How to prepare well for a long trip around the world?

1. Documents and formalities

(Because a great departure requires as much preparation as it does dreaming.)

The starting point of any great journey: the administrative tasks. Not the most fun, but essential.

• Valid passport at least 6 months after the scheduled return date.
• ID cards (if traveling in the EU).
• Visas (depending on the countries, some can be obtained online).
• International driving permit (if you plan to drive).
• International vaccination record (WHO) if required.
• Paper photocopies and digital scans of all your documents (stored in the cloud).

Tip:
Create a “travel documents” folder with everything in duplicate. The original with you, the copy separately in the bag.

To go further:

• France Diplomacy – Travel advice
• Service-Public.fr – Travel documents

2. Insurance and health

It is better never to use it, but being covered changes everything.

• Travel insurance (illness, hospitalization, repatriation, cancellation, luggage).
• Premium bank card (often with included insurance, check the limits).
• Vaccines according to the areas (hepatitis A/B, yellow fever, typhoid…).
• Minimum first aid kit: antiseptic, painkillers, insect repellent, emergency antibiotics.
• Prescriptions in English (if on regular medication).

Plan B:
Photograph your prescriptions and store them in a folder “Health” on your drive in case of loss.

To go further:

• Institut Pasteur – Vaccines by destination

3. Budget and payment methods

Preparing your budget helps avoid unpleasant surprises on the other side of the world.

• Estimate the monthly cost of living by country.
• Plan for a contingency margin (~10 to 20%).
• Compare banks for travelers (N26, Revolut, Wise, etc.).
• Have 2 distinct bank cards (and keep them separate).
• Note the withdrawal and conversion fees.
• Install an expense tracking app (e.g.: TrabeePocket, Wallet, TravelSpend).

4. The bag and essential equipment

The heart of the traveler: his bag. Too heavy, it’s hell. Too light, it’s freedom.

To take:

• 1 large bag of 50 to 70L (depending on your body type).
• 1 small day backpack.
• Breathable, quick-drying clothes suitable for the climate.
• Compact toiletry kit (solid if possible).
• Microfiber towel.
• Filter bottle / reusable water bottle.
• Universal adapter + power strip.
• Waterproof bag / dry bag.
• TSA lock.
• The necessary medications for your survival in countries you are not used to visiting.

Plan B:
Keep a mini “essentials” kit in your carry-on luggage (toothbrush, underwear, t-shirt, meds).
In case of lost luggage, you will survive 48 hours without worry.

To go further:
Guide: how to pack your travel backpack

5. Digital preparations

Your phone becomes your best ally (and your compass).

• Scan all your important papers.
• Download Google Maps offline.
• Download Google Translate, Maps.me, Currency, Booking, TripIt.
• Make a complete backup of your photos before departure.
• Prepare a backup email address.
• Check your subscriptions (phone, bank, streaming…).

Tip:
Create a shared folder “Travel” in the cloud with all documents, tickets, reservations, and itineraries.

6. Departure arrangements

The last few weeks go by quickly, very quickly.

• Cancel or suspend subscriptions (phone, electricity, water, internet…).
• Set up a power of attorney for mail or administrative papers.
• Notify the bank (to avoid card blocking).
• Check your vaccines and insurances.
• Scan all your documents and digitize the proofs.
• Prepare a paper emergency folder for your loved ones.

Plan B :
Create a USB key (or a Drive link) containing your essential documents.

Final checklist

• Before leaving, make sure you have:
• Clear mind (the most important)
• Valid passport and visas
• Travel insurance
• Up-to-date vaccinations
• Budget + bank cards
• Copies of all documents
• Downloaded apps
• Packed and tested bag
• Backup email address
• Power of attorney and administrative procedures completed