U.S. Travel Preparation Checklist
- ZO ORGANIZED
- Mar 1, 2019
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 13, 2019

It's that time of year again. Spring break is just around the corner. Get your family prepared with ZO ORGANIZED™ U.S. Travel Preparation Checklist. And, don't forget to download the What-to-Pack Checklist: The Short List and/or The Long List.
Forms of Identification Needed:
□ Driver’s License/State ID (Non-driver’s License/Passport)
Passengers 18 and over must have a valid ID
For a list of other valid identification see TSA Travel Security Screening Identification
Optional Documentation:
□ TSA Pre✓® Number
A trusted traveler program that expedites members’ screening through TSA security checkpoints
Pre-Trip Tasks:
□ Emergency Documents Folder
Digital Tip: Create a shared Emergency Docs album/file folder on phone & PC for these items
Copies of driver’s licenses or passports
Copy of insurance card(s)
□ Medical/Dental Insurance
Check with your insurance company to see how your insurance policy covers you when you are traveling
□ Medications
Pack enough for 5 days after planned return
Pack medications in two locations (one carry-on) in case of loss
Copy of prescriptions handy (if meds aren’t in the original bottle)
□ Medical Devices
Consider bringing in your carry-on in case luggage is lost
□ Communication Plan with Friends and Family in Case of an Emergency
□ List of emergency contacts
Phone numbers from the back of your credit cards, bank cards, insurance card, etc.
□ Notify Bank and Credit Card Companies You Will Be Traveling
□ Take Small Bills for Tipping (parking/curbside bag drop, etc.)
□ Optional Mobile App Downloads:
Airline that you are using
Airport Maps
MyTSA App
Night Before:
□ Check on Flight Status & Possible Weather Concerns
□ Check In:
Check documents to ensure correct including if your TSA traveler number is on the airline tickets
□ Set Out What To Wear
Consider what will make it easier going through security
Before Leaving for the Airport:
□ Check Again That You Have Your Required Identification & Medications
Double check that you have required identification, medications, medical devices, glasses and/or contacts (Most other things can be bought if accidentally left behind)
□ Check Flight Status for Any Delays & Give Yourself Enough Time
Give yourself enough time to arrive at the airport 2 hours early
Passengers with a disability or medical condition can call ahead to the TSA Cares toll free helpline at (855) 787-2227
Optional Post-Trip Tasks:
□ Notify Bank and Credit Card Companies Your Travel is Complete
□ Notes About Anything that Would Make Travel/Trip Better
Packing Checklist:
□ Review Packing Regulations
Review the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) prohibited items list for both carry-on and checked baggage
Please Note: For items not listed, you can snap a picture or send a question to AskTSA on Facebook Messenger or Twitter
The Liquids Regulation - Liquids, gels and aerosols packed in carry-on must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule:
- 3.4 ounces or less per container
- 1-quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag)
- 1 bag per passenger
- If using a baggage lock, make sure it is TSA recognized
□ Packing Lists - download the What-to-Pack Checklist: The Short List and/or The Long List
Other Travel Reminders:
Just a heads up on how security checkpoints work.
Before Entering the Checkpoint:
Eligible passengers look for the TSA Pre✓® lane for expedited screening at some airports
Children under 12 can go through with their parents
Have your ID and boarding pass out for inspection
In Standard Screening Lane:
Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt
Pockets must be empty
Remove and put items in a bin:
Your liquids bag
Outerwear (jackets, scarves, hats, etc.)
Bulky jewelry
Personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone
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