First-Time Traveller Checklist For Your First Trip

Planning your first trip abroad can feel overwhelming. This first-time traveller checklist helps beginners stay organised, prepared and confident, covering everything from documents and flights to packing, money and hotel arrivals.

First-Time Traveller Checklist

A calm, practical checklist designed to help you feel prepared — without pressure or rush.

You don’t need to complete everything at once, and you don’t need to memorise this list. Think of it as a gentle guide you can return to whenever you need reassurance that you’re on the right track. It’s here to help you feel organised, not overwhelmed.

Before You Book

  • Confirm your passport is valid for the full trip and meets entry rules

  • Check visa requirements for your destination

  • Choose a destination and flight length that feels manageable

  • Decide on the holiday style that suits you (package, city break, resort)

  • Take out travel insurance immediately after booking

Documents & Essentials

  • Passport

  • Travel insurance policy details

  • GHIC / EHIC card (if applicable) Global Health Insurance Card/European Health Insurance Card

  • Flight confirmations and accommodation details

  • Copies of documents saved on your phone

  • Emergency contact details

  • Bank cards and a small amount of local currency

Packing Basics

  • Comfortable clothes suitable for weather and culture

  • One spare outfit in your cabin bag

  • Toiletries within liquid limits

  • Phone charger and plug adaptor

  • Medication and basic health items

  • Sunglasses, swimwear, or essentials for your trip

  • Leave space in your bag — overpacking adds stress

Phone Ready – Quick Checklist

  • Check whether your mobile plan works abroad and what roaming charges apply

  • Decide if you’ll use roaming, an eSIM, or a local SIM

  • Download key apps (maps, airline, accommodation, transport)

  • Save important details offline (boarding passes, hotel address, tickets)

  • Pack your charger and the correct plug adaptor

  • Bring a power bank if allowed

  • Enable a screen lock and phone-tracking feature

  • Back up photos and important documents before you go

Money & Payments

  • Inform your bank you’re travelling

  • Check foreign transaction and ATM fees

  • Carry at least two payment methods

  • Know where you’ll withdraw cash if needed

  • Keep money split between wallet, bag, and accommodation

Flights & Airport Prep

  • Complete online check-in if available

  • Download or screenshot your boarding pass

  • Check baggage size and weight limits

  • Review airline liquid and cabin rules

  • Plan how you’ll get to the airport

  • Aim to arrive early rather than rushed

Arrival & Accommodation

  • Know how you’ll get from the airport to your hotel

  • Have accommodation address saved offline

  • Expect passport control, baggage reclaim, then arrivals

  • Have ID and card ready for hotel check-in

  • Don’t worry about deposits — they’re normal

Mindset Check (Important)

  • Feeling nervous is normal

  • You are not expected to know everything

  • Airport staff and hotel staff are there to help

  • Take things one step at a time

  • Confidence builds faster than you expect


If something feels unfamiliar, pause for a moment. Unfamiliar does not mean unsafe — it simply means you’re learning. You’re doing exactly what first-time travellers are supposed to do.


Disclaimer: This checklist is intended as general guidance for first-time travellers. Travel requirements, airline policies, and entry rules can change, so always check official government, airline, and accommodation sources before travelling.