Planning a trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re heading out on a weekend getaway or a month-long international adventure, having a solid checklist can help you stay organised, save money, and reduce last-minute stress.
Here’s your step-by-step travel planning checklist to guide you from idea to arrival—and beyond.
✅ Step 1: Define the Basics
- Choose your destination(s)
- Set your travel dates
- Decide the trip length and type (vacation, road trip, backpacking, business, etc.)
- Set a travel budget
Tip: Use a trip planner app like Journey to map it all out visually.
✅ Step 2: Book Essentials
- Research and book flights or other transportation
- Reserve accommodation (hotels, Airbnb, hostels, campsites)
- Secure travel insurance
- Check passport expiry date and visa requirements
- Book key activities or tours early (especially popular ones)
✅ Step 3: Plan Your Itinerary
- Outline each day with must-see sights and activities
- Add travel times between destinations
- Make reservations for popular attractions
- Leave room for flexibility and downtime
Tip: Journey lets you create day-by-day travel itineraries with map and time tracking.
✅ Step 4: Organise Documents
- Save all confirmations (flights, hotels, car rentals, tours)
- Carry both digital and printed copies
- Store in one place (Google Drive, Dropbox, or Journey app)
✅ Step 5: Health & Safety
- Get required vaccines or medications
- Pack a travel health kit (band-aids, medications, sanitizer)
- Share your itinerary with family/friends
- Check local safety guidelines or travel advisories
✅ Step 6: Packing Checklist
- Passport + travel documents
- Chargers + adapters
- Clothing for weather + activities
- Toiletries
- Day bag / backpack
- Reusable water bottle
Bonus: Don’t forget headphones, snacks, sunscreen, and a travel pillow!
✅ Step 7: Tech & Apps
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Journey)
- Install travel apps (currency converter, translator, airline apps)
- Enable international roaming or get an eSIM
- Back up your phone and documents
✅ Step 8: Money Prep
- Notify your bank of international travel
- Carry local currency for arrival
- Use travel-friendly credit/debit cards (no foreign transaction fees)
- Set a daily spend limit
✅ Step 9: Before You Leave
- Confirm check-in times and print boarding passes
- Empty fridge, take out trash, and secure your home
- Arrange airport transfers or parking
- Download entertainment for flights (books, podcasts, movies)
✅ Step 10: During the Trip
- Stick to your itinerary but stay flexible
- Use Journey to adjust your plans on the go
- Track expenses if you’re budgeting
- Take lots of photos—but don’t forget to live in the moment too ✨
✈️ Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Start with this checklist, and you’ll feel more in control, organised, and ready for anything.
👉 Use the Journey trip planner app to build your itinerary now – it’s 100% free