1. Get your passport

This may be a no brainer to most but the first thing is to make sure you have your passport. Depending on the number of applications at the time you are applying this may take a couple of months so plan this several months in advance, especially if you are visiting a country that requires a visa (more on that later). You are going to need the following if you are applying for a US passport: birth certificate or proof of citizenship, an additional ID (drivers license etc), #2-passport specific photos (these can be done at Walgreens or CVS), the passport application (found here), and money for the fees. Also, make sure if you have changed your name from what your birth certificate says that you have additional proof.

2. Get a visa

This is going to be specific to where you are traveling to so look it up ahead of time as visas can take weeks to process. For the US, you do not have to have a visa to travel to Europe but for a lot of other countries this is required. You need to look to see if you need to get the visa ahead of time or if you can get it upon arriving in the country as well. For example, in mainland China you must have it ahead of time and affixed to your passport. This requires either taking your passport to the consulate in person or paying a third party company such as passport visa express. I used this company for my China visa and had no difficulties.

3. Check for vaccination requirements

Even if you are traveling to non-third world countries there may be some additional vaccination recommendations and requirements. For example, a lot of countries may cook their food different and you may need hepatitis A vaccine. Other countries have risks of typhoid, yellow fever, and Japanese encephalitis to name a few. The CDC has the most comprehensive travel information in my opinion which includes travel vaccine recommendations and travel notices.

4. Track and book flights

For most, booking your first international trip is a big deal and probably something you are planning months or even a year ahead of time. With that being said, you do not have to book your tickets this far ahead and if you do you are probably not getting the best deal. I typically book 6-8 weeks ahead of time to find the best prices. I would recommend using an app to track your flights ahead of time to tell you when is the best time to book. Personally, I like Hopper but Skyscanner is also very good. See my post on cheap flights for other money-saving tips.

5. Book in-country travel

You must decide once you are abroad whether you are going to stay in one city or travel around. For some countries you may want to book your in country travel or in between country travel ahead of time. This could be rental cars (make sure you have an international license if required), trains, buses or planes. If you are more adventurous and going to just wait until you’re traveling make sure you know how to book whether online or at the station. Keep in mind, some countries have train tickets that sell out a month in advance so do your homework.

6. Book accomodations

The next thing to do before traveling abroad is deciding what type of accommodations you are wanting. This may include hotels, airbnb, hostels, or couchsurfing for the really brave. I primarily go for hostels to save on money but realize this is not for everyone. Generally, all the hostels I have stayed in have been very safe and nothing like the horror movie lol. You can read my post on the comparisons I have between hostels and airbnbs and the 5 amenities I look for when booking a hostel for more information. Keep in mind if coming from the US especially, even hotels are very different in size in comparison to here in the states.

7. Learn a little of language

While you don’t need to be fluent in other languages to travel I personally believe that trying to learn a little of the native language is very important. You are traveling to another country and shouldn’t expect them to accommodate you just because you are a tourist. This also usually goes a long way with the locals to show that you are trying and not expecting special accommodation. Learn the basic phrases such as hello, goodbye, please and thank you at least. Additional helpful phrases are how much, where is the bathroom, etc.

8. Research the culture

Furthermore, research a little of the culture to the country you are traveling. Many countries have very different cultures to what you may be used to. For many countries, modest dress is expected especially for women. This can be for anywhere you go in the country or just when visiting certain religious or cultural sites. Other countries may have laws make some of your common everyday things unacceptable. For example, in middle eastern countries and several Asian countries, any form of public affection between the opposite sex is considered unacceptable.

9. Exchange some money

While this is not 100% necessary, the last thing I want to do when I arrive in a new country is have to find somewhere to exchange money. This may also be more expensive when abroad. Check your bank to see if they order foreign currency ahead of time to save time. This may also be very important in countries that do not take credit cards regularly. Several countries are all cash even for hotels. You can take out all the money you need ahead of time or just enough for the first couple days. If you take large amounts of cash with you ensure it is well safeguarded from pickpockets! After you are in country you can ask locals where reliable ATMs are for money withdrawal.

10. Buy travel insurance

Lastly, the last main thing I recommend doing before traveling abroad is booking travel insurance. I hadn’t done this for years but more recently I enrolled for a year-long plan to cover me traveling abroad on all my trips. In most countries, your insurance will not cover you which could leave you with huge bills if something happens. You are probably thinking through the likelihood of something happening abroad but if it does it is better to be prepared! After all, these plans start as low as $50. See my complete guide to travel insurance for more information.

Lastly, get ready to have the time of your life!

Traveling to other countries and out of your comfort zone can be hard but oh so rewarding. Remember sometimes you may get lost and plans may go awry but enjoy the opportunity and experiences you have as they will truly be unforgettable!