Travel Checklist: Documents and Photos You Shouldn’t Forget

Date: March 19, 2026 Category:

Printing

Planning a trip? Keep things smooth from the start by double-checking the documents and photos you should keep on hand to avoid potential delays or unnecessary stress during your travels. Below is a guide to the documents and photos you shouldn’t forget before heading out.

Essential Identification Documents for Travel

Your personal identification is essential to any trip. Without it, you may not be able to board a flight, check into your accommodations, cross borders, or even get far at the airport.

Passport

A valid passport is necessary for many trips, especially international travel, so it is always best to check your passport’s expiry date well in advance to make sure you have enough time to renew it if needed. (In Canada, you can submit an online renewal form if your passport is within six months of expiring.) Also, before your trip, make sure all the information on your passport is up to date, your personal details and emergency contact are filled out, and it is signed.

Keep in mind that your passport should remain valid not only for the entire duration of your trip but also for several months after your planned return. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months after your return date.

Government-Issued Photo ID

Carrying a government-issued photo ID is highly recommended. This can include a driver’s license or other official identification card. If you are travelling domestically, this may be the only identification you need, but even when travelling internationally, having another form of ID can be helpful if you lose your passport, need to check into your accommodations, etc. Consider adding backup forms of identification and photocopied versions of all ID among your trip documents for an extra layer of security.

Extra Copies of Your Passport Photo

If you already have a passport with a photo, why should you bring extra copies of the photo? In an event where your passport is lost or stolen while you are travelling, you may need to replace it quickly. Many passport replacement applications require new photos that meet specific guidelines. Having at least two recent passport photos on hand can help expedite the process and save you from the hassle of finding a passport photo service while travelling. Additionally, extra photos can be useful if you need to apply for a visa or complete other official paperwork that requires identification images.

Health & Insurance Documents

Health documentation is important for travellers, especially to have on hand in the event of an unforeseen medical emergency. While requirements vary by destination, carry relevant medical and insurance information with you on your trip.

Consider bringing:

Travel insurance details with the policy number
Emergency contact information
Copies of prescriptions or a doctor’s note for medications
Vaccination records, if required by your destination

You should print copies of medical and insurance information for every member of your family. If you are traveling with a pet, you may need to bring copies of their export certificate and vaccination record, depending on your destination.

Printed Copies of Booking Confirmations

Technology can let us down when we need it most. It’s a good idea to keep printed copies of your hotel bookings, car rentals, and any other confirmations related to your trip. That way, you’ll have proof of your reservations ready in case of an internet outage or dead phone battery.

Visa & Entry Permits

Depending on where you are travelling and the purpose of your visit, you may need a visa or other entry authorization. Requirements can vary by country, so it is important to research them well in advance of your departure.

Some destinations require a traditional visa obtained before arrival, while others use electronic systems, such as an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Some countries may also require supporting documentation upon entry, including proof of return or onward travel, accommodation details, or evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Keeping both printed and digital copies of your confirmations can help make the border control process smoother.

International Driving Permit

Planning to drive while travelling? An International Driving Permit (IDP) can be an important document to bring with you. An IDP translates your driver’s license into multiple languages and authorizes you to drive in 150+ countries without additional tests/applications. While it does not replace a valid driver’s license, it works alongside it and may be required, especially if you plan to rent a car. Be sure to check your travel destination’s requirements beforehand and apply for an IDP before your trip.

Note: IDPs are issued exclusively at CAA Stores in Canada and must not be obtained anywhere else.

Emergency Contact & Itinerary Details

Before you leave on your trip, consider creating a printed document outlining your travel plans, including your flight schedule, where you’ll be staying, any excursions you’ll take, and other key details. Share this document with a friend and/or family member, so they have all of your information in case of an emergency.

Check Documentation Requirements Before Your Trip

Your travel destination may require certain documents. A great resource is the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories page, which provides specific insight into the policies of the country you’re travelling to, including health requirements and entry and exit requirements.

Printing and Passport Photo Services at The UPS Store

Taking the time to prepare your documents and photos before your trip can give you the confidence you need to handle expected and unexpected situations. Visit The UPS Store to print or photocopy your important travel documents and/or take your passport photo to help you kick-start your travel planning with ease.