You have your eye on a particular international destination, and you are excited to book your flights to the country that has been on your list for years. Even seasoned travelers can find international travel stressful. For a first-timer, the international trip can be overwhelming. There’s the preparation, such as getting a passport, applying for a visa, planning where you will stay, and how you’ll get from A to B. After a long flight, you will have to get used to the new time zone, currency, and language of a foreign land. You should also be prepared for any surprises.
The beauty of travel is that you don’t have to know everything. It’s an ongoing learning process. You can learn more and grow if you have some basic information about the most important aspects to consider when planning your first international trip.
Preparing for international travel in advance will ensure a smoother trip. These international travel tips will help you prepare for your first overseas trip.
Selecting the Destination
You may have been dreaming about visiting koalas or elephants in Australia for years. You may not know exactly where you want to go, but you know that you must. You may find it challenging to decide where to go on your first trip abroad if you are overwhelmed by the number of incredible destinations you can visit now that you hold a passport. You can ask yourself questions such as: Do you want to go near your home or far away?, Do you speak a second language?, Are you ready for adventure? This will help you narrow down your destination. You can choose from 470 packages for international travel now.
Check your documents
You need to check certain documents before you book flights. To begin with, international travel will require an updated passport. Make sure your ticket has enough pages for stamps. Most countries require only a quarter of a page to stamp their access, but others may need a whole page.
After you’ve sorted out your passport, it’s time to look into visas. Most countries offer US passport holders or visa holders tourist Visas on Arrival. Other destinations like Australia and Vietnam may require that you apply in advance, with a fee. Check the visa requirements of your final destination, and take care of any paperwork.
Book a lot of time in advance
You should book at least one month in advance to get the best prices on international tickets. Start looking at flights as soon as you know when you’ll travel. Apps can help you keep track of the best flight deals to your destination. Take advantage of loyalty programs for mileage and travel reward cards to get the best out of your flight.
Compare Transport and Stay Before Booking
If you are planning an international trip, you will likely need to fly. However, other options exist, such as trains or buses, to get around. It can be intimidating the first time, but with a little guidance from the representative, you will soon feel at ease. You’ll also save money compared to taxis. Rome 2 Rio can be used to find the quickest and most cost-effective way to get from A to B.
Look at all your options before you book your accommodation. If you are looking for a hotel, it’s always a great option. But remember hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb options in the area you will be traveling to. These can offer you countless opportunities to meet other travelers and locals. Boutique hostels have become more popular and often have better amenities than budget-friendly hotels.
Consider these not-so-common essentials
You’ll want to pack some essentials on your trip, whether you are the type who takes a lot of time choosing what clothes to take. A digital luggage scale is an essential item that every traveler should have. The scale will allow you to keep track of the weight of all your checked baggage. This scale is handy, especially when returning home with souvenirs.
A universal power adapter is also a good idea. This will charge all of your electronic devices. A good pair of sturdy walking shoes are also essential. You will likely be walking a lot while sightseeing. All-terrain walking sandals and trek shoes can keep you moving even in the rain.
Pack your bags for the flight
You’ve just arrived at the airport and have your luggage. The majority of international flights allow two bags to be checked. Check with your airline how many bags you can bring. Check the weather in your destination city before you depart to ensure you are prepared.
When packing your carry-on bag, remember to include any medicines you are taking, something warm to wear for the flight, a travel pillow, and a water bottle that can be filled once in the airport terminal. When packing your carry-on, remember to include any medications you are taking, warm clothing for the flight, travel pillows, and a water container to refill once you arrive at the airport terminal.
Consider packing a toothbrush, a change of clothes, and a carry-on if you don’t get your luggage at your destination.
Let your credit card company know
After finally reaching your destination, you’ve started making purchases. You’re just getting started, and your card is declined. This may have been done for your protection without your knowledge. Credit card companies are very serious about foreign transactions. They want to ensure that your account is not being used unusually. If your card issuer does not know you are making these sudden foreign transactions, it could suspend your account. Tell your credit card provider you’ll be on vacation before leaving. You can save yourself a lot on the road by making a simple call in advance. You can also use a Forex Card when you make transactions to save on the high exchange rate. Keep small amounts of money on hand and copies of all your credit cards, passports, or IDs.
Be on time
Arrive at the airport three hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time. Although many people laugh at this idea, you need the extra time to return home. When you travel abroad, you must pass through immigration and customs in addition to regular security. This takes time. Take your flight due to a long queue. You can enjoy free WiFi, a snack, and the convenience of avoiding the long lines by getting to the front.
