What to know before traveling out of the country
Headed overseas on vacation or business? If you've never traveled out of the country before, or have only done so a few times, you may feel overwhelmed. International travel can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be!
Read on for all the tips, advice, and insight you need to have a painless and stress-free trip.
***
Decide if you want to activate international cell service.
Having normal access to your phone and its internet capabilities will certainly make finding your way around a foreign country easier.
That said, it's not impossible to get by without it. Pretty much every major airport around the world has Wi-Fi hotspots, as do many transit hubs, restaurants, cafes, and hotels throughout international cities.
If not being connected 24/7 scares you, look into what international plans your cell phone provider offers. Alternately, consider purchasing a calling card upon arrival.
Research how to get to your accommodations from the airport.
Is it possible to take public transit directly into the city center? How long does it take versus potential road traffic? How much does a cab cost versus a rideshare? Are rideshare services even offered at this destination? These are all things to consider when planning your trip.
If you’re traveling to a country where they speak a different language, I recommend printing out the name, address, and telephone number of your accommodations before you arrive. This will help you if you get lost or encounter a cab driver who doesn’t speak English.
This is particularly useful if you travel somewhere like China or Korea, where the alphabet is entirely different. Be sure the information is written in the local alphabet, not just an English translation (I made this mistake in Thailand! The driver had no idea what address I was trying to go to because it was written in English characters, not Thai. Whoops...)
Exchange for foreign currency.
As a general rule of thumb, try to exchange in whichever country has the weaker currency. (For example: if you’re traveling from the United States to Thailand, wait until you get to Thailand to exchange. The Thai baht is weaker than the US Dollar.)
You will almost always get a better exchange rate at a bank than a currency exchange desk at the airport. However, you'll likely get the best rate by withdrawing money from an ATM. (Keep in mind that you may be charged a foreign transaction fee.)
Be sure to give your bank the head's up you're traveling overseas so they don't suspect fraud!
Brush up on basic lingo.
While nobody expects you to be fluent, taking the time to learn even the most basic of phrases will seriously help you out - both in navigating the destination, and making a positive impression on locals. After all, nothing spells arrogance more than traveling to a foreign country and expecting everyone there to speak your language. Don’t be THAT traveler.
Download Duolingo before your trip and spend a few minutes each day learning the basics - 'hello', 'goodbye', 'how do I get to____?', 'where’s the bathroom?', and 'thank you' are a great start.
Bring the necessities for international travel.
This includes a power adapter (research which kinds of outlets your destination uses), a copy of your passport, locks for your luggage, extra cash, and an external battery pack.
In addition, pack your carry-on bag strategically.
Bring an extra outfit juuuuust in case your checked luggage goes missing.
In addition, a great long-haul flight starter kit includes the following:
earplugs
eye mask
neck pillow
lotion
chapstick
toothbrush/toothpaste
face wipes
hand sanitizer
tissues
compression socks
Tylenol/aspirin
Tums
a pen
Register with the local embassy.
If your destination has any issued travel warnings, this is definitely smart, but it's honestly a good idea no matter where you're going. This lets your country know where you are, so in the event of an emergency happening at home or abroad, they can provide necessary services.
US citizens can register their trips with the Department of State here.
And finally, research local customs.
This is essential! Prior to going anywhere, understand acceptable dress for your destination, how conservative a culture is, what to expect in terms of local foods (particularly if you have dietary restrictions), and any cultural taboos.
The more prepared you are, the less stressed you'll feel overseas - and the better you'll blend in.
****