Preparation: Things to Do Before Traveling Internationally
Traveling internationally for the first time can present a plethora of emotions. Fear, anxiety, nervousness, anticipation, etc. are a few of the most common emotions during this time. A lot of the emotions mentioned stem from the fear of the unknown and in not knowing how to prepare for international travel.
Are you planning your first international trip? Is it almost time for your trip to begin, but you have no clue as to what you should do prior to traveling? Do you know if a visa is needed for your travel destination? In this post, I’ll provide a basic checklist of some of the things to consider while preparing to travel internationally.
Obtain a passport (if you haven’t done so already). Click the following link to obtain the application as well as requirements. You may also visit your local post office to inquire about applying for a passport. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html
Check visa requirements for your travel destination. While there are some agreements in place that allow citizens from certain countries to enter without a travel visa, there are some that won’t. The following link will allow you to search your travel destination and find out if a travel visa is needed or not. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html
Make a copy of the information page of your passport. Keep this with you at all times (also leave a copy with a family member). I always do this in case my passport is misplaced during travel.
Register your trip with Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). When you register your trip with STEP, you’re able to receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, aid the U.S. Embassy in contacting you in an emergency,and family and friends are provided with a point of contact in case of an emergency. https://step.state.gov/step/
Notify your bank/credit card companies of intended travel dates and locations. This enables your bank to set a travel notice so that your card is not suspended for fraudulent activity.
Notify your cell phone provider. This will allow the opportunity to choose an international plan so that you stay connected (if possible) during your time away. While WiFi is available in most locations abroad, there are instances where this feature is not offered.
Purchase country specific converters. When traveling internationally, electrical power sources are different from your home location. It’s always best to purchase this before hand rather than waiting until in the destination to do so. Amazon always has great deals.
Fill all prescriptions in your home location. Please note that you are unable to fill a prescription in a different country unless the prescription is actually prescribed in that country. Pharmacies are available, but there will be a difference in brands and sometimes over the counter options that we are used to are not available in other parts of the world.
Currency exchange. When traveling to a different country, the currency will be different than that of your home location. While some people like to exchange currency prior to traveling, I don’t. I find the rates cheaper to just withdraw at a local ATM once I’m there. However, if you decide to order currency through your bank prior to traveling, be sure to submit the request at least 1-2 weeks in advance as some banks don’t always have specific currencies on hand and will have to order the currency.
Hygiene products. If you’re like me and like to use specific brands, be sure to pack enough for the duration of your trip. Yes, there are stores that have all of the essentials, however, your favorite brand may not be available.
Google Translate App. Have no fear google is here! The google translate app is my go to. The app has a camera feature, which is very useful for translating menu’s, labels, signs, etc. You simply hold your phone over the document and the feature will translate to your preferred language.
This list may not cover everything, but it will definitely prepare you for a smooth start. Don’t let the fear of the unknown prevent you from seeing all the world has to offer.
Let’s Travel!
