11/17/2023
Here is a list of the Top12 things to do BEFORE you travel internationally – NOT necessarily in any order
1. Double-check your passport to make sure that it does not expire at least 6 months from the date of your return flight – Your passport MUST have at least six months validity from your return date of travel. Many countries will not let you into the country if you only have a few months left on your passport.
2. Check what vaccinations will be required to visit the countries - With all the debate surrounding vaccinations you may want to first consider all the vaccinations that are recommended/required before you can enter a country. Some people may look at this list and decide they don't want to have all this stuff in their body. The key point is that you should understand the risks BEFORE you spend money on tickets, etc.
3. Check the local festivals and holidays - There are many festivals and local holidays practiced by other countries which we are not aware of. It is important to do your due diligence - research what holidays might be celebrated when you visit a country. This may affect if banks are open and even if museums you plan to visit are open. It also might affect if restaurants and other convenience services are open. It is best to do this before you make your airline and hotel reservations. You may have to change your dates of travel to work around these international holidays.
4. Check to see if your preferred hotel is available before you book your airline tickets – If you have a preferred hotel brand and perhaps using points (hotel points, credit card points, or even frequent flier miles), you might want to make sure you can find the hotel rooms and the airline seats using miles before you actually redeem the miles or press the “purchase” button.
5. Check the state department security alerts - The U.S. State Department has a website that lists all the countries they have included on their four levels of travel advisory alerts. If your country is listed in level 3 (Reconsider travel) or level 4 (Do not travel) you should at least think through whether this trip is a smart decision. You might be surprised to learn countries like Mexico and Jamaica are on the these lists.
6. Book your international airline tickets first - Followed by your hotels, and then domestic flights and transfers. This is where a great travel advisor can help you with all the details. If using points or miles, there might be an additional fee for your travel advisor to book these for you.
7. Check your cell phone to see that it can provide international service to the countries you are traveling to - Be sure to turn on the international service plan with the cellular provider so you don't get hit with massive international charges. Many people buy a local SIM card when they arrive to minimize the cost of data and calls.
8. Get all your bells and whistles ready - Buy an electric converter and be sure it works in the countries you are traveling to. Beware of buying an adapter only as most countries outside the U.S. have 220 volts which will fry your 110 volt hair, shaver, etc. appliances.
9. Buy travel insurance - There are too many variables in the world today to not protect your investment. Many health insurances DO NOT cover you when you are out of the country. Health issues can arise during your trip and you will want and need the coverage. Also, we have seen disruptions like COVID, demonstrations, missed flights, lost luggage and dozens of other issues that can ruin your trip. With travel insurance you have peace of mind and protection of your investment.
10. Set an appointment with a friendly travel advisor - This is the best thing you can do to save time, money, and make things feel like you are pressing the easy button. They can do all the research for you and coach you through all the hoops of travel for a minimal research and planning fee.
11. Be sure to call your credit card company - It is always beneficial to contact the credit card company prior to leaving the country to provide them with the countries you will be visiting along with the dates of travel. This puts them on notice so they don't think that charges you made in an international location are fraudulent.
12. Visa, Visa, Visa - Many countries today require American citizens to apply for a Visa prior to entering the country. Many times VISA applications can be done online but is very detailed and can often take days if not weeks to complete and be approved. In the coming years all the countries in Europe will be requiring an online Visa before you can travel. Please check all the countries you are traveling to and see if a Visa is required.