15 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling Internationally

Traveling internationally is an exciting adventure, but it requires preparation to avoid unnecessary stress. From ensuring your passport is valid to downloading the right apps, a little pre-trip planning can make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Here’s a handy checklist of tips, with some insider advice to help you along the way.

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1. Check Your Passport Validity

One of the most critical tasks before traveling is to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your return date. Many countries and airlines won’t let you board if your passport is nearing expiration. Don’t let an expired passport ruin your trip!

• Pro Tip: Make renewing your passport a priority at least three months before your travel date, as processing times can vary.

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2. Make Copies of Important Documents

It’s always a good idea to have digital and physical copies of essential documents, including:

• Passport
• Insurance card
• Emergency contacts
• Flight tickets
  Store the digital copies securely in a cloud service like Google Drive or email them to yourself.

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3. Research Visa Requirements

Depending on your nationality and destination, you may need a visa. Some countries offer visa-on-arrival, while others require an application weeks in advance.

• Example: If you’re traveling to the U.S., you may need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), which you can apply for online.

Use the official website from the US government for the procedure: Official ESTA Application Website, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

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4. Get Vaccinations and Check Health Requirements

Some destinations require specific vaccines, like yellow fever for parts of Latin America or Africa.

• Plan Ahead: Vaccines may take weeks to become effective, so start your vaccinations at least 6–8 weeks before departure.
• Consult Your Doctor: Your healthcare provider can advise you on necessary vaccines and medications.

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5. Monitor Safety Alerts and Travel Advisories

Stay informed about local conditions by checking safety alerts and travel advisories. In Germany, you can use the Auswärtiges Amt for detailed recommendations.

• Follow local media and government websites for updates on potential risks.

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6. Prepare Your Bank for International Travel

Ensure your debit and credit cards are ready for use abroad by:

• Contacting Your Bank: Inform them about your travel dates to avoid getting your card blocked for suspicious activity.
• Fee-Free Withdrawals: Some banks offer free international withdrawals—check your options.

Consider travel credit cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred or Trade Republic for no foreign transaction fees (+travel rewards).

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7. Bring Cash for the First Few Days

Arriving in a new country without local currency can be stressful. Exchange some money before you leave or withdraw cash upon arrival if the exchange rate is better.

• Pro Tip: Keep small denominations for taxis, tips, or public transport.

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8. Book Flights Carefully

Double-check that your flight bookings include necessary luggage. Airlines like Ryanair and Spirit often require separate purchases for checked or even carry-on luggage.

• Budget Tip: Calculate these extra costs when comparing flight prices to avoid surprises.
• Also make sure to carefully read your cancelation policies as they differ from airline to airline. If you book your flight through a third party-provider like kiwi.com, kayak.com, opodo.de or similar make sure to double check those policies carefully as they might be different from the ones that you can find directly on the airlines website.
• I personally love booking my flights thorugh kiwi.com as I tend to find the cheapest flight options there.

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9. Check In Online

Avoid long queues at the airport by checking in 24 hours before your flight.

Many airlines also allow you to download a mobile boarding pass, which is incredibly convenient.

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10. Have Your Accommodation Details Ready

Some immigration officers may ask for your accommodation details, so have the address, name, and confirmation ready.

• Pro Tip: Save it in your phone or print it out to avoid fumbling through your emails.

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11. Research SIM Card Options

Staying connected abroad is essential.

• Latin America: It’s easy to buy a local SIM card from providers like Claro or Movistar.
• The U.S.: Consider an eSIM for instant activation with data plans.
• Europe: Consider en eSIM or buy a prepaid SIM at the Supermarket

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12. Download Travel Apps

Apps can make your trip much easier. Here are some must-haves:

• Transportation: Uber, InDrive, or Moovit for local navigation.
• Accommodation: Booking.com or Airbnb for flexible lodging options.
• Offline Maps: Download Google Maps for your destination to use even without Wi-Fi.
• City-Specific Apps: In Hungary, for example, there’s a separate app for train travel. Research options for your specific destination.

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13. Prepare for Entertainment Offline

Long flights or bus rides can be boring without entertainment. Download your favorite music, podcasts, or Netflix shows in advance so you can enjoy them offline.

• Pro Tip: Bring a portable charger to ensure your devices stay powered during the journey.

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14. Pack Smart for Your Destination

Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Don’t forget:

• Travel-size toiletries (under TSA limits if flying).
• A universal adapter for your electronics.
• A reusable water bottle for hydration on the go.

Use Amazon Travel Essentials to stock up on must-have items for your trip.

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15. Do a Final Checklist

Before heading out the door, double-check these essentials:

• Passport and travel documents!
• Bank cards and local currency
• Packed bags and electronics
• A great attitude ready for adventure!

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Final Thoughts

Preparing for an international trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

By following this checklist, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way. Traveling is all about creating unforgettable memories, and being well-prepared ensures those memories will be the good kind.

If you want to make your trips truly memorable, focus on experiencing local culture. Here’s how to immerse yourself wherever you go.

Traveling internationally is super exciting. Learning about new customs, seeing other nationalities live their daily life is part of it as well. Ever heard of culture shocks? Check out our post about How to prepare for Culture Shocks abroad!

Looking for more travel tips? Check out our guides on Budget Travel Hacks or Solo Travel Tips.

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