8 Essential International Travel Tips for Beginners
No matter how much you have traveled domestically, your first trip overseas will feel overwhelming at the start. There is a lot to navigate, from transportation and travel agendas to health and safety checks. There is no better way to get out of your comfort zone than with a trip overseas. International travel sparks joy and promotes personal growth, and once you get the hang of it - you will want to devote your life to traveling and adventure.
Follow these eight tips to prepare for your international travel:
Travel Documents
Check your passport’s expiration date as soon as you start your travel plans.
Many countries, especially those in Europe, require a passport that is valid for at least six months after your travel dates. If you need a new one, apply early to avoid delays and disappointment.
Some countries require travel authorization or visas to enter. Enquire with the foreign embassy of your destination country for all relevant updates regarding entry.
Lastly, not all prescription or over-the-counter medications are legal in foreign countries, so check first. Pack copies of your prescriptions and ensure your bottles are clearly labeled.
Destination Details
In-depth destination research is crucial before boarding your flight.
Even if your goal is to go on a free-spirited solo adventure, be sure to get to know your destination country beforehand. Find out what to do, where to go, what to avoid, and where the safest places are for a curious tourist.
Keep a digital copy or photos of your driver’s license, passport, and visa on your phone so they are accessible if needed – keep the hard copies safe in your hotel room.
While spontaneity seems fun, proper planning is your safest travel companion.
Local Laws
Before traveling internationally for the first time, research and understand local laws, processes, and customs to avoid potential legal problems or cultural misunderstandings.
Familiarize yourself with social norms, etiquette, and restrictions before you go.
Check for specific dress codes, particularly for religious or conservative countries. Some places have photography restrictions in place, especially around government buildings, so be sure to get clarity on those before taking any selfies.
Travel Insurance
Medicare and Medicaid, U.S. health insurance typically do not cover care abroad. The government is not in the habit of covering costs for citizens overseas (health-wise or other) so review your plan details.
If you do not have travel insurance plans it is highly recommended that you purchase a comprehensive option before your trip. Choose a type that protects your health, travel expenses, possessions, and travel plans.
That way, if anything goes wrong you can recoup your money if your trip is canceled, have your luggage replaced if it gets stolen or lost, and have access to quality medical care if you need it.
Notify Your Bank
A dwindling cash supply and a frozen credit card during your trip can put a damper on your holiday.
Safeguard your cash, credit, and bank cards, and your swiping ability, by letting your bank and lenders know where and when you are traveling. Ask your bank’s customer support department if they have ATM partnerships overseas to keep your withdrawal fees to a minimum while you are abroad.
Some banks are quite flexible when it comes to credit card usage abroad and offer perks and rewards when used away from home – provided you notify them before you leave.
Transportation
While exploring a new country, traveling by bus, train, or subway is a cost-effective and convenient way to get around.
If you are going to hop on and off public transport, leave your valuables at the hotel. Crowded buses and subways can be the perfect territory for pickpockets, so always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Keep an eye on the public transit schedules to know what time the transport lines stop running at night, particularly if you plan on enjoying the local nightlife late into the night.
Book In Advance
For newbies planning an international trip booking in advance is the secret weapon you need to learn - fast.
Securing better deals and ensuring availability all hinges on advanced notice. Booking flights well in advance, especially during holiday seasons or for popular destinations, can alleviate travel costs and secure better seat availability.
Similarly, booking hotels or rentals in advance increases your chances of securing preferred deals in prime locations.
Stay Hydrated
Recovering from a long-haul flight is challenging enough, do not add dehydration to that mix too!
Long-haul flights are often associated with dehydration and passengers frequently experience headaches, fatigue, and dry mouth or eyes. Aircraft cabins are intentionally kept at low humidity levels to prevent condensation and ensure the efficient operation of various aircraft systems.
Drink water throughout the flight to maintain proper hydration to combat the effects of flying.
To End
No matter how scary the thought of international travel might be, never let fear stop you from doing something that can bring so much immense joy.
You will likely get lost along the way, but Google Maps can help - besides, getting a little lost is half the fun.
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