Travel requirements: Essential checklist before you travel

Ever had a trip ruined by one missing document? That’s the last-minute panic you can avoid. This page gives a clear, practical list of travel requirements you should check before every trip so you can focus on the trip itself—not airport headaches.

Passports, visas and entry rules

First things first: check your passport. Many countries ask for at least six months’ validity and one or two blank pages. Scan the passport and save a copy to your email or cloud drive. Next, confirm if you need a visa—tourist, transit, or business—with the destination's embassy website. Some countries offer e-visas or visa-on-arrival, but rules change fast. Use official government sites or the IATA Timatic tool for the most accurate info.

Don’t forget transit rules. If you change planes in a third country, you might need a transit visa or meet different health requirements. Also check entry for minors: many countries want a signed parental consent letter if a child travels with one parent or a guardian.

Health, insurance and on-the-ground documents

Health rules vary by country. For many African destinations, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory—carry the paper and a digital photo. Ask your doctor about required or recommended vaccines and malaria pills if you’re going to high-risk regions. Keep your vaccination record and any COVID or test requirements handy; some places still ask for proof or testing within a set timeframe.

Travel insurance is non-negotiable for remote areas or risky activities. Get a policy that covers medical treatment and evacuation. Also prepare proof of accommodation, return or onward ticket, and enough funds for your stay—some borders ask to see them. If you plan to drive, bring your national driving license plus an International Driving Permit where needed.

Airlines have their own rules. Check baggage limits, check-in windows, and whether the carrier requires online check-in or special forms. If you’re carrying prescription medicines, bring the original prescription and keep meds in original packaging. For large sums of cash, declare as required—many countries have limits and penalties for non-declaration.

Here’s a quick, practical checklist you can run through 72–48 hours before departure:

• Passport valid for 6+ months and scanned copy saved
• Correct visa or e-visa confirmed and printed (if needed)
• Vaccination certificate (e.g., yellow fever) and digital copy
• Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation
• Return/onward ticket and accommodation booking details
• Copies of prescriptions and emergency contacts
• Enough local currency or a working card and bank notice
• Check airline baggage and check-in rules
• Consent letters for minors and any special permits

Before you leave, check the embassy website for last-minute alerts and reconfirm with your airline. A quick 10-minute check can save hours at the airport. Want a printable version of this list? Save the page or screenshot the checklist so you have it offline.