Let’s face it—traveling out of Nigeria, especially for the first time, can be a lot. Whether you’re going on vacation, relocating, attending a conference, or heading out for your honeymoon, the excitement is real—but so is the stress if you’re not properly prepared.

Over time (and after a few mistakes I’d rather not repeat), I’ve come up with a travel checklist that covers all the essentials a Nigerian needs when heading out of the country. If you’re reading this, consider it your personal guide from someone who has been there, done that, and learned the hard way.

6 Important Travel Checklist for Nigerians Traveling Out

1. Your Travel Documents Are Everything

Let’s start with the basics—if your documents aren’t complete, you’re not going anywhere. I don’t care how excited you are or how cute your travel outfit is, immigration won’t smile at you.

Here’s what you should never travel without:

• Valid International Passport (make sure it’s not expiring in less than 6 months)

• Visa (for countries that require it—don’t assume!)

• Flight Ticket (print a hard copy too, just in case)

• Yellow Fever Card – trust me, especially for African or South American destinations

• Hotel Booking / Airbnb Confirmation

• Return Ticket or Travel Itinerary – some countries won’t let you in without it

• COVID-19 Vaccine Card (still required in some regions)

• Travel Insurance – optional, but you’ll thank yourself later

• Letter of Invitation / Sponsorship Letter – if someone abroad is hosting you

• Photocopies and Digital Scans of ALL your documents – store them in your email, Google Drive, and phone. It’s called backup. Use it.

2. Sort Out Your Money Before You Leave

There’s nothing more embarrassing than being stranded at a foreign airport with a blocked Nigerian card. I’ve seen it happen.

Here’s how I plan ahead financially:

• Foreign Currency – always travel with cash in USD, EUR, or your destination currency

• Naira Debit Cards – GTBank, Zenith, Access… but remember most have spending limits abroad

• Domiciliary Account Card / Prepaid Dollar Card – a real lifesaver

• PTA/BTA (Personal/Business Travel Allowance) – if you qualify, apply early

• Proof of Funds – sometimes immigration might ask for it. Have a 3-month bank statement handy