Las Cabañas Beach in El Nido | Credit: Rachel Weisz
After more than 50 flights, countless airport hours and journeys across four continents, I’ve learned that successful travel often comes down to what happens before you even leave home. The difference between a smooth arrival and a stressful start is all about preparation, and I’ve become a master of it.
While I’m not perfect, I do believe my pre-departure checklist is. Writing this, I’ve recently returned from a long-haul flight from The Philippines and will soon depart on a long sojourn to New York City – and I’m always prepped and ready for anything, whether that be a lack of cellphone reception or my airport-ready skincare essentials.
From having my eSIM prepared and ready to go before landing (I’m packing Nomad eSIM for my next trip), to carrying the best noise-cancelling headphones for blocking out unwanted sounds (I’m keen to trial my new Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION headphones, but also recommend the Bose QuietComfort Ultra), it’s the only part of my trip where I can confidently say I’m Type A. The rest – including having an actual itinerary – is much more of a wing-it style.
A good checklist removes avoidable stress, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the journey ahead. It means knowing your passport is ready, your devices are charged, your luggage is organised and you have everything you need from take-off to touchdown.
This practical guide is shaped by real-life scenarios: from speedy airport runs when my connecting gate was on the other side of the terminal, to (very) long-haul flights and arriving in places where the smallest forgotten item can become the biggest inconvenience (hello, misplaced AirTag).
Bookmark this before your next trip and use it as your final reminder that the best journeys begin long before boarding. Click here to scroll down for the full, uninterrupted list.
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Editor’s essentials
Nomad eSIM,
$57.03 for 5GB 30 days global
Soki Tote,
$350 at Camilla and Marc
Smythson Marshall Travel Wallet,
$965
Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION,$999 $899 at JB Hi-Fi
Travel tip: I like to create a small pouch with everything I’ll need immediately after landing: charger, eSIM details, medication, toothbrush, deodorant, hand sanitiser, a change of underwear and any arrival documents. If your luggage is delayed, you’ll still have the essentials covered.
Why you should use a pre-departure checklist
A pre-departure checklist is vital, especially if you’re an anxious traveller. It helps take the guesswork out of travel prep, ensuring you don’t forget essential items; from passports and medications to chargers, documents and travel essentials.
Whether you’re taking a short getaway or a long-haul international journey, having a clear plan means fewer surprises and more time to focus on the excitement ahead. It also protects you from costly mistakes (missed visa requirements, declined cards abroad) rather than surprising you with them mid-trip.
The best trips begin before take-off, and a checklist helps ensure you’re ready for every step of the journey. Click here to scroll down for the full list.
Documentation & entry requirements
Let’s start with the boring stuff.
Unfortunately for us, Australia currently holds the title for the most expensive passport in the world, at $422 for a 10-year adult passport, and takes around six weeks to process. Make sure you don’t make the mistake I did by booking your trip to New York City four weeks out, which meant I had to pay the extra $107 for the fast track (five-day processing) service. Some countries stipulate that your passport should have at least six months of validity remaining from the date of your entry or departure to or from the international destination.
You also have to make sure to check any visa and entry authorisation requirements prior to departing Australia. If you’re planning to drive overseas, International Driving Permits (IDP) typically need to be issued before you leave as you can’t get one once abroad. And while it may be more old school, having backups of your passport, visas, itinerary and bookings protects you if the originals are lost, stolen, or your phone dies. This also helps in case you need proof of onward travel, which some countries check at border patrol.
The list:
- Passport renewal
- Visa/ETA/entry authorisation
- Smartraveller subscription
- International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Digital and printed copies of travel documents
Insurance & financial safety
I’ve used many travel cards in the past – Wise, Up Bank, Revolut – but my personal favourite is Up Bank, a neobank owned by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank. I have used this as my standard banking card as well as my travel companion as there are no international transaction fees plus free overseas ATM withdrawals. However I always bring my Wise card as a backup, which supports over 40 currencies and 160 countries and territories. It’s easy to use, however it has a one-time fee of $10 to order a card.
Comprehensive travel insurance is a non-negotiable for travel. From medical emergencies, cancellations and lost luggage, anything can happen, so arranging cover before you fly is essential. Another essential for financial security is an RFID-blocking travel wallet to avoid potentially being skimmed by RFID scanners in crowded tourist areas.
The list:
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Travel money card (e.g. Wise, Up Bank, Revolut, YouTrip)
- Notifying your bank/card issuer of travel dates (fraud-flag prevention)
- Backup credit card
- RFID-blocking travel wallet
- Currency exchange app
Dayna Leather RFID Wallet,
$119 at THE ICONIC
Rio Passport Holder,$129.90 $104.90 at Wolff Studios
Travel Wallet,
$199 at Bellroy
VULKIT Passport Wallet,$39.99 $32.99
Connectivity & tech
Setting up an eSIM before you leave ensures you have instant access to mobile data when you land, making it easy to navigate, book transport and stay connected without expensive roaming fees. Our Shopping Editor Paris Blanchfield recently tested a 10GB Nomad eSIM on her two-week trip to South Korea and described her experience as “virtually faultless,” finding topping up quick and easy. I’ve also used Airalo and found it really easy and convenient, though this is more on the expensive side with the 50GB 90 day SIM for US$100.
Additionally, remember to pack a fully charged power bank, which can be a lifesaver on long travel days, as well as a multi-port USB charging station that lets you charge several devices from a single wall socket, however I wouldn’t recommend one of those big and bulky power banks which will just take up space in your luggage.
Extra additions include a Bluetooth Tracker (e.g. Apple AirTag or Samsung SmartTag) and noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds (e.g. Sony WH-1000XM6, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, AirPods Pro 3) which will save you on a flight to help block out engine noise, crying children and busy terminals.
The list:
- eSIM for overseas travel
- Universal travel adapter (with USB-C)
- Portable power bank
- Multi-port USB charger
- Bluetooth tracker
- Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds
- Offline maps (Google Maps offline areas)
A translation app - Spare charging cables
Nomad eSIM,
$57.03 for 5GB 30 days global
Anker 737 Power Bank,$165 $113.99 at Amazon
Travel Adaptor Worldwide Set,
$40.99 at Amazon
Apple AirTag 4 Pack,$165 $139 at Amazon
Luggage & packing
Now for the fun stuff.
Durable checked luggage is essential, especially when it’s the right size to help protect your belongings. But I find your carry-on is even more important.
The best carry-on bag keeps your most important items organised, accessible and protected. Organisation is my north star, making sure I can easily grab my passport, book, laptop or whatever else I need, while ensuring I’m prepared for delays, lost luggage or long transit periods. I love a carry-on suitcase as much as the next person, but on a long-haul flight, I much prefer travelling with a backpack or weekender bag for easier access when on the plane.
Another big recommendation is packing cubes, particularly compression-style cubes, which can help maximise suitcase space. Personally, I like to organise my clothing by day or event.
If a tote bag isn’t your style, I recommend a lightweight, foldable daypack that can be neatly stored in your suitcase. I also suggest bringing a portable luggage scale, a TSA-approved travel lock, and a toiletry set for your carry-on.
A note on clothing: pack versatile, weather-appropriate layers and break in your walking shoes before you go – you’ll thank me later.
The list:
- Quality carry-on
- Checked luggage
- Packing cubes (compression-style)
- Foldable daypack or tote bag
- Luggage scale
- TSA/travel locks
- Luggage tag with contact details
- 100ml travel bottles/toiletry set
Longchamp Le Pliage Green Travel Bag,
$340 at THE ICONIC
Compression Packing Cubes Set of 3,$80 $60 at Zoomlite
Large Luggage in Taupe,$399 $209.40 at Antler
Cotopaxi Allpa,
$398.77 at Amazon
Health & wellbeing
Anything relevant to health and wellbeing should be neatly stored in a cosmetic bag or travel pouch in order to avoid any issues.
Preparing your medications and carrying the correct documentation ensures you have uninterrupted access to essential treatments and can avoid issues when travelling across borders. Prior to departure, make sure you check if you need to organise any recommended vaccinations: this ensures you’re prepared for any potential health risks at your destination.
I’d also recommend carrying a compact first aid kit, a sleep mask and ear plugs for the flight. A travel pillow is not always essential; I frankly find it a nuisance to carry and prefer a scarf or shawl that I can ball up into a pillow on my flight.
The list:
- Prescription medications (with documentation)
- Travel vaccinations
- Travel first aid kit
- Sleep mask & ear plugs (or travel pillow)
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Spare glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses
- Motion sickness tablets or similar for long-haul
Banks Shawl,$280 $400 at Jac + Jack
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask,
$68 at Myer
Allkelr Portable Water Bottle,$27 $24.01 at Amazon
Orbitkey 2-in-1 Toiletry Pouch,
$119 at THE ICONIC
Misc
Preparing a few extra travel essentials before departure can help you handle unexpected situations, such as a waterproof phone pouch, a portable luggage lock and a travel laundry kit. Finally, weather-specific gear such as rain jackets, thermal layers or sun protection ensures you’re comfortable and prepared for the conditions at your destination. And don’t forget a book or kindle!
The list:
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Portable luggage lock
- Travel laundry kit
- Weather-specific gear
- Entertainment: books, Kindle etc…
- Snacks for the flight/layovers
Damson Madder Anja Shower-Proof Trench,$430 $309.59 at THE ICONIC
Amazon Kindle 16GB,
$199 at Amazon
Beach Read by Emily Henry,
$30.95 at Booktopia
TSA Luggage Locks,$18.99 $14.99 at Amazon
The full pre-departure checklist
From essential documents and tech to packing, health and comfort items, this complete guide covers everything you need to prepare before take-off. Save this checklist as your go-to travel companion to help you stay organised, avoid last-minute stress and leave home with confidence.
1. DOCUMENTATION & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- Passport renewal
- Visa/ETA/entry authorisation
- Smartraveller subscription
- International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Digital and printed copies of travel documents
2. INSURANCE & FINANCIAL SAFETY
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Travel money card (e.g. Wise, Up Bank, Revolut, YouTrip)
- Backup credit card
- Notifying your bank/card issuer of travel dates (fraud-flag prevention)
- RFID-blocking travel wallet
- Currency exchange app
3. CONNECTIVITY & TECH
- eSIM for overseas travel
- Universal travel adapter (with USB-C)
- Portable power bank
- Multi-port USB charger
- Bluetooth tracker
- Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds
- Offline maps (Google Maps offline areas)
A translation app - Spare charging cables
4. LUGGAGE & PACKING
- Quality carry-on
- Checked luggage
- Packing cubes (compression-style)
- Foldable daypack or tote bag
- Luggage scale
- TSA/travel locks
- Luggage tag with contact details
- 100ml travel bottles/toiletry set
5. HEALTH & WELLBEING
- Prescription medications (with documentation)
- Travel vaccinations
- Travel first aid kit
- Sleep mask & ear plugs (or travel pillow)
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Spare glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses
- Motion sickness tablets or similar for long-haul
6. MISC
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Portable luggage lock
- Travel laundry kit
- Weather-specific gear
- Entertainment: books, Kindle etc…
- Snacks for the flight/layovers
A well-planned pre-departure checklist can help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. In short, essential items include a valid passport, visa requirements, travel insurance, flight details, accommodation confirmations and important documents. Pack necessary medications, travel adapters, chargers, comfortable flight essentials and appropriate clothing for your destination’s climate. Organising an eSIM, currency, luggage, toiletries and health requirements such as vaccinations ahead of time can also save time and prevent last-minute issues. A thorough checklist ensures you’re prepared for every stage of your trip, from leaving home to arriving overseas.
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