Taking a trip overseas is a totally different ballgame, even if you’re used to traveling all over your home country. Some specific tasks and tricks must be considered when flying off to unfamiliar territory.
While you might be feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of such a big trip, following the right steps will help ensure you’re on track and have nothing to stress about.
Here are the eight most important steps to take before you jet off.
Secure All Your Travel Documents
Getting all of your papers in place is surely one of the most stressful aspects of traveling overseas. What if you get to the airport only to find you’ve forgotten your passport?
To avoid disaster, start by making a list (long before your trip!) of all the documents you’ll need and start securing them. This will include an up-to-date passport, your approved visa, documents from any travel insurance plans you’ve taken out, an international driver’s license, vaccination records, etc.
Research Your Destination
You also need to dig deep into the country you’ll be visiting. Spend some time researching your destination to learn about the culture, societal norms that might differ from your own, and what the people are like. Consider learning some basics of the language and figure out if there are any safety concerns to be aware of.
You can also use this time for fun research – what are the best things to do, see, eat, and experience there? Make a list of the exciting things you want to experience.
Create a Detailed Itinerary
If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. If you want your trip to be all about going with the flow, you can skip this part, but if you have specific things you want to do and see, it’s a good idea to craft a thorough itinerary.
Plan out where you’ll be staying, transportation like public transport or chauffeur services, where you’ll be eating, etc.
However, even with a detailed plan, make sure to leave some room for spontaneity!
Health Precautions
Your health is always important, and you don’t want to neglect it when you travel. Take time to prepare for how you’ll manage your health while away.
Start by visiting your doctor and talking about any vaccinations you might need. Then, stock up on your prescription medication and any other meds or supplements you need on a regular basis.
Additionally, a small and compact first aid kit is a great piece to pack into your carry-on and keep with you while you explore.
Financial Prep
We all know that travel is expensive. Creating a detailed budget for your trip will help you manage funds and avoid overspending. Consider any and all possible expenses, from flights and accommodation to drinks on the beach.
You’ll also need to consider how you’ll spend. Look into the most affordable way to exchange your currency, or research the benefits of using an international credit card instead. Depending on what method you choose, you might also need to inform your banks that you’ll be spending out of the country to avoid having your card blocked.
Get Connected
In 2024, vanishing to another country without another word simply wouldn’t do. You’ll need to let your loved ones know you’re safe, and you’ll probably want to share regular updates of the beautiful sights you’re seeing on your socials.
Plan ahead for how you’ll get connected overseas! Look into options like international roaming, buying a local SIM card at your destination, or simply hopping from Wi-Fi network to Wi-Fi network, if that’s what you prefer.
Being connected is important for a million different reasons and shouldn’t be left to the last minute.
Pack Smart
Even if you consider yourself a professional packer, planning ahead is best. Your overseas trip isn’t quite the same as a quick overnighter!
Take a look at the weather forecast for the time you’ll be away and try to pack accordingly. You should also pack for different occasions and activities – hiking, a smart dinner outing, lounging around in the hotel room, etc. Pack all the essentials and things you’re sure you’ll need, but beware of overpacking.
Prep Your Home
Finally, before you embark on your journey (you’re almost there!), make sure your house is as well-prepped as you are.
If you have pets (or even plants), arrange for someone to look after them while you’re away. You could look into a pet sitter or a kennel for your animals or ask a friend to swing by to check on your space every few days if you don’t have any furry friends living there.
Let the neighborhood watch know you’ll be out of town for a while, and before you head out the door, make sure your security systems are all set up and that your heating and any unnecessary appliances are turned off.
