๐งณ Your Essential Pre-Holiday Checklist: From Packing to Local Laws
๐งณ Your Essential Pre-Holiday Checklist: From Packing to Local Laws
What to Know Before You Go – So Nothing Spoils the Fun
When you're counting down the days to your next adventure, the last thing you want is a forgotten passport, banned item in your suitcase, or a surprise fine for breaking a local rule you didn’t know existed.
We get it. You've booked the flights, chosen the hotel, and planned the excursions—but the lead-up to departure can still feel overwhelming.
So here it is—your no-fluff, essential pre-holiday checklist designed to help you travel smarter, safer, and with way less stress.
โ๏ธ 1. Travel Documents: Don’t Leave Home Without These
- โ Passport – Is it valid for at least 6 months after your return date? Is your return date within 10 years of the passport issue date
- โ Visas – Do you need one for your destination? Some countries now require ETIAS (Europe), ESTA (USA), or other online authorisations.
- โ Boarding Passes – Printed or app-based—have a backup!
- โ Hotel Confirmations & Transfers – Email copies and offline versions.
- โ Insurance Documents – Don’t just buy it. Carry the policy and know your coverage.
๐ง ItsSo Tip: Keep both physical and digital copies stored in your email and phone files. A quick screenshot can save you in a Wi-Fi dead zone.
๐งณ 2. Packing Smart (Not Just Light)
We’ve all stood over a suitcase asking, “Do I really need this?” Here's a better way to approach it:
Essentials to Never Forget:
- Travel adaptors
- Prescribed medications
- Travel-size toiletries (check liquid rules!)
- Sunglasses, hats, sunscreen
- Walking shoes or sandals that won’t ruin your feet
- Swimsuit—even if you think you won’t swim
Often Forgotten:
- Charging cables and power banks
- Travel pillow, eye mask, earplugs
- Plasters, antihistamines, diarrhoea tablets (glamorous, we know)
- Ziplock bags (for wet swimwear or leaky bottles)
๐ง ItsSo Tip: Pack a mini "first night bag" in your carry-on. If your case gets delayed, you’ve got basics to survive 24–48 hours.
๐ 3. Know the Local Laws & Customs
This is where many travellers get caught out. A few odd examples from popular destinations:
- Bali & Mexico: Don’t bring vaping products—they're illegal in many parts.
- Dubai: Public displays of affection are frowned upon (and sometimes illegal).
- Singapore: Gum-chewing is banned. Littering fines are hefty.
- Greece: Taking stones or ancient fragments from historic sites? Big no-no.
- Thailand: It's illegal to step on money or disrespect the royal family.
๐ง ItsSo Tip: Always check the Foreign Office Travel Advice before you go. Or better yet—ask us. We’ll give you the insider do’s and don’ts for your specific destination.
๐ณ 4. Money & Mobile
- โ Let your bank know you're travelling so your card isn’t flagged.
- โ Check currency options – Cash, card, or pre-paid travel money cards like Revolut?
- โ Download offline maps and translation apps (Google Translate is your best friend abroad).
- โ Turn off data roaming or buy a local SIM/eSIM.
๐ง ItsSo Tip: Use a small RFID wallet or money belt if you’re in high-pickpocket cities like Rome, Paris or Barcelona.
๐ก 5. Safety and Peace of Mind
- โ Register with your airline or holiday provider for updates.
- โ Share your itinerary with someone at home.
- โ Set up travel alerts for weather or strikes.
- โ Note the nearest embassy/consulate.
- โ Consider GPS tags for your luggage.
๐ง
ItsSo Tip: Download your airline’s app. Flight changes, boarding info, and gate numbers are all updated in real time.
๐งผ 6. Final 48-Hour Countdown
Here’s your mini to-do list before you zip up your suitcase:
- โฐ Check flight time and arrive early
- ๐งฝ Empty fridge and take out bins
- ๐ง Adjust your heating or water settings
- ๐พ Arrange pet/plant care
- ๐ Lock windows, doors, and set timers/lights
๐ง ItsSo Tip: Pop a sachet of lavender or dryer sheet in your suitcase—your clothes will smell fresh and you’ll feel a bit posher unpacking!
๐ฏ Final Thought: Don’t Just Wing It
๏ปฟ
Holiday success isn’t just about where you’re going—it’s about how prepared you are before you leave. A little effort now = more peace, freedom, and joy later.
At ItsSo Travel, we don’t just book holidays—we craft experiences. If you’ve got questions about local customs, transfers, packing tips, or visa rules, just ask us. That’s what we’re here for.
