Planning an international trip takes more effort than a quick weekend away or a road trip to a nearby city. You can’t just grab your passport and hop on a plane. When traveling abroad, there are extra steps you need to take, from getting the right visas to understanding the local customs and currency.
It’s easy to overlook things like time zone changes, health requirements, or the need for special travel adapters, which can lead to unnecessary stress if you don’t prepare ahead. The better you plan now, the smoother your trip will be. In this article, we will go over several travel tips that will help you prepare for an international vacation.
1. Health precautions
Getting travel insurance might feel like just another cost, but it’s really one of the smartest things you can do before heading abroad. If you get sick or need medical help while traveling, your usual health insurance likely won’t cover you in another country. Going with something like IMG Travel Insurance can make a huge difference, covering things like unexpected medical bills, trip cancellations, or lost bags.
If you take daily medications, ask your doctor for enough to last your whole trip, plus a little extra in case of travel delays. It’s smart to bring a copy of your prescription too, in case you need to get more while you’re away.
You should also know how to handle emergencies while you’re traveling. Before your trip, spend a little time researching what to do if you need to see a doctor or go to a hospital in your destination country. It’s helpful to know how to contact local emergency services and where the nearest hospitals or urgent care centers are located.
Staying healthy while traveling is key to enjoying your trip. Keep in mind that the food, water, and weather might be different from what you’re used to. Drink plenty of water and be careful about trying street food if it looks risky.
2. Get your travel documents in order
Getting your travel documents sorted is one of the first things you need to do before heading abroad. The first thing to do is check the expiration date on your passport. Many countries won’t let you in if your passport is set to expire in the next six months, so if it’s cutting it close, go ahead and renew it right away. The process can take a few weeks, so don’t wait until the last minute.
Next, find out if you need a visa for the country you’re visiting. Some places ask you to get a visa before you leave, while others let you handle it once you arrive. The embassy’s website is a good place to get the most up-to-date info.
Make copies of your important documents like your passport and visa. Save a digital copy on your phone or email and carry a printed copy in a different spot from the originals. If you lose anything, these backups can help you get replacements faster.
3. Have a plan for your finances
Getting your money sorted before you travel is really important to avoid problems once you’re abroad. Call your bank and credit card companies to let them know where and when you’ll be traveling. If you don’t, they might block your cards when they see charges from another country, thinking it’s fraud.
It’s a good idea to bring a mix of payment options. If you have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, use it whenever you can, since extra fees can add up fast. Also, exchange a little cash into the local currency before you go. It’s handy to have some cash for things like taxis, tips, or small stores that might not take cards. You can usually find ATMs in most cities, but check your bank’s fees for using them overseas so you’re not surprised.
4. Prepare your electronics
Before you go, take some time to get your electronics ready for your trip. If your phone is unlocked, you can buy a local SIM card once you arrive for cheaper calls and data. If it’s locked, ask your phone company about adding an international plan. Having internet access will make your life easier for finding directions, translating, and staying in touch.
Download a few helpful apps before you leave. A translation app can help you with the local language if you get stuck. It’s also smart to get apps for public transit, rideshares, or anything else you might need during your trip, so you’re ready from the start.
Pack all the chargers you need and bring a universal adapter since power outlets might be different where you’re going. If you have a lot of devices, like a phone, tablet, and camera, a small power strip can help you charge everything at once.