7 important things to do for your first international trip

I have recently traveled internationally, and there are so many things to take into consideration for a happy and seamless trip. First-time international travel also comes with so many questions as to where I should go for my trip, restrictions, currency exchange, and much more. So, based on my experience and research. I have put together a list of the top 7important things to do for your first international trip.

If you are a national traveler, you already know how simple local travel can be. Buy a ticket, show your State ID and you are pretty much good to go.

But international flight is a whole new game with brand new rules. And, I will break down this game into 7 must to do before your first-time international trip. This will ensure you have all tracks covered and can travel in peace 

This post is everything to do before your first international flight covering international flight travel requirements. And, based on my experience and research I cover the 7 most important things to do before your first international flight. These 7 tips will set you up for success on your memorable trip

sweet peach box

1. Research

This is an obvious one but also the most important step. Now, that you have already been in the mindset of international adventure. Let’s dig into what you like and research upon it by following the steps

What do you like?

Planning is the most fun part, you get to bring at least one of your dream destinations to reality. The world is full of adventures, so many things to see like, nature, luxury, islands. So you may be dreaming of a safari in Kenya, a tropical island, or the luxury life in Dubai. Regardless of what’s on your mind. And to ensure that you bring one of these dreams come to reality soon. Come up with 2 or 3 of your top destinations you would love to visit. That way even if one doesn’t work for whatever reason, you will have other options. Click Here to purchase a fun planner for your trip to record all your memories

Weather consideration

Plan your vacation time, based on the weather. Trust me you do not want to go to Dubai during the month of May-August due to extremely hot temperatures (it’s common for days to be at 107 F and nights to be high 80 or 90 F). So do enough research fo the weather in the country you are planning to visit

Budget

Look up the currency exchange rate of your top destinations. And set aside or start saving towards the trip. If you are tight on budget, or one currency rate is better. Then picking the cheaper option would be ideal.So, make sure to budget, so you are not surprised by the cost of trip

2. Documents

Passport

This would be a good time to check if your passport is still valid (means check for the expiration date, and ensure that it is valid for a minimum of 6months-1year from the date of your travel) If not submit for renewal using FORM DS-82

And, if you have never had a passport, apply for one as soon as possible. In order to apply, you will need to fill out DS-11 for a new passport. Go to your local website to find locations near you or Click Here for the website for more info. Don’t forget there is a fee of approximately $150.00 for a new passport and can take 4-6 weels to process. You can also pay extra to get it expedited (within 1 week)

Difference between a passport and visa is:

A passport is a valid document for the citizens (besides state ID) which verifies your country of citizenship. This is used to re-enter the country.

Whereas, Visa is a document given to a non-citizen to enter the country while it’s valid only for 6 months to 5 years. Visa can be used for tourists (like in your case), university students, or work visas.

Visa

Check if you need a VISA, Click Here for a list of countries you can travel to visa-free (if you are a US citizen) if the country you are planning to visit not on the list. Then, verify with the country you are traveling for their visa requirements via their embassy website.

Ticket

Once you have all your documents in place, make sure to keep printed and digital copies in case of emergencies. And, now since that’s settled.

Purchase your flight tickets, ensure to buy travel insurance as well; mostly offered by airlines (make sure to read whats covered)

Sign up for STEP

This stands for Smart Traveller Enrollment Program which is a free service to allow citizens to enroll their trip. This will help the US embassy to contact you in case of emergency, natural disaster, etc. while you are travelling

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3. Research and Plan

Now that you have all your documents situated: Passport, Visa, State ID, and travel insurance. And, have most likely have purchased your ticket. It’s time to be in full mode to research your destination. Especially, if you will be moving around in a rental car or public transportation. Plan which cities and locations are a must-visit, top attractions, touristy places, famous foods.

Remember that you will not be able to visit every single attraction. So, plan for your top ones and go all in to make them worth it

4. Money

Money is very critical off course. so ensure that you keep it save.

Don’t make the mistake of getting it exchanged at the airport, as their rates will be terrible for you. Also, ensure that your credit card is valid to use out of country (call and check if unsure) Also, call your bank and let them know you are travelling so that they don’t put a block on it. Trust me you don’t want to be stuck with no money

5. Make Bookings

Make sure you make most of your booking in advance. Decide whether you will take a cab or rent a car. If you plan to rent a car (check out the destination airport for the airport car rental website) Book hotel stays in advance to get some much-needed rest when you reach your destination.

6. Packing

Pack Light

you do not want to be carrying around a heavy suitcase. Especially if the plan includes a lot of movement.

Also, check the airline website for liquid requirements as well as baggage weight requirements; to avoid extra charges at the airport

Medication

Carry most common medications like pain killer or anything else you take. Because it may be hard to find the correct medication. So carry a small first aid kit including headache medication or your prescription

7. Basic essentials (often overlooked)

Wifi

You may not have access to wifi right away. So make sure, you take pictures of your bookings (copies) maps and any other essentials

Buy a sim card or wifi package if possible as this is part of your international flight essentials

Charging

Make sure to pack a portable charger, Click Here to purchase one for your phone, this will come in handy especially if you do not have the ability to use your charger. Most Asian and European countries use a different style of the outlet (and we may not be able to use our chargers and plugs)

and Click Here to buy a power converter to use for all your charging needs

Outfit, pictures 

Last but not least, make Pinterest boards on what kind of look you are going for, plan outfits for each day and plan pictures ahead. This will keep you very well organized and in most cases excited for the trip

Summary

This post is all about the steps you need to take before your first international trip. Following these tips and in the order they are written; will really make your trip much more delightful and memorable.

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