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Are you a last-minute traveler who always finds yourself scrambling to remember what to do before your trips? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with this last minute travel checklist!
The day before departure can be a wild time filled with anticipation and last-minute preparations.
It’s during this moment that having a well-organized checklist becomes invaluable.
I deeply understand the importance of being prepared in advance as someone who loves planning and organizing (my inner Virgo won’t let me be any other way).
Early preparation almost guarantees a seamless journey.
But that’s not always possible. Life is busy.
Drawing from my own experiences traveling to over 30 countries, including journeys with my husband, who leans towards spontaneity, I've witnessed the hurdles he's faced trying to remember everything at the last minute.
Together, we've navigated the challenges of easily forgotten travel adapters and important travel documents.
Through these experiences, we've created this ultimate last-minute travel checklist so you don't have to go through any pitfalls.
Whether you're headed on a business trip or a well-deserved vacation, taking care of certain tasks beforehand can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth experience.
No more last-minute panic, just excitement and readiness for the incredible trip that await you. Keep reading to see how you can make your last minute travel preparations a breeze.
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Begin your travel preparations by double-checking your travel itinerary.
Ensure that your flight, train, or bus tickets are confirmed and take note of any changes or updates.
I love receiving notifications from airline apps straight to my phone.
This gives me the latest details on departure time, and lets me know how much longer I can spend relaxing in the airport lounge.
Review your accommodation details, including reservation dates, check-in and check-out times, and contact information.
This step will help you avoid any last-minute surprises and give you peace of mind as you head out on your travels.
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2. Pack Strategically
Packing strategically can save you both time and stress during your travels.
Create a last minute packing list of essential items, including clothing, toiletries, travel documents, electronics, and any other specific items you may require.
Don’t forget your extra underwear!
Write it all down (or type into your notes app, doesn’t need to be fancy) and check it off as you pack.
Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to maximize space in your luggage.
Pro tip: use your Cosy Collection Neck and Bag pillow to really maximize your bag's space.
3. Check Passport and Entry Requirements
For international travel, it is crucial to review visa and passport requirements for your destination.
Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and you have enough empty pages to be stamped.
The passport requirements vary destination to destination, so do a quick search to make sure you are in the clear to travel.
Make sure that you have obtained any necessary visas. We made the mistake of not applying for our Vietnam visas (which take a few days to process) because we thought it was a visa-on-arrival.
If it turns out that your screwed up your visa (like us trying to go to Vietnam), it’s time to get spontaneous.
This is how we ended up in Malaysia, instead. And had an incredible time!
Also check whether you can pay with a credit card or if it’s a cash only visa. When we went to the Galapagos, we had to pay the $100 visa with cash as credit cards were not accepted.
Research any health screening form requirements, and vaccination requirements. For example, there are some countries that require you to show proof of yellow fever vaccine before entering.
There are also some countries that may not have a risk for yellow fever, but require you to show proof of yellow fever vaccine if you’ve recently traveled to a location with yellow fever.
Following these steps will help prevent any unneccessary delays or issues at immigration checkpoints.
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4. Arrange Transportation to the Airport
To avoid last-minute transportation hassles, make arrangements for getting to the airport.
Consider booking a taxi or rideshare service, or arranging a reliable friend or family member to drop you off.
You might even want to drive yourself, but be aware of how much long-term parking costs at the airport.
This may or may not be worth it.
When we flew with Play Airlines to Iceland, we flew out of Stewart International Airport.
The parking ended up costing us only $48 USD for the four days we needed to park there.
Take into account the traffic conditions and plan your departure accordingly, allowing for potential delays.
By securing your transportation in advance, you can start your journey with ease.
5. Arrange Transportation From the Airport
Be sure to make your transportation arrangements before you land in your destination.
You’ll want to avoid the stress and uncertainty of trying to find a suitable mode of transportation upon arrival.
Whether you book a taxi, personal driver, arrange for a shuttle service, or rely on a friend or family member, having transportation prearranged ensures you can hit the ground running once you arrive.
6. Confirm Local Transportation
If you have pre-arranged local transportation, such as a rental car or shuttle service, confirm the details before you travel.
And I mean all the details. When we went to Aruba, we had an unexpected twist in our car rental plans. We accidentally booked a manual car despite not knowing how to drive one.
Luckily for us, the rental agency were understanding and accommodating.
They were able to switch our reservation to an automatic car.
But this could’ve been bad if there were no more automatic cars available.
Be aware of all the details of your transportation arrangements! Ensure that your reservation is still in place and verify the pickup location, date, time, and description.
Also, keep in mind that Uber or Lyft may not be available everywhere.
By double-checking these arrangements, you can prevent any unexpected inconveniences upon arrival.
7. Set Up Out of Office Replies for Work-Related Emails
“Mm Mm get somebody else to do it.” Well, maybe not those words exactly, but you should inform colleagues, clients, and business partners about your absence.
Clearly indicate your return date to manage expectations, and provide them with alternative contacts if necessary.
By setting up these automated responses, you can enjoy your trip without worrying about missing important messages.
8. Notify Credit Card Companies and Banks of Your Travel Plans
Inform your credit card companies and banks about your upcoming travel plans to avoid any unexpected card blocks or fraud alerts.
The last thing you want is for your bank to shut down your purchase of a black Tahitian pearl in Bora Bora because they think it’s a scammer and not you living your best life.
Provide them with your travel dates and destinations to ensure uninterrupted access to your funds while abroad.
Take note of their contact information in case you need to reach them during your trip.
This proactive measure will prevent unneccessary financial inconveniences.
9. Set Up Travel Notifications and Alerts
Stay informed about your flight status and any changes by signing up for travel notifications and alerts.
Many airlines offer email or text message updates regarding delays, gate changes, or cancellations.
When we flew with Flair Airlines, they were really great at letting us know when it was time to head to our gate for boarding.
By staying updated, you can minimize any disruptions and adjust your plans accordingly.
10. Check the Weather Forecast for Your Destination
Knowing the weather conditions at your destination can help you pack appropriately and plan your activities accordingly.
You likely don’t want to be hiking in the rain.
We did end up hiking in the rain in Aruba, but luckily we had our TropicFeel NS40 Self-Packable Jackets.
Check the weather forecast for your travel dates to determine if you need to pack extra layers, rain gear, or sun protection.
I was shocked to find out how cold it is in Ecuador despite being located on the equator.
Researching the weather beforehand will have you well-prepared for the climate at your destination.
11. Make Copies of Important Documents
Safeguard your travel documents by creating digital and physical copies.
Take pictures or screenshots on your phone of your passport, visas, travel insurance documents, and any other essential paperwork.
Store the digital copies securely, and email or text them to yourself.
Carry the physical copies separately from the originals in case of loss or theft.
Having duplicates provides an extra layer of security and facilitates the process of obtaining replacements if needed.
12. Secure Your Home Before Leaving
Before leaving, take necessary precautions to secure your home.
Lock all doors and windows, set your security alarm system, and activate any timers for lights or electronics to give the appearance that someone is home.
If you have a trusted (heavy on the trusted) neighbor or friend, inform them of your absence and ask them to keep an eye on your property.
It’s a good idea to have someone collect your mail so it won’t pile up, too.
Each of these steps should be included in your leaving the house checklist.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy your travels without insecurity.
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13. Refill Your Medications
I’m your favorite budget traveler, and also your favorite pharmacist, here to remind you that the last thing you’d want is to run out of your medications while you’re away.
You should have an ample supply of medication that covers the duration of your travels, with a few extra days accounted for.
If you happen to run out of your prescriptions while abroad, you can contact your home pharmacy and see if they can transfer your medications to a nearby pharmacy.
Have your doctors' contact numbers readily available for any necessary communication.
However, it's important to note that finding the exact brand and dosage may be challenging when you travel to different countries, particularly those with different official languages.
But don't hesitate to ask the pharmacist questions. They know a lot, trust me 🙂
They can help you identify the most similar medication available, whether it’s a prescription or over-the-counter option.
Ideally, bringing enough medication with you is the best-case-scenario.
Remember to pack your medications in your carry-on bag or personal item, whenever possible.
At least keep a couple days’ worth of medication on you in case your checked luggage goes missing.
14. Obtain Travel Medical Insurance
Securing travel medical insurance is a crucial step when it comes to last-minute travel.
It provides you with essential protection throughout your journey.
In the unpredictable world of travel, unforeseen circumstances can arise, such as trip cancellations, lost baggage, or unexpected medical emergencies.
I’ve worked in the emergency department for years, and emergencies are never expected. It’s just better to be prepared.
Having the right insurance coverage ensures that you are financially protected and can receive the necessary assistance you may need.
We love SafetyWing travel medical insurance because it was created for nomads by nomads.
You can purchase your insurance policy with SafetyWing even after your trip has begun.
You can even pause and resume coverage at your convenience.
With SafetyWing, you can enjoy benefits like medical expense coverage, emergency medical evacuation, trip delay, and more.
There are 185 countries covered and you don't need to let them know your travel itinerary beforehand.
This is absolutely perfect for all the last-minute travelers out there!
Don’t leave your travel plans to chance - invest in travel and medical insurance to safeguard yourself against any unexpected events.
15. Arrange for Child Care
This step applies to all the parents out there. And I mean, hopefully this isn’t a last minute thought!
Whether or not you’re traveling with your child, you’ll want to make arrangements for someone reliable and responsible to look after your child while you’re away.
This can mean a trusted family member or friend, or a reliable babysitter that may be available at your hotel or resort.
It provides a sense of security for both you and your children, ensures their daily routine and needs are met, and allows them to thrive in a nurturing and supervised environment.
16. Arrange for Pet Care
If you have pets, they’re not going to feed themselves while you’re away.
Be sure to make arrangements for their care if you don’t plan on tagging them along.
Whether it’s hiring a pet sitter, arranging for boarding, or asking a friend or family member to look after them, ensure your pets will receive proper care and attention in your absence.
Provide detailed instructions on feeding, medications, and any specific requirements they may have.
Knowing your pets are well-cared for will allow you to focus on your trip.
17. Pay Your Bills
Take a few moments to settle any bills, especially if they will be due while you’re away.
Pay your credit card bills, utilities, rent/mortgage, and any other financial obligations to avoid late payment fees or service interruptions.
You don’t want to come home from your fabulous vacation with your lights turned off.
By staying on top of your payments, you can maintain a good financial standing even while you’re away.
18. Empty Your Fridge and Dispose Perishables
To prevent returning to unpleasant surprises, clear out your refrigerator and dispose of anything perishable.
Consume or donate food that may spoil during your absence. Remove any trash that could cause unpleasant odors.
Cleaning your fridge will help maintain a fresh and odor-free environment when you return home.
19. Check-In Online
Save time and avoid long queues by checking in online, if available for your mode of transportation.
Many airlines offer online check-in options, allowing you to select your seats and obtain digital boarding passes in advance, usually 24 hours before your flight.
Not only do most airlines offer this easy online check-in option, but some may require that you check-in online in advance to secure your seat if they are notorious for overbooking their flights.
Take advantage of this convenience to streamline your travel experience and ensure a smoother departure.
20. Know the Baggage Policies
Understanding the baggage policies is crucial because this can motivate you to pack efficiently and avoid any unexpected surprises or additional fees at the airport.
You’ll want to adhere to the weight and size restrictions for both checked and carry-on baggage.
And check the specific guidelines of your chosen airline or train or bus to avoid any inconvenience during your journey.
21. Charge Your Electronic Devices
Charge all your electronics, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, drones, and cameras before you leave.
This step will make sure you have plenty of battery life and everything is ready to use right away.
Consider carrying portable chargers or power banks for on-the-go charging, especially during long flights or long train rides.
Having fully charged devices will allow you to stay connected and capture memorable moments throughout your trip.
It is also an important safety measure. In the event of an emergency, having fully charged devices ensures you can quickly and easily reach out to someone for help or assistance.
Using Colorstreet Nail Strips is a convenient and time-saving solution for last-minute travel preparations.
They’re absolutely perfect if you didn’t have time to go to the nail salon.
Colorstreet Nail Strips are adhesive strips that come in various colors and designs, offering a quick and effortless way to achieve salon-quality nails.
Whether you prefer a classic French manicure or a bold and vibrant pattern, Colorstreet Nail Strips are a fashionable fix that can be applied in under ten minutes!
They really help you look and feel put together, saving you time, and getting you vacation-ready.
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23. Withdraw Cash and Exchange Currency
Whether you plan to withdraw cash from ATMs or exchange currency at banks, ensuring you have the right currency helps facilitate a stress-free journey.
Having local currency on hand also enables you to navigate public transportation, pay for small purchases, or tip service providers smoothly.
But do a little research first. Do they prefer the US dollar over their local currency? Is it ever an option to use your credit card?
You’ll want to know these details so you can make transactions conveniently during your travels.
P.S. if you will be using an international ATM, withdraw money in the local currency to get the best exchange rate.
Also, make sure you are using a card that does not have foreign transaction fees! (We use Charles Schwabb. They refund us any ATM fees we incur.)
24. Research Local Customs and Etiquette
If you’ll be navigating unfamiliar cultures, you will need to research local customs and etiquette.
This is necessary because each destination has its own unique customs and social norms. Being aware of them enhances your travel experience.
By understanding the local traditions, you show respect for the local culture and avoid unintentionally offending or causing misunderstandings.
While we were in Bali, the left hand was considered impure or unclean.
It was customary for people to exchange items or greetings using their right hand or both hands, while keeping the left hand slightly behind the right hand without making contact with the other person.
Being aware of local customs and etiquette helps you interact with locals more smoothly and create positive connections.
It also prepares you to dress appropriately, observe cultural practices, and engage in social interactions with sensitivity.
Whether its learning about greetings, table manners, or dress codes, this knowledge helps you navigate social situations with confidence and demonstrate cultural awareness.
25. Download Offline Maps
This is a biggie! We always download the offline Google Maps before we head to our next destination.
This way you’ll have access to maps and navigation even when you don’t have an internet connection.
Relying solely on online maps may not always be feasible or reliable, especially when traveling to remote areas or encountering limited internet access.
Downloading offline Google Maps was particularly a lifesaver when we explored Cuba since we rarely had internet access during our time there.
By taking the time to download offline Google Maps, you can plan your routes, locate nearby attractions, and avoid getting lost.
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26. Clean Your Home
After traveling, whether it was a quick trip or longer vacation, it’s much more comforting and relaxing when I come home to a clean house.
Returning to a clean and tidy home after your travels can make the transition back to daily life much easier and more enjoyable.
So, take a few moments to clean up, put things in order (even your laundry), and create a welcoming space for your return.
At the very least, make your bed!
27. Get a Good Night’s Sleep Before Your Travel Day
Lastly, prioritize getting a good night’s sleep before your travel day.
A well-rested body and mind will help you stay alert and energized during your journey.
Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption the night before to ensure a restful sleep.
By taking care of yourself and starting your trip well-rested, you’ll be ready to embark on your travel adventures full-force.
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Final Thoughts on Last Minute Checklist for Travel
Preparation is key to a stress-free and enjoyable journey.
Now you’re ready to make the most of every moment on your trip.
By following the tips and recommendations in this blog post, you can ensure that you have everything you need, from travel essentials to important documents and safety measures.
So don’t let the rush of last-minute preparations dampen your excitement. Take charge of your travel plans.
To help you stay organized and ensure you haven’t missed a single detail, I invited you to download our free Last Minute Travel Checklist.
This will serve as your ultimate companion, guiding you through the essential tasks and items you need to remember before your departure.
Now is the time to embrace the thrill of spontaneity while maintaining a sense of preparedness.
Get ready to create unforgettable memories, explore new horizons, and immerse yourself in the beauty of your chosen destination.
Sign up below to download your Last Minute Travel Checklist and embark on your next adventure fully prepared!
FAQs: Last-Minute Travel Checklist
Why is a last minute travel checklist important?
- It helps you stay organized and reduces the chances of forgetting important items or tasks. It ensures you have everything you need for a successful and stress-free trip, even when time is limited.
What should I pack for last minute travel?
- Focus on the essentials. Pack versatile clothing that can be easily mixed and matched. Don't forget toiletries, medications, travel documents (visas, vaccine cards), identification (passport), reusable water bottle, and electronics.
How do you pack for vacation fast?
- Consider rolling your clothes into organized packing cubes. Have a checklist beforehand and check off items as you pack them to ensure nothing is forgotten. Keep important items like travel documents and medications easily accessible in your carry-on bag.
What if I forget something from my last-minute travel checklist?
- Don't panic. Evaluate the importance and urgency of the item or task. For critical items like passports or medications, seek alternative solutions or guidance from authorities. For non-essentials, consider purchasing at your destination. Staying calm and adaptable is key to handling such situations.