Tips for First Time International Travelers

by Elizabeth Jewell, Demand Media


 

Your first sight of Rome's Colosseum can be an awe-inspiring experience.

Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

 

If you are planning your first international trip, your excitement may be tinged by apprehension. Going out into the unfamiliar world is an adventure -- one that will be a lot more enjoyable if you're well-prepared. Research and planning can add to your comfort and safety, but even more, the planning process itself can be part of the fun as you anticipate all you can see and do.

Paperwork

 

Get a passport or renew yours if it's due to expire soon. If this is your first passport, you can print out the online application at the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov), but you must submit the application in person at your nearest passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or library. You'll need to bring the complete application, identification, proof of U.S. citizenship, photocopies of your identification documents, a photo of the required size and type and the fee. Do not sign your application until instructed to do so. Getting your passport can take up to six weeks; expedited service is available at an extra charge.

Check the State Department's website to see if you'll need a visa for the country you are planning to visit.

Make sure your credit and debit cards are current and let your bank or credit card companies know you are planning to travel abroad. Confirm that you can use your cards where you are going. Keep a list of your card numbers and the phone numbers of the card companies in case any of your cards are lost or stolen. Compile a list of emergency contact numbers; don't forget a list of addresses -- or, better yet, print labels ahead of time -- for friends and family to whom you'll want to send postcards. Keep copies of your itinerary and any travel and hotel confirmations. Get travel insurance.

Health and Safety

 

Get a physical exam before you go and make sure all your prescriptions are up to date. Travel with sufficient supplies of all your medications to last throughout your trip, but also take copies of the written prescriptions in case you need refills. Make sure your medical insurancecovers you abroad. Get any vaccinations required for the area you'll be visiting. Pack basic first-aid supplies, including pain relievers, bandages, antibiotic ointment and medication for digestive upsets or diarrhea. Don't forget sunblock and sunglasses. For your general safety when traveling, make sure your passport and money are always secure -- a passport holder you can wear around your neck under your clothing is a good investment. Be aware of your surroundings, and exercise good sense by not walking around at night unless you know the area to be safe.

Packing

 

Research the climate ahead of time so you pack appropriately. Almost any climate can have chilly or rainy periods, so a lightweight, waterproof jacket will come in handy, along with tops you can layer if you need warmth. Comfortable walking shoes are a must; even if buy a new wardrobe for your travels, take shoes or hiking boots that you've broken in. Separates that you can mix and match are practical and reduce the amount of clothing you'll need. Remember, you'll be seeing different people throughout your trip, so you can wear the same outfit over and over. Don't forget your personal electronics, camera, cell phone, chargers and adapters if they are needed for the country you are visiting. Resist the tendency to overpack, as most airlines have weight restrictions for luggage.

Research

 

Do plenty of research ahead of time. Know how you will get from place to place, and order a rail pass if you plan to travel by train. If you're renting a car, be aware that, unlike the U.S., many places in the world will give you a manual-transmission vehicle; automatics, if available, may cost more. Make your lodging
reservations, keeping in mind that a centrally located hotel can be worth the extra expense if it saves you valuable time getting to the sights. You can make reservations or get tickets ahead of time for many popular sites and museums. Plan what you want to see but allow some flexibility so you can relax and soak up the experience of being in a foreign land. Find out what you can about local foods and culture. Pack a phrase book so you can use simple phrases in the local language -- "please" and "thank you" go a long way. Finally, relax, knowing that you can't plan for everything, but you've done what you can to ensure a great experience.