There are essential things to do before traveling internationally: check passports, pack wisely, secure travel insurance, and more to prepare for your trip.
It’s an unfortunate reality of life – sometimes you have to take care of nitty-gritty tasks before you can get to the fun. We’ve all had a share of times we’ve had to fill out paperwork or find the right supplies for an anticipated event. Traveling is certainly no different, but what may be different now is the lead time.
These days it’s taking longer to complete certain steps for travel, so you don’t want to wait. Here are 12 things to do before you travel abroad and more helpful tips.
Things to Do Before Traveling Internationally
- Ensure You Have a Valid Passport
- Check Visa Requirements and Apply Early
- Get Any Necessary Vaccinations
- Get Health Paperwork and Medications in Order
- Get the Right Baggage, Clothes, Sleeping Bag
- Research Travel Insurance Options
- Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Companies
- Prepare Travel Documents and Copies
- Learn Local Currency and Exchange Rates
- Plan for Communication Abroad
- Arrange for Home and Pet Care
- Review Emergency Plans and Updates
1.) Ensure You Have a Valid Passport
Before traveling internationally, the number one thing to do is ensure you have a valid, non-expired passport. It can take months to get a new passport, so in the case that your teen does not have a valid passport, this is a task that shouldn’t wait. Check the expiration date well before your travel to confirm it passes the 3-month or 6-month validity rule for your destination.
Processing times for routine passport services are four to six weeks, while expedited passport services can shorten the time to two to three weeks at an additional cost of $60 to $81.36.
Online passport renewals are possible, but are only valid for previous U.S. passport holders older than 25 years old and with an existing passport. For all first-time passport applicants and children under 16, you must apply in person.
The basic documents needed for a passport application include:
- Application Form (DS-11)
- Proof of Citizenship (original & photocopy)
- Parents’ Photo IDs (original & photocopy from both parents) – for children under 16
- Parental Consent (both parents’ presence or notarized consent) – for children under 16
- Passport Photo (Easy guide to taking a passport photo)
- Application Fee (Check or money order to U.S. Department of State)
- Execution Fee (Pay to acceptance facility)
2.) Check Visa Requirements and Apply Early
Many countries require a visa for entry, so it’s crucial to research requirements well ahead of time. Processing times can vary, and some visas require detailed documentation, such as a return date and proof of accommodations. Applying early ensures you won’t face delays in travel plans.
The four primary tourist visa types are:
- Visa-Free: No visa is needed to enter these destinations.
- Visa on Arrival: Apply for and receive the visa upon arrival at the airport.
- e-Visa: Apply for the visa online and receive an electronic visa (pre-departure approval necessary).
- Visa Required: A traditional visa is needed, and you must apply for it in person.
Make sure to check your destination country for any visa requirements prior to your international travel.
3.) Get Any Necessary Vaccinations
Vaccination recommendations will vary by country, but this is another area where you’ll need to plan ahead. A number of recommended vaccinations require a series of inoculations or have to be taken a certain period of time before travel in order to be effective.
We recommend that you start taking action on vaccines at least eight weeks before travel.
Useful resources for information on vaccinations:
- The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which provides information for each country where Rustic travels
- International SOS, which provides access to medical specialists who can answer any questions
- Passport Health USA, which can recommend travel clinics in your area that provide vaccinations.
>> KEEP READING What to Pack for International Travel.
4.) Get Health Paperwork and Medications in Order
It’s important to check that you have whatever health paperwork and medications are necessary before traveling. Some over-the-counter medications in the U.S. may be restricted in foreign countries. Research regulations and ensure you have proper documentation for prescription drugs.
Aside from this, it’s important to have any necessary prescription medications ready to go. You don’t want to find out right before a trip that your teen’s asthma inhaler is empty and the prescription has expired.
Consider packing essential health supplies like malaria pills, first-aid items, and any medications for pre-existing conditions. Check whether vaccinations are needed to avoid health advisories during your next trip.
For important medications, it may be useful to travel with some extra in case some are lost or a flight delay extends a trip. It isn’t always easy or possible to refill a prescription while abroad.
It’s important that all medications are clearly labeled and that you have a copy of your prescription. For some medications, it’s helpful to have a note from your doctor. This may include EpiPens and insulin.
The CDC has more information on traveling internationally with medication.
5.) Get the Right Baggage, Clothes, and Sleeping Bag
Do your best to get the right carry-on bag, clothing, a sleeping bag and any other travel essentials you will need before your trip abroad. In this day and age, you never know when a supply chain issue may hold you up from the perfect item you want for a trip.
Download Our First-Time Travelers Guide with Free Essential Packing List Included
Bonus Travel Tip: Learn About the Destination
This may not be essential, but it’s helpful – and certainly fun – to learn about the place you’re going. Look at a map online. Read about the local communities. Re-read the itinerary. Get ready for an adventure!
6.) Research Travel Insurance Options
Travel insurance is essential for safeguarding your trip abroad. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not provide coverage overseas, and many private insurance policies may not include international travel.
We highly recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations. Ensure the policy fits your needs, such as covering activities you plan to engage in, pre-existing conditions, and destinations. For peace of mind, choose an insurer with 24/7 support.
Here are the different types of travel-related insurance available:
| Type of Insurance | Description | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Health Insurance | Covers medical expenses incurred while traveling abroad. | Includes emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and sometimes routine care. Does not typically cover pre-existing conditions unless specified. |
| Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance | Provides coverage for transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility. | Covers the costs of air ambulance or other transport services in case of severe illness or injury. Essential when traveling to regions with limited medical facilities. |
| Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance | Reimburses non-refundable travel expenses when a trip is canceled or interrupted. | Covers reasons like illness, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events. Policies vary; some offer “cancel for any reason” options at a higher premium. |
| Baggage and Personal Belongings Insurance | Protects against loss, theft, or damage to personal items during travel. | Covers luggage, electronics, and other valuables. May have per-item limits and exclusions; high-value items might require additional coverage. |
| Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance | Provides benefits in case of death or serious injury during travel. | Pays a lump sum to beneficiaries for accidental death or loss of limbs/sight. Often included in comprehensive travel insurance plans. |
| Rental Car Insurance | Covers damages to a rental vehicle. | Includes collision damage waiver and liability coverage. Check whether your auto insurance or credit card offers similar coverage to avoid redundancy. |
7.) Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Companies
Before you go, inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans. This prevents potential account holds due to suspected fraud when transactions appear from a foreign country.
Some credit card companies also provide travel perks, such as waived ATM fees or travel insurance. Check the terms to maximize your benefits and avoid surprises. My favorite travel cards are the Capital One 360 and Charles Schwab Card.
8.) Prepare Travel Documents and Copies
Double-check all your travel documents. Make physical and digital copies of your passport, visa, and health insurance documents. Leave one set with a trusted family member and carry another separate from the originals. This precaution ensures you can still access crucial information in case of loss or theft abroad.
These are all of the common documents you will need for an international trip:
- Passport: Your primary identification document for international travel. Ensure it has at least six months of validity from your return date.
- Visa: Any necessary visas required for entry to another country. Check with your destination’s embassy for specific requirements.
- Health Insurance Card: Proof of health insurance coverage, including any supplemental travel health insurance you’ve purchased.
- Travel Itinerary: A detailed schedule of flights, accommodations, and activities. It helps with customs clearance and emergencies.
- Consent for Minors: A notarized letter of consent is often required when traveling alone as a child. Some countries may require custody documents.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): A permit allowing you to drive in foreign countries, often required in addition to your local driver’s license.
- Emergency Contact List: A list of important contacts, including family members, your embassy, and your travel insurance provider.
9.) Learn Local Currency and Exchange Rates
Before your departure, learn about the local currency and exchange rates of your destination country. When you are prepared to manage money matters well, you will save money and be able to travel stress-free. Research where to get the best deal for currency exchange, and avoid excessive ATM fees by using bank-affiliated machines. Carry a mix of cash and cards to prepare for emergencies or places that don’t accept electronic payments.
10.) Plan for Communication Abroad
It is important to plan for how you will stay connected while traveling abroad, both in your destination country and back home. Check whether your mobile carrier provides coverage where you are traveling to or consider purchasing a local SIM card.
I remember traveling abroad only a decade ago when things like eSIMs didn’t exist and I had to rely on Google Maps and downloading information ahead of time. Nowadays, eSIMs and local SIMS are affordable, easy, and make staying connected while abroad simple.
11.) Arrange for Home and Pet Care
Before leaving, finalize arrangements for a house sitter or pet care when needed. Provide emergency contacts and clear instructions to ensure everything runs smoothly while you’re away. This planning keeps your mind at ease during your international trip.
12.) Review Emergency Plans and Updates
Experiencing a disaster or emergency while traveling is rare, but it is essential to know your emergency plans and subscribe to local updates.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get safety and security updates from the U.S. State Department. Know the emergency numbers and locations of your country’s embassy. Stay informed about natural disasters or political unrest in the foreign country you’re visiting.