Tips for First Time International Travel Outside of America
Ready to Plan a trip outside of the US but a little nervous? Here are 10 tips for first time international travel!
Hey there globetrotters-to-be! If you landed on this page, you either have a trip booked or are considering traveling outside of America.
Are you ready to break out of your comfort zone and embark on your first international adventure? Get ready to experience new cultures, flavors and sights. But before you hop on that plane, here are my top tips for first Time International Travel Outside of America.
Tips for First Time International Travel
Passport Prep
Let’s start with the basics. Make sure your passport is up to date and won’t expire soon after your trip. Trust me, you don’t want to be stuck at the airport or dealing with customs because your passport isn’t valid.
I use gov+ for all of my government documents, including passports & TSA Pre Check.
Do You Need a Visa?
Depending on where you’re headed, you might need a visa to enter the country. Do your homework well in advance and get your visa sorted to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
I recommend using e-visa to easily find & apply for last minute visas before you travel. If this is your first time international travel booking – it’s worth planning ahead.
Money Matters
Familiarize yourself with the local currency or currencies and exchange rates. It’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you stumble upon a cash-only business.
Luckily, credit cards are generally pretty easy to use anywhere in the world. Just don’t forget to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any surprises when using your cards abroad.
I use a currency converting app on my phone to make things easy!
Language Lifeline
While English might be widely spoken in some places, learning a few basic phrases in the local language can make things a lot easier and help you feel more comfortable.
Apps like Babbel can help you brush up on your language skills before you go. You can also use the translator on your phone or buy a translator to carry with you.
Safety First
Your safety should always come first. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and trust your instincts. And don’t forget to invest in a sturdy travel lock to keep your belongings safe and sound.
App-tastic Adventures
Download some handy travel apps to help you navigate your way through unfamiliar territory. From mapping apps like to currency currency converters, these apps can be real lifesavers for first time international travel – especially when you’re on the go. A few favorites include:
Google Maps: This app is indispensable for navigating unfamiliar territories, finding nearby attractions, restaurants, and public transportation options, and even exploring offline with downloadable maps.
TripAdvisor: Whether you’re looking for accommodations, restaurants or activities, TripAdvisor provides millions of traveler reviews, photos, and recommendations to help you plan your trip and make informed decisions.
Mobile Passport: Skip the long lines at immigration with Mobile Passport, an official app authorized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It allows eligible travelers to submit their passport information and customs declaration form electronically, speeding up the entry process at select airports and cruise ports.
Hopper: Want to find the best deals on flights and hotels? Hopper uses data-driven algorithms to analyze prices and predict when flight and hotel prices are likely to be the lowest, helping you save money on your travel bookings.
Uber or Lyft: These ride-sharing apps are available in many countries around the world and provide a convenient and often more affordable alternative to traditional taxis. Just make sure to check if they operate in your destination before relying on them.
WhatsApp: Stay connected with friends and family back home without incurring expensive roaming charges by using WhatsApp. This popular messaging app offers free text, voice, and video calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data, making it ideal for staying in touch while abroad.
Airline Apps: Download the apps of the airlines you’re flying with to check-in online, access mobile boarding passes, track flight status in real-time, and receive important updates and notifications about your journey. If you’ve got an iPhone, you can add airline widgets to your Home Screen with easy access to flight information.
Citymapper: Great for public transportation – this app offers detailed transit information, including real-time arrival times, route options, and disruption alerts for buses, trains, subways, and bike-sharing services, making it invaluable for navigating public transportation in urban areas.
Health Help
Prioritize your health by packing a travel-sized first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers and any prescription medications you might need. I find this really helpful when traveling to foreign countries where I might have a hard time reading the language.
Cultural Connections
Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying new foods, participating in local customs and learning about the history and traditions of your destination. Websites like Lonely Planet and TripAdvisor can help you discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Don’t Forget to Pack…
A few basic things to remember, regardless of where you’re going or the time of year! Some of my packing tips for first time international travel and old pros:
- Travel Documents: This one goes without saying, but always double-check that you have your passport and any necessary visas or travel documents. Keep them in a secure, easily accessible place. I also bring physical copies of all flights, transportation, accommodations & bookings.
- Travel Wallet: Keep your money, credit cards, and important documents organized and safe in a travel wallet. Look for one with RFID-blocking technology to protect against electronic theft.
- Universal Adapter: Don’t let different plug types ruin your trip – pack a universal adapter that works in multiple countries. Make sure it’s compatible with the sockets of your destination.
- Portable Charger: Keep your devices juiced up on the go with a portable charger. Opt for one with multiple USB ports and a high-capacity battery to keep you powered throughout your travels.
- Comfortable Shoes: Whether you’re exploring cobblestone streets or trekking through nature, comfortable shoes are a must. Pack a pair of versatile, supportive shoes that can handle all types of terrain.
- Packing Cubes: Stay organized and maximize space in your luggage with packing cubes. These handy organizers help separate your clothes and keep everything neat and tidy throughout your trip.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while reducing your environmental footprint with a reusable water bottle. Look for one with a built-in filter for safe drinking water wherever you go.
- Travel-Friendly Clothing: Pack versatile, wrinkle-resistant clothing that can be mixed and matched for various occasions. Consider the weather and cultural norms of your destination when selecting your outfits.
- Sun Protection: Don’t forget to pack sun protection essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hats. Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you can’t get a sunburn!
- Portable Laundry Kit: Keep your clothes fresh on the go with a portable laundry kit. Look for travel-sized packets of laundry detergent or invest in a wash bag that allows you to hand-wash clothes easily.
- Entertainment: Long flights and layovers can be tedious, so don’t forget to pack some entertainment options like books, magazines and a tablet loaded with movies and games.
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