The first time I traveled internationally, I was 18, alone, and struggling to reach my brother from a London pay phone with a calling card and no clue what an international dialing code was. My Midwestern mom had armed me with a hidden, under-your-shirt fanny pack to foil pickpockets but hadn't covered this particular detail.
Technology has come a long way since then. But international travel still comes with more to sort out than most people expect. The steps you take before jetting off will help you feel more secure and prepared on your first trip abroad.
In this article
1. Get Your Documents in Order
First things first: You need a passport.
You may already have one but haven’t had the chance to use it yet; if not, apply several months ahead of your departure dates as wait and processing times can be lengthy.
If you do already have a passport, check your expiration date. There’s something called the “six-month rule.” Essentially, many countries won’t allow you to enter their borders if your passport has less than six months of validity left on it. So if you’re close to six months out on your passport’s expiration date, it’s best to go ahead and renew it ahead of time.
Beyond passports, you'll also need to verify if your destination requires any tourist visas. Depending on the country, getting a tourist visa can take anywhere from a few days to a few months, so check well in advance; three to six months out from your trip is a good time frame.
And if you’re looking to earn extra credit as a newbie, go ahead and apply for Global Entry. The five-year membership costs $120 and can significantly expedite the reentry process when you return to the U.S. Instead of waiting in long lines, you stop quickly at a digital kiosk and are on your way. Bonus: Global Entry automatically includes a TSA PreCheck membership for domestic trips too.
Finally, make copies of all your essential documents to keep safe in case anything gets lost or stolen.
2. Know Your Flight Options
Lie-flat business and first-class seats are obviously the dream. But if a ticket in one of those pricey cabins is out of reach, consider Premium Economy. This cabin is frequently found on international carriers, and the fare class splits the difference between economy and business in both price point and comfort. Extra-wide seats, additional recline, footrests, and upgraded meal service are typically included. For overnight flights, it can be a difference maker.
While meals and entertainment options are often provided internationally, even in coach, know that long-haul flights are simply harder on your body. Sitting for long stretches of time can increase your risk of developing a blood clot; wearing compression socks, staying hydrated, and getting up to stretch your legs every few hours are effective prevention strategies.
3. Understand Layovers
The simplest move as a first-timer is to fly nonstop to your destination. If that’s not possible, be sure to do your research about how much time you’ll need at your connection point(s). Minimum connection times vary by airport but typically range from 90 minutes to two hours.
29 countries in Europe participate in the Schengen program, a border-free travel zone. If your layover is within the region, you will need to clear immigration at that airport, not at your final destination. In other parts of the world, you may need to go through customs and security again during your layover. And some countries require a transit visa, even if you never leave the airport.
Also good to know: Flying budget airlines like RyanAir, easyJet, or AirAsia for connections within a region can be a great money-saving hack, but if your long-haul flight is delayed, you’re on your own to figure out a rebooking. Leave lots of extra time if you plan to go this route.
4. Sort Out Your Money
It’s a good idea to arrive at your destination with a small amount of local currency. Your bank can order currency for you but may need several days to a week. Generally speaking, exchange rates are most favorable at local ATMs. If you can wait to withdraw the bulk of your spending cash until you arrive, you’ll usually come out ahead.
Many credit card companies charge foreign transaction fees of up to 3% on purchases abroad, while others, including Capital One and Discover, do not. Research what your card charges before you go so there are no surprises later.
When using your credit card overseas, you’ll often be asked to select whether you’d like to pay in USD or the local currency. For the best exchange rate, select the local currency. Paying in USD may seem helpful to know exactly how much you’re spending in your own currency, but there are almost always hidden fees involved.
5. Prepare Your Phone
Years ago, travelers set off on international trips with a guidebook, a map, and a phrasebook in hand and hoped for the best. Nowadays, all that (and more) can be found on your smartphone.
First, download an e-sim (a digital sim card that enables you to make calls and use data while abroad) so you can stay connected as soon as you land. Just turn off auto-updates and background refresh before you depart. Once you land and your e-sim is activated, you can safely turn these back on without incurring roaming charges.
Then, download any app you think you may need to navigate and communicate: Google Translate (which can do live translations and translate photos), a maps app, and a currency converter like XE are good places to start.
Download specific maps or language packs for offline use in case you’re in an area without good Internet connection. And, if you’re traveling to a country that doesn’t use the Latin alphabet, it’s a good idea to look up the address of your accommodations in the local language and take a screenshot of it before you depart.
6. Understand the Health Picture
Before you book, and again before you depart, it’s wise to check the CDC website for any health advisories. Travel to some destinations may come with a recommendation (or requirement) for a vaccine or a just-in-case prescription from your primary care physician.
If you take regular medications, keep them in their original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Bring a little extra in case you’re delayed, and double-check that your medicine is not a controlled substance in the country you’re traveling to.
Dietary restrictions? Now is also a good time to research how accommodating your destination is likely to be and learn key phrases in the local language so you can clearly communicate your allergies. Some travelers even carry a card with their allergy information pre-translated.
7. Know the Laws, Not Just the Customs
Take some time to research any cultural practices you’ll need to be aware of, like what to wear when visiting religious sites or the proper way to greet locals. Learning a handful of phrases in the local language, including please, thank you, excuse me, and “do you speak English?” is a considerate gesture, even in places where English is widely known by the locals.
Some countries also have laws around public decency, displays of affection, and even what you can and cannot photograph. (Yes, snapping a photo of government buildings is forbidden in some parts of the world.) Restrictions around medicine, alcohol, or tobacco are also commonplace. The U.S. State Department is a good place to look, as it has dedicated pages for most countries that cover essential information for travelers.
8. Figure Out How You'll Get Around
Large cities are likely to be equipped with public transit options, taxis, and potentially ride-share services. If you plan to use the latter, look into what the local services are and download the apps ahead of time. Grab is the go-to choice in Southeast Asia, while Bolt is common in Europe and Africa.
If you’re traveling to a remote area, you’ll need to be even more prepared. Arrange for airport transfers, rental cars, or private drivers well in advance. If you’re planning to rent a car, research whether you’ll need an International Driving Permit, which you can get at AAA. It’s also smart to consider whether you’ll be confident and comfortable driving internationally. Signage is often not in English; streets can be narrower than Americans are accustomed to; and depending on where you are, cars may drive on the left side of the street. There’s no shame in supporting the local economy with a hired driver if that makes your trip less stressful.
The Shortcut
Passports, visas, and Global Entry all have lead times. Build that into your planning timeline.
A nonstop flight and a more comfortable seat are worth pricing out, especially on your first long-haul. If nonstop isn't feasible, check out an airline with a stopover program.
Know where your personal friction points are and solve for them before you leave. If the language barrier worries you, practice some key phrases and download a language app. If driving in another country is overwhelming, hire a driver.
Still nervous? Consider purchasing a travel insurance plan. It's one thing you'll be glad you have and will hopefully never need.
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