So, you’ve booked the flights, planned the itinerary, and maybe even treated yourself to a cute new travel outfit. You’re feeling ready—but are you really?
Here’s the thing: even the most seasoned travelers forget some crucial pre-trip details. And these aren’t just minor “oops” moments. These are the kind of things that can make or break your trip.
I’m talking about stepping off the plane and realizing you have no internet, showing up at a rental car counter only to be denied because of a missing document, or discovering that your charger is useless because you forgot an adapter.
I once landed in Sri Lanka only to realize I didn’t have a way to access mobile data. Cue the frantic airport Wi-Fi scramble and the long airport line to buy a SIM card 😅
That’s why having a travel preparation checklist is an absolute game-changer. It helps avoid those ‘Oh no!’ moments and ensures your trip goes as smoothly as possible.
So, to help you feel fully prepared (and totally stress-free), here are five things people always forget to do before a trip. If you get started with knowing what mistakes to avoid, you are off to an amazing start!
Ready to get access to the best and most practical travel preparation checklist?
*This post contains affiliate links. Which means if you shop for certain things by clicking the links in this blog post, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! Thanks in advance for supporting Ways of Style!
1️⃣ Safety First! Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance might not be the most glamorous part of trip planning, but it’s one of the most important. I’ll never forget when I saw a lady fall on a ferry in Lake Como and break her head open. She had to be picked up by an ambulance—right there on the dock.
I’m not saying this to scare you, but things happen, and they can happen anywhere. Better to be prepared than regret it later!
We personally use SafetyWing, which offers affordable and flexible travel insurance for digital nomads and frequent travelers. Adding this to your travel preparation checklist can save you from unexpected travel mishaps… Many travelers assume they won’t need it, only to regret it when they face unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.
🎯 Why you need it:
- Covers medical emergencies abroad, which can be extremely expensive in some places.
- Provides reimbursement for canceled flights and lost baggage.
- Offers peace of mind so you can enjoy your trip stress-free.
2️⃣ Protect Your Personal Info With A VPN:
Ever used public Wi-Fi at a coffee shop or airport? It’s super convenient, but also a goldmine for hackers. Think of a VPN (Virtual Private Network) like a secret code for your internet connection—one that scrambles your data so hackers can’t steal your info while you’re using public Wi-Fi.
🎯 Why you need it:
- Protects your online data from hackers when using public Wi-Fi.
- Lets you access websites and streaming services that might be blocked in certain countries.
- Keeps your online banking and transactions secure.
We recommend Surfshark, a reliable and budget-friendly VPN that works seamlessly across multiple devices. Including a VPN in your travel preparation checklist ensures you stay safe and connected.
👉🏻 If you use this link, you’ll get 4 extra months for free.
🧳 What If You Didn’t Have To Worry About Packing For This Trip? 🧳
I can generate a customized packing list for your trip in seconds. Just answer two quick questions, and you’ll get a list tailored to your destination and length of the trip. No more overpacking, no more forgotten essentials—just stress-free travel prep!
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3️⃣ Get An E-Sim BEFORE Your Trip! (activate it when you land)
Remember the hassle of swapping out your physical SIM card every time you traveled? Or worse—losing it and scrambling to get a new one? Enter the eSIM, the game-changer for staying connected abroad.
Unlike the old-school SIM card, an eSIM is entirely digital. You install it before your trip, and the moment your plane lands, you simply activate it with literally the click of a button! No tiny cards to fumble with, no overpriced airport kiosks, and no waiting to find a local provider. Just instant, seamless internet access.
🎯 Why you need it:
- No more losing or swapping physical SIM cards.
- Get reliable internet access the second you land.
- Perfect for using Uber, Google Translate, maps, restaurant reviews, and more.
- Often cheaper than international roaming plans.
We use HolaFly, which offers eSIMs in over 200 destinations worldwide. You can purchase and activate it ahead of time, ensuring you have seamless connectivity throughout your journey. Adding an eSIM to your travel preparation checklist means one less thing to worry about when you arrive!
4️⃣ Check If You Need An International Driver’s License!
Thinking of renting a car on your trip? Imagine landing in your dream destination, ready to hit the road and explore, only to find out the rental company won’t give you the keys because you don’t have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).
Some countries legally require an IDP—a translated version of your driver’s license that allows you to drive abroad. It’s an easy, affordable document to get, but forgetting it could mean being stranded without transportation!
🎯 Why you need it:
- Some countries won’t accept your U.S. driver’s license without an IDP.
- Car rental companies may refuse to rent you a vehicle without one.
- It’s affordable, easy to get, and prevents last-minute travel hiccups.
You can get your International Driver’s Permit at AAA for just $25. It takes only a few minutes to apply, and once you have it, you’ll be free to drive without any issues. Add this to your travel preparation checklist so you can hit the road stress-free!. Yep, that’s a real possibility in many countries!
5️⃣ Don’t Forget Your Travel Adapter:
Imagine you’ve just arrived at your hotel after a long flight, ready to charge your phone and check in with family—only to realize the plug doesn’t fit. Not all countries use the same type of electrical outlets, and forgetting a universal travel adapter can leave you without power when you need it most.
Fun fact: there are 15 different plugs all over the world! 🌎
🎯 Why you need it:
- Ensures you can charge your phone, laptop, and camera no matter where you go.
- Some countries have different voltage requirements, and a good adapter will protect your electronics.
- Saves you from overpaying for an adapter at the airport or a local shop.
A universal travel adapter is the best investment since it works in multiple countries. Look for one with built-in USB ports for added convenience!
⭐️ BONUS! Do a little packing exercise! Yes, hear me out…
Yes, hear me out—this simple trick can save you from overpacking or forgetting something important. Before your trip, do a quick test run: lay out everything you plan to bring and actually pack your suitcase. This helps you see if everything fits, spot any missing essentials, and avoid last-minute stress.
Want to make packing even easier? My packing workshop will teach you exactly how to fit everything you need into a 20′ carry-on with plenty of room to spare!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Inside my 5-star workshop, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step strategy to pack light without sacrificing style. You’ll learn exactly how to create 40 stylish travel outfits with just 15 pieces… including just 3 pairs of shoes!
This isn’t just another packing guide. It’s a game-changing approach that will help you avoid overpacking, eliminate outfit stress, and make sure every piece in your suitcase earns its spot. Because the right outfits can make (or break!) your trip.
If you’re ready to pack smarter and travel with confidence, check it out the workshop here! I’m excited to see you inside 💛
Your Travel Preparation Checklist!
So, before you head off on your next adventure, make sure you check off these essential travel preparations:
✅ Purchase travel insurance (Safety Wing)
✅ Set up a VPN for secure browsing (Surfshark)
✅ Get an eSIM for seamless connectivity (Hola Fly)
✅ Verify if you need an International Driver’s Permit (A simple Google search will tell you. I can assure you, Italy requires one)
✅ Pack a universal travel adapter (Amazon)
⭐️ Do a packing exercise!
No matter how much we plan, there’s always something that slips through the cracks. That’s just how travel works! But with a little extra preparation, you can avoid those last-minute headaches and actually enjoy the journey.
Some of these things might seem small, but trust me, they make a huge difference. A VPN keeps your info safe, an eSIM gets you online instantly (this is invaluable), and a travel adapter ensures you’re never stuck with a dead phone in a foreign country.
It’s all about making your trip smoother, easier, and way more fun.
So, before you zip up that suitcase, double-check this travel preparation checklist! Future you will thank you!
Safe travels! ✈️
XO,
Aimara
About The Author:
Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own.
I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my looks, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.
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