7 Practical Tips for Traveling Internationally

Traveling abroad is like riding a rollercoaster of culture shocks, stunning scenery, exotic foods and unforgettable moments. Picture yourself as Indiana Jones, but with a suitcase instead of a whip!

Now, don’t let the excitement distract you from the reality check. Preparing for an overseas journey is like being a super spy gathering intel and checking off a long list of missions. But fear not, for we, the seasoned globetrotters, have been there, done that, and survived to tell the tale.

So, here are seven pearls of wisdom, a treasure trove of practical tips, to make sure your expedition sails as smoothly as a dolphin gliding through the ocean waves. From mastering the art of managing your moolah in foreign lands to ensuring you stay digitally connected (because selfies must be shared!), we’ve got you covered like sunscreen on a scorching beach day.

Prepare to embrace the unknown, laugh in the face of mishaps, and create memories that’ll leave everyone back home green with envy. Bon voyage, and may your journey be filled with laughter, awe, and epic tales to tell for generations! So, dear jet-setter, read on. Let our wisdom guide you like a trusty treasure map get a leg up on your trip of a lifetime!

1. First Thing’s First: Get Your Travel Docs in Order

Unbeknownst to most would-be world globetrotters, most countries around the world require that your passport remains valid for at least six months (only 3 months for most European countries) beyond your planned return date. So before buying those plane tickets for a last minute trip, be sure to check your passport expiration date. If your passports have expired or will be expiring inside the required validity timeframe, make sure you allow for ample time for the renewal process which can take weeks, sometimes months.

While many countries Americans often travel to (i.e. Mexico, Canada, Caribbeans, most of Europe) do not require visas for U.S. passport holders, there are many that do. Be sure to research and verify the visa requirements for your destination country which can vary based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Depending on the country, visa procedures can range from “very easy” such as just getting them on arrival at the airport or in advance online (E-Visas), to “cumbersome” like having to mail in your passports and various documents, to just “painful” requiring visitors to physically apply in person at your nearest consulate or embassy. So be sure to check with your tour company or visit the respective government websites for the latest entry requirements before attempting to get on that plane. Otherwise, you’re likely to be refused boarding!

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are programs offered in the United States to expedite security and customs processes. When traveling domestically, they function pretty much the same which offer quick access to the security checkpoints. It’s a bit of a difference traveling overseas, however. Global Entry is primarily for international travel, providing expedited clearance when arriving in the U.S. (other than perhaps some Canada-U.S. Routes, there are no benefits in foreign airports).

TSA PreCheck, on the other hand, is for domestic travel and offers expedited security screening at participating U.S. airports. If you frequently travel internationally, Global Entry will be more beneficial as it will help you jump the immigrations line (when often tends to be a madhouse) when you’re back on U.S. soil, PLUS all the benefits of TSA PreCheck for departures and domestic travel. However, such conveniences do come at a price up front. In order to apply for Global Entry, an in-person interview at one of the Global Entry Enrollment Centers is required as part of its approval process.

When traveling internationally, it’s essential to be prepared so you can pay for goods and services. While countries such as the U.S. and Canada have become mostly cashless societies where purchases, tolls, entrance fees, etc.  rely heavily on credit/debit cards and other electronic payments such as ApplePay, etc., many countries around the world still predominantly use cash for everyday purchases. As the saying goes, “Cash is King”. This is especially true when it comes to overseas travel. 

Here are some important tips for handling money exchange during your travels:

• Cash and Credit Cards: While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most tourist areas and major cities worldwide, it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are generally accessible in urban centers, but the availability of ATMs might be limited in remote locations. Moreover, credit card and ATM fees can be hefty. If you anticipate lots of on-the-ground spending, consider applying for a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. As for cash withdrawals/exchange, ATM machines tend to be the most convenient. However, each time you use it will come at a cost. Some charge a hefty per transaction fee which can be $5-7 just on one local bank’s side (on top of poor exchange rates, foreign transaction fees, and an ATM fee by your own bank). Therefore, it is advisable to take out larger chunks at time. Otherwise, a $20 withdrawal can easily cost you an extra ten bucks!
• Small Denominations: Carry some small denomination notes and coins for small purchases, as not all places may be able to provide change for larger bills. These will come in handy for small incidentals and tips to guides, drivers and bellmen. 
• Inform Your Bank: Before traveling, inform your bank about your trip dates and destinations. This helps prevent your cards from being flagged for suspicious activity when used abroad.
• Keep Emergency Cash: Keep a separate stash of emergency cash in a secure location, like a hidden pocket or in your hotel safe immediately after checking-in, in case of unexpected situations where cards might not be accepted.

Remember that while the US has adopted cashless payment methods widely, cash remains an important form of payment in many other countries. Being prepared to handle both cash and cards will ensure a smoother experience during your travels.

4. Bring Common Remedies

When traveling abroad, it’s wise to pack a small travel kit with essential medications and remedies for minor health issues (headaches, upset stomach, sleep aid, etc.). However, keep in mind that the brands and medications you are accustomed to seeing in your home country may not exist or may have different names in other countries. Here are some tips for preparing your travel health kit:

• Basic Medications: Pack common over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen), antacids, antihistamines, and anti-diarrheal medications. These can be helpful for dealing with common travel-related discomforts.
• Prescription Medications: If you take prescription medications regularly, ensure you have an ample supply for the duration of your trip. Carry them in their original labeled containers, along with a copy of the prescription and a doctor’s note, if required.
• Medication Names and Translations: Research the generic names of your medications, as brand names may differ in other countries. Additionally, consider obtaining translations of your medications in the local language to facilitate communication with pharmacists or healthcare providers.
• Medical Insurance: Before traveling, review your medical insurance coverage for international travel. If your plan does not include out-of-network medical coverage, consider picking up travel insurance which will not only cover your medical expenses, but protect your trip costs (airfares, hotels, tour package, etc.) in case of trip interruption or cancellation.

By being prepared and adaptable with your medication choices, you can address common health concerns while traveling, even if the familiar brands you are accustomed to are not readily available in your destination country.