Preparing for International Travel

By: Carrie Fulton
September 28, 2023

This year, I have dozens of people traveling internationally, so I wanted to take this opportunity to share some tips for making that travel easier.

1. Notify your bank and credit card company

In the interest of protecting you and your money, your card could be declined in a different country. Sometimes the first few transactions clear but ones later in the trip are declined meaning you now have to call the bank or credit card company to open things back up. Letting them know ahead of time will save you both embarrassment and time.

2. Add in buffer time

Never book a tight layover (i.e. less than 3 hours) as you enter a destination country! This is when you will have to go through customs, so you'll have to get your bags, go through customs and immigration, and recheck your bags before heading to your gate. The buffer allows for the possibility of a delay in your departure as well as lines. Take the pressure off and enjoy the free wifi.

3. Check your phone's data plan

Generally speaking, you'll be charged for using your phone off of wifi (AND using it as a hotspot for your laptop) unless you have it as part of your data plan. Double check BEFORE you depart to ensure you don't get extra charges during your trip. If you want to avoid charges, be sure to screen shot any confirmation documents for transfers and hotel bookings so you have a record and leave your phone on airplane mode until you arrive at your hotel!

4. Pack smart

What you pack in your carry-on can make or break your experience! Be sure to pack your medications, chargers, battery packs and an empty water bottle to fill up at the terminal after you're through TSA. Pack a book and download some entertainment to your phone or tablet. Also consider a change of clothes, travel pillow, toothbrush, compression socks, layers for the flight so you aren't too hot or cold and glasses as well as a contact case and solution if you wear corrective lenses.

5. Check your passport

Your passport needs to be valid for six months from your dates of travel! So, check your paperwork as soon as you even consider booking anything international. The turnaround time for renewals is about eight weeks while new passports take up to 12 weeks. It could take an additional week for your passport(s) to be delivered.

6. Check electronics

Not all countries have the same kind of electrical outlets. Be sure to look into your destination to see what type of plugs they use, and buy adapters for your phone, laptop and tablet chargers as well as any other things you may plug in such as a CPAP machine,

preferred alarm clock or hair styling tools. Also bring all versions of adaptors in your carry on bag because charging ports don't always work at airports.

When you’re ready to start planning your next trip, e-mail me at cfulton@wishesfamilytravel.com or fill out this form.