40+ Must-Haves For International Travel

There is a special thrill when traveling abroad. It’s exciting and sometimes a little overwhelming with all the planning involved, the potential language barriers, different customs and the small details like what currency to use. 

This post will cover tips and roundup must-have items for traveling outside of the country whether you’re heading to Japan, Australia, Europe or any other amazing destination. You’ll find this travel checklist especially helpful if it’s your first time traveling internationally. 

And please note, this post contains affiliate links at no extra charge to you – and I use any of those earnings to keep this site running. So thank you for any purchases made through my recommendations. 

40+ Must-Haves For International Travel

Before we get into a list of must-haves, I want to cover how to prepare for an international trip. This will help you decide what to add to your packing list and identify items you might need to purchase, apps you should download and more. 

How To Prepare For International Travel

Below are a few tips to help you prepare for your trip and plan on the essentials that you’ll need to bring along. 

Consider your itinerary

When planning for your international travel, take into consideration what your itinerary will be before packing. Are you planning to spend your days walking around the city or will you be venturing into nature and visiting national parks? Do you expect to keep all meals casual or will you be dining or attending an upscale event? 

Use these plans to set realistic guardrails on what you should or should not pack. For example, unless you’re doing an intense hike, you can likely leave your hiking boots at home and instead pack your smaller, sturdy pair of sneakers. 

Check the weather

Research what the average weather conditions are in your destination during the month of your trip. You should always plan for the weather to fluctuate, but this will help give you an idea of whether you should pack more layers, if you should definitely plan on rainy conditions, etc. 

Account for accommodations 

Will you be staying in one location the entire time or traveling to various cities? If I know I”ll be traveling from one location to the next on a trip and using public transportation to do so, I’m likely going to try and pack light so I’m not lugging heavy luggage from place to place. If I know I’ll be at one hotel the entire time, I’m less concerned about my luggage being heavy. 

And you should consider staying at a place that offers laundry services. If I’m on a two-week long trip, I try to stay somewhere that includes laundry, offers dry cleaning or is near a laundromat so I can refresh my wardrobe. 

What To Have When Traveling Internationally

What Are Must Have Items for International Travel

Passport

Your most important item for international travel. Now, this is crucial, please make sure you’re familiar with any entry requirements for the country you are traveling to in regards to your passport. 

Some locations require that your passport expiration date not be within six months of your travel dates. You do not want to arrive at the airport and realize you’re unable to travel because your passport expires in 5 months and 29 days, so play it safe and renew your passport far in advance. Consider a quality passport cover to keep it protected in your bag. 

Documents and Visas

As needed, confirm if you need a visa or any other travel documents in order to visit your international destination. Apply well in advance for any visa or documentation to ensure it arrives in time and you’re not stressing about it. 

Travel rules are always changing, so make sure you check the latest information. Currently, to travel to the UK, you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a Standard Visitor Visa. You have to apply online before traveling. I received my ETA approval within 24 hours, but it could take much longer during peak travel season. 

Travel Insurance

Research whether you have coverage from your current insurance or if your employer offers travel insurance as part of your benefits package. If not, plan to purchase travel insurance in advance of your trip for protection just in case something goes awry. 

Driver’s License or ID

While we’re talking about important documents, make sure you pack your unexpired Driver’s License or ID. As you may be aware, starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID will be required to board domestic flights within the U.S. – meaning if you have a layover in the U.S. before your international destination, you’ll need to have a REAL ID. 

Fee-Free Credit Cards

Determine which of your credit cards is best suited for travel. There are many options for cards that are international “fee-free.” 

You should not pay any foreign transaction fees on your trip with the many options available. My top choices are the Venture X card and BILT card (which also gets me points for paying rent!). 

Portable Chargers

Emphasis on chargers, plural! I always pack at least 2 portable chargers or power banks for international trips. Make sure they are charged BEFORE the trip so you’re not dealing with that at the hotel before heading out for the day. 

My favorites are the ANKER power bank. I like the ones that either attach to the back of your phone or directly at the bottom for ease of charging without extra cords. I regularly travel solo, and nothing makes me more nervous than having a dead cell phone battery. 

Personal Fan

Okay, this one might be a bit extra and it can depend on what the weather will be like in your destination. But I personally love having a mini personal fan when traveling internationally. If it’s the summer, a small personal fan will help keep you cool on public transportation where it gets SO hot and humid.

If you’re traveling in Europe over the summer, you may also find that your hotel or hostel does not have air conditioning in the building. I personally cannot sleep when I’m too warm so a small fan would come in very handy here. 

Medications

Make sure you pack your must-have medications in your personal bag. I suggest not even putting them in your carry on bag if it’s roller luggage because carry on luggage can get gate-checked and then you won’t be able to access your medications if needed. 

Instead, keep any prescribed meds and other first-aid type items in your personal bag such as Tylenol, Alka-Seltzer (the best for hangovers), Pepto-Bismol, Dramamine and Zicam.  You can even place them in a small medication organizer.

For this same reason, avoid packing these in your checked luggage just in case it gets lost or delayed during your travels. 

Earplugs

I never hope to need my earplugs, but it’s the worst when you don’t have them handy in noisy situations. Maybe you end up next to a noisy hotel neighbor, or a group of raucous teens on a long train ride, or have to deal with some street noise. 

Whatever it is, keep a pair or so of earplugs handy. I personally love my Loop earplugs (great for concerts or loud nightclubs, too!) but a box of inexpensive foam earplugs are a great choice too. 

AirFly Bluetooth Converter and/or Wired Headphones 

The AirFly Bluetooth Converter is such a game-changer for plane travel. Many of us are Airpod users, but airlines are still catching up to the bluetooth capabilities so, as is, AirPods aren’t compatible with your airplane entertainment system. But you can solve that problem with the AirFly Bluetooth Converter! 

It plugs right into the flight screen system and easily connects to your wireless bluetooth headphones. 

I also list wired headphones above – and go with me here – I don’t always find my AirPods comfortable for hours on end. Are you the same? I would love to know if I’m not alone in this, lol! So, I have a pair of Apple brand wired headphones that I always keep in my travel bag for flights. They’re more comfortable and better quality than what the airline provides and if my ears start to hurt from the AirPods or their battery dies, I just switch to these. 

If you have the budget, you could also invest in a pair of noise-canceling over-the-ear headphones. Bose makes a high-quality pair and the Apple version is so stunning, I am planning to invest in some myself. However, I couldn’t rationalize listing those as a “must-have” since the best quality options are several hundreds of dollars. 

Converter / Travel Adapter

A major must-have for international travel is the travel adapter converter so you can actually plug your electronics into the outlets when you’re abroad. 

Different countries use different voltages and outlet styles, so I find it best to invest in a universal travel adapter that converts to multiple voltages and formats. 

Dual-Voltage Hair Styling Care Items (L’ange is a great brand) 

Leave the Dyson Airwrap at home and pack travel-friendly hair styling items. I personally don’t typically like the blow dryers at hotels, so I always bring my own small travel sized blow dryer, but you could save space in your luggage by just using what the hotel has in the room.

However, I do suggest bringing a flat iron or curling wand that is dual-voltage, meaning you can adjust the voltage to use abroad. 

My personal favorite for travel (and often at home) is the L’ange line. I used the flat iron during my last European summer trip and I’m eyeing the Le Duo Grande for my next one because it has both straightening and curling capabilities. 

Reusable Water Bottle

A must-have! Pack your favorite reusable water bottle. I’m a big fan of HydroFlask brand because they have a wide mouth opening that’s easy to keep clean and the straw is hidden.  

Travel Backpack 

If you’ll be out exploring all day long at your destination, then you may want to pack a travel day backpack. I consider this to be a small backpack that can fit things like a water bottle, nice camera, battery packs, a snack, or any of your most important personal items. 

I suggest finding one that has a hidden zipper or opens from the back. Meaning the zipper to open the backpack is against your back while wearing it. This will protect you from pickpocketers. 

Crossbody Bag 

If a backpack isn’t your thing, or you just want multiple options, then a crossbody bag is another must. I adore my Baggu. I have the Crescent style in a medium size and it fits SO much, but with the wide strap it doesn’t hurt my shoulder. 

Another great option would be the Beis sport bag which also has an expandable pocket for water bottles. 

If you want something that looks a little nicer, opt for a leather crossbody bag, such as this one from Quince or this luxe fanny pack style from Clara V.

The main point is to choose a crossbody bag that allows you to keep the bag itself against the front of your body at all times to deter pickpocketing. 

Shoe Insoles

I used to be able to wear the thinnest, flimsiest sneakers for hours and wake up the next day like nothing happened. 

Now, I’m no longer a teen, and if I’m walking 20k steps, I need to make sure my feet are supported and comfortable. That’s where insoles come in! I add a pair to my favorite sneakers and they help keep the bounce in my step and prevent aches. 

Compression Socks

Compression socks are very beneficial for long flights. They help prevent blood clots. I wear them on my travel days and find that my legs feel much more energized at the end of a long flight and I’m happy to take an extra step to prevent blood clots. 

Moleskin Tape 

Moleskin tape is one of my favorite travel hacks. I wish I could tell everyone about moleskin tape!

Some of my favorite sneakers, like the Adidas Sambas, are very cute, but even after a break in period and with comfy socks, I find that they can still give me blisters. But, moleskin tape changes all of that! 

I purchase the pre-cut moleskin tape and will just peel and stick the pieces to the back of my ankle or anywhere else my shoes are rubbing on my feet too much and they prevent any blistering or sore spots. Literally a life changer!! 

I’ve been happy with this exact version, but you can find many options on Amazon.

Laundry Detergent Sheets

Depending on how long your trip is, you may need to do some laundry. And if you’re prone to messes like me, having the ability to clean any spills is clutch. So, I suggest these travel-friendly laundry detergent sheets. 

They’re so compact and you can use just one to wash a few items in your hotel sink, or a few to wash several in a tub. You can also use them in a traditional washing machine. 

Plastic Bags

If I’m being realistic, I am prone to messes. But I can at least prepare for them! So I always keep a few spare plastic baggies in my luggage. They take up basically zero space, but are handy to store any random trinkets you might pick up during your travels or to place around a toiletry item that starts leaking. 

Spare Packable Foldable Duffel Bag

Another super-hack of mine! I haaate paying fees for overweight luggage and I do love shopping when I’m traveling. So, instead of forcing myself to save room in my luggage, I pack a very minimal, foldable duffel bag in one of the outer pockets of my luggage. 

It’s my “in case of emergency” bag – not my go-to travel bag. It’s there in case I need to use it for my personal item (instead of my Baggu purse) or if I need to check an extra bag. I purchased this one for $10 in 2022 and it’s come in handy for me at least 5 times since then. A worthy investment in my opinion! 

Small Travel Umbrella

This one is self-explanatory. A mini travel umbrella will come in handy for any unexpected rainy days during your travels. 

Downy Wrinkle Releaser

If your hotel or hostel doesn’t offer an iron or if you just hate using them, consider packing a small bottle of Downy wrinkle releaser. Or a bottle of refresher spray to give an extra boost of freshness to clothes during your trip. 

Electrolytes 

Keep hydrated after a long day of exploring by downing electrolytes. They’ll prevent headaches and keep you feeling mentally fresher even when you’ve been playing tourist for 12 hours straight. My personal favorite brand is LMNT as it’s more of a salty flavor vs. the other sweet brands. 

Nail clipper

Along with your usual personal care and skincare routine items, do not forget a nail clipper. I always keep a spare in my toiletry bag.

Cleaning & Disinfectant Wipes

I always keep travel packs of Lysol disinfectant wipes in my personal bag so I can wipe down my chair and seat back table on flights or trains. 

Along with this, it’s also not a bad idea to keep a few face masks handy in case you end up seated next to someone with a cough. Don’t let someone else being sick ruin your trip!  

Hand Sanitizer

On the same note as above, having a bottle of hand sanitizer sure comes in handy.  

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a godsend for packing, especially longer trips. They help organize your clothes, electronics, personal care items and more. 

I’ve seen some people use small packing cubes for each outfit of their trip, but I typically just use them to organize by the type of clothing item. These packing cubes also offer some compression to save more space! 

I also use them for shoes, which I share in this guide on how to pack shoes in suitcase. 

Good Luggage

You’ll also want reliable luggage. If you’re able, invest in Away or July brand, because each offer a lifetime warranty. 

Apple AirTags

If you’re an iPhone user, pick up some Apple AirTags for your luggage as well. This way if it gets lost at the airport you can track its location and hopefully get it returned even quicker. 

What Are Must Have Apps for International Travel

Add these apps to your international travel checklist to make exploring a new country even easier. 

Google Translate

Google Translate is incredibly helpful when navigating new countries and different languages. In addition to typing in words to translate, the app also offers camera translation in over 35 languages, so all you have to do is take a picture of a word and the app will translate it’s meaning. 

Mobile Passport Control

The Mobile Passport Control app is a free app that lets travelers submit their passport information directly to US Customs via your mobile device. It helps to streamline the entry process and reduces wait times at the airport. 

Google Maps

Make sure you have Apple Maps or Google Maps – whichever you’re most comfortable with downloaded before your trip. With Google Maps you can even download an entire city map which lets you access it even when your phone doesn’t have service. 

I love using Google Maps because I have many saved “Lists” in the app of places to check out, like restaurants and shops. 

Citymapper

Citymapper goes beyond Google Maps, when it comes to transportation. The app will suggest routes and alternate routes, it shows maps, fares and trip length and includes accessibility. If you find you need more detail than what Maps offers, then Citymapper will be beneficial for your needs.  

Splitwise

If you’re traveling with a group, then Splitwise can come in very handy. It’s an app that helps to track the group spending and splits all the expenses up amongst the group making it easier (and less awkward imo!) to communicate who needs to venmo who. 

Airline & Hotel Apps

It’s honestly just more convenient to have the apps for the hotel and airlines you’re using during your travels. 

For flights, it’s easier to stay updated on any changes within the app – the Delta app will even tell you when boarding begins and when your section starts boarding.  

With hotel apps, like Marriott, I’ve been able to make requests like early check-in via the app. And at some locations you can use the app as a mobile key card to access your room. 

Wanderlog 

Wanderlog has been recommended to me multiple times as someone who loves planning trips. You can import your flight and hotel reservations, then create an itinerary, budget your trip, find places to visit and collaborate with friends or family.

Timeshifter

Timeshifter is a jet lag app. You can enter your trip details and it will make suggestions to you on how to prepare for your trip in a way that prevents jet lag, like slowly adjusting your morning and evening bed times, when to stop caffeine intake, etc. 

Airalo eSIM

There are many eSIM apps to choose from, but I’ve found Airalo to be very intuitive, easy and helpful to use. With the Airalo eSIM you can get back online wherever you are in minutes and not have to deal with any roaming fees.

Flush

Flush is an app that helps you find public bathrooms. I typically just search within Google Maps, but that’s not a foolproof resource. That’s where Flush comes in handy. 

White Noise

I use my white noise machine at home, but when I’m traveling I need white noise to fall asleep. The White Noise app is my favorite because you can create custom mixes.

There is a paid version, but I think the free version works just great. You have your white noise, pink noise, rain sounds, ocean sounds and more. 

This post was all about must-haves for international travel. I hope this list of travel essentials makes your trip planning even easier.