You’re preparing for your first trip abroad. Congratulations! Yet, there are so many things to consider before you depart — when and how to do them right? And what to do, actually? No worries — here is a detailed plan for you. We’ve gathered some must-do actions to take before you go on your trip. Our guide covers all safety and comfort essentials such as currency issues, a need to track phone by number, document management, and booking specifics. Keep reading for more details!
Financial and Communication Setup
The first key area that needs attention is your financial and communication setup. It ensures you have access to funds and can stay connected while abroad — first needs for a smooth experience.
Currency Management
Remember that cash is still king in many parts of the globe, especially in remote areas or at small local businesses. Having some local currency on hand is essential for immediate expenses like transportation, tips, or small purchases when you first arrive.
However, carrying a lot of cash is still risky. Instead, consider loading up a travel-friendly debit or credit card that’s linked to your main bank account. Some popular travel cards, like the Chase Sapphire or the Capital One Quicksilver, offer favorable exchange rates and fraud protection.
Additionally, consider researching ATMs at your destination that won’t charge exorbitant withdrawal fees. Many international banks partner with local institutions to offer free or low-cost withdrawals. Notify your bank about your travel dates so your card doesn’t get blocked for suspicious activity.
If you prefer carrying cash, exchange some currency before your trip—many airports and exchange kiosks offer competitive rates for immediate needs. Be sure to keep a separate stash of backup cash in a hidden location, just in case you need it.
Communication Setup
There are two primary ways to manage your phone’s connectivity while abroad: getting an international data plan from your current carrier or purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival. The choice depends largely on your destination and how long you plan to stay.
If you’re traveling for a short period, a prepaid international data plan from your current provider might be the most convenient option. Many carriers offer plans that allow you to keep your original phone number and use data, texts, and calls while traveling. They can be pricey, so check the rates for your specific destination before committing.
For longer stays or more frequent travelers, a local SIM card may be a more cost-effective solution. SIM cards are widely available in most countries, and you can often find them at airports or local convenience stores. Purchasing a local SIM eliminates expensive roaming charges and provides faster speeds at lower costs.
Stay Connected With Loved Ones
Use specific apps to share your location with friends or family while traveling, especially if you’re traveling solo or heading off to unfamiliar places. For example, Number Tracker shares your real-time location with someone back home or with you on a trip.
If you’re meeting up with a friend at a specific landmark or restaurant, you can use Number Tracker to share your current location. This eliminates any confusion and helps both of you meet up more easily. In case of emergencies, sharing your location will make it easier to find you quickly.
Practical Tips for Setting Up Your Communication Plan
Here are a few practical tips to ensure your communication setup goes off without a hitch:
- Test your international plan before departure. Try making calls or sending texts while connected to Wi-Fi to ensure everything works properly.
- Download offline maps for your destination. Google Maps and other navigation apps allow you to download maps of the area so you can access them without using data when you’re on the go.
- Set up emergency contacts on your phone. Store emergency numbers for your embassy, local hospitals, or any travel contacts.
Travel Documents
Your travel documents must be valid, accessible, and organized well in advance. The paperwork needed for international travel is often more complex than we realize, so put patience in there. Here are the key documents you need to check and manage before departure:
- Passport: First and foremost, make sure that your passport is in order. This is the most important travel document you’ll need, so check its validity well before your trip.
- Visa: Depending on where you’re going, you may need a visa. Apply for any necessary visa well in advance, as processing times vary and sometimes take several weeks or longer.
- Copies: It’s also a good idea to make photocopies or digital scans of your passport, visa, and other important documents. Keep one copy with you in a separate location from the originals, and email copies to yourself for easy access in case they are lost or stolen during your travels. This will speed up the replacement process and reduce the stress of handling document loss.
- Travel Insurance: No one wants to think about accidents, but travel insurance will make it all easier. Healthcare costs can be high, flights and trains can get cancelled, baggage can get lost, so prepare for this in advance.
Accommodation Arrangements
The last thing you want is to show up at your destination without a place to stay, so let’s care about accommodation long before departure. Whether you’re staying in a hotel, an Airbnb, or university dorms for a study-abroad experience, confirming your stay before departure will save you time, effort, and money.
Before booking, research the location of your accommodations. Check for proximity to key locations, public transportation hubs, tourist attractions, grocery stores or pharmacies.
In addition to traditional hotels and hostels, consider alternative accommodations like Airbnb or vacation rentals. Platforms like Booking.com and Expedia filter your search based on specific needs, such as pet-friendly accommodations, free Wi-Fi, or breakfast included.
After securing your accommodation, double-check all the details of your reservation before departure:
- Reservation confirmation: Keep a copy of your confirmation email or a booking reference number on hand. Many accommodations will allow you to check in digitally, so info saved on your phone expedites the process.
- Check-in times: Know what time you can check in and out. Some accommodations have specific check-in hours, and if you’re arriving late, you may need special arrangements.
- Special requests: If you have any specific needs or requests, such as early check-in, a room with a view, or additional bedding, make sure to contact the accommodation directly to confirm availability before you arrive.
Itinerary Planning
Creating a detailed travel schedule doesn’t mean you have to follow it to the letter, but it gives you a framework that can help keep you on track. This is especially important for destinations that offer a lot to see and do, such as cities like London, Tokyo, or Rome. The key to an effective itinerary is balance—you’ll have a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and flexibility to explore spontaneously.
Apps like Wanderlog and TripIt are great for organizing your trip. They allow you to store flight details, accommodation bookings, and activities. They also suggest restaurants, tours, and attractions to make it all easier.
So how do you plan it all?
- Allocate enough time for each activity: Be realistic about how much you can do in one day. Enjoy a few key activities rather than rush through too many.
- Prioritize must-see attractions: For popular tourist destinations, top attractions should be visited early in the day to avoid crowds. This might include landmarks, museums, or famous parks.
- Incorporate local experiences: Beyond the typical tourist spots, research local events, festivals, or unique dining experiences.
- Leave room for flexibility. Sometimes the best travel experiences come from unexpected moments. Discover a hidden gem while strolling through a neighborhood or take a last-minute day trip to a nearby village!
Health and Medications
Prepare your health and medications in advance to handle any potential medical needs without stress. If you take regular medications or supplements, bring enough for the entire duration of your trip. This is crucial if you’re traveling to a far or less travelled destination. Here’s how to prepare:
- Bring an adequate supply: Bring more than enough medication to cover the entire trip, plus a little extra for delays or unexpected extensions.
- Keep medications in carry-on luggage: Always keep your essential medications in your carry-on bag for immediate access to them in any case.
- Know the regulations: Some countries have strict regulations around bringing certain medications, particularly prescription drugs. Before traveling, research any restrictions or required documentation, such as a doctor’s note or a prescription.
- Travel-sized toiletries: Pack travel-sized bottles of toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and other personal care items. Many destinations will have local stores, but it’s always better to have these essentials with you.
There are also some general health tips to follow after you’ve packed your bags:
- Stay hydrated and eat well: Traveling exposes you to new foods and environments, which can sometimes cause stomach issues. Drinking plenty of water and eating balanced meals can help prevent this. Consider packing electrolyte tablets for hydration during long flights or extensive sightseeing.
- Know where the nearest medical facilities are: Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or clinic in case of an emergency. You can research this ahead of time or ask your accommodation for recommendations upon arrival.
- Stay active and stretch: Long flights or bus rides can lead to stiffness or discomfort. Stretch during your flight and incorporate some light walking into your daily itinerary to keep your circulation flowing.
Now you are all-prepared for each stage of your trip. Have a great experience wherever you go without stress and over-planning!
