AUTHOR: Chris Phelan

Embarking on an international trip is one of the most thrilling experiences you can have, which makes packing one of the most important parts of the adventure! Trust me, as someone who has traveled around the world in recent years, remembering to pack the essentials is, well, essential! Here is everything considered mandatory to pack the next time you travel overseas.

1. Your Passport

Packing your passport is a no-brainer, but countless men and women accidentally leave their passports at home when traveling. Surveys reveal that 6% of travelers admit forgetting their passports at home, so do whatever you can to ensure you’re part of the 94% that remember! A forgotten passport can mean anything from missed flights to canceled vacations.

2. A Foreign Transaction-Friendly Credit Card

Not all credit cards are created equal, especially regarding international transactions. Leave your “base model” cards at home and bring cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees! While foreign transaction fees are minuscule, they nevertheless can add up significantly by the end of an international trip. Thankfully, plenty of credit cards are available that don’t charge these fees, many with zero annual fees.

3. Your Smartphone

When traveling anywhere (especially overseas), your smartphone is your lifeline, so it goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave home without it! If you’re lost in an unfamiliar city, your smartphone has apps that can get you home safely. If you need clarification on local customs, a quick Google search on your phone can steer you in the right direction. Without a smartphone, you’re left to your own devices, which puts you at a disadvantage in an ever-changing modern world.

4. An Extra Charger

Although I have no hard data to support this, I theorize that approximately 100% of all smartphone chargers are lost when traveling internationally. I don’t know what happens to chargers when they’re overseas, but they disappear in an instant. Therefore, it’s critical that every international traveler pack an extra charger in their luggage before leaving. Consider this one of those “thank me later” situations.

5. Noise-Canceling Headphones

Inevitably, you’ll find yourself wishing to enjoy peace and quiet, whether on a busy train or trying to get a good night’s sleep in a bustling international city. Bringing noise-canceling headphones with you is a game-changer! Not only can you block out unwanted noise with the touch of a button, but you can also chill out and listen to your favorite tunes without disturbing others.

6. Comfortable Walking Shoes

Unless you plan on setting up shop in a hotel room and refuse to venture outside, you’ll walk a lot during most international trips. It’s crucial to be prepared by packing comfortable walking shoes. Part of the beauty of exploring foreign countries is traveling on foot; this gives you a wholly unique perspective that makes you feel like you’re part of the culture instead of being a temporary visitor.

7. Plenty of Sunscreen

As you now know, enjoying the outdoors is one of the best parts of international travel. Of course, your body only has a certain level of protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays, so it’s best to pack plenty of sunscreen. Trust me, nothing can ruin a trip faster than getting badly sunburnt like it’s your college spring break vacation all over again.

8. An International Outlet Converter

If you’re traveling to Europe, a U.S.-to-European outlet converter is arguably the most important thing to pack. If you don’t, you’re out of luck when powering items like your smartphone, laptop, and other electronics. Thankfully, cheap (and reliable) options are available on Amazon, so you have no excuses for a few of them not landing in your suitcase before you leave.

9. Refillable Water Bottle

Disposable, single-use water bottles are so 2023; it’s time to get with the times and keep the environment in mind when drinking water. A refillable water bottle will go a long way when traveling internationally. Although many European countries don’t offer complimentary water like their U.S. counterparts, you’ll still be glad you brought your own water bottle. In 2024, nobody needs to contribute to the world’s plastic waste problem.

10. A High-Quality Camera

Keep in mind that you may never revisit your international destination again, so taking as many photos and videos as possible is a recommended strategy. Nobody ever regrets taking too many pictures! Thankfully, in 2024, your smartphone camera likely rivals high-end standalone shooters, so unless you have a digital SLR camera, the one you have in your pocket will do just fine.

11. Your Medication

Remember when I said nothing can ruin a trip quicker than getting sunburnt? That was a lie. In reality, forgetting to pack your medication is by far the worst thing that can happen when embarking on an international trip. Do whatever you must do to remember to pack your medication; scribble instructions on your body Memento-style if that’s what it takes!

12. Travel Insurance Documents

Signing up for travel insurance (which frequently includes international health benefits) is a must in 2024. You never know when an emergency will happen, and you’ll be glad you’re covered in the unlikely event you need to visit a doctor or hospital. Bring hard copies of your coverage with you to ensure a seamless experience if you actually have to put your insurance into action.

13. A Travel-Oriented Backpack

Unfortunately, the standard Jansport backpack you’ve rocked since middle school won’t stand up to grueling international travel. But there’s good news: Countless companies make travel-specific backpacks and day bags to ensure your days will be comfortable while fully stocked with all the essentials. You’ll be amazed how much stuff can fit into these newfangled bags!

14. Luggage Locks

When embarking on an international adventure, you never know when you and your belongings will need some guaranteed security. Unfortunately, pickpockets and thieves exist worldwide, so give yourself much-deserved peace of mind by bringing small luggage locks. Even the simple act of locking your backpack while exploring the streets of a new town gives you precisely the protection your belongings need.

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