7 Travel Documents You Must Pack for International Trips

4. Vaccination and health certificates: Destination rules and digital backups

Some countries require proof of specific vaccinations such as yellow fever, while others may request broader health declarations. Requirements change, so check official government travel advisories or the destination’s embassy before you travel. Although COVID-19 vaccination proof is no longer required everywhere, certain destinations may still ask for it or other health documents—verify before you leave. For yellow fever, the official certificate is often mandatory when arriving from infected regions; this is usually a paper certificate issued by authorised clinics. Carry both original vaccination documents and a clear digital photo stored in a secure cloud folder. If you have a medical condition, pack a doctor’s note in English explaining medications and dosages; that can smooth over questions at customs or with airlines. Finally, consider carrying a small medical kit and an extra supply of critical medicines in their original labeled containers.