7 Most Important Documents When Travelling Abroad

Here are the 7 most important documents that you need when travelling abroad. Note however that the travel and health documents required for your trip can vary based on a number of factors.

This is why it is important to prepare in advance Nonetheless, you can be certain that these documents will be useful for any trip:

1. Passport, Travel Visa and National ID Card

Proper identification is the foundation of international travel. Number one on the list is your international passport, which for many people, serves as an official identification for other transactions.

So, it is essential to have a valid passport when traveling abroad. Many travelers don’t realise that most countries apply rules in regard to the passport expiration date.

For most countries, visitors must have a valid passport for six-months after they plan to arrive at their destination, however this period can vary.

Either way, if you are planning a trip abroad, always make sure to check the passport validity requirements and the expiry date of your passport. This will help avoid unfortunate issues at the airport or at immigration at your destination country.

2. Official identification

Aside or in addition to your international passport, you should ensure to always have an official identification document with you. You can even consider having multiple documents such as national ID card, workplace ID or driver’s license.

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If you don’t feel comfortable bringing several documents, you can consider bringing copies, but be sure you would not find yourself in a situation where original copies of such documents would be required..

These can be especially useful if you lose your passport and must take steps to prove your citizenship at your country’s embassy or consulate. So, an official documentation is among the most important documents when travelling abroad.

3. Health Travel Documents

Health travel documents are not new to international travel. Certain countries have long lasting entry requirements such as yellow fever vaccination certificates, however this was limited to specific countries whereas the COVID-19 travel document entry requirements have been enforced by the majority of countries around the world. Currently, we are seeing a reduction in COVID-19 travel restrictions, however it’s still important to check the latest rules before your departure as some might be implemented at a short notice.

4. Travel Itinerary Details

Flight ticket details, accommodation reservations, car rental confirmation, all are important for your trip. Keeping up with all your reservations can be difficult and having copies of your itinerary and reservations with you can make your trip go much smoother.

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It can help sort out any issues during check-in at the airport or hotel and it’s a simple way of helping you keep track of your travel plans.

You can have these as printed copies or use one of the several Travel Planner apps or tools that you can find online.

You can even set yourself a reminder to do your check-in or to book a taxi to the airport in advance.

5. Medical and Travel Insurance Proof

Unforeseen situations can occur and they can be especially stressful when you are abroad. That is why travel insurance is important. Travel insurance can be summed up in two main categories:

6. Insurance for medical expenses and Insurance for trip cancelations.

It is important to have a copy of your travel insurance certificate with you. Insurance companies often provide a printer-friendly card or summary that includes emergency contact details which you should always have with you or you can use their mobile app so that you have all the required information at your fingertips.

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It is also recommended to contact your insurance provider to verify what exactly is covered under your insurance plan. Thus, Insurance for medical expenses and Insurance for trip cancelations are among the 7 most important documents when travelling abroad

7. Other Documents

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic several countries have introduced passenger locator forms which must be presented at check-in or at immigration. After filling the form, travelers are often provided with a QR code or a reference number.

Other documents could also be required, that is why it is always important to check what is required for your trip when planning your holiday and ideally verifying the requirements once again closer to your departure date as entry rules and regulations change on a daily basis.

Adapted from IATA