Passport, Visas, eSIMs: The Pre-Flight Document Checklist for 2026

Nothing ends a trip faster than a document problem at the check-in desk. In 2026 there are new requirements — ETIAS for Europe, more eVisas, digital everything — so run this checklist a month before you fly, not the night before.

Passport: the 6-month and blank-page rules

Most countries require 6 months of validity beyond your return date and at least 2 blank pages. The EU counts validity from issue date and requires less than 10 years old — check yours now, renewals take weeks.

Europe's ETIAS is here

Visa-exempt travellers now need an ETIAS authorisation for the Schengen area — a quick online application, valid for 3 years. Apply at least a week before travel on the official EU site only; unofficial lookalike sites charge triple.

Check visa requirements for YOUR passport

Visa rules depend on your nationality, not your destination alone. Check the official government source or IATA database for every country you'll enter — including transit stops.

Sort your connectivity before departure

An eSIM data plan bought before you fly costs a fraction of airport roaming. Install it at home, activate on landing, and you have maps and messaging from the first minute.

Driving? You may need an IDP

An International Driving Permit is legally required to rent or drive in many countries (Japan, UAE, much of Southeast Asia). It's cheap, quick, and saves a holiday-ruining conversation at the rental desk.

Health documents

Some destinations still require proof of vaccination (yellow fever zones especially) or travel insurance for entry. Check entry requirements officially — rules change.

The backup system that saves trips

Photograph every document; email yourself copies; store them in cloud drive AND offline on your phone; leave a copy with someone at home. A lost passport with copies is a bad afternoon. Without copies, it's a bad week.

The Bottom Line

One month out: passport, ETIAS/visas, eSIM. One week out: check entry rules again. One day out: offline copies of everything. Boring? Yes. That's exactly why your trip won't be.