Before your upcoming vacation abroad, make sure you use this international travel checklist.
It’s summer, and that means vacation. If you’re eschewing the usual trip to the family cabin in favor of something more adventurous, it pays to be ready. International travel requires a fair amount of preparation, but it’s almost always well worth the effort. To help you prep for your upcoming trip abroad, make sure you do these things.
- Get the proper paperwork. Figure out what kind of documentation is needed for your destination. A passport will almost always be required, and you may also need a visa. Keep in mind that a lot of countries will want to see that your passport is valid for six months after your return date, so it’s important to renew in advance!
- Get the proper vaccinations. The CDC has a great travel webpage that allows you to pick your destination and figure out what kind of vaccinations and/or medication you’ll need to protect your health while you’re there.
- Get your money in order. Don’t assume the US Dollar will work wherever you travel! It’s a good idea to have a couple of credit cards ready to use, and call your credit card issuer in advance so they won’t think purchases abroad are suspicious and decline your card. Also, bring your bank debit card so you can withdraw cash from an ATM. Finally, write down the international contact info for your credit card companies and bank so you can call if you have any hiccups.
- Get travel insurance. Travel insurance is just as important as packing your camera to photograph the breathtaking views—if not more so! Don’t leave without a policy to cover you while you’re abroad.
Obtaining the right plan that meets all of your needs doesn’t have to be difficult. Contact the insurance professionals at Donald Weiss Insurance Services to have an expert customize a policy so you can relax into your vacation!
