2026 Travel Checklist: Passports, Visas, Vaccines, and Planning Tips
Planning an international trip can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start.
From passports and visas to vaccinations and kid-friendly destinations, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of amazing travel opportunities. Whether you’re jetting off from South Africa to Victoria Falls, Mauritius, Thailand, the Maldives, or even Mexico, being prepared is the key to a smooth journey.
With over 45 years of experience, Thompsons knows that travel is about more than checking off boxes – it’s about creating experiences that stay with you.
Before you start booking flights, let’s break down the essentials you need to consider so your 2026 travels are stress-free and enjoyable.
4 Key Takeouts
-
Passports and Visas: Check your passport’s validity and explore visa options for Europe and beyond. Some countries, like France, Switzerland, and Italy, have been noted for their higher approval rates and efficient systems.
-
Vaccines and Health Prep: Certain destinations, including Thailand, Mauritius, and parts of Africa, recommend vaccines when coming from high-risk regions. Make sure your immunisations are up to date and consult your doctor for recommended travel vaccines.
-
Travelling with Kids: The best age for international travel with children varies, but many parents find ages 5-12 ideal. Know which documents are needed for children and which destinations are kid friendly.
-
Packing and Planning: Using a detailed packing and travel checklist ensures you have all essentials – from documents to personal items – so you can travel with confidence and without last-minute stress.
Passports: Your First Step
Your passport is the single most important document for any international trip. South African passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates in most countries. For destinations like Thailand or the Maldives, immigration checks are strict, and short validity can cause delays or even denial of entry.
It’s also worth checking your passport for available blank pages. Some countries need at least two empty pages for stamps, including Mauritius and Mexico. Renewing a passport can take time, so don’t wait until the last minute.
Visas: Know Before You Go
Visa requirements vary widely depending on the country. South African travellers have several “easy visa” options that are known to have higher approval rates:
-
Europe: Planning a trip to France, Switzerland, or Italy? These countries generally offer “easier” visa processes for South African travellers due to well-established application centres. Completing all documents and having a clear itinerary can help you secure these Schengen visas.
-
Mexico: For soccer fans who would love to watch the World Cup live, a tourist visa is generally needed, but the process is simple if you apply in advance.
-
Thailand and the Maldives: Thailand is visa-free (for 60 days) and if you’re travelling to Maldives, you’ll receive a free 30-day visa on arrival.
-
Need more options? We have a list of visa-free destinations South Africans can visit – no fuss, no hassle.
Always check embassy websites for the latest updates. Starting your visa application early is essential to avoid last-minute complications.
Vaccines: Health First
Vaccinations are an important part of travel prep. For South Africans, recommended vaccines vary by destination:
-
Africa: For Victoria Falls or safari trips, Yellow Fever vaccination is needed if you are travelling from or through a high-risk country like Kenya or Ethiopia.
-
Asia: Thailand recommends Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines.
-
Mauritius and the Maldives: Routine vaccines are generally sufficient, though consult your doctor if travelling with children or to remote areas.
Make a habit of carrying your vaccination certificates, as some countries may request proof on arrival.
Travelling with Children
Travelling internationally with kids comes with its own set of considerations.
Best Age for Travel: While babies can travel, many families find ages 5-12 ideal. Children at this age are easier to manage on flights, can handle some structured sightseeing, and remember the experience.
Kid-Friendly Destinations: Mauritius is filled with family-friendly resorts, Victoria Falls has accessible tours, and Thailand has a mix of cultural and adventure experiences. Europe is also great for family trips with historic sites, parks, and beaches.
Required Documents: When travelling with minors, you typically need:
-
Child’s passport
-
Birth certificate (or unabridged birth certificate for South African children)
-
Parental consent letter if only one parent is travelling
-
Visa (if required)
-
Heading off with little ones? Take a look at our comprehensive travel requirements to make getting ready for your trip so much easier.
Packing: The Final Touch
Packing for an international trip doesn’t have to be stressful. Using a good international trip packing list helps you cover all the essentials, so nothing is left behind. Key items to include are:
-
Clothing and accessories: Weather-appropriate outfits, comfortable shoes, swimwear, hats, and jackets
-
Travel documents: Passport, visa, boarding passes, and travel insurance, vaccination certificates (if applicable), copies of important documents
-
Health essentials: Prescription medication, basic first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent
-
Money and payment: Local currency, credit/debit cards, and emergency cash
-
Electronics: Chargers, power bank, and plug adapters
From family holidays on tropical shores to city breaks abroad, a little forward planning goes a long way – freeing you up to enjoy the trip instead of stressing about what you forgot.
Planning Your Itinerary
Once your passports, visas, vaccines, and packing are sorted, planning your travel itinerary becomes more enjoyable. Consider the following:
-
Flight connections and layovers, especially for destinations like Thailand or Mexico.
-
Timing of visits for once in a lifetime events like the World Cup in Mexico that is on every soccer fan’s bucket list.
-
Travel packages: Consider booking a Thompsons travel package. Our packages include a well-considered itinerary, handpicked accommodation, and we’re always happy to answer your visa questions – making the whole experience smoother.
Ready For Your 2026 Trip?
Planning your trip doesn’t have to be stressful. With over four decades of experience, Thompsons can guide you through every step of your 2026 adventure, making travel simple, personal, and enjoyable. Book your trip with us today and let our team take care of the details.
