12 Essential Tips for International Trips 🌎
How to Prep for a Stress-Free Trip Abroad
Traveling to a new international destination can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it also requires some important preparation beforehand. The more you plan, prepare, and research in advance, the more you can relax and enjoy every moment of your trip. To help you confidently navigate your journey, I’m sharing 12 essential tips to ensure that you travel safely and wisely while exploring this incredible world.
*I recommend bookmarking this list for easy reference. Also, please feel free to share this list with your travel-loving friends and family. Now, let’s dive in!
1. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Before you leave, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. Department of State. This free service provides real-time updates and alerts on safety conditions in your destination, and it allows the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in case of an emergency.
2. Check Travel Advisories
Always check the U.S. State Department’s website or your country’s equivalent for travel advisories before and during your trip. These advisories provide essential information on safety risks, health concerns, entry requirements, and local laws.
3. Make Copies of Your Important Documents
Losing your passport abroad can be an absolute nightmare! To prepare for the worst-case scenario:
Make physical copies of your passport and visa (see tip #4)
Take a photo of the front two pages as well as a photo of the back barcode on your passport
Email a scanned copy to yourself and store a digital version on a secure cloud platform
Carry an extra ID (ex. your driver’s license) and keep your copies in a separate bag from your originals. And a reminder to all Americans: The Real ID deadline is May 7, 2025.
4. Check Visa Requirements
Before booking your trip, verify whether you need a visa to enter your destination. Some countries require visas for short stays, while others allow visa-free entry for certain nationalities. You can check visa requirements on official government websites, such as the U.S. Department of State or the embassy website of the country you are visiting.
U.K. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Starting in 2025, many travelers, including U.S. citizens, will need an ETA to visit the United Kingdom for short stays
European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS): By 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., will need an ETIAS authorization to enter most European countries in the Schengen Area
If a visa is required, apply well in advance, as processing times can vary. Some countries allow online e-visa applications, while others require an in-person appointment. Do your research!
5. Check Immunization Requirements
Before traveling to certain countries, it’s essential to check whether any vaccinations or immunizations are required or recommended. Many destinations require proof of vaccination for entry, particularly for diseases like yellow fever, polio, and meningitis.
Yellow Fever: Required for entry into countries like Brazil, Ghana, and Uganda.
Typhoid and Hepatitis A: Recommended for travelers visiting India, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa.
Malaria Prevention: In regions like sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America, anti-malarial medications are often recommended.
Routine Vaccines: Ensure you’re up to date on measles, tetanus, and flu shots before international travel.
6. Share Your Itinerary with a Trusted Contact
Before you depart, provide a close friend or family member with:
Your full travel itinerary
The addresses and contact numbers of your accommodations
Emergency contact numbers for your destination
This ensures that someone knows your whereabouts and can assist in case of emergencies.
7. Get an International Phone Plan
Reliable communication is essential for navigation, emergency situations, and staying in touch with loved ones while traveling. Stay connected by signing up for an international phone plan, or consider using an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card. Many modern smartphones support eSIMs, which allow you to activate a data plan digitally without swapping out a physical card. This can be a more convenient and secure option, especially for frequent travelers. If your phone does not support eSIMs, purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is another option for affordable data and calls. I also recommend using WhatsApp for free calls and texting when you have Wi-Fi service, making it a convenient way to stay in touch and communicate without additional charges. Need to connect to WiFi? Check WifiMap to instantly find free WiFi anywhere in the world.
8. Use a VPN for Secure Internet Access
Public Wi-Fi networks at airports, hotels, and cafes can be vulnerable to hackers. Protect your personal data by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which encrypts your online activity and keeps your sensitive information secure. Consider using ExpressVPN to protect your data when using public WiFi and access region-restricted content while abroad.
9. Be Smart About Your Money
Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid your card being flagged for fraud
Use a mix of credit cards, debit cards, and local currency to avoid being stranded
Always use contactless payment methods when possible, rather than inserting your credit card into a machine or handing it over to a merchant or waiter who takes it out of sight. This reduces the risk of your card number being stolen
Keep an emergency stash of cash separate from your main wallet
Never withdraw cash from non-bank ATMs (the ones you see in convenience stores, hotels, or tourist areas). They have insane fees. Always use bank-affiliated ATMs outside customs or baggage claim at the airport
Decline the currency conversion option. When paying abroad, always choose to be charged in the local currency (e.g., Euros instead of USD). This avoids hidden markups
Use an RFID-blocking wallet or belt bag to protect your credit card and passport from electronic theft
Consider a travel money belt or anti-theft bag for extra security
10. Purchase Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and more. Choose a policy that includes emergency evacuation and health coverage, especially if you’re visiting remote areas.
Some of the top travel insurance providers include:
Allianz Travel Insurance – A reliable choice for comprehensive trip protection and emergency assistance
Faye - a tech-focused travel insurance provider that offers comprehensive coverage for both domestic and international trips. Faye aims to simplify the travel insurance experience through its user-friendly mobile app, providing travelers with real-time assistance and streamlined claims processing
World Nomads – Ideal for adventurous travelers, covering activities like hiking and scuba diving
Travel Guard by AIG – Offers customizable plans with extensive medical coverage and trip protection. Choose a policy that includes emergency evacuation and health coverage, especially if you’re visiting remote areas
11. Know the Local Emergency Numbers
Research the local emergency numbers (such as 112 in Europe or 999 in parts of Asia) and save them in your phone. Also, identify the location of the nearest hospital and U.S. embassy or consulate.
12. Trust Your Instincts & Stay Aware
No matter where you go, staying aware of your surroundings is key. Avoid overly risky situations, be cautious of scams (e.g. a “broken” taxi meter, the cup game, free friendship bracelets), don’t dress like a “typical tourist,” don’t walk around staring at your phone (so easy for a thief to quickly grab!) and trust your gut if something feels off.
🌟Bonus Tip: If you are planning to visit a very popular city such as London, Paris, Rome, Tokyo, etc., be sure to book reservations online in advance (at least 3-4 weeks prior) for museums, performances, day tours and well-known restaurants. Do not wait to do so until arrival - trust me!
Wishing you all safe & memorable travels, Shannon Gomes
If you found this post informative, please leave a quick ♥️ or comment below. 🙏
Great info Shannon. Just sent it to all the participants on my Morocco trip.