Most travel safety problems are preparation problems. This checklist covers everything you should verify, save, and set up before an international trip.
Documents
Check that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Many countries refuse entry otherwise. Make digital copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance policy, and vaccination records. Store them in a cloud service and share access with a trusted person at home.
Health
Check required and recommended vaccinations for your destination at least 6 weeks before departure. Carry a sufficient supply of any prescription medications in original packaging, with a copy of the prescription. Research whether your medications are legal in the destination country. Some common medications are controlled substances in other jurisdictions.
Identify the nearest hospital to your accommodation before arrival. Save the local medical emergency number in your phone.
Insurance
Verify your travel insurance covers medical emergencies, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal liability. Read the exclusions. Many policies do not cover adventure sports, pre-existing conditions, or pandemics without specific riders. Save your policy number and emergency assistance phone number where you can access them offline.
Finances
Notify your bank of travel dates to prevent card blocks. Carry at least two payment methods from different banks. Know the local currency and have a small amount of cash for arrival. Research common scams at your destination.
Communication
Share your itinerary with a trusted person at home, including flight numbers, hotel addresses, and a rough daily plan. Set up a regular check-in schedule. Research local SIM cards or international roaming options to ensure you have connectivity on arrival.
Emergency preparation
Save local emergency numbers for your destination. Research the location of your country's embassy or consulate. Set up emergency contacts in your phone with ICE (In Case of Emergency) labels. Download offline maps. Install a safety app that works without internet.
Digital security
Enable two-factor authentication on all important accounts. Set up a VPN if traveling to countries with internet censorship or surveillance. Disable auto-connect for wifi networks. Consider a privacy screen for your phone and laptop.
Home security
Check all locks, set timers on lights, stop mail delivery, and inform a trusted neighbor. Turn off water main for extended trips. Unplug unnecessary electronics. This is exactly what the Weelp. home safety checklist covers: a systematic check before you close the door.