If you travel for work, you no doubt have a packing routine. But when going on that vacation trip, you need to make sure not to go into auto-pilot! There are some things to do the night before your trip which could save you major headaches later!
There are not only different types of clothes and gear you’ll be putting into your suitcase, but you should also be thinking about prepping for your vacation travel in a different way, too.
You’ve got your itinerary ready to go, and you may even have checked in for your flight – most airlines allow you to do so at least 24 hours in advance, depending on your status.
Here are a few more of the most important things to do the night before your trip.
1. Backup Your Devices
Possibly the most important things to do the night before your trip is to backup all of the devices you intend to take with you. This would include your mobile phone, tablet, any photos already on SIM cards, etc. Vacation travel puts you in touristy areas potentially targeted by pickpockets and other thieves, so making sure you have copies of your data and photos safe at home is critical. If the worst case happens, you only lose the device and not the photos and memories.
I use a RAV POWER File Hub device which gives me one click wireless backups of my ipad and iphone directly to an external storage device. What’s better, is that it also allows for direct file sharing and super fast streaming to non-apple devices, which I really like. I highly recommend this little guy – and at only $60, it’s a bargain.
2. Make Sure your Travel Documentation is in Order
Before embarking on an international trip, ensuring all travel documentation is in order is one of the most important steps you can take to avoid last-minute stress or even being denied boarding. By now, you have no doubt packed your passport and ensured that it is valid for the entire duration of your stay. However when checking your passport, make sure the expiration date is valid post your trip too… many countries require it to be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return. And one other important check – you need to have enough empty pages in your passport so the agent can stamp it. Some entry agents are very particular about where the stamp goes, and they are within their right to deny you entry even if you are on their soil.
If a visa is necessary, you should have applied by the required time, as processing times can vary widely. Even the UK and Singapore now require visas, but you can apply for them electronically once you land. Don’t forget any vaccination records, entry permits, or electronic travel authorizations that certain destinations require. For travelers with connecting flights, confirm that transit countries don’t require additional visas.
Make sure the name on your passport matches your airline ticket exactly, as discrepancies can create delays. If it does not, call your airline right away to get your ticket adjusted. It’s also smart to carry both printed and digital copies of your documents and store them separately in case of loss or theft.
Finally, check entry requirements the day prior to your departure date, as regulations can change quickly, especially regarding health and safety protocols. Careful preparation ensures smoother airport experiences and peace of mind while traveling.
3. Charge Your Devices
Charge all of your devices, including any backup power devices you may be bringing. Even if your flight isn’t extra long, If there is any delay or flight change, you’ll be glad. While some airports have charging stations, not all do, and if they do they are often in high demand. Even on the plane, not all planes have outlets, and where they do they are not guaranteed to be functional.
You may want to consider investing in a high speed multi-port charger, which will cut your charging time in half. I find mine especially useful during travel, since your schedule and body clock can be out of whack, and charging time could be limited. Try the JARV 40W 5 port desktop USB Charger.
Another handy device is a magsafe battery charger. In many foreign countries we burn through our battery faster that we do at home. Constantly running a map, taking countless photos, and just running on roaming all pull significantly from the battery. When you start to get low, you just add this magnetic battery to your phone and you have a full charge. Many magsafe chargers can attach to your phone right through the phone case.
4. Download Entertainment
Make sure you have enough for the entire flight(s), especially if you do not sleep well on planes. You may want to download an extra movie, podcast, or an extra book to accommodate for travel delays. If you are more than halfway through, download a backup. Not all flights will have working Wi-Fi entertainment or internet access, and not all countries allow Wi-Fi over their airspace. If your flight takes you over China, you may have a long period without internet. Make sure those traveling with you also have appropriate entertainment for the flights plus potential delays.
5. Spend Time with Your Pets
Whether you’ve arranged for a sitter or a neighbor to look in on them, nonetheless they will have some extra stress when they see those suitcases come out of the closet. They can also absorb any stress you may have with packing and the change in routine. Your pets will certainly appreciate that extra time you set aside and calming words you have for them prior to your absence.
6. Add a First Aid Kit to your Luggage
Pack a small first aid pack for the trip. It can just be as small as a sandwich baggie. Include some Band-Aids for travel boo-boos and aspirin or ibuprofen for headaches. Vacation travel makes you more susceptible to headaches by dehydrating you on the plane, and putting you in the sun at your destination, doing activities you might not be acclimated to. You don’t want any reason for your immune system to get stressed. Stay as healthy as possible.
Also check if your travel puts you at high altitudes. Check your medicines and make sure you have packed enough of any prescriptions for the entire trip, including a few extra days to accommodate possible flight delays or cancellations. If you pack travel or nausea meds, check the expiration dates to make sure they haven’t expired since your last big trip.
7. Get Plenty of Sleep
Make sure you get enough sleep the night before your flight. Don’t wait until the last minute to pack. You’ll be rested and better able to manage any bumps or lumps in your travel plans, especially if an overnight leg is part of your plans.
Staying healthy is one of the most critical things you can do right now. Here are a few additional tips to stay healthy when traveling
