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Free Checklist Tool

Pre-Departure Checklist

Never forget a step. 30+ essential tasks to complete before your next nomad destination.

32 tasks8 categories13 essential
0%0/32 completed
0/13 essential done
Check passport validityEssential

Most countries require at least 6 months validity beyond your travel dates. Renew early if needed.

5 minUse tool
Research visa requirementsEssential

Check if you need a visa, tourist visa duration, and digital nomad visa options for your destination.

30 minUse tool
Make copies of important documentsEssential

Scan passport, visa, insurance, and ID. Store digital copies in cloud storage and email them to yourself.

15 min
Get international driving permitOptional

If you plan to rent a car or motorbike, check if an IDP is required in your destination country.

1-2 weeks
Get travel/health insuranceEssential

Essential for nomads. Consider SafetyWing, World Nomads, or Genki for long-term travel coverage.

30 minUse tool
Check vaccination requirementsEssential

Some countries require proof of specific vaccinations. Check CDC or WHO travel advisories.

1-3 daysUse tool
Stock up on prescriptionsRecommended

Get enough medication for your stay. Carry a doctor's letter for controlled substances.

1 week
Pack a basic first-aid kitRecommended

Include painkillers, anti-diarrhea medicine, band-aids, antiseptic, and any personal medications.

15 min
Notify your bank of travel plansEssential

Prevent your cards from being blocked abroad. Set travel notifications in your banking app.

5 minUse tool
Get a no-fee travel cardRecommended

Consider Wise, Revolut, or N26 for zero foreign transaction fees and good exchange rates.

1-2 weeksUse tool
Research cost of livingRecommended

Understand daily expenses at your destination: rent, food, coworking, transport, and entertainment.

20 minUse tool
Understand tax obligationsRecommended

Check tax residency rules, treaty benefits, and reporting requirements for your home and destination countries.

1 hourUse tool
Set aside emergency fundRecommended

Keep 1-3 months of expenses accessible for emergencies, unexpected flights, or medical situations.

15 min
Set up a VPNEssential

Protect your data on public WiFi and access region-locked services. Set up before you leave.

15 minUse tool
Get an eSIM or research local SIMEssential

eSIMs like Airalo or Holafly work instantly on arrival. Otherwise, know where to buy a local SIM.

15 minUse tool
Check power outlet typeEssential

Different countries use different plug types and voltages. Get the right adapter before you go.

5 minUse tool
Back up important dataRecommended

Back up your laptop, phone photos, and important files to cloud storage before traveling.

30 min
Download offline mapsRecommended

Download Google Maps or Maps.me offline maps for your destination in case you lose connectivity.

5 min
Book first few nightsEssential

Book at least 3-5 nights of accommodation so you have a base to find longer-term housing.

30 minUse tool
Research coworking spacesRecommended

Find coworking spaces near your accommodation. Check day pass prices and WiFi speeds.

20 minUse tool
Explore coliving spacesOptional

Coliving combines accommodation with community. Great for solo nomads wanting instant connections.

20 minUse tool
Book flights or transportEssential

Compare prices across airlines and dates. Consider one-way tickets for flexibility.

1-2 hours
Plan airport transferRecommended

Research how to get from the airport to your accommodation: taxi, bus, train, or ride-share.

15 minUse tool
Learn basic local phrasesRecommended

Learn hello, thank you, how much, and where is the WiFi in the local language.

15 minUse tool
Save emergency contactsEssential

Note local emergency numbers, nearest embassy, and your insurance provider's hotline.

10 minUse tool
Check weather and pack accordinglyRecommended

Review typical weather for your travel dates so you pack the right clothing and gear.

10 minUse tool
Notify clients/employer of timezone changeEssential

Let your team know about your new timezone and update your working hours accordingly.

15 minUse tool
Plan WiFi backup optionsRecommended

Know at least two backup options for internet: mobile hotspot, nearby cafe, or coworking space.

10 minUse tool
Plan timezone adjustmentOptional

If there's a big timezone shift, plan your sleep schedule transition a few days before.

5 min
Check in on WildNomadsRecommended

Check in at your destination to connect with other nomads and find who's already there.

2 min
Join local nomad groupsRecommended

Find Facebook groups, Slack channels, or meetup groups for digital nomads in your destination.

15 minUse tool
Register with your embassyOptional

Many countries offer travel registration for citizens abroad. Useful in case of emergencies.

10 min
This checklist is a general guide. Requirements vary by destination and nationality. Always verify official requirements before traveling.

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