The 10 pre-trip steps every traveler forgets

These details can make a huge difference to the success of your trip!

There’s something magical about those final days before vacation. You’ve got one foot out the door, your playlists are queued, and the excitement is building. But there’s also that tiny undercurrent of “what am I forgetting?” and that’s where this info will help!

After helping travelers plan unforgettable trips for more than 20 years, I’ve seen how a few small steps before departure can make a huge difference once you’re on the move. Whether you’re taking a two-week river cruise or heading to the beach for a quick recharge, here’s how to set yourself up for a smooth, stress-free start.

1. Check your passport (and the fine print)

   
   

It’s easy to assume your passport is fine—until you’re standing at the airport counter and discover it expires too soon. Many countries require at least six months of validity beyond your return date, and even a slight name mismatch between your passport and airline ticket can cause delays.

When I book travel for clients, I always confirm passport details and dates early in the planning process. It’s a simple step that prevents a world of stress later.

2. Know your visa and entry requirements

Not all countries play by the same rules when it comes to entry. Some require electronic visas, others need proof of onward travel, and a few still ask for printed documentation (yes, paper!). Missing even one form can mean being denied boarding.

I guide you through all of this, so you know exactly what’s needed for your destination:no guesswork, no last-minute panic. I also provide links to the correct official websites or forms so everything’s completed correctly the first time.

3. Get the right travel insurance

Even the best-laid travel plans can hit turbulence. Delayed flights, lost bags, or unexpected medical needs can quickly derail a trip. Travel insurance is your safety net; it protects your investment and helps you navigate the unexpected.

I help you compare options to find coverage that fits your specific trip, whether that’s a wellness retreat, luxury cruise, or multi-country itinerary. The goal isn’t to plan for disaster, t’s to know you’re covered and let you travel with peace of mind.

4. Organize your documents

Your passport, itinerary, insurance, and confirmations—these are your travel essentials. Having them easily accessible (digitally and in print) keeps things simple, especially if Wi-Fi is spotty or your phone battery runs low.

My clients receive a beautifully organized digital itinerary that includes everything from hotel addresses to emergency contacts. No scrambling through inboxes—it’s all right there when you need it.

5. Notify your bank and credit cards

Imagine arriving in Italy, buying your first gelato, and having your card declined for “suspicious activity.” (Yes, it happens all the time.) A quick travel notice to your bank before you leave prevents that.

When I plan international trips, this is just one of the steps I remind you to take, along with what currency to take with you. A few minutes of prep here saves a lot of frustration later.

6. Set up your phone plan

Staying connected on the go is easier than ever, but international roaming charges can be steep if you’re not prepared.

I talk about options for your destination, whether that’s a global eSIM, a local SIM card, or a carrier plan that keeps costs predictable. Even if you’re planning to unplug (and I encourage it!), it’s worth having basic connectivity for maps, translations, and trip updates.

7. Prepare your home for peace of mind

It’s hard to fully relax on vacation if you’re worrying about what’s happening at home. A quick home prep checklist makes all the difference: take out the trash, unplug small appliances, set a few lights on timers, and ask a neighbor to collect mail.

If you’re traveling for more than a week, I recommend scheduling a mail hold and giving a trusted friend a spare key. You’ll return to a clean, calm home instead of post-trip chaos.

8. Know local health and safety information

Every destination has its own rhythms: its customs, emergency systems, and quirks. Knowing these in advance helps you travel more confidently.

I include destination-specific notes in my clients’ travel documents. A little awareness goes a long way toward smooth, stress-free exploration.

9. Pack smart (and leave a little space)

Packing light doesn’t mean packing less, it means packing thoughtfully. Bring versatile clothing that layers and mixes well, comfortable shoes, and a few small “comfort items” you know make travel easier (compression socks, an eye mask, your favorite snack).

I have customized packing lists based on the season, destination, and planned experiences, so you’re ready for anything—from spa days to mountain trails.

10. Plan your first and last 24 hours

The first and last days of a trip are often the trickiest: airport transfers, time zone changes, and that “where do we eat first?” feeling. A little forethought goes a long way.

Be sure you have your airport transportation details, your hotel address and confirmation, and maybe even your first meal planned. If I’ve helped you book this trip, all of that’s already in your pre-trip information packet—making those key transition days seamless and stress-free.

Why this list matters

Travel should recharge you, not drain you. The more prepared you are before you leave, the easier it is to be fully present once you arrive. And when you have a trusted advisor walking alongside you—someone who handles the details, anticipates the questions, and genuinely cares about your experience—you’re free to focus on connection, discovery, and joy.

That’s what I love most about what I do.

Let me know if you’d like to start planning your next getaway!