Checklist and packing list for travel documents, money, and emergencies abroad

What is cash?

• Cash is physical money in the form of coins and banknotes. It is the opposite of digital money (such as debit card payments or mobile apps).
• It varies greatly per country whether cash or digital payments/debit cards are the norm. Some countries hardly use cash anymore, in other countries you can hardly use a debit card anywhere.

What can you use cash for when traveling and backpacking?

• Cash is often indispensable for:
  • street food and local markets.
  • local transportation.
  • small hostels or homestays.
  • tips.
  • a visit to the toilet.
  • areas without debit card facilities or electricity.
• Cash is also useful in the event of a cash machine malfunction, when your bank card does not work abroad or if you have lost your card.

When do you take cash with you when traveling or backpacking?

• When arriving in a country with few debit cards or when you arrive at night.
• When traveling to remote areas (mountains, countryside, islands).
• During festivals, hikes or long bus rides. If you suspect that the local currency is unstable (sometimes it is better to take USD or EUR).
• But: never carry too much cash at once due to risk of loss or theft.

Where else in the world can you buy or get cash locally?

• ATMs – often the best exchange rate, but watch out for transaction costs.
• Exchange offices – check the rate and avoid exchangers on the street.
• Hotels/hostels – sometimes they exchange small amounts, but often at a bad rate.
• Via an app such as Western Union – useful if someone can send you money.

How can you insure cash through your travel insurance

• Most travel insurance policies cover stolen cash up to a certain amount (often between €100 and €500), but:
  • Only if you report it to the police
  • Only if it was stored safely (e.g. in a safe or money belt)
• Keep proof of withdrawal or exchange transaction, you will usually need this for a claim.

What is a credit card?

• A credit card is a payment card that you use to make purchases on credit (you pay afterwards). It is not a direct PIN payment; the card company advances the amount and you pay it back later.
• Nowadays, you also have debit cards that can be used as a credit card. These are often used by digital nomads.

What can you use credit cards for when traveling and backpacking?

• Credit cards are incredibly useful for booking things. For example, you can book plane tickets, hotels and hostels.
• For renting a car: you often have to guarantee the deposit with your credit card.
• Medical costs often have to be paid with a credit card.
• Booking activities online: can often only be done with a credit card.
• As a backup for your debit card: you can also withdraw cash with it (although it is a bit more expensive).
• Paying a deposit: for all sorts of things.

When do you take a credit card with you when traveling or backpacking?

• A credit card is useful for international travel, especially outside Europe.
• As a backup for emergencies. When travelling to countries where debit cards are less accepted (such as the US, some parts of Asia and Latin America).
• For applying for visas or online bookings.
• If you travel a lot and want to use travel benefits (insurance, savings system, cashback).

Where can you buy credit cards in the world?

• People usually take a credit card they already have
• In some countries you can also apply for a local credit card. But if you don't live there, this is almost impossible.
• Buying a credit card while you are travelling is therefore almost impossible. Or you have to have it sent to your home address and have someone from home send it to your holiday address.

How can you insure credit cards via your travel insurance

• Credit cards are often partly insured via the card itself, provided that you make the purchase with that card, for example, you sometimes have purchase insurance: in case of theft or damage to items, and cancellation or basic travel insurance
• Your travel insurance usually covers stolen or lost cards in combination with theft of your wallet
• Call your card company immediately to block the card
• Sometimes there are separate credit card insurances for fraud, misuse or skimming.

Modern alternatives to the credit card

• A credit card means that you build up credit, which can be a financial risk. A fairly recent development is the prepaid money cards and debit cards that work on the credit card network.

The prepaid credit card

• The prepaid 'money' cards are relatively new on the market, you can top up these cards to a certain amount at, for example, Visa ATMs in country X (if you have a Visa money card) and then use them to withdraw money in the local currency at cash machines (ATMs) in country Y. When you have withdrawn your entire credit, you can throw away the prepaid money card.
• A relatively safe system because you withdraw your money with a PIN number.
• If you lose your prepaid money card, it is more difficult to get your money back (sometimes not at all) than was the case with traveller's cheques in the past. In principle, you will receive a replacement card and emergency cash supply.
• No personal details are put on the prepaid money card.
• You can only spend the amount that you have put on the card and withdrawals will also cost you an amount comparable to withdrawing money abroad and differ per brand.
• The prepaid money card is widely used, but not in all countries.

Debit card on credit card network

• You will receive a regular debit card that works on the Visa or MasterCard network. It can therefore be used in all places where credit cards also work.
• This card is linked to a real bank account, so you will also receive an IBAN.
• You can only spend what is in your account.
• This is usually done via an online bank (N26, Wise, Bunq, Revolut).
• The exchange rate costs are often low, you will receive real-time notifications as security and you can work with multiple currencies.
• It is an ideal option for backpackers that is commonly used nowadays.

What is a discount card?

• Discount cards give you access to deals on accommodation, museums, tours, transport or even (delicious) food.
• Discount cards have been pushed into the background in the digital age. Many organisations abroad use direct discount schemes, loyalty cards or give discounts based on your age.
• Examples of discount cards from the past and present: StayOkay, ISIC, JoHo, NKBV membership card.
• Also inquire locally about regional or local discount cards

What can you use a discount card for when travelling and backpacking?

• Accommodation: think of hostels that are partners of StayOkay, YHA, Hostelling International. Or mountain huts, where you get a discount if you are a member of the NKBV.
• Public transport: in Europe you sometimes get a big student discount on trains or buses.
• Museums and sights: ISIC, student and age cards often give discounts on entrance fees.
• Food and drinks: sometimes there are partner restaurants or chains that give discounts through loyalty cards

When do you take a discount card with you when traveling or backpacking?

• If you are still a student or of a certain (senior) age.
• If you know in advance that you are going to visit many cultural attractions, hostels or organized activities.
• If you value money over freedom of choice when selecting activities, accommodation or shops
• If you already have an ISIC, Youth Card, or other international discount card.

Where can you also buy a discount card locally in the world?

• Often in larger cities at tourist information centers, hostels or stations.
• Some countries have national discount cards, such as:
  • Japan Rail Pass, for foreigners, not available locally!
  • Swiss Travel Pass
  • Australian Backpacker Cards (varies per region)
  • **India: no card, but standard discount for students and locals
  • **The Philippines: no(t always) card (needed), but standard privileges and discounts for the "elderly"
• Ask locally, for example at information centers, about city passes or regional passes (for example “I Amsterdam Card” or “Berlin Welcome Card”).
• Many cards are now available digitally. A good online search can therefore do no harm.

What is an emergency number?

• An emergency number is a number you call when something happens that requires your help, and in case of an emergency.
• This can relate to your health, a car accident, a local disaster, political unrest or if you are really in trouble.
• An emergency number is also called an alarm number.
• Embassies, insurers, banks and roadside assistance, among others, often have an emergency number. You can usually find this on the website, or by calling the agency.

What can you use an emergency number for when travelling and backpacking?

• To make use of local help: such as the police, ambulance, fire brigade. There is often a joint number such as 112 in Europe, 911 in the US and Canada and 000 in Australia. Some countries do not have an emergency number.
• If you want to go to a local hospital or need medical help: many hospitals have their own emergency number. There are also poison control centres that have emergency numbers. For mental health: some countries have psychiatric crisis lines.
• If you lose your passport, are arrested, a major disaster occurs or there is political unrest, you can often call the embassy or consulate emergency number.
• As a medical backup: for example, if you need medical help but don't know where to go or what to do, you can call the emergency number of your travel insurance.
• If your car breaks down: you can often call the emergency center of your car insurance or travel insurance.

When should you take emergency numbers with you when traveling or backpacking?

• Always! It is always wise to save important emergency numbers locally (i.e. in your phone or in a book) before you leave for a foreign country.
• Some countries also have an emergency number specifically for tourists. This can be useful to save because of the language barrier you might otherwise encounter.

What are the most important emergency numbers?

• General emergency number(s) of the country you visit
• Emergency number of your embassy or consulate.
• Emergency number of your travel insurance.
• Emergency number of your health insurance.
• Emergency number of your bank in case your wallet is stolen.
• If it exists, the number of the tourist police. 

What is the emergency number of your health insurance?

• This is the emergency number of your health insurer, specifically intended for when you need urgent medical assistance abroad. Think of hospitalization, an operation, or medical repatriation.
• Please note: with some insurances company, the emergency number goes through a separate organization, such as Eurocross, Allianz Global Assistance or SOS International.

What do you use the emergency number of your health insurance for?

• You use the emergency number, when need to be admitted to hospital urgently.
• You use the emergency number, when you need help getting home with a medical indication.
• Use the emergency number, when you need treatment that is expensive or specialist.
• When the doctor wants to discuss payment or medical approval, use the emergency number.
• Use the emergency number, when you really want to talk to someone with medical knowledge and insurance logic.

What should you have ready when you call the emergency number?

• Your insurance number.
• The patient's details (if you are calling on behalf of someone else).
• A brief description of what happened and what is needed.
• The name of the hospital or clinic where you are.
• If applicable, the doctor's contact details.

Where can you find the emergency number of your health insurance?

• You can find the emergency number on your physical health insurance card - keep it with your passport!
• In the app of your health insurer (often also accessible offline).
• In your policy schedule or e-mail confirmation is the emergency number of your health insurance stated.
• On the website of your insurer (search for: "alarm center" or "medical assistance abroad").
• In a note in your phone or notebook.
• On paper in your wallet or backpack (extra safe).

What do you do if you do not have a phone or internet, when you have to contact the emergency number?

• Ask a local hospital, pharmacy or hotel for help - they often call emergency centers free of charge.
• Have your travel companion call with your details. Use an international telephone (for example via a hotel reception or local telephone shop).
• Make sure you have the emergency number on paper in advance – possibly in multiple languages ​​(English/Spanish/French) when you are in areas where little English is spoken.

Do you always have to call the emergency centre for medical assistance?

• Yes, especially in the case of:
  • Admissions.
  • Operations.
  • Emergency care with high costs.
• Why? Because the staff of the emergency number can help with 
  • Paying the bills in the hospital directly.
  • An indication which clinic or doctor is reliable and recognised.
  • Arranging help with translation, transport or repatriation.
  • Preventing you from finding a bill of 12,000 euros on your doormat afterwards.
• For smaller matters (doctor's visits, antibiotics) you usually do not have to call the emergency number, but you can – then you know for sure whether you will be reimbursed.

What is an identification tag?

• An identification tag, also called an ID tag, dog tag or emergency ID, is a small metal or plastic tag that you wear around your neck, wrist or bag, that shows your personal information.
• On an identification tag is stated your name, nationality, blood type, allergies or emergency contact information.

What can you use an identification tag for when travelling and backpacking?

• An identification tag is useful, when you become unconscious, have an accident or get lost and cannot talk.
• When you have medical conditions or allergies that emergency services need to know about, it is practical to have an identification tag.
• When you are travelling in areas where your phone will not work (jungle, desert, dance floor) an identification tag can be useful.
• Use an identification tag for extra safety during outdoor activities such as diving, climbing or hiking.

When do you take an identification tag with you when travelling or backpacking?

• Bring an identification tag with you, when you are travelling alone or doing activities with increased risk.
• When you are travelling to countries where medical assistance is not immediately available, an identification tag is handy.
• An identification tag can help you feel safer, when you want to be an all-prepared and practical traveler.

Where can you buy an identification tag locally in the world?

• When you lose your identification tag, it is not always easy to find a new tag.
• You have the best chance to find an identification tag at: (online) outdoor stores, jewelry shops, military webshops or travel accessory sites.
• In many countries, you can also find handy men along the road, in small stores, on the market or by the beach, who make the most beautiful bracelets or necklaces right in front of you. You can always have one made with your details engraved on 

What is an International Driving Permit?

• An international Driving Permit (IDP) is an officially translated version of your National Driving License.
• The IDP allows you to prove abroad that you have a valid driving license.
• The international driving permit is usually not a replacement, but a supplement: you will always need your original driving license as well.
• The international driving license is valid for 1 year.
• Most countries have an official organisation to apply for an international driving permit.

What can you use an international driving permit for when traveling and backpacking?

• An international driving permit is useful, when you want to rent a car, scooter or motorcycle abroad.
• An IDP is handy, when you hitchhike and also want the option to take over the steering wheel.
• When local police or authorities ask for a translation of your driving license an IDP is what you need.
• For countries that do not recognize your country’s driving license or only accept your driving license, if there is an official translation.
• Do make sure that you always have your original driving license with you.
• In the EU, as an EU national, it is not necessary to take an international driving license with you.

When do you take an international driving license with you when traveling or backpacking? 

• When travelling abroad to countries that don't have an agreement with your country and you want to rent vehicles or drive bring your IDP.
• Different countries sometimes only accept different international driving permit translations.

Where can you buy an international driving permit while you’re travelling?

• It can be hard or often even impossible to get the official translation of your national driving license while you are travelling. Some countries offer online applications and shipment abroad, others offer applications through friends or family, but most countries don’t offer these services. 
• Some countries also offer local translations of your driving permit, which you can request when you are at your destination.
• The easiest is to apply for the International driving permit safely at home, with a passport photo, driving license and identification.

How can you insure an international driving permit through your travel insurance?

• The document itself cannot be insured separately.
• However: when you drive without a valid international driving permit in a country where it is mandatory, you can be held liable in the event of an accident – ​​and then your travel insurance and car insurance often refuse to pay out.

What is a medical passport?

• A medical passport is a document (digital or on paper) that contains important medical information. Think of your blood group, allergies, medication use, vaccination status, any conditions and contact details of doctors or family.
• It is also a means of proof to carry medication with you, so that you do not have any problems at customs.

What can you use a medical passport for when traveling and backpacking?

• As a means of communication in emergencies, especially if you can no longer speak yourself.
• It ensures that local doctors or care providers know:
• which medication you are taking.
• what they should or should not touch.
• who they should call, if you can no longer tell them.
• A medical passport can help with border controls, if you are carrying 'special' medication (think of medicines that fall under the Opium Act).
• It also helps prevent medical errors.
• Mandatory or strongly recommended for chronic illnesses or regular medication.
• It can also be important for claiming medical costs from your insurance.

When to take a medical passport on a trip or while backpacking?

Always take it with you when you:

• Have chronic conditions (diabetes, epilepsy, heart problems, etc.).
• Take medication regularly.
• Can get into allergic shock (e.g. nuts, insects, antibiotics).
• Travel to areas with limited medical facilities.

Also useful when you:

• Travel alone.
• Going to travel in remote areas.
• Take medication that falls under the Opium Act.

Where can you buy a medical passport locally in the world?

• Unfortunately, that is not possible. It is a case of arranging it in your home country before departure.
• In most countries, you can apply for a medical passport from your GP, the pharmacy or a specialist.

What is a passport photo?

• Passport photos are those official, often unflattering, photos of your head on a light background, without sunglasses, a broad smile or hair in your face. Not intended as a nice holiday snapshot, but for authorities that want to identify you.

What can you use a passport photo for when traveling and backpacking?

• For applying for or extending visas (some countries want two to six physical passport photos).
• For applying for local ID cards, permits or SIM cards.
• For public transport cards, student cards or library cards (yes, still a thing).
• For emergency documents in case of loss of your passport.
• For volunteer work or (temporary) work permits.

When do you take a passport photo with you when traveling or backpacking?

Always take it with you if you:

• Travel to countries that issue a visa at the border (think: Nepal, Cambodia, Tanzania).
• Are planning to stay in one country for a long time (visa extension or local registration).
• Visit multiple countries with different visa requirements.
• Don't want to be dependent on blurry copy shops that take photos with a Nokia from 2003.

Where can you buy a passport photo locally in the world?

• In almost every country you can have passport photos taken at:
  • Copy shops.
  • Photo shops.
  • Photo booths in shopping malls or at stations.
  • Pharmacies (in the US, Canada, Thailand, etc.).
• In some countries (such as India or Vietnam) they do it right at the visa office.
• Format and requirements vary per country, so make sure to inquire about this in advance!

What is a travel will?

• A travel will is a document in which you record what should happen if something happens to you during your trip.
• It states what should happen to your belongings and finances, who should contact your family or authorities and what your wishes are in the event of a medical emergency or death.
• A travel will is recommended for destinations where you run a high risk of dying.
• When you leave a short or long travel will with the most important information and instructions, you can inform one or more confidants (family or friend).
• Also make sure that someone knows where to find your passwords for example for social media so that these accounts can be easily closed.

What can you use a travel will for when traveling and backpacking?

• If something goes seriously wrong during your travel, despite good preparation, it is good to know that relatives or those left behind know what to do.
• A travel will provides clarity in the event of an emergency, disappearance, a serious accident or death. It is also nicer for your family, when they have to make decisions on your behalf.
• In addition, it prevents confusion or arguments regarding your possessions, your social media or what should happen to, for example, your beloved pet.
• A travel will is also used as a medical proxy to determine who can speak on your behalf in serious situations.
• When traveling solo or for long periods of time, it can be an important backup.

When do you take a travel will with you on a trip or while backpacking?

• A travel will is recommended, especially when you:
  • Travel alone, certainly when you cross between continents.
  • Stay away for a long time or do not have a permanent place of residence.
  • Travel to countries with increased risk (for example remote areas, politically unstable).
  • Have chronic conditions, or are planning a risky activity (for example climbing high mountains, deep-sea diving).

Where else in the world can you buy a travel will locally?

• No. You arrange this before departure, in your home country.
• You can make it available digitally (e.g. via your cloud storage or with a trusted person).
• Some countries do not officially accept foreign documents, but they do help in practice.

What is a visa?

• A visa officially registers with the government that you are allowed to enter the country in question. Better known as the stamps or stickers in your passport.
• It is not a guarantee that you will be allowed to enter - customs can still say: nope, but without a visa you often won't even get to the customs counter.
• Arranging a visa should not be underestimated. Find out in time whether arranging a visa in advance is mandatory or whether you can also get the visa upon arrival at the border.
• A visa determines whether and for how long you are allowed to stay in a country and whether you are allowed to travel, work, study, do an internship or do volunteer work.
• It is used to distinguish tourists from expats, business travelers or adventurous strollers with a yoga mat.
• You often can't even board a flight if you don't have the required visa.
• If you remain without a visa or if your visa has expired, you could be blacklisted, expelled from the country, imprisoned or face large fines.

What can you use a visa for when traveling and backpacking?

• Tourist visits: often a visa on arrival or e-visa.
• Long-term trips: visa extensions or multiple entry visas.
• Work, study, internship, volunteer work → specific visa types required.
• Some countries also require a visa for transit (transfer without leaving the airport).
• You avoid problems at border crossings or visa checks within a country (for example checkpoints in India or Iran)

When do you take a visa with you on a trip or while backpacking?

• Always if the country you are visiting requires it (check this before departure)
• In many countries you can:
  • Apply for an e-visa online in advance (for example Australia, India, Vietnam).
  • Buy a visa on arrival (for example Nepal, Laos, Tanzania).
  • Only arrange a visa via an embassy in your home country (for example for some African or Middle Eastern countries).
• Please note that you sometimes need a visa when leaving your previous country and that you sometimes also need proof of return or onward flight in addition to your visa.

Where can you also buy a visa locally in the world?

• In many countries, upon arrival at the airport or overland.
• Through an online e-visa system, via the government of the country.
• Through an embassy or consulate, in your home country or en route.
• Sometimes through a visa service bureau, mainly for countries with difficult or lengthy procedures.