many  legal  experts  have said they doubt Trump will be sentenced to prison.

Israel  and the  United Kingdom  also can bar people convicted of felonies from visiting. The U.K. restrictions factor in the sentence length and conviction timing.

It’s unclear whether Trump’s felony conviction will affect his ability to travel to Trump International Golf Links in Scotland, which is part of the United Kingdom. When asked about how a potential visit from Trump may be handled, the U.K.’s Home Office said it does not comment on individual cases.

Harold Hongju Koh, a Yale University international law professor, said Trump’s travel to other countries as a former, and potentially future, head of state “would depend on how that country chooses to administer its entry laws.”

Even sitting heads of state, he said, don’t have “an affirmative right that entitles” them to enter a country, although Trump would have diplomatic immunity in other countries if he’s reelected.

“China, where President Xi Jinping has broad executive authority, could decide to admit him between now and November as a former U.S. president who also could be a future U.S. president,” Koh said. “But that would be based on a discretionary act of the Chinese executive under Chinese law, not on any general rule of international law.”

Evelyn Cruz, an Arizona State University law professor who directs the university’s immigration clinic, said all countries have admission rules and it’s possible Trump might need a waiver for any country he seeks to visit.

“Whether he needs to apply ahead or at the entry point will depend on the country’s policies,” Cruz said. If Trump were to be reelected in November, “he would be traveling under the head of state diplomatic immunity, and therefore, the countries would let him in.”

She noted the U.S. has a similar diplomatic policy and has let in people accused or convicted of war crimes to attend United Nations gatherings.

Diplomatic immunity holds that certain government officials are not subject to jurisdiction of local courts and other authorities for their official duties, a 2018  U.S. State Department guide  said. In the U.S., a head of state automatically qualifies for an  A1 visa , regardless of the visit’s purpose.

Similar travel questions  arose  when former President George W. Bush ran for president in 2000. One news report  said  he was granted special permission to enter Canada because he acknowledged a 1976 misdemeanor DUI charge, for which he had pleaded guilty and paid a fine. A Canada Border Services Agency spokesperson told PolitiFact the agency doesn’t comment on individual cases.

To examine the travel challenges Trump might face, we also examined how the U.S.’ northern and southern neighbors handle convicted felons entering their countries.

Canada’s rules about admission for people convicted of felonies

Under  Canadian law , a visitor with a criminal conviction can be barred from entering the country, a U.S. State Department  webpage said .

Mario Bellissimo, a Canadian immigration lawyer, said Trump could be denied entry because of his conviction.

“He is inadmissible to Canada and would be eligible (to apply for a certificate of) rehabilitation five years after the completion of any sentence,” Bellissimo said.

For certificates of rehabilitation, an immigration officer decides if a foreign national poses a risk of reoffending, taking into account factors related to the crime and what the offender has done since to show he or she is not a risk, Bellissimo said.

However, there are exceptions to these procedures, Bellissimo said.  Section 24  of  Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act affords immigration officers the leeway to grant a temporary resident permit.

“Someone like a former president or a Republican (presidential) nominee that might be coming here for official duties or official business, that would be a very strong factor that would weigh in his favor for entry to Canada,” he said.

Luke Reimer, a Canada Border Services Agency spokesperson, said admission to Canada is decided case by case based on the information available at the time of entry about whether travelers meet entry requirements.

He said several factors determine whether a person can enter, including criminal history.

The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act lists  multiple reasons  a person can be found inadmissible to Canada, including being convicted outside Canada of a crime that would be an indictable offense in Canada. Trump’s conviction on falsifying business records is also a  crime in Canada .

Mexico’s rules about admitting people convicted of felonies

Mexican law also allows immigration authorities to deny foreigners entry if they were charged with or convicted of a serious crime in Mexico or elsewhere, the U.S. State Department  said on its website .

A  frequently asked questions page  from the Mexican Consulate in Miami about forms visitors to Mexico must fill out notes that a person with a criminal record could be denied entry for serious crimes.

“There is no way to know about your case before you travel,” the page said, recommending that travelers contact authorities in their own country to find out if they have shared information with other countries.

An Embassy of Mexico in Canada  webpage  about visiting Mexico with a criminal record says people could be denied entry for serious crimes. The crimes listed include “tax fraud and comparable crimes.”

PolitiFact Staff Researcher Caryn Baird, Staff Writers Loreben Tuquero, Kwasi Gyamfi Asiedu and Sara Swann and Contributing Writer Sofia Ahmed contributed to this report.

This fact check was originally published by PolitiFact , which is part of the Poynter Institute. See the sources for this fact check here .

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Watch CBS News

Trump may face travel restrictions in some countries after his New York conviction

By Kathryn Watson

May 31, 2024 / 7:09 PM EDT / CBS News

Former President Donald Trump, whose administration imposed multiple versions of a travel ban against people coming from Muslim-majority nations, may now face restrictions on his own international travel, following his felony conviction in New York Thursday. 

At this point, Trump faces no specific travel restrictions from Justice Juan Merchan, who presided over the "hush money" criminal trial in New York, in which the former president was found guilty of 34 felony counts. His sentencing is scheduled to take place on July 11, four days before the Republican National Convention, which will formalize his nomination to the presidency. Trump, who's in the middle of a presidential campaign and has  three other criminal trials pending, has announced no international travel plans. 

The U.S. doesn't allow foreigners with felony convictions to enter the country, and neither do a number of other countries. Allies including the U.K. and Australia have strict restrictions on traveling there as a convicted felon, according to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. Canada, which will be hosing the G7 summit of world leaders in 2025, also has strict requirements for visitors with a criminal history. And felons are banned from entering China. 

But it's possible international leaders would make exceptions for Trump if he wins the presidency again. Former President George W. Bush had to apply for a special waiver to enter Canada on an official state visit, because he had pleaded guilty decades earlier to a 1976 drunk driving charge. And that was a misdemeanor offense, not a felony. 

Trump has plans to renew and revamp travel restrictions to the U.S., if he's president again. Last year, he said he would bring back a travel ban "even bigger than before," alluding to his administration's restrictions on travelers from several countries that have largely Muslim populations. 

The Supreme Court eventually upheld a version of his travel ban, 5-4, in 2018. Chief Justice John Roberts, wrote in the majority opinion that presidents have substantial power to regulate immigration. "The sole prerequisite," Roberts wrote, is "that the entry of the covered aliens 'would be detrimental to the interests of the United States.' The President has undoubtedly fulfilled that requirement here." He also noted that Trump had ordered an evaluation of every country's compliance with the risk assessment baseline and then issued the findings.

When he talks about the spike in numbers of undocumented migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, the former president also regularly paints them broadly as "criminals."

"So we are moving criminals out of our country, and we are getting them out in record numbers, and those are the people we are after," the former president said toward the beginning of his term during a 2017 interview with the Associated Press. 

As he awaits his sentencing in the "hush money" case, Trump maintains he did nothing wrong. 

"I'm willing to do whatever I have to do to save our country and to save our Constitution. I don't mind," he said in remarks at Trump Tower on Friday. 

• Donald Trump

Kathryn Watson is a politics reporter for CBS News Digital, based in Washington, D.C.

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Countries Fail to Agree on Treaty to Prepare the World for the Next Pandemic

Negotiators plan to ask for more time. Among the sticking points are equitable access to vaccines and financing to set up surveillance systems.

• Share full article

By Apoorva Mandavilli

Countries around the globe have failed to reach consensus on the terms of a treaty that would unify the world in a strategy against the inevitable next pandemic, trumping the nationalist ethos that emerged during Covid-19.

The deliberations, which were scheduled to be a central item at the weeklong meeting of the World Health Assembly beginning Monday in Geneva, aimed to correct the inequities in access to vaccines and treatments between wealthier nations and poorer ones that became glaringly apparent during the Covid pandemic.

Although much of the urgency around Covid has faded since the treaty negotiations began two years ago, public health experts are still acutely aware of the pandemic potential of emerging pathogens, familiar threats like bird flu and mpox, and once-vanquished diseases like smallpox.

“Those of us in public health recognize that another pandemic really could be around the corner,” said Loyce Pace, an assistant secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services, who oversees the negotiations in her role as the United States liaison to the World Health Organization.

Negotiators had hoped to adopt the treaty next week. But canceled meetings and fractious debates — sometimes over a single word — stalled agreement on key sections, including equitable access to vaccines.

The negotiating body plans to ask for more time to continue the discussions.

“I’m still optimistic,” said Dr. Jean Kaseya, director general of Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “I think the continent wants this agreement. I think the world wants this agreement.”

Once adopted, the treaty would set legally binding policies for member countries of the W.H.O., including the United States, on surveillance of pathogens, rapid sharing of outbreak data, and local manufacturing and supply chains for vaccines and treatments, among others.

Contrary to rhetoric from some politicians in the United States and Britain , it would not enable the W.H.O. to dictate national policies on masking, or use armed troops to enforce lockdowns and vaccine mandates.

Next week’s deadline was self-imposed, and some public health experts have said it was far too ambitious — most treaties take many years — for such a complex endeavor. But negotiators were scrambling to ratify the treaty before elections in the United States and multiple European countries.

“Donald Trump is in the room,” said Lawrence Gostin, director of the W.H.O. Center on Global Health Law, who has helped to draft and negotiate the treaty.

“If Trump is elected, he will likely torpedo the negotiations and even withdraw from W.H.O.,” Mr. Gostin said.

During his tenure as president, Mr. Trump severed ties with the W.H.O. , and he has recently signaled that, if re-elected, he might shutter the White House pandemic preparedness office.

Among the biggest bones of contention in the draft treaty is a section called Pathogen Access and Benefits Sharing, under which countries would be required to swiftly share genetic sequences and samples of emerging pathogens. This information is crucial for rapid development of diagnostic tests, vaccines and treatments.

Low-income nations, including those in Africa, want to be compensated for the information with quick and equitable access to the developed tests, vaccines and treatments. They have also asked that pharmaceutical manufacturers share information that would allow local companies to manufacture the products at low cost.

“We don’t want to see Western countries coming to collect pathogens, going with pathogens, making medicines, making vaccines, without sending back to us these benefits,” Dr. Kaseya said.

Member countries have only ever agreed to one other health treaty, the 2003 Framework Convention on Tobacco Control , which strengthened control of the tobacco industry and decreased smoking rates in participating countries. But they were jolted by the devastation of the Covid pandemic and the inequities it reinforced to embark on a second.

The countries are also working on bolstering the W.H.O.’s International Health Regulations, which were last revised in 2005 and set detailed rules for countries to follow in the event of an outbreak that may breach borders.

In May 2021, an independent review of the global reaction to Covid-19 “found weak links at every point in the chain of preparedness and response.”

The pandemic also deepened mistrust between wealthier nations and poorer ones. By the end of 2021, more than 90 percent of people in some high-income countries had received two doses of Covid vaccines, compared with less than 2 percent in low-income nations. The lack of access to vaccines is thought to have caused more than a million deaths in low-income nations.

The treaty would be an acknowledgment of sorts that an outbreak anywhere threatens the entire globe, and that providing vaccines and other resources is beneficial to everyone. Variants of the coronavirus that emerged in countries with large unvaccinated populations swiftly swept across the world.

“Nearly half of U.S. deaths came from variants, so it’s in everybody’s interest to have a strong accord,” said Peter Maybarduk, who directs Public Citizen’s Access to Medicines program.

In December 2021, the W.H.O. established a group of negotiators to develop a legally binding treaty that would enable every country to prevent, detect and control epidemics, and allow for equitable allocation of vaccines and drugs.

More than two years into the negotiations, negotiators have agreed, at least in principle, on some sections of the draft.

But much of the good will generated during Covid has evaporated, and national interests have returned to the fore. Countries like Switzerland and the United States have been reluctant to accept terms that may affect the pharmaceutical industry; others like Argentina have fought against strict regulations on meat exports.

“It’s evident that people have very short memories,” said Dr. Sharon Lewin, director of the Cumming Global Center for Pandemic Therapeutics in Melbourne.

“But it can happen again, and it can happen with a pathogen that is far trickier to deal with than Covid was,” she warned.

One proposal for the Pathogen Access and Benefits Sharing section would require manufacturers to set aside 10 percent of vaccines to be donated, and another 10 percent to be provided at cost to the W.H.O. for distribution to low-income nations.

But that idea proved to be too complicated, said Roland Driece, who is one of the leaders of the negotiations. “We found along the way that that was too ambitious in the time frame.”

Instead, a working group established by the World Health Assembly will be tasked with hammering out the details of that section by May 2026, Mr. Driece said.

The terms of the proposed agreement have generated some confusion. In Britain, Nigel Farage, the conservative broadcaster and populist politician, and some other conservative politicians have claimed that the W.H.O. would force richer countries to give away 20 percent of their vaccines.

But that is an incorrect reading of the proposed agreement, Mr. Driece said. “It’s not the countries that have to come up with those vaccines, it’s the companies,” he said. Pharmaceutical companies would commit to the system in exchange for guaranteed access to data and samples needed to make their products.

Britain will not sign the treaty unless “it is firmly in the U.K. national interest and respects national sovereignty,” a spokesperson for the country’s health department told Reuters earlier this month.

In the United States, Republican senators have demanded that the Biden administration reject the treaty because it would “potentially weaken U.S. sovereignty.”

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, W.H.O.’s director general, has roundly criticized what he called the “the litany of lies and conspiracy theories,” noting that the organization does not have the authority to dictate national public health policies, nor does it seek such power.

The secrecy surrounding the negotiations has made it difficult to counter misinformation, said James Love, director of Knowledge Ecology International, one of the few nonprofits with a window into the negotiations.

Having more people allowed into the discussion rooms or to see the drafts as they evolve would help clarify complicated aspects of the treaty, Mr. Love said.

“Also, the public could relax a bit if they’re actually reading the actual agreement on a regular basis,” he said.

Some proposals in the draft treaty would require massive investments, another sticking point in the negotiations.

To monitor emerging pathogens, wealthier nations endorse a so-called One Health strategy, which recognizes the interconnections between people, animals, plants and their shared environment. They want low-income countries to regulate live animal markets and limit trade in animal products — a big economic blow for some nations.

Last month, the Biden administration released its own strategy for global health security , with a focus on bilateral partnerships aimed at helping 50 countries bolster their pandemic response systems. The administration hopes to expand the list to 100 countries by the end of the year.

American support would help the countries, most of which are in Asia and Africa, strengthen their One Health systems and better manage outbreaks.

The U.S. strategy is meant to be complementary to the global treaty, and cannot serve as an alternative, public health experts said.

“In my view, this is the most important moment in global health since W.H.O. was founded in 1948,” Mr. Gostin said. “It would just be an unforgivable tragedy if we let this slip away after all the suffering of Covid.”

Apoorva Mandavilli is a reporter focused on science and global health. She was a part of the team that won the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for coverage of the pandemic. More about Apoorva Mandavilli

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