Embarking on an international trip is exciting, but it also requires thorough preparation. Since you’ll be leaving your home unattended for a while and venturing into unfamiliar territory, there are many things to consider.
Here’s a checklist of essential items to prepare before heading out on an international journey:
Embarking on an international trip is exciting, but it also requires thorough preparation. Since you’ll be leaving your home unattended for a while and venturing into unfamiliar territory, there are many things to consider.
Here’s a checklist of essential items to prepare before heading out on an international journey:
“International Travel Checklist”
- Passport
- Flight Tickets
- Accommodation Reservation (Hotel or Guesthouse)
- Foreign Currency Exchange
- Mobile Phone – International Roaming, Local SIM Card, or Wi-Fi Access
- Power Adapter (110V or 220V, varies by country)
First and foremost, you can’t leave without a “passport.” Even if you have a passport, some countries require it to be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Make sure to check the expiration date.
In case you lose your passport right before departure, you can obtain an “emergency passport” at Incheon Airport. Keep in mind that this option is strictly for genuine emergencies, and you’ll need to provide detailed reasons for the urgent issuance. Still, it’s good to know that you can obtain a passport in urgent situations.
- Incheon Airport “Emergency Passport Service”: Emergency Passport Service at Incheon Airport
“Booking Flights and Accommodations”
The two most crucial aspects of trip preparation are purchasing your “flight tickets” and reserving your “accommodation.”
Of course, travel doesn’t necessarily mean flying; you can also opt for a ferry or other means. Regardless of the mode, making reservations and securing your seat is vital for international travel. Accommodation is equally essential because you’ll need a place to unpack and get some rest.
“Currency Exchange”
You can’t use Korean won abroad, so it’s essential to exchange your currency for the local currency of the country you’re visiting.
While it’s possible to use credit cards internationally, smaller expenses like bus fares, subway rides, and purchases at convenience stores often require cash. Therefore, it’s advisable to exchange currency before departure.
“Using Your Phone Abroad”
You’ll need to consider how to use your mobile phone or access the internet abroad. Typically, there are three main methods:
- Roaming service provided by your home carrier
- Purchasing a local SIM card
- Renting a Wi-Fi device
Each of these options has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to choose the one that best suits your needs.
- Learn more about using the internet abroad with these three methods: Three Ways to Use the Internet Abroad
“Power Adapter: 220V or 110V”
Different countries have varying plug shapes and voltage outputs. Korea uses 220V, while Japan, for example, uses 110V. Singapore follows the UK-style three-pronged plug. It’s crucial to check the plug shape of your destination country and consider purchasing a “travel adapter” before your trip.
“Not Essential but Worth Considering”
- Travel Insurance
- Information about your destination, itinerary, and travel brochure
- Pre-booking and purchasing tickets for places you plan to visit
- Camera or other photography equipment
- Socks, underwear, etc.
- Clothing suitable for the local weather
- First-aid kit
- Umbrella
While these items aren’t strictly necessary, having them on hand can be very helpful. Consider obtaining travel insurance for added peace of mind. It’s relatively affordable, usually ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 Korean won for a 4-5 day trip. It’s good to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.
“Research and Plan Ahead”
Unless you’re on an extended trip, most international travels last less than a week. Particularly for neighboring countries, the travel duration tends to be even shorter. Therefore, to make the most of your time, it’s helpful to research information about your destination and plan your itinerary in advance.
“Pack According to the Destination’s Season”
Even on the same date, different countries may have different seasons and weather conditions. For example, Southeast Asian countries generally have hot weather year-round, while countries in the Southern Hemisphere like Australia have seasons opposite to those in Korea. Take these factors into account and prepare your clothing accordingly.
“First Aid and Umbrella”
In the event of feeling unwell during your trip, it could potentially put a damper on your plans. While in Korea, you can easily visit a nearby pharmacy and explain your symptoms to receive appropriate medication. However, due to language barriers and unfamiliar surroundings, this may not be as straightforward abroad. Additionally, finding a pharmacy might not be as easy. Therefore, it’s advisable to pack some basic first-aid supplies as a precaution.
So far, we’ve outlined the items you should include in your “international travel checklist.” I hope this information will be helpful in your travel preparation and planning. Safe travels!