Optimal "Go-Bag" for Leaving on Short Notice

The whole point of a go bag is that it's ready before you need it.

If things in the United States deteriorate to the point where you decide it's time to leave — whether that's political instability, civil unrest, a draft, economic collapse, or something nobody predicted — you do not want to spend your first 48 hours scrambling for a passport, figuring out how to access cash overseas, or realizing your prescriptions are sitting in a medicine cabinet 5,000 miles away.

The countries on our WHERE TO GO list offer Americans visa-free entry ranging from 30 to 365 days. That's enough time to land, breathe, and figure out your next move. But a visa-free entry stamp is worthless if you're not ready to get on the plane.

This guide is organized around what you can prepare right now — today, this weekend — so that when the moment comes (if it comes), your preparation time is measured in hours, not weeks.

The principle is simple: do the slow things now so the fast things are all that's left.

Check your Exit Signal Score to stay calibrated on timing. But don't wait for a perfect signal to start preparing. By the time the signal is unmistakable, everyone else will be preparing too — and the lines at passport offices, banks, and airports will prove it.

This is the single most important section of this guide. Without the right documents, nothing else matters. You can buy clothes anywhere. You cannot get an apostilled FBI background check at an airport kiosk.

Your documents folder should be a physical, waterproof pouch — not a drawer, not a filing cabinet. Something you can grab and put in a bag in 30 seconds.

What goes in it

Passport — valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. This is non-negotiable. Every country on our WHERE TO GO list requires this. If your passport expires within 12 months, renew it now. Standard processing takes 6–8 weeks; expedited is 2–3 weeks. If things get bad, expect those timelines to stretch dramatically.

Two extra passport photos — 2x2 inch, US standard. If you lose your passport abroad, the embassy will need these to issue a replacement. Get them at any CVS, Walgreens, or online service. They cost $15 and take 5 minutes.

Certified copies of vital records:

• Birth certificate (certified copy from the issuing state, not a photocopy)
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Divorce decree (if applicable)
• Children's birth certificates and custody documents (if applicable)

FBI Identity History Summary (background check):

Many countries on our list require a clean criminal background check to convert from visa-free entry to a residence permit. Portugal, Spain, Panama, Costa Rica, and others all require this for long-term visa applications. The FBI check takes 4–12 weeks to process. You cannot rush it.

• Request it now at fbi.gov/how/identity-history-summary-checks
• Cost: $18
• Once received, get it apostilled by the US Department of State ($20, processing takes 4–8 weeks). An apostille is an international authentication stamp that makes the document legally recognized in 124 countries.

This is the single highest-leverage thing you can do today. An apostilled FBI background check is the one document that takes months to obtain and that nearly every serious residency path requires. Having it ready is the difference between converting your 90-day tourist entry into legal residency and having to fly home to start the process.

Power of Attorney:

Set up a durable power of attorney (POA) naming someone you trust — a parent, sibling, close friend, or attorney — to handle your US affairs while you're gone. This lets them:

• Sign documents on your behalf
• Manage or close bank accounts
• Handle your lease or mortgage
• File your taxes
• Deal with any legal matters

A durable POA remains valid even if you become incapacitated or unreachable. Get it drafted, signed, and notarized now. Many states have free or low-cost POA forms available through their bar associations. An attorney can draft one for $200–500.

Digital copies:

Scan or photograph every document listed above. Store them in:

• An encrypted cloud drive (Proton Drive, Tresorit, or an encrypted folder on iCloud/Google Drive — see our Privacy Toolkit for recommendations)
• A USB drive in your go bag (encrypted with VeraCrypt or similar)

If your physical documents are lost, stolen, or destroyed, the digital copies let you prove your identity and start the replacement process from anywhere in the world.

What NOT to bring

Do not carry original Social Security cards internationally. There is no reason to have one abroad, and losing it creates an identity theft nightmare. Leave it with your POA contact or in a safe deposit box.

When you land in another country, you need access to money — immediately. Not "in a few business days." Not "once the wire transfer clears." The moment you step off the plane.

Your financial kit should give you at least three independent ways to access funds. If one fails — a card gets frozen, an ATM eats your card, a bank flags your account — you need a backup.

Accounts to open now

Charles Schwab High Yield Investor Checking — the gold standard for Americans abroad. No foreign transaction fees. Unlimited worldwide ATM fee reimbursements. If you open one account for this purpose, make it this one. It requires opening a linked brokerage account (which you can leave empty). Apply at schwab.com.

Wise Multi-Currency Account — hold and convert 40+ currencies at the real mid-market exchange rate. Pre-load balances in EUR (for Schengen countries), MXN (Mexico), or whatever currencies match your target destinations. Wise also issues a debit card that works worldwide. Apply at wise.com.

A no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card — Capital One Venture X, Chase Sapphire, or similar. This is your backup payment method and your primary for large purchases (hotels, flights, deposits) since credit cards offer better fraud protection than debit.

Cash

Keep $500–1,000 in physical US dollars in your go bag. Cash is universally accepted for exchange, works when systems go down, and doesn't require internet access. Mix of denominations — $100s for exchange, $20s for smaller needs.

Don't rely on exchanging at the airport for large amounts — rates are terrible. Exchange enough for a taxi and a meal, then use ATMs for better rates once you're settled.

Crypto

If you've built a crisis-ready portfolio, make sure your wallet is accessible from any device — not locked to a phone that could be lost or confiscated. Store your seed phrase in your encrypted USB backup. Know how to access a DEX (decentralized exchange) to convert to local currency if needed.

Before you leave

Notify your banks. Call every bank and credit card company and tell them you'll be traveling internationally. Do this NOW, not the day of departure. Set a broad travel notice — "indefinite international travel" — if your bank allows it. Some banks (Schwab, Capital One) no longer require travel notices, but others will freeze your card on the first foreign transaction.

Confirm your PINs. International ATMs almost always require a 4-digit PIN. Make sure you know the PIN for every card you're carrying.

Set up your US tax structure. You'll still owe US taxes on worldwide income. Research the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion ($126,500 for 2026) and the Foreign Tax Credit. Bookmark a cross-border CPA firm — Greenback Expat Tax Services, Bright!Tax, or a local firm with expat experience. You don't need to hire them yet, but know who you'll call.

Your phone and laptop are your lifeline abroad. They connect you to money, communication, navigation, translation, and the information you need to navigate a new country. Pack smart.

Hardware

Unlocked smartphone — verify your phone is carrier-unlocked, not just paid off. Call your carrier or check in Settings. An unlocked phone accepts any SIM or eSIM worldwide. If your phone is locked, request an unlock from your carrier now — it takes 24–72 hours to process.

eSIM (pre-purchased, not activated) — buy an eSIM from Airalo, Nomad, or Saily for your target region before you leave. Don't activate it until you land — the validity period starts on activation. An eSIM gives you data immediately on arrival without finding a SIM card shop.

Keep your US SIM active — use Wi-Fi calling for US numbers, keep data roaming OFF. Your US number is tied to bank 2FA, insurance accounts, and government services. Losing access to it abroad can lock you out of critical accounts.

Laptop + charger — if you work remotely, this is obvious. Even if you don't, a laptop gives you access to encrypted document backups, full-featured banking, and the ability to handle complex administrative tasks that phone apps can't manage well.

Universal power adapter — one adapter that covers Type A (US), C (Europe/South America), G (UK/Singapore/Malaysia), I (Australia/New Zealand), and BF (most of Southeast Asia). Get a model with built-in USB-C and USB-A ports. Recommended: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter or similar.

Portable power bank — 20,000 mAh minimum. Enough to fully charge a phone 3–4 times. Essential for long travel days and unreliable power access.

USB drive with encrypted backups — encrypted with VeraCrypt. Contains: document scans, medical records, crypto wallet seed phrase backup, insurance policy PDFs, important photos, and a text file with your critical account information (stored in a VeraCrypt volume, not plaintext).

Software

VPN — installed, tested, and with an active subscription. See our Privacy Toolkit for recommendations. Essential for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi and accessing US-based services that might be geo-restricted.

Offline maps — download Google Maps or Maps.me offline maps for your target countries. Cell service can be spotty on arrival; offline maps work without data.

Translation app — Google Translate with offline language packs downloaded for your target country's language. Even in English-friendly countries, you'll encounter situations where translation is essential — medical offices, government buildings, rental negotiations.

2FA backup — if you use an authenticator app (you should), make sure your codes are backed up. Losing your phone without backup 2FA codes can permanently lock you out of accounts. Use an app that supports cloud backup (like Authy) or export your TOTP seeds to your encrypted USB drive.

Password manager — Bitwarden or KeePassXC. Your passwords live here, not in your head. Accessible from any device with your master password. See our Privacy Toolkit for setup guidance.

Healthcare abroad can be excellent — many of our WHERE TO GO countries have world-class medical systems. But the transition period is the vulnerability window. You need to be self-sufficient on medication and basic medical needs for at least the first 90 days.

Prescriptions

Get a 90-day supply of every prescription medication. Ask your doctor for a "vacation override" if your insurance only covers 30-day refills. Most insurers will approve a 90-day supply for extended international travel with a doctor's note.

Keep medications in their original, labeled pharmacy bottles. This is not optional. Customs officials in every country can and do inspect medications. Unlabeled pills in a baggie will cause problems — potentially serious ones in countries with strict drug laws.

Get a doctor's letter on official letterhead. It should list:

• Your full legal name
• Each medication by generic name (not US brand names — these vary internationally)
• Exact dosages and frequency
• The medical condition requiring each medication
• A statement that the medications are prescribed and medically necessary

Controlled substances require extra caution. ADHD medications (Adderall, Ritalin), benzodiazepines, opioid painkillers, and sleep medications are controlled or illegal in some countries. Check the destination country's rules via their embassy website or the INCB (International Narcotics Control Board) before traveling. Japan, Singapore, and several others have extremely strict policies.

Medical records

Request complete medical records from your primary care provider, any specialists, and your dentist. Get them in PDF format and store copies in:

• Your encrypted cloud drive
• Your encrypted USB drive
• A physical folder in your go bag

Include: vaccination records (especially COVID-19, routine immunizations), recent bloodwork, imaging reports, surgical history, and any chronic condition documentation.

Travel health kit

Pack a basic kit that covers the most common issues you'll face in transit and the first few weeks:

• Ibuprofen and acetaminophen
• Antihistamine (Benadryl or Zyrtec)
• Anti-diarrhea medication (Imodium)
• Oral rehydration salts (Pedialyte packets)
• Antacid tablets
• Adhesive bandages, gauze, medical tape
• Antiseptic wipes
• Antibiotic ointment (Neosporin)
• Thermometer
• Tweezers
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Insect repellent (DEET-based for tropical destinations)

Insurance

Get travel health insurance before you need it. Your US health insurance almost certainly does not cover you abroad. Medicare does not cover care outside the US under any circumstances.

SafetyWing is the most practical option for emergency relocation because you can purchase it while already abroad, it works on a subscription model (no fixed end date), and it covers 185+ countries. Sign up now and keep the policy active.

This is the actual bag you grab when it's time to move. Everything above goes IN this bag or in a secondary bag that travels with you. The goal: carry-on sized luggage + a personal item. No checked bags. Checked bags get lost, delayed, and searched. You want everything critical on your person.

The bag itself

A 40–45L travel backpack or a maximum-size carry-on roller (22" x 14" x 9" for most airlines). Backpacks offer more flexibility — you can walk, take public transit, and navigate uneven terrain. Rollers are more comfortable for airports and cities. Pick what matches your body and your likely destination.

Clothing (5–7 days)

Pack versatile, neutral-colored clothing that works across climates and settings. You can buy anything you need after arrival — this is about getting through the first week.

• 5–7 underwear, 5–7 socks
• 3–4 t-shirts or lightweight tops (merino wool dries fast and doesn't smell)
• 2 pairs of pants/shorts (one can be versatile travel pants)
• 1 light jacket or hoodie (layers work everywhere)
• 1 rain shell (packable, lightweight)
• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes (worn, not packed)
• 1 pair of sandals or flip-flops
• 1 set of "nice enough" clothes — you may need to visit a bank, government office, or rental viewing in your first week

Climate-specific adjustments: If your target destinations are tropical (Thailand, Costa Rica, Philippines, Panama), shift toward lighter fabrics and skip heavy layers. If targeting Northern Europe (Iceland, Estonia) or Southern Hemisphere winter (Uruguay, Chile, Argentina), add a warm mid-layer.

Toiletries and personal items

TSA-compliant sizes for the flight, full-size replacements purchased on arrival:

• Toothbrush + toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Shampoo/soap (solid bars save space and avoid liquid limits)
• Razor
• Sunscreen
• Contact lenses + solution (if applicable) + backup glasses
• Quick-dry travel towel
• Small combination lock (for hostel lockers, storage)
• Earplugs + sleep mask (for flights and noisy accommodation)
• Reusable water bottle (empty through security, fill after)

This is the most commonly overlooked part of emergency exit planning. Leaving the country doesn't pause your American life — bills keep coming, leases don't break themselves, and the IRS doesn't care where you sleep. Getting this sorted NOW means you can actually focus on building a new life instead of firefighting from 5,000 miles away.

Mail

The USPS does not forward mail internationally (except to APO/FPO addresses). You need a virtual mailbox service.

Set up a virtual mailbox now. These services give you a real US street address, receive your mail, scan the envelopes (and contents on request), and let you manage everything from a phone app.

Once set up, update your address with: banks, credit cards, insurance companies, the IRS, state tax authorities, voter registration, and any subscription services.

Autopay and recurring charges

Make a complete list of every recurring charge on every account:

• Subscriptions (streaming, software, gym, news)
• Insurance premiums (health, auto, renters)
• Loan payments (student loans, auto, mortgage)
• Utility bills
• Phone plan

For each: can it be cancelled? Paused? Transferred? Set to autopay from a US account that will remain funded? Make this list now and keep it in your encrypted document backup.

Lease or mortgage

Renting: Know your lease terms for early termination. Most leases allow a break with 30–60 days notice plus a penalty (typically 1–2 months rent). Some states have specific early termination statutes. If your lease is month-to-month, you're in good shape — 30 days notice.

Owning: Decide now: sell, rent out, or leave vacant. If renting out, identify a property management company. If selling, know that this process takes months — start early if it's on your radar. Your POA contact can handle closings and maintenance issues.

Storage vs. sell

Most expats who leave in a hurry wish they'd sold more and stored less. Storage costs $100–300/month and adds up quickly for things that depreciate. Be ruthless: if you wouldn't buy it again at full price, sell it now.

Pets

International pet travel requires planning weeks to months in advance:

• Most countries require a health certificate from a USDA-accredited vet issued within 10 days of travel
• Rabies vaccination must be current (some countries require specific timing)
• Some countries require import permits or quarantine periods (Japan, Australia, New Zealand have strict rules)
• Airlines charge $75–500+ for in-cabin pet travel; larger pets go as cargo ($500–2,000+)
• Research your target country's specific requirements at aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel

If you have pets and think you might need to leave, start the veterinary paperwork now.

Your trusted contact

Identify one person — ideally the same person who holds your POA — who understands your plan. They should know:

• Where your documents are stored
• How to access your virtual mailbox
• Your financial accounts (not passwords, but which institutions)
• Your general contingency plan
• How to reach you internationally (WhatsApp, Signal, email)

This person is your lifeline for US affairs. Choose someone reliable, not just someone convenient.

You don't need to pick a country today. But knowing your options — organized by what matters most to you — means you can make a confident decision under pressure instead of a panicked one.

All 25 countries on our WHERE TO GO list allow Americans to enter visa-free. Here's how they break down by scenario:

Fastest to reach (shortest flights from the US)

Longest visa-free stays

Lowest cost of living

English-friendly

Countries where English is widely spoken and you can navigate daily life without the local language: Portugal, Spain, Panama, Malaysia, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Singapore, Ireland, Estonia, Croatia, Iceland, Philippines, Mexico, Switzerland.

Dollarized or dollar-pegged

For complete relocation guides — visa paths, real costs, healthcare, daily life, checklists, and your first 30 days — see the full country pages on WHERE TO GO.

Passport:

• Renewal: travel.state.gov/passports
• Expedited processing: apply in person at a passport agency (appointment required, life-or-death emergencies)
• Status check: passportstatus.state.gov

Background check and apostille:

• FBI Identity History Summary: fbi.gov — $18, 4–12 weeks
• Apostille (US Department of State): travel.state.gov/apostille — $20, 4–8 weeks

Financial accounts:

• Charles Schwab Checking: schwab.com
• Wise: wise.com
• Capital One Venture X: capitalone.com

Insurance:

• SafetyWing Nomad Insurance: safetywing.com
• World Nomads: worldnomads.com

Virtual mailbox:

• Traveling Mailbox: travelingmailbox.com
• PostScanMail: postscanmail.com

Government:

• STEP enrollment: step.state.gov
• IRS expat resources: irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers
• USDA pet travel: aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel

Related guides on this site:

• WHERE TO GO — ranked relocation guides for 25 countries
• Best Crypto to Hold in a Crisis — portable wealth for border crossings
• Digital Privacy and Anonymity — to protect yourself
• Avoiding the Draft — every viable path if you're draft-age