The 3-Week Countdown: Your Essential SE Asia Prep Checklist


I’ve been planning this trip for months. The last time I was in SE Asia was 24 years ago. Times have certainly changed about what’s required for a month-long trek. Years ago, we had to be much more resourceful. Once you were in 'travel mode' in Asia, certain essentials weren't always obvious. They weren't easy to find. Today, I imagine many things are much easier to prepare for, even with the distance and time frame involved.

To settle my anxiety, I'd like to share some action steps. These steps will help me be prepared when that plane takes off.


Confirm Flight and Accommodation Bookings

First off this one would be a great stress reliever when you double check on your flight arrangements. I made reservations months earlier. However, confirming the flight dates and times will help you adjust to any changes. Whether it's the departure and arrival times reviewing this information will make your life easier. Also, I would check on seat confirmation. These days, some low fare offers do not include seat assignment. Seat purchases are required. I researched the type of plane I will be flying on. I wanted to find the ideal seat location for a long flight. Having a good seat is beneficial. It's better than hoping the gate agent will have a seat assignment you will appreciate. I checked on SeatMaps for specific plane layouts which would come with a fee.

Hotel in Granada, Nicaragua 

For accommodations, I made it a point to book at least the first few days for my stay. I'll be in Asia for almost a month. I am traveling off season. I feel confident that ideal accommodations will be available at better rates once I'm in Asia. My first stop will be in Bangkok, Thailand. April is considered their "Fry Season". It will be super hot! I booked a hotel which has AC, pool, and it's centrally located hotel with full service amenities. This will allow me to get my bearings and allow me to adjust to the weather and time zone.


The Paperwork: Visas and Digital Entry Forms

This one is important. I checked my passport to make sure that it's not expiring soon. Some countries will not allow entry. If your passport expires within 6 months of the actual end date, you will be denied entry.

Also keep in mind, I'm learning that many countries need arriving visitors to fill out online digital entry forms. This includes arrivals by air, land, and sea entry. For Thailand and Malaysia, these must be completed before entering the border patrol. I reminded myself to fill these forms online a few days before my departure. I also made it a point to have the information on hand with my passport.


Health Prep: Final Vaccine Checks and Travel Insurance

 was hesitant about this task. Still, I think it's worth noting that health concerns are important when traveling abroad. I made an appointment to check with my medical provider on my travel abroad. They are helpful in identifying any precautions and offer any medication to take with me when traveling. Case in point, Some parts of Thailand have cases of Malaria. So having Malaria pills on hand will help me during my trip. Additionally, if I get any food poisoning, medication for that is available. If I get sick from eating poorly prepared food, medication is available as well. So health is wealth. You don't want to have a ruined trip because you did not take any precautions. Finally check to see if you need to take any prevention shots before leaving. This will help also in the long run to being healthy abroad.

As for travel insurance, I did not apply for one. I know I'm covered for healthcare. But for other instances, my credit card should cover this. But always check with your credit card companies. One well known travel insurance company used often by nomad travelers is World Nomads.


Connectivity: Roaming Charges | VPN Security

Two important aspects of connecting while abroad are your ability to communicate with your smartphone. Additionally, you should protect your ability to surf the internet. I ended up getting a Virtual Private Network (VPN) plan, to be used when I'm abroad. I signed up with NordVPN. This allows me to surf the internet securely. As for internet access, I'm using my own mobile provider, T-Mobile for 30 days. For up to 30 days in over 215 destinations, you can get up to 15GB of high-speed international data. You can also use this data as a Mobile Hotspot. I'll have to remember to ask or order a one-time data pass. I need to do this through my phone carrier. I should complete the request at least a few days before departing.

These two areas for communication while abroad will help me adapt. This will also prevent me from feeling inadequate while traveling in SE Asia.



The Gear Shift: What’s Changed in Packing Since 2000?

Finally, this one is a fun step. I make a point to travel very light. Years ago, I felt I packed my entire house for being away so long. This time, traveling is more enjoyable. If need something I can always get it there. I will be on the go most of the time. Packing light and efficiently will make my trip worthwhile. Below is my list of what I plan on packing in 1 carry on bag. My destination's weather will be HOT. So pack suitably.
  • 1 MATEIN Carry on Travel Laptop 40L Backpack - Can place in overhead bin or even under your seat
  • 1 small backpack for day treks
  • 1 small shoulder mini pack - used for night outings, and kept with you on your flight
  • 1 pair of running shoes
  • 1 pair of walking shoes
  • 1 pair of slippers
  • 1 swim short
  • 1 walking short
  • 3 underwear shorts
  • 3 t-shirts - moisture wicking preferred
  • 1 pair tech pant - for long flight
  • 1 long sleeve shirt
  • 1 light jacket with hoodie - sweater - for long flight
  • 2 pairs of compression socks - 1 for long flight
  • 3 pairs of socks
  • 2 button up collared shirts - linen material preferred
  • COMMUNICATION : phone chargers, connectors, outlet adapter. laptop plugs
  • TOILETRIES: Less than 3 ounce containers - keep it compact in a small bag
  • HOT WEATHER: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
  • *EXTRA : Just in case one breaks, you lose, run out during your trip. medications, prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, etc.

Final Thoughts
No matter how much you plan for a long trip abroad, you’re bound to forget something. Early preparation lets you take a step back. Assess anything else you need. Also, you can edit as you are getting close to your departure date. One thing I did forget to note was finances. Make it a point to check that your credit cards are current with any payments due. This will be less on your mind as you are abroad. Also check the benefits for traveling. Does cards offer free ATM withdrawal rebates? Does it waive foreign exchange fees, etc. Lots to think about as it will save you some money and regret. Coulda Shoulda Woulda moment.
Bags are packed, toiletries in order, proper clothing secured. Now waiting for ride sharing to come and get me….. stay tuned!
Did I miss anything? Share your comment(s).
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA

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