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Published: June 12, 2024 Author: Susan Sherren Travel these days has become quite complex especially is you are headed overseas. You need to be prepared for your international trip with some critical information and important details. We find the following tips and topics will help ease your next trip out of the country. 1. Passports: You need a valid passport to leave the U.S. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you return home. The passport must be in good condition, without spills, torn pages, etc. Your Passports must have enough blank pages to accommodate entry and exit immigration stamps for each country of travel. At least one visa page in your passport is required for each visa. Most travel visas stamped into your passport need an entire blank visa page. For additional questions on renewal or validity, visit Travel.State.Gov. Also, the name on your air tickets must match your passport exactly or you may denied boarding. 2. Copies: Leave hard copies of your travel documents (Passports, Rail Tickests, Itinerary, etc.) with a close friend or family member. All of our clients have access to their itinerary and important documents in our travel App. This makes keeping track of all your travel documents quite easy. 3. Currency: Obtain some local currency before your trip. You will be prepared if your debit or credit card is non-functioning or a digital malfunction occurs. Not all ATMs (especially in rural places) accept foreign debit cards, and not every restaurant and store will. Some merchants do not allow foreign debit cards. So, you should have some backup cash and a credit card. Be aware of where you swipe your credit card. Fraudulent transactions can prove disruptive to your vacation. Additionally, using debit or credit cards regularly could accumulate transaction fees. At ATMs, for instance, you'll be charged for converting funds into local currency and, if outside of your network, an additional ATM fee. Check with your bank before departure about their foreign transaction fees and policies. 4. Enroll in STEP: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program is a free service that allows U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad to receive the latest security updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. 5. Global Entry: Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States through automatic kiosks at select airports. If you plan on frequently traveling in and out of the U.S., then Global Entry may be a good idea. Apply for Global Entry HERE. 6. Medications: Some prescription drugs, including narcotics and some U.S. over-the-counter medications, are illegal in other countries. Check with the embassy of your destination(s) about regulations and documentation before you travel. It is also good to travel with enough medication to last beyond your travel time frame. You never know when you could encounter a delay in your travel plans. Keep your medicine in your carry-on bag and not in your checked luggage. 7. Consent for Travel with Minors: If you are traveling alone with children, foreign border officials may require custody documents or notarized written permission from the other parent. Check with the embassy of your foreign destination before traveling to see what you may need. 8. International Driving Permit: Many countries do not recognize a U.S. driver's license, but most accept an International Driving Permit (IDP). You may also need supplemental auto insurance. Read more about driving and road safety abroad before you go. You can obtain an IDP at most AAA Branch Offices. Click HERE to learn more about how to get an IDP. 9. Unexpected Expenses: Be prepared and budget for trip interruptions, cancellations, flight delays, lost, COVID-related quarantines or stolen luggage, and other incidental travel costs. Check with your credit card and homeowner’s insurance companies to see if they provide coverage. If not, consider purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy. 10. Mail and Bills: Have a plan to secure your mail while traveling. The U.S. Postal Service offers a hold service for up to 30 days. Apply HERE for the USPS mail hold service. Your bills should be paid before leaving for your trip. Know what is due and what can wait till you return. 11. Notify: Don't forget to notifyyour Credit Card company(s) of your travel plans. Check your banking institution's website for a link on filing a travel plan. 12. International Calling Plan: make sure your phone is functional while traveling. Verify your international travel plan before departure. You also might benefit from purchasing and E-Sim Card from a reputable supplier. 13: WhatsApp: Consider WhatsApp- it is a free-to-download messenger app for smartphones. WhatsApp uses the internet to send messages, images, audio, or video. The service is very similar to text messaging services; however, because WhatsApp uses the internet to send messages, the cost of using WhatsApp is significantly less than texting. 14. Outlet adaptor and voltage check: pack an outlet adaptor for any electronics or travel appliances. If you travel outside the country, you will need a converter. American devices run on 110 volts, while European appliances are on 220 volts. You might see a range of voltages printed on the item or its plug ("110–220"); you're OK in Europe. Verify the type of adaptor type you will need before travel. Most can be purchased online and are inexpensive. 13. Stay hydrated: while you are on the go and during a flight, make sure you stay hydrated. It's important to consume fluids throughout the day, especially if you are doing strenuous walks or other activities. Consider bringing a refillable bottle on your trip. If your plans involve a flight, especially a long flight, the Aerospace Medical Association suggests about eight ounces of water every hour you're in the air. The longer the flight, however, the more hydration matters. Staying hydrated will also help combat jetlag. 14. Pack light: Nothing is more annoying than hauling lots of luggage while traveling. Remember, less is more. Choose travel-friendly fabrics that won't excessively wrinkle. Use packing cubes to keep your belongings organized. You may want to pack a collapsible shopping bag and leave extra room in your luggage for souvenirs. Weigh your luggage before you get to the airport to ensure your luggage isn't overweight. Check your airline's website for weight restrictions and other luggage policies. You can access our Couture Trips packing tool to make the job a bit easier. 15. Secure your belonging: At a moment's notice, your luggage, purse, or bag could be stolen. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy train stations and airports. While dining, keep your wallet/purse securely beside you or insight. You may want to use a money belt for added safety. If you are carrying cash, divide the money up between travelers. You can also use the hotel safe to store your passports or other valuables. Make sure to take a photo of your luggage at check-in. This will make locating your luggage in case of theft or lose much easier. You can also consider an Air-Tag which makes tracking quite easy as well. 16. Leave valuables at home: it's as simple as that. You can purchase faux jewelry for the trip. Don't make yourself a target, and keep the bling to a minimum. Expensive watches, jewelry, luggage, and accessories can make you a target for crime. Be safe and stay low-profile. 17.Do a Double Check: Verify your plans before departure: If you are not using a travel consultant, verify all reservations (transportation, tours, car rentals, accommodations, etc.) at least 48 hours before departure. 18. Airport arrival: For international flights, arrive at least 3 hours before departure. It will alleviate stress if you are on time or a bit early for tours, flights, or other time-sensitive activities and tours. 19. Eat healthily: Avoid overindulging in rich foods and consuming too much alcohol. Make sure your food is well cooked and is from a reputable establishment. Eating roadside or street foods can prove risky depending on where you are. Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet and inquire about ingredients if you have a food allergy. 20. Stay flexible and enjoy the journey: leaving home and traveling to a foreign country can be stressful. Don't overpack your schedule, and realize that you will be in a different environment with rules and procedures different from your home country. If your itinerary doesn't go exactly to plan, don't stress; realize it is part of the travel experience. Life isn't perfect, so roll with it when things go sideways. Disclaimer: *The subjects and topics stated in this article are merely suggestions and opinions. The policies referenced are subject to change. Consult with your physician if you have any medical conditions prior to undertaking any travel. Not all the information contained in this document may be applicable to your travels.
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