The Ultimate Travel Checklist: What to expect when working with your Louisville Outbound Travel advisor

Photo by Anete Lūsiņa on Unsplash

As your travel advisor, we recognize that travel can be stressful. Here are a few things we’ll cover with you to ensure a smooth trip preparation.

NOTE: this list is not exhaustive and varies case by case which is why it's important to schedule a meeting with your travel advisor prior to departure. 

Before You Travel:

• Check Passport & Visa Requirements – Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Check visa requirements for your destination.

• Travel Insurance – We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for trip protection, medical emergencies, and unexpected cancellations.

• Health & Vaccinations – Review any required or recommended vaccinations for your destination. Consult your doctor to see if they recommend anything specific to you.

• Currency & Payments – Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel dates. Consider carrying some local currency, but avoid keeping large amounts of cash in one place.

• Stay Connected – Consider an international phone plan or a local SIM card.

Packing Essentials:

• Carry-On  – Keep your travel documents, medication and all valuables with you at all times. 

• Checked Luggage  – Check with the TSA website for the most up to date requirements. No valuables, medications etc in checked luggage.  

• Medications & Prescriptions – Check destination restrictions & have a copy of your prescription. 

• Electronics & Adapters – Check if you need a power adapter or voltage converter for your destination.

• Airline Requirements - Always review your airline's luggage policies and restrictions, including rules for batteries, liquids, aerosols, sharp objects, electronic devices, etc. 

Airline & Airport Info:

• Check-In – Check in online with your airline 24 hours before departure.

• Arrive Early – Give yourself extra time for security and check-in, especially for international flights. Most airports recommend arriving 3 hours before international departures.

• Airline Check In – Review your airline’s baggage policy to avoid unexpected fees. Pay any applicable luggage fees on the airline’s website or at the airport. If you have TSA PreCheck, confirm that it’s indicated on your boarding pass.

During Your Trip:

• Be Aware of Local Customs – Research cultural norms, tipping etiquette, and dress codes.

• Emergency Contacts – Save important numbers, including your country’s embassy and local emergency services.

Returning to the US :

• Immigration : If you have Global Entry, proceed to the designated line. If not, consider downloading the Mobile Passport Control app to expedite the process upon arrival.

  (note: not available at all airports).

• Customs : Retrieve your checked luggage and pass through the customs hall. 

• Connecting Flight : If you have a connecting flight, you’ll need to re-check your luggage and go through TSA again.

Welcome Home : Welcome back! We’d love to hear all about your trip and see your photos and videos. Don’t forget to tag us using @louisvilleoutbound and #louisvilleoutbound.

If any issues arise—whether it's insurance claims, airline delays or other concerns, etc.—we’re here to assist.