Travel Abroad: A Step-By-Step Guide

Travelling abroad can be thrilling but nerve-wracking, especially for first-time travellers. The most important thing to do before travelling abroad is to prepare your travel documents. This includes checking your passport is up-to-date and has enough pages for visa stamps, and checking whether you need a visa to enter your destination country. It's also important to research your destination, including local laws, the local currency, the dominant religion, local customs and dress codes, and whether you need any vaccines. You should also notify your bank and credit card companies that you will be travelling, and consider purchasing travel insurance.

Research your destination

Researching your destination is an important step in planning your trip and can make your travel experience richer and more meaningful. Here are some ways to thoroughly research your destination:

Wikitravel Articles

Wikitravel articles provide valuable information on a country's tourist visa requirements, things to do, places to stay, safety tips, and ideas for day trips. The content is contributed by users, so information like prices may be outdated. Nonetheless, Wikitravel is a good starting point for essential travel details.

Travel Blogs and Magazines

Travel blogs offer first-hand perspectives and personal experiences, making them a great resource for researching your destination. Look for bloggers with similar travel styles, budgets, and interests as their recommendations will be more relevant to your trip. Travel magazines, both online and print, also provide practical guides and inspiration for your travels.

YouTube and Short-Form Content

YouTube is an incredible resource for travel research, with a vast array of travel videos and vlogs offering insights and experiences. Short-form content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels provides quick and useful information, including recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and travel itineraries.

Online Reviews and Forums

Reading online reviews on sites like TripAdvisor, TrustPilot, and Lonely Planet can help you make informed choices about accommodations, restaurants, and activities. Online travel forums like Reddit, Flyer Talk, and Lonely Planet are also valuable resources for specific questions and concerns. These communities are usually very active, and you can find detailed answers to your questions or search for previously asked questions.

Local News and Culture

Reading local news sources, such as newspapers, blogs, and magazines, can give you insights into current events, festivals, politics, and popular culture at your destination. This knowledge can make for great conversations with locals and help you feel more connected to the local culture. Additionally, watching documentaries, films, and TV shows set in your destination can give you a glimpse into the customs, scenery, and society at your destination.

Ask People You Know

Talking to friends and family who have visited your destination can provide you with first-hand advice and recommendations. They can share their experiences, including places they went, things they did, and what they would do differently. This can help shape your research and trip planning.

Prepare your travel documents

Travel documents are essential when travelling abroad. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Passport: Check your passport's expiration date as soon as you start planning your trip. Some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your trip ends. Remember that passports issued to children under 16 are only valid for five years. If you need a new passport, apply early to allow for any possible delays.
• Visas: Check with the embassy of your destination country to find out their visa requirements.
• Travel Itinerary Details: Keep copies of your flight tickets, accommodation reservations, and car rental confirmations. This will make checking in at the airport or hotel smoother and help you keep track of your travel plans. You can use printed copies or travel planner apps.
• Health Travel Documents: Check for any specific entry requirements, such as vaccination certificates. Currently, many countries are reducing their COVID-19 travel restrictions, but it is still important to check the latest rules before departure as they can change at short notice.
• Consent for Travel with Minors: If you are travelling alone with children, you may need custody documents or notarised written consent from the other parent. Check with the embassy of your destination country before travelling to see what you need.
• International Driving Permit: Many countries do not recognise a US driver's licence, but most accept an International Driving Permit (IDP). You may also need supplemental auto insurance. Check the driving and road safety requirements of your destination country before travelling.
• Travel Insurance: The US government does not provide insurance for US citizens overseas, so it is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance to cover emergency medical care and trip cancellation. Check whether your insurance covers any special medical needs or risks you might encounter on your trip.
• Make Copies: Make at least two copies of all your travel documents in case of emergency. Leave one copy with a trusted friend or relative and carry the other separately from your original documents. Also, take a photograph of your travel documents with your phone to have an electronic copy.

Address money matters

Travelling abroad can be a costly affair, and it's easy to get carried away with expenses. Here are some ways to address money matters and ensure you have a stress-free trip:

Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Companies:

Before you embark on your journey, inform your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans. Let them know the countries you will be visiting and the duration of your trip. This simple step can prevent your accounts from being frozen due to suspicious activity. Fraud departments may flag transactions made abroad, especially if they deviate from your normal spending patterns. By notifying your financial institutions, you can avoid the inconvenience of blocked or rejected cards while abroad.

Understand Exchange Rates and Currency:

Familiarize yourself with the local currency and exchange rates of the countries you will be visiting. Understand how much your home currency is worth in the foreign market. Exchange rates can vary, and it's essential to know the current rate to avoid overspending. While some countries may accept US Dollars, it's generally advisable to pay in the local currency for better rates.

Choose the Right Payment Methods:

Carry multiple forms of payment, including cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Ensure you have the card you used to book your trip, as you may need it for foreign transactions. Consider signing up for a travel-friendly credit card that offers benefits like zero foreign transaction fees, travel insurance, and access to premium airport lounges. These cards often have wide global acceptance, making them a convenient choice. Additionally, look into prepaid travel money cards or digital bank accounts that offer zero withdrawal fees and helpful apps for tracking spending.

Create a Travel Budget and Track Expenses:

Creating a travel budget can help you save money and avoid overspending. Determine how much you can spend each day, and use travel budgeting apps or templates to stay on track. Once you begin your trip, keep a record of your daily expenses. If you exceed your budget one day, adjust your spending for the following days to make up for it.

Be Wary of Fees and Commissions:

Currency exchange kiosks at airports and tourist spots are convenient but often charge higher fees or provide unfavourable exchange rates. Avoid exchanging money at these locations, and instead, opt for ATMs or local banks, which usually offer better rates. Be cautious of dynamic currency conversion, where you are offered the option to pay in your home currency (e.g., USD) instead of the local currency. This service often comes with hidden fees or unfavourable exchange rates. Always choose to pay in the local currency to get the best value.

Keep Your Money Safe:

Pickpocketing and theft are common concerns when travelling, so it's essential to keep your money secure. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and consider investing in an anti-theft bag or money belt. Separate your cards, keeping at least one emergency credit card in a different place from the others. Additionally, have your bank's contact information readily available so that you can quickly freeze your cards if they are lost or stolen.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage your finances while travelling abroad, ensuring a more enjoyable and worry-free trip.

Compare transportation and accommodation options

When travelling abroad, there are numerous transportation options to choose from. The best option for you will depend on your budget, timeline, and personal preferences. Here is a comparison of some of the most common transportation methods:

Plane

Planes are the quickest and most comfortable way to travel long distances, but they can be expensive. They are a good option if you are short on time and need to get somewhere fast. Domestic flights can vary in price, ranging from as little as $20 to up to $400.

Train

Train travel is a good middle ground between the cost of flying and riding a bus. Trains are usually faster than buses and more comfortable, but they can be more expensive. They are a good option if you want to see the country you are travelling through, as they often offer scenic views.

Bus

Buses are the most budget-friendly transportation option, but they can be uncomfortable and crowded. They are a good choice if you have a lot of time and a limited budget. Be sure to check reviews before booking, as the quality of buses can vary significantly.

Car

Renting a car can be a convenient option if you want the freedom to travel at your own pace. However, it is important to consider the driving laws and requirements of the country you are visiting. In some countries, you may need an international driver's permit or additional insurance.

Boat

Boat travel can be a cheap and unique way to get around, especially if your destination is accessible by water. However, boats can be prone to seasickness and overcrowding.

In addition to these options, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft have made transportation while travelling much more accessible and convenient. These apps are available in most countries and can be a safe and affordable way to get around.

When it comes to accommodation, there are also several options to consider:

Hotels

Hotels can range from budget-friendly options to luxurious 5-star resorts. They are a good choice if you want a comfortable and convenient stay, but they can be more expensive. When choosing a hotel, consider factors such as location, reviews, amenities, and price.

Hostels

Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative to hotels. They usually offer shared dorm-style rooms and may provide access to kitchens and common areas. Hostels are a good option for social travellers who want to meet other people.

Apartment Rentals

Apartment rentals can be a great option if you want more space and privacy. They usually come with kitchens, which can save you money on dining out. Apartment rentals can be found on various websites, and prices can vary depending on location and amenities.

Home Stays

Home stays, such as Airbnb, offer a unique and immersive experience. You can stay in someone's home and get a local's perspective on the area. Home stays can range from renting a room to having the entire place to yourself.

Volunteering/Work Exchange

If you are looking for a more immersive and budget-friendly option, consider volunteering or doing a work exchange. Programs like Au Pair and Workaway offer free accommodation in exchange for work, such as childcare or agricultural labour.

When choosing transportation and accommodation options, it is important to consider your budget, timeline, and personal preferences. By comparing the different options, you can find the best choices for your trip.

Give a heads up to your credit card issuer

When travelling abroad, it is important to give a heads-up to your credit card issuer to avoid any inconvenience. Here are some reasons why you should inform your credit card issuer about your travel plans:

Avoid Suspicious Activity Flags

Credit card companies monitor cardholders' accounts for any unusual or suspicious activity. If they notice a transaction from a foreign location, they may flag it as suspicious and decline the charge or even suspend your account. By informing your credit card issuer about your travel plans, you can avoid this inconvenience and continue using your card without any hassle.

Ensure Smooth Transactions

When you notify your credit card issuer about your travel plans, they will know that any transactions made from your destination are likely authorised by you. This is especially important if you are travelling to a country or location where fraudulent charges are more common. Without a travel notice, your credit card issuer may not recognise the foreign transactions as legitimate, leading to declined charges and a disrupted travel experience.

Take Advantage of Fraud Detection Technology

Many credit card companies have advanced fraud detection tools that can identify when you are travelling, making travel alerts less necessary. However, it is still a good idea to update your contact information and ensure your card issuer has your current details. This ensures they can reach you quickly if they detect any potential fraudulent activity on your account.

Understand Card Acceptance and Fees

Before travelling, check with your card issuer to understand their acceptance and fees for international transactions. Some credit card issuers, such as American Express and Discover, have smaller payment networks outside of the United States and may not be as widely accepted in certain countries. Additionally, some issuers charge foreign transaction fees, typically ranging from 1% to 3% of each purchase. By informing your card issuer about your travel plans, you can clarify these details and choose the best card for your trip.

Set Up Travel Notifications

You can typically notify your credit card issuer about your travel plans by calling their customer service number, or through their website or mobile app. Log into your account, select the relevant options, and input your trip details. This simple step can save you a lot of trouble during your travels and ensure a smooth transaction experience abroad.

Frequently asked questions