What Do I Need to Travel Internationally

What do I need to travel internationally? It’s a question worth asking before every trip, whether you’re traveling abroad for the first time or you’ve done it many times before.

International travel requirements change. Passport and entry requirements can be updated, new travel authorizations can be introduced, and health requirements may vary depending on where you’re going. Your own circumstances can change, too.

That’s why it’s important to review the details before each international trip. This international travel checklist covers the documents, health considerations, money matters and practical details you’ll want to check before you leave.

Travel Documents → Travel Documents You Need for International Travel

Check Your Passport

Your passport should be one of the first things you check when planning an international trip. Make sure it will be valid for your entire trip and check the requirements for the countries you’ll be visiting. Some countries require your passport to be valid for several months beyond the date you plan to leave.

You can find current passport information on the U.S. Department of State website. You may also want to read my article, U.S. Passports: Questions and Answers, for more information.

One important detail: Make sure the name on your airline reservation matches the name on your passport.

Check Visa and Entry Requirements → International Travel Entry Requirements

Not every country has the same entry requirements for U.S. travelers. Depending on your destination, you may need a visa or an electronic travel authorization before you arrive. In some countries, a visa may be available upon arrival.

Check the requirements for every country on your itinerary well before you travel. Don’t assume the rules are the same as they were on a previous trip.

If you’re traveling to Europe, you may also hear about ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System. ETIAS is not yet in operation. Once it begins, eligible travelers, including U.S. citizens, will need to obtain the authorization before traveling to participating European countries.

Always check current entry requirements before your trip, since implementation dates and requirements can change.

Health and Medications

Health recommendations and requirements can vary depending on where you’re traveling. Check the CDC’s destination-specific information well before your trip to see whether any vaccinations or medications are recommended or required.

If you take prescription medications, make sure you have enough for your entire trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Keep medications in their original labeled containers and pack them in your carry-on luggage rather than checked baggage.

Some medications that are legal in the United States may be restricted or prohibited in other countries. Before traveling, check the rules for your destination and speak with your healthcare provider or a travel-health specialist if you have questions.

Money and Credit Cards

Before international travel, check whether your credit and debit cards charge foreign transaction fees and make sure you know the PIN for any card you may use at an ATM. It’s also a good idea to travel with more than one way to pay and keep your cards in separate places.

Make sure your bank and credit card companies have your current contact information so they can reach you if there is a question about a transaction.

When paying by credit card abroad, you may be asked whether you want the charge processed in U.S. dollars or in the local currency. Choose the local currency. The option to pay in U.S. dollars may seem convenient, but the conversion rate can include additional fees or a less favorable exchange rate.

You may see the same choice when withdrawing money from an ATM. Again, choosing the local currency generally allows your own bank or card network to handle the currency conversion.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is worth considering whenever you travel internationally. Depending on the policy, coverage may include trip cancellation or interruption, travel delays, lost or delayed baggage, and medical expenses while you’re away.

Don’t assume that the health insurance you use at home will provide the same coverage outside the United States. Original Medicare generally does not cover healthcare received outside the U.S., except in limited circumstances. Other health plans have their own rules.

Before purchasing travel insurance, look carefully at what the policy covers, the coverage limits and exclusions, and any requirements related to pre-existing medical conditions. The right coverage depends on the trip and your individual circumstances.

Your Phone and Staying Connected

Before leaving home, decide how you’ll use your phone while traveling. Check with your mobile carrier to see what international service is included with your plan and what additional charges may apply. Depending on your phone and destination, an international plan or an eSIM may be another option.

It’s especially important to know how to call the United States from abroad. You may need to contact your bank, airline, travel insurance company or someone at home if a problem occurs.

To call a U.S. number from abroad, dial:

+1 + area code + phone number

On most smartphones, you can enter the + sign by pressing and holding the 0 key.

Before your trip, save important phone numbers in your contacts using the +1 format. That way, they’re ready to use if you need them while you’re outside the United States.

Adapters and Electricity

Electrical outlets and voltage vary from country to country, so checking what is used at your destination is an important part of preparing for international travel.

A plug adapter allows your U.S. plug to fit into a differently shaped outlet. A voltage converter changes the electrical voltage. They are not the same thing.

Many phones, tablets, laptops and chargers are designed to work with different voltages and may only need the correct plug adapter. Check the information printed on your device or charger before plugging it in.

Be especially careful with hair dryers, curling irons and other heat-producing appliances. Unless they are designed for the voltage used at your destination, they may require a converter or should be left at home.

One Last Check Before You Go → One Last Check Before International Travel

Crossing several time zones can also affect how you feel during the first few days of your trip. If jet lag is a concern, you may find my tips for reducing jet lag helpful.

International travel takes a little more preparation, but most of it comes down to knowing what to check before you leave. Give yourself enough time to review the requirements for your destination and take care of anything that needs attention.

Most importantly, don’t rely on what was required the last time you traveled. Rules and requirements change, and a little preparation before your trip can prevent an unwelcome surprise later.