Things to Consider When Traveling Abroad

Traveling abroad is exciting, and many people want to do that, whether it’s for work or adventure. However, a trip abroad also means you need to remember a lot of things. 

For a hassle-free, enjoyable trip, here’s a list of things you need to consider when traveling abroad. 

Photo by Steven Lewis on Unsplash

Update Your Passport and Visa 

Check the expiration date of your passport. See if you need to renew it. 

Most countries require passports to be valid for six months after the traveler’s return date. For good measure, make sure to prepare early by filling out an evisa application and also renew your passport nine months or more before its expiry date. This will ensure you have the necessary forms to travel with no issue, with updated photos.

Get an International Driver’s License 

You will most likely need to use the service of car rentals. So, even if not all countries require an international driver’s license, double-check whether you need to have one in the country you’re visiting. 

It’s also wise to familiarize yourself with driving and traffic laws where you plan to go. Gather information and research this. 

Make Copies of Important Documents

Items that you might want to make copies of include: 

*Passport – if you lose your passport, you have a copy. Some hotels also require copies, while replacing lost passports takes time. 

*Tickets – print the digital copies of your tickets. Not everyone accepts digital pieces. 

*Accommodation Reservation – if you don’t have cell service or wifi, at least you have a hard copy.

*Itinerary – make copies and send them to relatives or friends. You never know when emergencies will occur and they’ll need to know your whereabouts. 

It all boils down to one adage: better safe than sorry. 

Pack Your Wallet

And with “packing” your wallet, we mean bringing one or two credit cards, apart from cash, to travel with you. 

Call your issuers before you leave. Inform them of the countries you are visiting. This is to avoid denied cards. 

Then, remove any unnecessary cards or items that you don’t plan to use on your trip. 

Look for Currency Exchanges 

Check monetary conversions first before you go so you can avoid unpleasant surprises when it comes to expenses. 

Do your math and plan your budget in the local currency. Remember that not all places accept credit cards. Always have local currencies on hand. 

Buy a Travel Insurance 

Again, better safe than sorry. 

Your health insurance probably won’t cover you while abroad. Consider buying insurance for sudden health problems or emergencies. Don’t believe in these misconceptions around travel insurance and read reviews like the review of seven corners travel insurance made by Cover Trip. 

You can find plenty of insurance plans and choices. Most of them will cover your emergency medical costs, evacuation, lost luggage, and even trip cancellation. 

Get Vaccinated 

No matter what you hear or where you’re going, it’s always a good idea to get vaccinated. 

Make sure you have your prescriptions filled and updated. It’s best to discuss any medical measures that you need to take.

You might need to get certain vaccinations for certain countries. The Centers for Disease Control and Preventionoffers tons of information that will be useful for you. 

Pack Properly 

The rules of packing for international travel are simple. 

*Bring necessary electronics

*Bring travel adapters for your devices

*Don’t bring unnecessary valuables

*Use closed baggage tags to label each of your bags

*Buy locks for your luggage

Check the limits or restrictions on carry-on and checked luggage, too. Every airline has a different set of rules, so make sure to read them carefully.

As for your destination, pack clothes strategically. Checking the weather is important, so read the forecasts at least a week or ten days in advance. 

Pre-Book Accommodations

It’s also always a good idea to pre-book your accommodations when you can. 

After all, it’s stressful to have to search for a place to stay after a long trip. Book at least one night’s accommodation and then worry about exploring the area during the next day. 

Lastly, Pack a Survival Kit

No matter how prepared you are, you can never tell when disaster will strike. So, expect the unexpected and bring a survival kit. If you are travel with family or friends then check 5 person survival kit for sale.  

This kit will include: 

*Bandaids

*Pain relief medication 

*Plasters and gauze

*Antiseptic wipes

*Sleep aid

*Prescription meds

*Hand sanitizer

*Ice pack 

These items are literal lifesavers. Make sure you have them wherever you travel, whether internationally or domestically. 

Keep these things in mind, and you’ll have exciting and worry-free travel experiences. Have fun and travel safe!