31 Things to Do Before Traveling Internationally

Discover important things to do before traveling internationally to ensure a smooth trip. From passport checks to planning, prepare for your adventure abroad!

Traveling internationally can be an exciting adventure, but it also requires careful planning and preparation. Before you set off on your journey, there are many important tasks to complete. From ensuring your documents are in order to organizing your time abroad, being well-prepared will help you avoid stressful situations and fully enjoy your trip.

To help you get ready, here are 31 essential things you should do before traveling internationally. Follow this guide, and you should hopefully be able to enjoy a stress-free start to your journey!

Things to Do Before Traveling Internationally

Before embarking on an international trip, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth experience. Handling these tasks in advance will help you avoid last-minute stress.

1. Check Your Passport and Visa Requirements

Your passport is your key to international travel, and it must be valid. Many countries require that your passport remain valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. If it’s about to expire, renew it well before your trip. Processing times can vary, especially during busy travel seasons.

Along with your passport, check whether your destination requires a visa. Some countries offer visas on arrival, but it’s better to confirm ahead of time.

If you need a visa, depending on the country, you may be able to apply for one online. However, some visas take weeks to process so it’s important to factor this into your plans. It’s also helpful to check transit visa requirements if you have layovers in other countries.

2. Research Your Destination’s Entry and Exit Requirements

In addition to visas, some countries require specific vaccinations or payment of entry fees. Check for any restrictions or necessary documents before departure and ensure you have everything required. You may need to schedule doctors visits in advance for any required vaccinations or prescriptions. If that is the case, make sure you receive the necessary vaccinations or medications for diseases common in the region you’re visiting.

3. Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for international trips because it protects you from unexpected events. It can cover medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Medical costs abroad can be high, especially in countries without reciprocal healthcare agreements. You should therefore purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage without a large excess charge. Ensure it also covers COVID-19-related issues if applicable, such as medical care or trip delays.

Familiarize yourself with the details of your travel insurance, especially in case of medical emergencies. Always read the fine print to ensure your specific concerns are covered, and carry a copy of your insurance policy. Knowing what is covered can save you stress later.

4. Set Up International Phone Coverage

Staying connected while traveling abroad is essential, whether for navigation, communication, or accessing important information. To avoid expensive roaming charges, contact your mobile provider and inquire about international plans. Many providers offer short-term plans that cover calls, texts, and data in various countries, typically at a lower rate than pay-per-use roaming. However, this can still be expensive when compared to other options.

If your provider’s international plan doesn’t suit your needs, a more convenient option could be an eSIM (embedded SIM). eSIMs allow you to download a mobile plan directly onto your phone without needing a physical SIM card. This is especially useful for frequent travelers or those visiting multiple countries, as it eliminates the hassle of swapping physical cards.

Many eSIM providers allow you to activate a plan before you travel, so you’re connected as soon as you land. eSIMs are also great for accessing local data at competitive rates, making them a modern, flexible option for international connectivity. Check out Yesim as a good starting point.

Alternatively, you could consider purchasing a local SIM card at your destination. Local SIM cards can be found at airports, convenience stores, or mobile provider shops and often come with a generous data allowance at a lower price. Just make sure your phone is unlocked so it can accept foreign SIM cards.

Be sure to compare the cost and data limits of your provider’s international plans, local SIMs, and eSIMs to choose the best option for your trip. It’s also worth downloading apps that allow for Wi-Fi calling or messaging before you go, regardless of which option you choose.

5. Arrange Your Accommodation

Securing a comfortable place to stay is a crucial part of international travel. Start by researching different accommodation options, such as hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, or homestays, based on your budget and preferences. Consider factors like proximity to public transport, tourist attractions, and safety of the area. Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons or to popular destinations.

Before finalizing your booking, read reviews from other travelers to get a better idea of the quality and service. Make sure to double-check the cancellation policy in case your plans change. Some accommodations offer flexible booking options, allowing you to cancel or modify your stay without extra fees.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to save copies of your accommodation details, such as the address and confirmation number. You can print them or store them on your phone, so they’re accessible offline when needed. Familiarize yourself with check-in and check-out times, and communicate with the host or hotel if you’ll be arriving late.

Confirm your reservations a few days before departure to ensure there are no booking issues. It’s also helpful to print out confirmation details and have a digital backup.

6. Plan Your Itinerary

Creating a well-thought-out itinerary is essential for making the most of your international trip. Start by researching your destination, including its main attractions, cultural sites, and hidden gems. Make a list of places you want to visit and prioritize them based on your interests and time constraints. Consider grouping activities by location to minimize travel time between sites.

Incorporate some flexibility into your itinerary to allow for spontaneous adventures or unexpected delays. While it’s important to have a plan, leave room for relaxation and exploration. Check local events or festivals happening during your visit, as they can enrich your experience.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with the local transportation options, such as buses, trains, or rideshare services, to ensure smooth travel between destinations. If you’re planning to visit popular tourist attractions, consider booking tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Having a detailed yet adaptable itinerary will help you maximize your time and ensure you enjoy all that your destination has to offer.

7. Download Offline Maps and Guides

Download offline maps of your destination to avoid getting lost without internet access. Also, save essential travel apps like translators, guidebooks, and transportation schedules for offline use.

8. Get to Know Your Destination’s Currency

On top of knowing your destination, it’s worthwhile learning about the local currency. Familiarize yourself with the exchange rate, and get a small amount of local currency before leaving. Research whether it’s better to exchange larger amounts of money at home or in your destination country. This will help you make your necessary travel money arrangements.

9. Get Travel Money

Having access to local currency is essential when traveling internationally. Even if credit cards are widely accepted, it’s always good to have cash for things like transportation, small purchases, and tips. Before your trip, visit your bank to exchange money or use a currency exchange service. Exchanging money ahead of time usually gives you better rates than doing so at the airport, where fees tend to be higher.

In addition to cash, consider how you’ll access money abroad. Most ATMs in foreign countries accept international bank cards, but be mindful of potential fees for withdrawals or currency conversion. Check with your bank about foreign transaction fees and see if they partner with any banks abroad that could minimize costs.

If you’re looking for a cashless solution, consider getting a travel money card or prepaid card. These cards allow you to load funds in multiple currencies and often provide better exchange rates. Travel money cards also offer security by keeping your main bank account protected in case of loss or theft.

Whether using cash, cards, or a combination of both, plan your financial strategy before your trip so you have access to funds wherever you go.

10. Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Companies

Inform your bank and credit card providers about your travel plans to avoid having your card blocked for suspicious activity. Also, inquire about foreign transaction fees, especially if you’re not planning on taking cash.

11. Make Copies of Important Documents

Make photocopies of your passport, visa, travel itinerary, and other important documents. Store these copies in separate locations, such as your luggage and hotel. Consider leaving digital copies with a trusted contact.

12. Know the Emergency Contact Information

Write down emergency contacts for your destination, including the local embassy, police, and your hotel. Keep these numbers handy for any urgent situations.

13. Register with Your Embassy

For added safety, you can always register your trip with your embassy so they can assist in case of an emergency, such as a natural disaster or political unrest.

14. Check Baggage Policies and Fees

Each airline has different policies regarding luggage weight and size limits. Make sure your bags meet the airline’s requirements to avoid excess fees.

15. Check the Weather and Pack Appropriately

Pack according to your destination’s climate and culture. Look up the weather forecast for your destination and take suitable clothes. Don’t forget an umbrella or rain jacket if necessary. Research whether you need specific clothing, such as modest attire, in certain countries.

Avoid overpacking and pack only what you need to avoid extra baggage fees or dragging around heavy luggage. A lighter suitcase also leaves room for souvenirs and gifts. Bring travel-sized toiletries to save space in your luggage and make use of your carry-on luggage allowance.

16. Take Carry on Luggage

Keep essential items like your passport, boarding pass, medication, phone, and wallet in your carry-on for easy access. Pack any prescribed medications in your carry-on and bring copies of prescriptions. Also, include items like earplugs, a travel pillow, and hand sanitizer for comfort during your flight.

17. Carry a First-Aid Kit

Pack a small first-aid kit with essentials like bandages, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. It’s useful to have these on hand for minor injuries or illness during your travels.

18. Review Electrical Outlets and Bring an Adapter

Check whether your destination uses the same electrical outlets and voltage as your home country. If necessary, pack a universal travel adapter and voltage converter.

19. Carry a Portable Charger

If you plan to travel with a laptop, tablet, or phone, bring a portable phone charger to keep your devices powered on the go. Long flights, airport transfers, and sightseeing can drain your battery quickly.

20. Secure Your Home While You’re Away

Put your mail on hold or ask a neighbor to collect it. Unplug electronics, lock all doors and windows, and set up timers for your lights to give the appearance that someone is home.

21. Arrange Transportation to the Airport

Pre-book your transportation to the airport to avoid last-minute stress. Whether it’s a taxi, rideshare, or public transit, make sure you have a reliable way to get there on time.

22. Prepare for Airport Security and Customs

Ensure your liquids, gels, and aerosols follow the 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons. Also, know which items are restricted in your destination country, especially when it comes to customs regulations.

23. Account for Jet Lag

Adjust your sleep schedule a few days before your trip if you’re crossing time zones. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol during the flight to reduce jet lag symptoms.

24. Bring Snacks for the Journey

Airline food can be limited, so pack snacks for long flights. Granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit are convenient options.

25. Stay Hydrated and Comfortable During Your Flight

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes during your flight. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially on long-haul flights.

26. Prepare for Long Layovers

If you have a long layover, check if the airport offers amenities like lounges, sleeping pods, or even free city tours. Bring entertainment like books or downloaded movies to pass the time.

27. Arrange Airport Pickup at Your Destination

Arrange a ride from the airport to your accommodation before arriving. This could be a taxi, rideshare, or a hotel shuttle.

28. Familiarize Yourself with Local Transportation

Research public transportation options, taxi rates, and rideshare availability in your destination. There are a whole host of different types of transport around the world, and what’s best in one country might not be the best in another country. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local driving rules if you plan on renting a car.

29. Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language

Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can make a big difference. It shows respect for the local culture and helps you navigate daily interactions, such as ordering food, asking for directions, or greeting people. Even if the locals speak English, using simple phrases in their language like “hello,” “thank you,” or “excuse me” can go a long way in building rapport.

To help with this, you can use language learning apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Memrise. These apps make it easy to learn essential phrases through interactive lessons. You can practice on the go, whether you’re waiting for your flight or relaxing in your hotel room. Many apps also offer offline modes, which are perfect for areas where you may not have internet access. Spending just a few minutes a day on these apps before and during your trip can make communication smoother and more enjoyable.

30. Understand Cultural Etiquette

Research the local customs and etiquette in the country you’re visiting. Respectful behavior, such as tipping, personal space, and gestures, varies across cultures.

31. Know the Tipping Customs

Research tipping practices at your destination. Some countries include service charges, while others expect tipping in certain situations.

When Should You Do Things Before Traveling Internationally?

You’ve got the list of things to do, but when should you do them? Use this as a rough guide, but always make sure you do your own research:

Months in Advance

Check the expiration date on your passport.
Apply for any necessary visas.
Schedule doctor visits for any required vaccinations or prescriptions.
Research and book accommodations.
Research local customs and language.
Purchase travel insurance.

One Month Before the Trip

Make a rough itinerary of things to do and see.
Begin adjusting your sleep schedule if crossing time zones.
Start saving money in your destination’s currency if necessary.
Research public transportation options at your destination.
Confirm your international phone plan or consider buying a SIM card.

One Week Before the Trip

Check and confirm all reservations (flights, hotels, airport transfers, etc.).
Make copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance, itinerary).
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.
Pack essentials like adapters, toiletries, and medications.
Download offline maps and travel apps.
Create a packing list for your carry-on and check-in luggage.
Organize your electronics and check compatibility with local outlets.
Make sure your pet or home is taken care of during your absence.

A Few Days Before the Trip

Pack your luggage and weigh it to avoid extra fees.
Double-check the weather at your destination and adjust packing as needed.
Organize travel snacks and entertainment for the flight.
Charge all electronics (phone, camera, portable charger).
Set up timers for lights at home and notify neighbors if necessary.
Organize your carry-on bag with essentials: passport, tickets, cash, medications, and entertainment.

The Day Before the Trip

Check in online for your flight.
Print or download boarding passes and hotel confirmations.
Finalize packing, ensuring essential items are in your carry-on.
Set out your outfit for the flight (comfortable clothing).
Get plenty of rest and hydrate for your journey.
Confirm transportation to the airport.

On the Day of the Trip

Eat a light meal before heading to the airport.
Arrive at the airport early (at least 2-3 hours before your flight).
Keep your Passport/ID and boarding pass accessible.
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before and during the flight.
Relax and enjoy your trip!

Relax and Enjoy Your Trip!

Preparing for international travel can be a daunting task, but taking the time to plan ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience. From checking your passport and visa requirements to arranging accommodation and setting up your finances, each step plays a crucial role in your journey.

By following these 29 things to do before traveling internationally, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your adventure and create unforgettable memories. Safe travels!