So, you're finally taking the plunge and planning your first international trip? Congratulations! The world is a vast and exciting and there's nothing quite like the thrill of exploring new cultures, tasting unfamiliar foods, and experiencing the unknown. Whether you're dreaming of ancient ruins, bustling cityscapes, or pristine beaches, your first international adventure is sure to be an unforgettable experience. However, navigating a new country can sometimes feel overwhelming. This guide is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and insider tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Before the Trip

Do You Need a Visa?

Depending on where you’re going, you might need a visa to enter the country. This can sometimes be an extra step people forget about when they’re excited about booking flights and hotels. The easiest way to check is to visit your country’s official travel website. For U.S. travelers, go to travel.state.gov and search for your destination to see if a visa is required. Some visas can be obtained upon arrival, while others may take weeks to process, so be sure to check early!

Electrical Outlets & Adapters  

Different countries use different electrical outlets, and nothing's worse than landing in a new place and realizing your phone charger doesn’t fit into the socket. Before your trip, check which type of adapter you’ll need. You can easily find this information online, and it’s a good idea to buy an international adapter that covers multiple plug types just in case you’re visiting several countries. Don’t be like me and learn the hard way which adapter is most appropriate for your needs, read the instructions for use of each. On one of my first trips, I burnt out my hairdryer using the incorrect adaptor.

Learn a Few Phrases  

While many countries speak English or have people who do, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in the local language. A simple “hello,” “thank you,” “please,” or “excuse me” can go a long way in building rapport with locals. Plus, it shows respect for the culture you’re visiting. Don’t worry about being fluent—locals will appreciate the effort even if you stumble over the words! You can also use apps like Google Translate to help with real-time translations or Duolingo if you want to learn more than just the basics. Google Translate works offline if you download the language beforehand, which is especially handy when Wi-Fi isn’t available.

Understand Currency Exchange and Foreign Transaction Fees  

Make sure you know how currency works in the country you're visiting, and familiarize yourself with the local currency and current exchange rates. This will help you avoid overspending or getting caught off guard by conversion fees. Determine if you will need to exchange money before you go or if it’s better to use your card abroad. Many countries are card-friendly, but it’s good to have some local cash on hand for smaller purchases or emergencies. Also, notify your bank that you’ll be traveling to avoid any issues with your cards being blocked for “suspicious activity” and to check if your card charges international fees for conversions. Some cards don’t charge these fees, so it might be worth considering one for your trip. Apps like XE Currency can help you easily convert and track exchange rates while you travel.

Health Precautions 

Check to see if your destination requires any specific vaccinations or health precautions. You can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers' Health website to find country-specific vaccination recommendations and health advice. It’s also a good idea to pack a basic travel health kit with items like pain relievers, band-aids, motion sickness remedies, and any prescription medications you might need. Be sure to keep medications in their original packaging in case customs officials need to check them.

Travel Insurance is a Must

If you’ve never traveled internationally, you might not realize how important travel insurance is. It covers things like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Hopefully, you won’t need it, but it’s a small investment for peace of mind. As a travel advisor, I can help you with this.

Check Travel Advisories and Safety Information  

For U.S. travelers, it's essential to check the security level and travel advisories for your destination. The U.S. Department of State provides up-to-date safety information and travel advisories for each country, which can help you make informed decisions before and during your trip. You can visit the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories website to check the current advisory level for your destination. This will also give you tips on local laws, entry/exit requirements, and any potential safety risks.

Stay Connected (and Watch Your Data!) 

When traveling internationally, staying connected is crucial for navigating and staying in touch with friends and family. You have a few options: using an international phone plan from your carrier, buying a local SIM card, or relying on Wi-Fi hotspots. However, be mindful that apps and websites can eat up data quickly, and if you're not on an unlimited or cost-effective plan, using mobile data could become expensive. Streaming music or videos, using maps, or making video calls can all drain your data, leading to slower service or unexpected charges. If you plan to use data, consider downloading offline maps (Google Maps lets you do this) and only using essential apps when you're on Wi-Fi.

Pack Smart for Your Destination  

Weather can be unpredictable, especially when traveling to different climates. Make sure to pack layers and appropriate outerwear for sudden changes in temperature or unexpected weather conditions. A portable travel umbrella, a scarf, or a packable jacket can be lifesavers.

Track Your Luggage 

Lost luggage can be a traveler’s worst nightmare, especially on international trips. A great way to keep tabs on your bags is by using a tracking device like Apple Air Tags or similar options like Tile. These small, discreet trackers can be placed inside your luggage, and you'll be able to monitor your bag’s location right from your phone. This extra peace of mind can make all the difference if your luggage gets delayed or misplaced during your journey.

During the Trip

Long-Haul Flight Comfort  

If you’ve ever been on a long flight, you know it can be a challenge to stay comfortable. One thing to keep in mind is preventing leg swelling, which can happen when you’re sitting for long periods. Compression socks are a game-changer! They help with circulation, and you’ll feel much better when you land. Also, be sure to get up and walk around the cabin every couple of hours if you can. Staying hydrated and stretching before and after the flight can make a world of difference.

Jet Lag Strategy

Jet lag is real, and it can hit you hard after crossing multiple time zones. One trick is to start adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before your trip so it aligns more with the time zone you’ll be visiting. Also, try to stay awake until a reasonable bedtime once you arrive—it’s tempting to nap, but it’ll help you adjust faster if you can hold off.

Train Travel 101 

If you’re planning to hop on a train in Europe or elsewhere, there are a few things to know. First, not all train systems operate the same way. Some countries have specific rail passes, like the Eurail Pass, which is ideal for multiple journeys across European countries. You’ll also need to validate your ticket before boarding in certain places (this is a step easily missed). Be sure to research how the local train systems work and if seat reservations are necessary for your route. You can also download the Eurail app to help with trip planning, schedules, and mobile tickets. As a travel advisor, I can book train travel for you and provide tips on the specific rails you will be using.

Keep Your Documents Handy

Make sure you have easy access to your passport, boarding pass, and any other essential documents. It's a good idea to have both physical and digital copies (stored securely in your email or a cloud service) in case you misplace anything. A small travel document organizer can help keep everything in one place while you’re moving through airports or border control.

Be Aware of Cultural Etiquette

Every country has its own customs and social norms. Before you go, do some research on things like tipping culture, appropriate dress, and any behavior that might be considered offensive. For example, in some countries, it’s customary to greet with a kiss, while in others, it’s important to avoid physical contact altogether. A little awareness can go a long way in helping you feel more at ease and respectful of local practices.

Keep Track of Purchases and Save Receipts

When buying items abroad, especially high-value goods like electronics or luxury items, it’s important to save your receipts. You may need them for customs declarations when returning home or for potential duty taxes. Keeping digital copies of receipts is also useful for warranty claims or returns. Be mindful of the duty-free allowance and declare any purchases that exceed the limit. To learn more about your country’s duty-free allowance, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for up-to-date information.

Relax and Enjoy!

Finally, don’t forget to soak it all in! Traveling internationally can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences. Be present, stay flexible, and enjoy the adventure!

Ready to Book Your First International Trip? 

If you’re feeling inspired but still have questions or need help with planning, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to assist with all your travel needs, from booking flights and accommodations to offering personalized tips and recommendations. Let’s make your first international adventure unforgettable!