So, you’ve decided to take your first international trip? Congratulations! That’s exciting news.
But let’s get real. If you are anything like me, that excitement is also mixed with nerves and potentially some anxiety about having to plan something you have never done before.
DO NOT FRET! While the task may seem daunting, we want to help make preparing for your first trip abroad easy (like Sunday morning).
If you are completely new to trip planning, I suggest you take a moment to head over to our trip planning guide, “How to Plan a Trip Like a Professional”, which gives a step by step framework for trip planning.
Once you’re done there, take a look at the checklist below! Having planned a trip and being ready to leave for the trip are two very different things, especially if you are traveling abroad for the first time! There are lots of little details and items you want to iron out before boarding the plane.
Gather Important Documents
This is probably the most important thing to get right. Double and triple check that you have the following taken care of!
Get/Renew Your Passport
This can take anywhere from 4 – 6 weeks. Plan accordingly.
Tip: Ask for a couple extra copies of your passport photo. It can come in handy if you need a visa or if your passport gets lost/stolen.
Visa
You can see a country’s visa/documentation requirements by visiting https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html.
Additionally, know if you need to have proof of onward travel for the country you’re visiting (e.g., a ticket for your eventual departure from that country).
Consent to travel with Minors – If you are traveling with children that aren’t your own, you may need written consent from their parent or guardian to cross borders. Check with your embassy.
Vaccination Records
Some countries already require record of certain vaccinations, but I imagine this might be a stipulation more countries implement in light of COVID-19.
Traveler’s Insurance
This is a built-in benefit to some of our favorite travel credit cards! Either way – learn about and sign up for the different types of insurances you can get as a traveler to help keep you covered and protected.
International Driver’s License
If you plan to rent a car, know the requirements!
Proof of Prescriptions/Medications
There are some countries where certain over-the-counter medications are prohibited. If this is a concern for you, I recommend checking with that country’s embassy.
Get Informed – Know the specifics about your destination
COVID-19 Restrictions/Guidelines
We are living in strange times, no doubt. Every country has their own regulations and restrictions regarding COVID-19. Make sure to study up and stay informed of the requirements.
Cultural Norms/Practices
I believe it’s important as a traveler and visitor to another country to understand (and respect) the cultural norms and practices of that place and its people.
Learn a few common phrases
I promise it’s worth it. If anything, at least learn to say, “I do not speak [language]” and/or “English?”
“Bathroom” might come in handy too…
Nik took a few basic Italian lessons before our first Italy trip and the locals were thrilled he even tried. That will usually be the case. Give it a shot. Learn something new!
First 24 hours logistics/lodging
In my opinion, having your first 24 hours in a country planned out (logistics/lodging), is a must. No one wants to try and find a place to stay when they are crazy jet-lagged! Additionally, know exactly how you are getting from the airport to your place. Are you taking the one-hour commuter train? Grabbing a taxi, etc? Know your plan!
Tip: Write down or print out your lodging and logistic details for the first 24 hours, just in case you have issues getting connected or have tech issues.
Check the weather
I know it sounds so simple, but this is one of those details that slips the mind while you do all the other trip planning things! In the early planning stages, I typically look at historical weather patterns, but in the days leading up to the trip I look at the 10-day forecast and make packing adjustments as needed.
Build an itinerary
It doesn’t have to be super planned out, but I promise the last thing you want to do is visit some epic place only to realize later you didn’t experience it quite the way it should be experienced. Even if that’s doing 30 minutes of research online and listing out some major sites you want to see!
Money
Inform your bank
Let your bank and credit card companies know about your travels so they don’t throw any red flags when you swipe your card.
Tip: It is also helpful to be aware of the exchange rate – you can ask your bank for details or do a quick Google search!
Have multiple payment options
Bring 2+ credit/debit card options. Sometimes crazy things happen. Cards get lost and sometimes international ATMs can be a bit picky. Your safest bet, if you can, is to have a few payment options.
Put Bills on Autopay
If you haven’t adopted autopay yet (which you seriously should) do it for at least your trip duration! Don’t miss a payment or log on to do bills while you are relaxing abroad.
Other
International Phone Plans
If you want to be able to use your phone abroad, talk with your service provider about International plan options. If you’re on Verizon like me, it costs about $10 a day to use my phone internationally. We’ve used that option on shorter trips, but that’s a lot if you’re traveling long term. Alternatively, you could just use your phone when you have WiFi access and make calls with a service like FaceTime or message using apps like Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp.
Inform Someone of your Travels
Give a close friend or family member your itinerary. It is always good to have someone in the know.
Fill any prescriptions
Make sure you have enough of any prescribed medication before leaving on your trip.
Square things away at home
- Do you need someone to housesit? Dog sit? Maybe even babysit?
- Have someone swing by and grab your mail/packages if you plan to be gone for more than a few days
- Water your plants
- Unplug all electronics
- Lower/Raise Thermostat
- Throw away perishable items, take out trash
Packing
First off, determine if you are going to check a bag or carry on. From there you can determine which bag you want to use and how/what you can pack. The smaller the bag, the more I encourage you to do some packing trial runs!
Plane Entertainment
International flights are long!! Most of these flights provide entertainment, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution and be prepared in case they don’t! Download some shows/podcasts, bring books/magazines…whatever you like to occupy your time on a plane!
Reschedule any appointments
Make sure to cancel/reschedule any standing appointments – work or personal.
Set an out-of-office automatic reply
Let everyone know you are OUT – whoop, whoop!
Wherever you are headed, I hope you have a great time! There is nothing like getting away and experiencing a new place. Best of luck and remember to download our checklist!
