Quick Tips to Get Ready for Traveling Abroad

Traveling to a foreign country might be a big step for you, but there are plenty of ways to prepare in advance for the journey.  You’ll want to have more time enjoying the vacation than running around handling logistical items, so take a look at our quick tips below on how to get ready for traveling abroad.

Passport and visa

The most important thing to have when going abroad is a passport and a valid visa (if needed) for the country you’re traveling to.

It usually takes a couple of weeks to get (or renew) your passport, and an additional couple of months if you have to apply for the correct visa, so plan accordingly so that you’ll have them before your departure date.

While we are all unable to travel, now is the time to renew your passport if needed or get one if you’ve never traveled before.

Banking and Currency

If it’s your first time going abroad, you’ll want to contact your bank to let them know that you’ll be traveling. That way, you’ll still have access to using your credit card when necessary without it being declined. 

If you prefer cash, try to bring enough cash to exchange when you arrive at your destination. ATM fees can be substantial if you attempt to use them while abroad. 

Travel Insurance

If we have learned anything during Rona is that your travel investments should always be protected. Just as you’d protect your house and car in the rare case of an emergency, you can do the same for travel.

Travel insurance is recommended for traveling abroad due to the unexpected nature of being in a new environment. It’s a way to ensure that everything you’re going with is protected - including travel plans in case of cancellations or delays.

We always recommend “cancel for any reason” insurance, it may be the most expensive package but it also provides you with the most coverage.

Banking and Currency

If it’s your first time going abroad, you’ll want to contact your bank to let them know that you’ll be traveling. That way, you’ll still have access to using your credit card when necessary without it being declined.

If you prefer cash, try to bring enough cash to exchange when you arrive at your destination. ATM fees can be substantial if you attempt to use them while abroad.

Using Your Phone

Do you have an international phone plan? If it’s your first time abroad, chances are you don’t. If you have a phone plan, you may incur additional roaming fees if you use your phone out of the country for calls, texts and/or data usage.

You can add international service to most plans (even if for the month that you’re traveling) or buy a local SIM card to use with your phone to get local data and service (usually the cheapest options). Before your departure make sure that your phone is unlocked and can accept foreign sim cards.

Miscellaneous Items

Many things are country-specific to keep in mind depending on where you’re traveling. It’s worth taking some time to do some research before you go so that you can prepare in advance.

Traveling to Europe or Asia, for example, uses different wall plugs than in the US. Also, the clothes that you pack are important because there may be specific dress requirements when going in public or to various local sites.

Open Mind

Aside from physical objects, having an open mind is essential for traveling abroad. Going to a new country can mean experiencing culture shock in almost every aspect of life.

To make the most out of your vacation abroad, be ready to fully immerse yourself into the experiences, and adapt to the new way of life while you’re there.

Use the tips and recommendations above to be prepared for your next travel experience and avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety. The more prepared you are the better you can enjoy your time.