MGA Travel Trip Planner

Trip Planner

Things to do Before Traveling

If flying domestically, ensure that you have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card.

After May 7, 2025, a REAL ID is required for all passengers flying domestically unless you present an acceptable alternative, such as your valid passport.

More info about the REAL ID in South Carolina and nationally.

Check passport expiry date:
You need a minimum of 3 unused pages* & a minimum of 6 months validity on your Passport from your trip RETURN date.

* you need at least 1 page per number of countries if you are visiting multiple on that same trip.

Pack in your Carry-On Baggage

Travel identification and documentation, including important papers, travel insurance policy numbers, contact numbers
Medications, including prescriptions, in their original labeled containers
Eyeglasses, contacts, contact lens solution (small bottle in liquids bag)
Proof of covid-19 vaccination if required, check for travel restrictions that may be in place
Camera gear and extra memory cards and batteries
Valuables (consider leaving expensive jewelry and other valuables at home)
Copies of all key travel documents
House/car keys
A change or two of clothing
Hygiene items
Liquids bag (3.4 oz or less) in a 1-quart bag per person
Refillable water bottle
Snacks

Don't forget to bring copies of all your Travel Documents

Travel Documentation

Driver’s License (REAL ID) / other government-issued photo ID
Passport
Passport Copies
Visa(s)
Immunization records / vaccination certificate (if required)
Credit cards
Debit / ATM Cards
Credit and debit card company phone numbers in case the cards are lost or stolen
Cash
Itinerary
Hotel, car rental, and other confirmations
Tickets (plane, rail, bus)
*Bring copies of all key travel documents* (passport information page, airline/train/tour/hotel tickets & vouchers, credit card numbers, and travel insurance policy number and travel insurance contact phone number). Carry key travel document copies separately from in case the originals are lost or stolen.
Ensure emergency contact numbers (family, friends, U.S. Embassy, etc.) are written down or safely electronically stored

Health Care

Pre-purchase a travel insurance policy that, at minimum, includes emergency health care and transportation. This travel insurance policy usually needs to be purchased at the time you place the deposit on your trip.

Why Travel Insurance? (https://takethetrip.com/whytravelnsurance.html)

Obtain any pre-trip recommended vaccines and associated health certificates

Seek advice of your family doctor for their recommended motion sickness prescription(s) or over the counter medication(s).

Travel to do

Complete pre-trip registration
Reserve specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments, and in-room gifts, beverage packages
Print luggage tags
Check with mobile carrier for international calling plans and data plans
Reserve transfers
Check with airline and/or tour operator for baggage allowance details
Download pertinent apps, including insurance/travel/hotel/tour apps. Try logging into the apps before departure
Place mobile devices in airplane mode or airplane mode and off, especially when traveling via ship

At Home to do

Create travel notification for credit and debit/ATM cards
Reserve pet care-facility or in-home sitter
Hold your mail via USPS.gov or ask a neighbor to pick up your mail
Stop/hold recurring deliveries or ask a neighbor to pick them up
Ensure you have enough prescription medication(s) for the duration of your trip; refill if necessary
Give your travel itinerary to a family member or friend

Travel Necessities

Voltage converter/adapter(s)
Mobile phone & charger(s)
Tablet & charger
Camera and accessories (tripod, extra memory card), charging cable/
Extra batteries
Earphones for their electronic devices
Earbuds/earphones to plug into airplane entertainment system
Prescription medications (in original bottles)
First aid kit

Other Items

Small travel flashlight
Travel alarm clock, travel flashlight, binoculars, anti-bacterial wipes/hand sanitizer
Small, basic sewing kit; pack small scissors in checked baggage
Comfortable walking shoes
Dressier shoes
Collapsible umbrella/lightweight rain gear
Lightweight jacket
Sunglasses, sun hat
Toiletries (plus medical remedies, sunscreen, razors, toothbrush, & hair brush)
Warm coat, gloves, and water-resistant footwear (for cooler months)
Sleepwear