I love traveling, but I'm also very scatter brained. I am definitely the type to forget some very important things, and when traveling abroad, you do not want to be forgetting things at home! Here's a list of some important things to make sure you aren't forgetting before leaving for a trip abroad!
For those of us who love travel, thinking about a future journey fills our hearts with happiness. A trip abroad is exciting, whether for pleasure or business. However, traveling abroad requires a lot of care as well as preparation, since the traveler usually is very far from their comfort zone. It's important, therefore, that you are well prepared and don't forget anything before traveling abroad, or you might be up a creek without a paddle in a country you don't know how to navigate. A little preparation goes a long way.
Here is a list of 5 Things You Shouldn't Forget Before Travelling Abroad:
1. Copies of your important documents
Safety is of the utmost importance when traveling. Make a copy of all documents related to the trip: passport, visa, tickets and keep a copy in each of your travel bags. You can even scan each document and attach it to your email account. In this way, you can access the details of your important documents in case of theft or loss of luggage. You can also make a list of emergency phone numbers and send it to you and the person accompanying you. Putting your address and contact in your luggage can be useful in case you lose your luggage during the trip. A good way to prevent losing this vital information is by putting it in a money belt, or in a slim "fanny pack" that sits underneath your clothing.
2. Travel insurance
One of the most important reasons to have insurance when traveling is medical insurance. Although you may already have a separate medical policy, you may not be covered when you travel to certain areas. In an emergency, you want to know that you will receive the best care no matter where you are. The insurance plan that you use will put you in touch with the best facilities to meet your needs or help you get to an area where you can receive adequate care. Another reason to have travel insurance is that you are covered if you must cancel your trip at the last moment or if something happens to your luggage. These are things that happen every day and can happen to anyone. You can apply for travel insurance online from www.genesage.com/expat-life-insurance-for-brits-living-abroad and other insurance companies. It is a quick process, but you need to read their terms and condition before you buy their insurance.
3. Toiletries
Be sure to pack your essential toiletries, such as soap, shampoo, shaving gel, toothbrush, and toothpaste. While most hotel rooms are equipped with these items, not all do, and you can't count on them being available when you need, nor will you always know where to buy these things in a new country. You should also have other things like glasses, a pair of extra contact lenses, eyeglasses, and other essential health products, enough to last the entire trip.
4. Medicine and First Aid Kit
A first aid kit equipped with certain essential medicines is also a necessary item to carry. Ideally, this kit should include medications for pain relief and stomach issues, as well as antiseptics. Also, if you take a prescription medication, take enough for the duration of your trip, and take a copy of your prescription with you. If you are taking contraceptive pills, make sure you do not forget them at home.
5. Mobile Devices
A mobile phone, a laptop, and a tablet are some of the more important mobile devices to bring when traveling for business. An electronic book reader is ideal for long trips and gives you something to do when you are waiting in airports or on long flights, and don't take up as much luggage room as multiple books. Having a smartphone accessible at all times is very useful. It is easy to get an international cell phone for your trip, or you can simply unlock your phone and buy a local sim card. Alternatively, for peace of mind and ease, you can purchase an international cell phone plan before you leave.
Lastly, would be to make sure your clothes are especially resistant to wrinkles and stains so you can look good without spending your vacation time with washing and ironing. Also, don't over-pack your calendar, so you have enough time to see different things, but aren't rushed and stressed out and can enjoy your trip and relax.
See my disclaimer.