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The Ultimate Before You Travel Checklist
24
items Travel apps and must-have items for your next trip. Save for later!
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3
Download these apps before you go
Buy these items before you go
Optional/ Bonus Recos
Download these apps before you go
I use Trip.com for all my trip planning. From hostels to flights to activites, they have it all. You also earn cash toward your next adventure every time you use the app or website to book something!
Trip.com Exclusive Discounts
Fussing with (and losing) physical SIM cards, no more. Use code ROXI0410 when you sign up or check out for $4.50 CAD off!
Buy and Install an International eSIM
eSIMs are helpful but so is having offline access in case of any emergency
Download your area for offline access on Google Maps
Back up all of your photos so you don't run out of space during the perfect shot!
Constantly backup your memories on Google Photos
Back up everything! Unfortunately pickpocketing is a very real concern when travelling and you don't want all of your memories, passwords, tickets, etc to be missing in addition to your tech.
Back it alllll up on Apple iCloud
Trip.com has travel deals and promotions for everything you need for a trip. I use it to book hostels and hotels, flights, attractions, and transportation. Every time I do, I earn coins to be used for future travel, too! It keeps track of your itinerary well...
Book and plan with Trip.com
Previously called TransferWise, Wise is the best way to convert and send money across currencies.
Convert and send $ in any currency with Wise: International Transfers
UNLIMITED Data worldwide (alternative to Airalo)
Holafly | International eSIM card for travelers
I have found this app to be much more affordable and quick than other options like PayPal. You may need to resort to alternative payment methods if your card is acting up, or transfer month to all of the friends you’ll make from different countries.
Send Money Internationally
Buy these items before you go
Airtags — game changer. Buy the 4 pack because one is simply not enough.
Apple Airtags
This gives an added sense of security when you need it most. It's tricky to figure out how to use at first, but once you realize how it works you will understand just how “break-in-proof” it is.
Amazon.com: Portable Door Lock
These are amazing at removing make up and helping you freshen up in a squeeze. I love that they are biodegradable, too.
Face Wipes by Simple - Simple® Skincare
Beyond the fact that my entire queer identity hinges on me wearing a carabiner, they're also sooo great for freeing up your hands. Imagine this: you already have a backpack on, then you have your shoulder bag. You can use the carabiner to attach your...
Amazon.com: Carabiners
Cute, warm, and packs into a pouch. What more could you need?
Ultra Light Down Jacket | UNIQLO US
Ready for the rain, out of your way when you don't need it. Also doubles as a wind shield.
Amazon.ca: Packable Rain Jacket Women
I use this sleep mask because I like that the silk doesnt pull at my eyes. I also like the eyemasks that have little eye cups and find them more comfortable. In a perfect world there would be a cupped silk face mask. Until then, I recommend this one.
PS I also use it as a headband while walking around the plane, for example.
PS I also use it as a headband while walking around the plane, for example.
Amazon.com: Silk Sleep Mask
A little bit of care for your hair and face while travelling that also means you know who put their face on your pillow case last. I feel more hygienic using this over the pillows with pillowcases provided.
ZIMASILK 100% Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
Optional/ Bonus Recos
I outlined things I wish I had known before starting the nomad life I have now. Check it out!
Read My Top Tips for Travelling Abroad
Look, I know it's dorky but the turning 30 to bird watching pipeline is a short one 😅. I use this free app when I'm on a hike in a foreign country and to learn about all the cool birds singing around me.
Merlin Bird ID – Free, instant bird identification help and guide for ...
I use this app to find new and beautiful places to run, hike, and bike. The comments on the app have saved me time and stress by providing valuable feedback on closed paths, things to watch out for, and must-see views.
Explore and Discover Trails Nearby | AllTrails
Love plants and animals? Want free accomodation? This site is for you.
House Sitting with TrustedHousesitters
I don't know why this app isn't mentioned more often. It's a free gym in your pocket and is much better than any other guided workout apps I have tried.
FitOn
As far as I can tell, Trip.com, Hostelworld and Booking.com have similar experiences for booking hostels. I stick with Trip.com because it offers more than just the accomodation and it's just easier to have only one account.
Hostelworld
Google flights does a great job of comparing many providers and options to get you from A to B so that you can make an informed decision.
Set up alerts for your dream trip on Google Flights