Embarking on a new adventure is always exciting, but proper preparation is essential; this article is a mix of general trip-prep advice, along with things I wish I’d considered prior to my first 6+ month overseas trip.
If you’re planning for a long-term trip and are looking for a place to start, this article is for you.
The Basics
Check Your Passport
Before you set off on your adventure, the first step is to ensure your passport is up to date. Often overlooked, checking the expiration date of your passport is crucial. Renew it if necessary to avoid any last-minute surprises.
For more information on passport requirements, visit Travel.State.Gov.
Check VISA Requirements
Depending on your destination and the length of your stay, you may need a visa. Research each country you plan to visit to determine if a visa is required.
For detailed information about visa requirements, check USA.gov.
Get Your Shots
Depending on your destination, you might need vaccinations. This is particularly important for long-term travelers with flexible plans. Visit a travel clinic to get any necessary shots.
To see vaccination requirements for your destination, visit the CDC Travel Destinations List. For travel clinics near you, check Health and Travel.
Note: Some vaccinations require multiple doses over several weeks, so plan ahead!
Consider Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can be a lifesaver in emergencies. Look for policies that cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, theft, and specific activities you plan to undertake. While no insurance is perfect, it can provide peace of mind.
For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, some travel insurance policies helped reimburse prepaid expenses, albeit partially. This coverage can make a big difference in unexpected situations.
Obtain an International Driver's License
If you plan to rent a car, consider getting an international driver's license. It's a small investment but can be essential depending on where you travel, such as Italy, Spain, Greece, or Japan.
To see if you need an international license, visit USA.gov. To apply for the license, go to the AAA website.
The Prep
Digitize Important Documents
Save digital copies of your important documents to cloud storage services like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox. This includes ID cards, credit cards, medical cards, and any other crucial documents. Add support numbers for each document to your phone.
Think about scenarios where you could lose access to your phone or laptop and how you'll manage those situations. Having a backup plan is essential for seamless travel.
Consider a Burner Phone
Many long-term travelers use a cheap, unlocked phone with a local SIM card or an eSIM in the country they are visiting. This reduces the risk of losing access to everything and is less stressful if the phone is lost or stolen. Old phones can serve as backup devices.
Consider setting up a second email account linked to your burner phone for added security.
Consider a Secondary e-SIM
Using a secondary travel line (on your primary phone) can save you from hefty roaming charges. Activate the eSIM and disable your primary cell service when you land. This method is convenient and cost-effective.
However, it’s wise to still carry a burner phone for nights out or trips in areas where you might have safety concerns.
Backup Your Digital Files
Store all your digital files in an online repository to ensure you don’t lose anything if your laptop malfunctions. This step is essential for preserving important information and memories during your travels.
Enhance Security Measures
If you're concerned about pickpocketing, consider using a retractable cord or wrist strap for your phone. This simple measure can provide extra security and peace of mind.
Leave the Extras
When it comes to electronics, less is more. While it might be hard to leave your favorite gadgets behind, consider the peace of mind you'll gain. Expensive items like AirPods can be a liability in foreign countries, where losing them or having them stolen could cost you more than a few weeks' stay in a hostel. Instead, opt for affordable Bluetooth headphones available in almost any convenience store around the world.
The same principle applies to other electronics you may be considering: tablets, eReaders, portable monitors, and noise-canceling headphones. If you don't need it for work, you probably don't need it on the road. The more you pack, the more you have to lose.
Financial Planning
Assuming you have the basics covered—money saved, cash on hand, and credit cards in tow—here are a few additional considerations for financial security:
- Primary Travel Credit Card: Choose one that doesn’t charge ATM fees.
- Spare Credit Cards: Keep one or two extra credit cards hidden in your backpack for emergencies.
- Bank Cards: Carry a primary bank card tied to checking and a secondary bank card tied to savings. Keep these separate at all times.
Consider using security pouches, hidden money belts, or secret pockets. Even if you don’t wear them all the time, they offer a safe place for your cash and cards. While most travelers you meet are decent people, it’s always best to prepare for opportunistic theft. Lastly, don’t forget to pack a padlock for hostel lockers; they can be indispensable during excursions where lockers are available.
Must-Have Apps & Tools
While you can download many apps as needed, a few are essential for smooth travel:
- WhatsApp: Widely used globally for everything from hostel group chats to communicating with businesses.
- Google and/or Apple Maps: Utilize the “download offline maps” feature for navigation without internet access.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Install Uber, Lyft, DiDi, Cabify, or Grab ahead of time and verify your credit card before you leave.
- Google Translate: Download language packs for the countries you’ll be visiting. Duolingo or other language-learning apps can also be helpful.
- VPN App: Apps like NordVPN or ExpressVPN can help you access restricted websites and ensure your internet security.
And don't forget to download any music, shows, podcasts, or other entertainment before a long flight.
Packing Tips
Pack Light
As a general rule of thumb, if you’re unsure about something, leave it behind. You can always purchase essentials like hats, gloves, ponchos, or underwear while on the road.
Clothing
Whether you’re headed to a hot or cold climate, you don’t need a lot of clothes:
- Hot Climates: If you’re lucky enough to stick to warm climates, a swimsuit, a few shirts, and sandals are all you need, this is minimalist, ultralight packing at its finest.
- Average Climates: Packing one week’s worth of clothes and committing to weekly laundry should be plenty for most people, I like to pack one outfit per activity: one swimsuit, one set of hiking clothes, one “going out” set, etc. This maximizes flexibility while minimizing your pack.
- Cold Climates: If you expect to hit some winter weather, I’m sorry, but the good news is that you don’t have to add a lot of stuff. A hat, gloves, scarf, and puffer jacket layered over your “normal” clothes can add 30-40 degrees of comfort while taking up very little space; it’s also good to remember that you can buy these things as needed on the road and donate them when the seasons change. It’s equally good to remember you’ll likely be spending most of your time indoors with temperature control; you're traveling, not camping.
In general, choose versatile, comfortable clothing. Comfort is paramount when traveling. If you pack ten shirts and only two are your favorites, you'll likely wear those two most of the time. So, pack what feels good.
Consider Compression or Vacuum Bags
One effective way to save space is by using compression or vacuum bags. These handy tools can significantly reduce the volume of your clothes and other soft items.
There are two great options, a Scrubba Wash Bag that can do double-duty as a laundry facility and compression bag for packing, or the ultralight option, a 3FUL Gear Ultralight Vacuum Pack; both work great for keeping your pack size as small as possible.
Opt for Packable Travel Gear
Packable travel gear is a game-changer for those aiming to travel light. Look for items like packable backpacks, packable fanny packs, portable wash buckets, packable puffer jackets, packable rain jackets, pocket beach blankets, etc. Look for places to minimize and get creative. The key is to minimize bulkiness without sacrificing functionality. Getting creative with your choices can make a significant difference in how much you can carry comfortably.
Reconsider Bringing a Towel
This tip may spark some debate, but I’ve found that leaving the towel behind can be a smart move. Towels are often bulky and can be easily replaced. Instead, I opt to rent a towel wherever I go or rely on the towels provided in private rooms. Imagine the convenience of not having to pack a wet, heavy towel—especially when you have limited space.
Conclusion
Traveling can be a thrilling and enriching experience, but preparation is key to ensuring your journey is smooth and enjoyable.
By checking your passport and visa requirements, getting necessary vaccinations, and considering travel insurance, you set a strong foundation for your trip.
Digitizing important documents, using a burner phone, and backing up digital files enhance your security and peace of mind.
Packing light and strategically, with a focus on essential items and must-have apps, will help you travel efficiently and comfortably. Remember, the more prepared you are, the more you can relax and enjoy the adventure!
Ready to start your ultralight travel journey? Explore more tips and gear recommendations at our blog: ULT Gear Blog.