It’s such an exciting time! You’re heading off on a trip abroad. I recently took my first trip abroad this past November 2019 to Spain and it was such a rush! I looked up items I would need to pack and what to expect on this journey. Here are a few ideas on what to take and what to remember for your trip; here’s what to pack when traveling abroad. This post contains affiliate links
Passport
Of course, the most important item on this list is your passport. Make sure it’s up to date and that you always keep it handy during your time at the airport, just in case you need it at the various checkpoints, specifically passport control.
I would also suggest doing some research on the airport you’ll be arriving to. This way, it will be easier to navigate when you arrive there. If you have a connecting flight, you’ll be prepared on where to go next. It’s also important to look up the forms of transportation the location you are traveling to offers, so you can determine the best way to get around.
Wallet
Another important item is your wallet. Be sure to bring another form of identification, your credit cards and cash on you as well. It’s crucial to know the currency the country you are traveling to uses, that way you are prepared with the correct currency. For my recent trip abroad, we went to our local bank to change US dollars to Euros for our trip to Spain, that way we had some cash with us just in case it was needed. I would also recommend taking with you copies of important documentation regarding health needs, medications, etc.
Also, don’t forget to get in contact with your credit card company before heading off on your trip! You’ll need to advise them of your international travel plans. They’ll be able to let you know if you’ll have any extra fees associated with using your card abroad or if no extra costs are involved. Just to make sure you can use your credit cards abroad without any issues.
Phone, Chargers and Adapters
I never leave the house without my phone! Be sure you keep it with you throughout your trip. I like to share my personality on my phone, so I bought myself the cutest suitcase looking Iphone case, wheels and all! I was not able to find an updated Amazon link to the Iphone case that I have, but once I do, I’ll be sure to share it with you all.
Remember to also call your phone provider to advise them you are traveling abroad. They’ll be able to advise you if you are covered internationally or offer you various options for your time abroad. This way, you can use your mobile data and call/text as needed.
You’ll also need your phone and/or camera charger. You will have to determine if the country you are traveling to has a different plug and socket type as your own. I purchased this Complete European Travel Adapter Set by Ceptics on Amazon for just $9.99. It included three different adapters for different countries around the world. Two of them worked perfectly in Spain.
Camera
Don’t forget your camera! So you can take incredible images of your time abroad. I use a Sony Alpha a5000 which is easy to use and carry around. It’s one step up from a point and shoot, so it’s a great starter camera. I also purchased a new Portrait Lens to enhance my photos while traveling, and it’s great for family portraits.
Packing Needs
I usually opt for bringing on a personal item and carry on for my travels, but of course it depends on the location and length of time. So it’s up to you! Just be sure to do your research on the airline to determine their carry on limits and size limits for luggage, so you aren’t charged extra and are aware of prices depending on the weight of your items. My London Fog luggage set includes different sized pieces. It includes two personal items, two possible carry on pieces, and a larger luggage piece. As my personal item for my recent trip, I used a travel backpack. I purchased the Kah&Kee Backpack Purse Leather backpack on Amazon for $29.99. Small but mighty; it’s so convenient to use when traveling.
For my trip abroad, I purchased Packing Cubes for Travel to fit everything in carry on. So I had enough room for all my belongings, and for souvenirs too! Of course, be sure to pack your essentials, including personal hygiene items, accessories, any necessary medicine – things of that sort. Go prepared since you may not be able to find the same products abroad.
Clothing
Depending on the location and season, you’ll need to determine what type of clothing would be best to take for this trip abroad, as well as determine the appropriate clothing depending on the countries culture as well.
During Summer vacation abroad, it’s easier to pack light and airy, including shorts, leggings, tees and tanks, blouses and sun dresses. Smaller shoes as well; sandals and flats work well. For a Fall or Winter trip, you’ll need to plan accordingly to make sure you’re bundled up with your thermals, thicker pants, long sleeves and turtle necks. For shoes, closed sneakers and boots would be ideal. Be sure to also take Thermal Crew Socks to stay warm and toasty! I had purchased a two pack in purple, I always use these on winter trips.
On my more recent trips, I had to be prepared for cooler temperatures. I packed my long sleeves and coat for my trip. Here’s an item I took along for the colder locations, these Water and Snow Resistant Cargo Pants for Women. They’re not too bulky, so they’re easy to pack into your suitcase, but they also protected me from the cold when I went skiing. I had purchased them in gray and black, but they occasionally run out of colors so keep checking for your perfect size and color. Prices vary. You can also find one for Men on Amazon, Men’s Softshell Fleece-Lined Cargo Pants.
These are just a few items that are a must when traveling abroad. I hope this tips and ideas help you prepare for your next getaway! Remember, what is needed for your trip depends on the location and time frame of travel, so be sure to do your research and prepare in advance.
I would love to hear all about what you usually take abroad and what you think is crucial to take with you when traveling!
