Now that you’ve booked your upcoming international trip, it’s a good idea to make sure you cover necessary steps prior to departure. If you have any questions as your departures dates approach, don’t hesitate to contact us.
International Trip Prep Checklist
Check Passport Validity– Check to see that the expiration date is at least six months after your trip end date. Some countries don’t require validity for that long, but it’s a good idea to double check. If you have to renew your passport, the number on your new passport will not match the old one. Some activities, e.g. Machu Picchu entrance tickets require a valid passport prior to purchase.
Check Visa Requirements– Check to see if your destination requires a tourist visa for entry. If a visa is required, check to see if you can get the visa on arrival or if it must be attained prior to your arrival date. You’ll also want to make sure you have enough blank pages in your passport for the visa.
Check Insurance Coverage– Check to see if your insurance coverage will cover you while abroad (medical and auto, if you’re renting a car). If it doesn’t, consider supplemental travel insurance coverage. Policies typically offer medical benefits including emergency evacuation as well as expenses related to delays, missed connections, and baggage issues.
Check Health and Vaccination Recommendations– To check vaccination requirements and recommendations, review the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Traveler’s Health website.
Check Currency Guidelines– Will your local currency be accepted at your destination or is it best to convert to the local currency. Are credit cards widely accepted? Are ATMs widely available? If you plan to use a credit card on your trip, does it charge an international currency conversion fee?