12 Photos you should always have saved to your phone when travelling

Posted on 8 January 2025

Having the below 12 images saved to your phone is not just practical — it’s a safety net! Having certain information accessible on your phone can help you prepare for anything that comes your way when you’re exploring the world.

ALSO SEE: Ghana announces visa-free entry for all African passport holders

Here are the must-have photos every traveller should keep handy:

1. Passport and visa pages

A digital copy of your passport’s ID page and any required visas can be a lifesaver if your documents get lost or stolen. Save these images in a secure, easily accessible folder or app.

2. Travel itinerary

Having snapshots of your flight details, hotel reservations, and transport bookings ensures you’re never scrambling for information, even if you can’t access your email or booking apps.

3. Emergency contact list

Take a photo of your emergency contact details, including the numbers for your country’s embassy or consulate in your destination. These can be invaluable during an emergency.

4. Travel insurance policy

Capture a photo of your travel insurance card and policy details. It’ll speed things up if you need to file a claim or seek assistance.

5. Important addresses and directions

Save images of the addresses for your accommodation, key landmarks, and any places you plan to visit. Combine this with directions for navigating unfamiliar areas or giving clear instructions to taxi drivers.

6. Map of your destination

Take a screenshot of your destination’s map, especially areas with weak or no internet connectivity. Highlight important spots like hospitals, public transport hubs, and attractions. For added utility, save images of public transit schedules.

7. Local language translations

If you’re travelling to a country where you don’t speak the language, save images of key phrases translated into the local tongue, like “Where is the nearest hospital?” or “I need help.” Visual aids, such as pictures of food items or places, can also be helpful.

8. ID and credit cards

Photograph both sides of your driver’s license, ID card, and credit cards. It is wise to blur sensitive details before saving to your phone for added security. These images can assist in reporting lost cards or verifying your identity.

9. Receipts for major purchases

If you’ve made big-ticket purchases abroad, save photos of receipts for customs declarations or insurance purposes.

10. Your luggage and valuables

Snap photos of your luggage, its contents, and any valuable items you’re carrying. These images can be essential for filing lost luggage claims or identifying misplaced belongings.

12. Pet information

If you’re traveling with pets, save photos of their vaccination records, health certificates, and ID tags. These can expedite processes at airports or vet visits abroad.

Back everything up!

Make sure all these photos are backed up to a secure cloud service and protected with a strong password or biometric lock. This ensures you can access them even if your phone is lost or damaged.

With these essential photos saved, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any travel hiccups or headaches that come your way.

ALSO SEE: 9 pet-friendly hikes and walking trails




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