10 International Travel Tips to Spark Confidence & Curiosity

Pre-Travel Planning

Passports & Visas: Don’t Leave Home Without Them!

Any list of international travel tips would be incomplete without the emphasis on ensuring you have the necessary travel documents. You must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel dates. Current wait times for US passports can be up to seven weeks for an expedited service and 11 weeks for a standard service, so it is important to begin this process as soon as possible. Additionally, while US passport holders enjoy visa-free access to 188 countries, you still need to understand the entry requirements of where you plan to visit. Head to travel.state.gov to explore all the best practices to ensure you are prepared to travel. Make copies of your documents, too. I like to have a picture of them saved in an album on my phone, double and triple check they are packed and travel confidently knowing you have everything you need to enter the country. Remember, surprises await even the most meticulous of planners. You will also want to consider coverage with a reputable travel insurance company (check out Faye) to protect your investment and give you peace of mind before and during your adventure. I have never regretted this!

Research & Destination Culture: Don’t Be ‘That’ Tourist

My favorite part of planning to travel internationally is researching the destination and culture. I have a huge fear of showing up in a country and being ‘that’ tourist who oozes faux pas at every turn. Do I mess up Sure! But, with a bit of effort ahead of time, I can minimize my blunders and optimize my experiences. You can, too! I get it, there are tons of tabs open, so many blogs and websites to navigate; it can be overwhelming. My number one international travel tip for this part of the planning process is creating a bookmarked “destination folder” containing all of the insightful websites, blogs and articles (including those AI gems - but be sure to always fact-check!), creating a curated treasure trove of local knowledge. Think hidden cafes, must-see museums and insider tips, all at your fingertips. In addition to trendy restaurants and tourist must-sees, you will want to learn about local customs, etiquette and cultural norms. It is key to have an idea about exchange rates, tipping practices and any safety advisories. If this part sounds like nails on a chalk board, you should definitely work with a travel concierge (like myself – wink). With preparation and a touch of guidance, you'll show up at the airport ready to conquer any adventure, expected or not. Remember, you don’t have to uncover the magic of travel alone! You might even score some amazing perks and upgrades along the way (who doesn't love that?).

Logistics & Booking: Master the Maze

The logistics of planning international travel can take some finesse – especially if you are planning on making stops in several different destinations. You will want to make sure you are booking flights, transport and hotels to the correct destination. Imagine planning a romantic getaway to the historic charm of Granada, Spain, only to find yourself deposited on the sun-kissed beaches of Grenada, West Indies (don't get me wrong, both are amazing, but the surprise might sting!). Trust me, booking mistakes happen all the time. Even popular sites list hotels miles away from your desired area (I see this daily as a travel concierge, hence the shameless plug again, wink wink!). My pro-international travel tip is to create a Google Maps "list" pinning airports, hotels and must-see attractions. No more wondering if your hotel is near the Eiffel Tower or miles away in the suburbs. Plus, you can easily gauge travel distances and keep your itinerary organized. Choosing the right flights, hotels and transport doesn't have to be a gamble – with a little planning and strategic pinning, you can elevate your entire international experience.

Packing with Intention: Less is More & Track Baby, Track

I like to think of myself as the ultimate packer! Put me on the amazing race and I’ll travel the world with my backpack and think I look good doing it. However, when you are thinking about international travel, packing light and strategically can feel daunting. I have never come home from a trip and said I wish I would have packed more. Avoiding checked bags is a beautiful travel dream, but be realistic with yourself and have luggage that complies with TSA and airline regulations that can be found on the airline's website (Away is a favorite brand to check out). Either way, it is super easy to keep tabs on your bag by putting on an air tag or alternate tracking device. If you are checking a bag, keep a basic first-aid kit, TSA-approved personal hygiene items (you are allowed a quart-size bag with liquids, gels and aresols that are less than 3.4 ml) and any medications you might need, including those that keep you safe at your destination such as antimalaria medications, in your carry-on as well as a change of clothes and a swimsuit and flip-flops in case your bags are delayed. Waiting for delayed bags on the beach will always help! If you are hoping to stay connected to home (fingers crossed you don’t have to stay connected to work), pack your universal travel adapter and remember your charger for all your devices. You will also want to make sure that you have your essentials, including clothes that can be layered and mixed and matched, quick-drying fabrics that you can wash in a pinch and versatile shoes (I love my Rothy’s clogs!), packing cubes will be your space-saving heroes. A bonus international travel tip is to have a general packing list on a notes app on your phone so you don’t forget these basics – you can top it up with destination-specific items each trip. Remember, packing light and strategically means more room for souvenirs, lighter burdens and a smoother travel experience. So, pack smart, pack light and enjoy the journey!

In-Transit & Arrival

Airport Tips: Chill Vibes Here

Let's face it, starting your dream vacation stressed and sweaty isn't exactly the picture postcard moment, right? So, do yourself a solid and arrive early. Bonus points for snagging TSA Pre-Check, CLEAR or Global Entry (especially in the US) to bypass the security snakepit. Trust me, you'll thank me later when you're kicking back at your gate, hydrated with a water bottle refill and munching on a jet-lag-fighting snack, while the last-minute crew sweats in the security line.

As a gluten-free traveler, I know airport food options can be a minefield. My secret weapon? Research airports beforehand. Check out the airport layout before you are at the airport, saving you stress and giving you a mental map of the airport layout. This pre-planning magic not only helps you find the best spots to cater to any special requirements but frees up brain space to handle delays and gate changes with confidence and zen. Remember, a smooth airport experience means a smoother, happier entire trip!

Customs & Immigration: Just Do It

Customs and immigration might feel like the airport dragons you have to slay, but remember, they're there to protect their homeland's health and safety (think less grumpy guard, more friendly knight!). While lines can be long and robots might roam the halls (Kigali, anyone?), a little mental armor can make the process smoother than a first-class seat. I recommend that you buckle up and set your expectations low. Imagine epic lines and a stoic demeanor, then be pleasantly surprised by a speedy breeze-through or a friendly greeting! Remember, these folks have a tough job, so patience and a smile can go a long way.

If you’re looking for a bonus international travel tip for pro-preparation, make sure that you have your documents ready before landing (visas, passports and any pre-arrival documents you were given on the plane). Oftentimes, you will not be able to use electronics until after you clear customs and immigration. Knowing what to declare helps too, making you look organized and saving precious time. So, embrace the customs dance, be cool and you might just find yourself waltzing through with a smile!

Making the Most of Your Trip

Communication & Language: A Little Effort Makes a Big Impression

While traveling internationally for more than 35 years, one thing that I absolutely know to be true is that people feel valued and seen when you put in the effort to connect. Learning basic phrases in the local language can enhance interactions and help navigate in unfamiliar environments. A tip that can help is downloading an offline translation app or dictionary for assistance. Also, please don't sweat the inevitable blunders. I once thought I was saying "I don't understand" in Swahili, but instead declared "I'm not drunk", (technically true, but imagine the laughter!). The key is that people appreciate the effort.

Beyond words, be a mindful traveler. A polite "hello", a thoughtful gesture and respecting local customs pay off big-time. You'll build connections, avoid faux pas and unlock an even richer travel experience. So, embrace the language adventure, stumble with a smile and watch the world open up in ways you never imagined!

Transportation & Getting Around: Don’t Get Lost in Translation

I will argue that having airport transport arranged or planned ahead of time can set the tone for your entire trip. In most countries that I have been to, coming out of baggage claim to find a transfer can be chaotic. You're likely tired, there might not be any signs present in English and there is likely a sensory overload surrounding you. On a recent girls trip to Amsterdam (highly recommended by the way), we rolled the dice thinking it would be easy to find reliable transport at the airport, and as we were getting in what we thought was a taxi, an incredibly kind local stopped us and told us we were being scammed. We were lucky, but planning ahead can help you avoid the need for intervention. My tip for smooth arrival is to organize transportation with your hotel or accommodation before you leave. Make sure you have the hotels and the transfer company’s numbers (on your printed-out documents in case you’re out of batteries). Even if your phone doesn’t work right away, the chances are if you don’t see them when you arrive that you will be able to find a kind local that can help you to call them.

If you are embracing local transport, download any needed apps beforehand and secure your cell service. Remember that genius "Google Maps Iist" tip? Pin your nearest transport stops - knowing is half the battle, even when faced with limited English at the station. Use these hot tips to ditch the airport chaos and embrace the journey with open arms! With a little planning, you'll be navigating like a local, humming your own travel tune and creating memories that will have you saying, "wow, that was epic!".

Exploring & Activities: Travelers Just Want to Have Fun

You’ve arrived! Now, let the fun begin. Getting clear about your travel style and desires will be essential in curating a magical experience that aligns with your hopes and dreams and of course, your budget as well. Do you want to adventure and not miss a thing? Or find your dream beach and never leave? Maybe it's a bit of both. Knowing this helps with your planning. However, a key international travel tip that I think a lot of people overlook is embracing local experts such as the hotel concierge, your taxi driver or bartender. These folks live and breathe your destination, and they hold the key to unlocking hidden gems beyond the usual tourist fare. Use your research as a springboard, but don't be afraid to be curious and ask questions. Be prepared to find that secret center a short walk from your hotel or the speakeasy in a trendy area of town you didn’t even know existed.

Leave Time for Meandering: Surprise is the Sweetest Souvenir

Now that we know each other so well (international travel is a bonding experience, after all) it is confession time: I am a recovering type-A traveler – I would cling to my itinerary like a lifeline, stressing out about veering from the plan. But, as the miles (and wrinkles!) accumulated, I learned a valuable lesson: sometimes, the most beautiful memories are born from detours, not deadlines. Think back to your most cherished travel moments. Do they involve ticking off checked boxes, or stumbling upon hidden gems? My guess is the latter. You, too, can remember exploring that Kathmandu Market and trying on Janet Jackson's custom jacket. Or taking that spontaneous trip to Bosnia on a whim, after a recommendation from your Croatian host. How about finding that unbelievable hot springs in Africa thanks to a wrong turn? These weren't just detours; they were adventures fueled by curiosity, the ultimate travel souvenir. So, ditch the rigidity, embrace the meander and see where the road (or lack thereof) takes you. You might just discover that the greatest surprises are waiting off the beaten path.

So, there you have it! A treasure trove of international travel tips to guide you on your global escapades. But remember, even the most meticulous plans can encounter unexpected detours. Delays, changes and challenges are simply part of the adventure; bumps in the road that lead to even more unique experiences.

Think of these "imperfections" as opportunities to flex your patience and embrace the unknown. True adventure often lies beyond the planned route, waiting to be discovered with an open mind. The most cherished memories might not be at the exact destinations you envisioned but hidden within the detours and surprises along the way. Remember, sometimes the journey itself is the destination, though those incredible international hotspots are still worth seeing!

If you’re keen to travel and still don’t know where to start, that's where I come in with hundreds of international journeys under my belt. I have more travel tips up my sleeve and would love to help you craft an itinerary that sparks your curiosity and helps you navigate the world with confidence. You won't regret venturing beyond the planned route - the greatest stories are often written on the journey to our destination!

Reach out today, and let's turn your travel dreams into unforgettable realities.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on international travel. In need of further inspiration? Check out Lindsay Vaughn’s trip report, Tips for Solo Travel Japan.