MY International Travel Preparation Tips
Hello there, people on the internet! You know that feeling when you've clicked 'Book Now' on a trip? It’s magic. But then there’s the “Oh sh*t, what now?” moment. Prepping can be overwhelming, but here are a couple of my recommendations to get you set for that adventure!
1. Passport Check: Always make sure your passport is up-to-date. A valid passport is your golden ticket to the world. It’s extremely important to remember that many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your return date, so don’t forget to double check!
2. Decoding The Dress Code: What you wear can say a lot when you're abroad. It’s not just about the weather but also about respecting local customs. My wardrobe is probably 90% basics in black, so it translates fairly well to the travel I’ve done so far. Incorporate your style into your travel wardrobe so you’re comfortable, but keep in mind there are certain places like temples and other sites that require people to cover up a bit more than you may find normal.
3. Money Matters: You NEED to let your bank know about your travels. It isn’t just a courtesy call; it's a necessity. Doing that will make sure your card doesn’t get blocked due to suspicious overseas transactions. Having some local currency on hand is essential too. Not everywhere will accept cards, especially in more remote areas.
4. Tech Essentials: Charging devices in different countries isn't always plug and play. Different countries have varying voltage levels and plug shapes. A universal travel adapter is a must-have. It'll save you the heartbreak of frying your favorite gadget. I have the Apple world adapter set that I use along with my 35W dual USB-C charging brick, and I’ve found it to be a great solution for me. IMPORTANT: check your device voltage , especially things like hair appliances. Many of these are not dual or universal voltage, and a regular travel plug adapter will NOT be enough for these, you run the risk of frying your device, blowing a fuse, or even injuring yourself. You’ll need a voltage converter, but unless it’s aaabsolutely necessary, I’d just skip whatever that device is. Finally, think about cell service and data, it can be really helpful to not just rely on Wi-Fi.
5. Stay Safe: A little research goes a long way. Knowing local safety concerns, areas to avoid, and common tourist scams can make your trip smooth and worry-free. Being informed is being safe. Also, let someone at home know where you’re going. Share your flight and hotel information as well as your itinerary if you have one. Better they know where you are and not need to do anything, but the world is a wild place.
6. Speak Like A Local: Picking up some local phrases is more than just a fun party trick. It can be crucial in a pinch. Even basic words show locals you’re making an effort, and that’s always appreciated. Stuff like “hello”, “please”, “thank you”, “how much” and “where is __” can get you a lot further than you think.
7. Pre-trip Pampering: This is about feeling your best when you travel. Whether it’s a spa day, a fresh haircut, or just making sure you’re well-rested before a long flight, taking care of yourself helps you start your trip on the right foot. I tend to do a face mask and an at home gel manicure so I can get some of those “Kate is holding a drink or food in front of a thing” photos.
8. Home Base: Before stepping out, make sure everything at home is taken care of. Whether it's ensuring your plants are watered, pausing your mail, or cleaning out your fridge – getting your home in order means you return to peace, not chaos. Full transparency, I skip this step a lot and almost always regret it, but I still haven’t learned. Shrug.
So! To sum this whole spiel up, preparation is your first step to ensuring your journey is as great as you've imagined. Do you have any special things you do to prep for a trip? Put it in the comments below!
Stay curious, stay cautious, and don’t forget to take out the trash before your flight.