Things you Should Keep in Mind before Travelling Internationally The A to Z of International Travel
When it comes to travel, we all like to be well-prepared and definitely well-rested. While, that goes without saying, this post highlights all the big and little things that you should keep in mind when travelling internationally. This is important becausewe’re accustomed to certain ways of functioning in our home country; that will very likely differ from the norms in foreign countries!
Let’s start with the things that you definitely cannot take-off without:
- OriginalDocuments and Copies
This is indeed the first thing you’ll probably think of when planning an international trip. Make sure to cross- check the dates on your passport,visa and, even your ticket. In a rush one can often confuse dates and timings, so best to reaffirm them and make copies of all your important travel documents to be on the safe side.
- Information on Prohibited Items andLaws inDifferentCountries
Every country has its list of prohibited items and you should make sure you don’t have any of them in your bags because you’ll get caught at customs.Check online about customs rules and policies for each country. There are different laws in each country with respect to moving around and, traffic too. You should check about these carefully and, make sure you stay out of any trouble.
- Check for Travel Warnings and Advisories
These will inform you of whether the country you are visiting is safe. Incase there are any threats or risks involved, you should take your decision accordingly.
- Keep some amount of Foreign Currency handy and make sure you also have Activated International Banking if you wish to use your cards
You should also check where you will get good rates to exchange money. Do this well before you travel so you don’t have to make any compromises at the last minute.
- Health Check
Definitely visit a doctor before you travel out of the country and get a general check to help avoid any problems from surfacing on your trip. You should also carry enough medication in case you have been prescribed something because you may not get the same pills in other countries.
Now moving on to things that will make your life a lot easier if you have them:
- Universal Travel Adapter
Different countries have varied plugs and sockets, a travel adapter with help you counter this problem. But also check what voltage your electronics use because that also has to match.
- News and Weather Updates
It’s always a good idea to have a sense of the circumstances in whichever country you may be visiting. Besides, checking up on weather helps decide what to pack and what not to carry as well.
- Common Phrases in the Language
Knowledge of key phrases in different languages can be a real blessing in disguise. Getting stuck and not being able to communicate is easily avoidable. We advise that you make this small effort and check up on common phrases, even note them down in a small travel diary!
- Understanding of Culture
An understanding of any foreign culture equips you to dress, speak and communicate respectfully. There are certain gestures and traditions that go hand in hand with every culture and any seasoned traveler will know to familiarize themselves with these.
And lastly, here’s a few things to remember to make for a super smooth trip abroad:
- International Roaming
We all know how being connected is what keeps our heart beating these days. Check with your telecom provider or even online about good packages. While some of us can manage without these, the world is so dependent on mobile phones that it makes sense to have a working phone at all times. And, you can always switch it off if you want to be in the moment.
- Research on where to go and What to do
While you can always check along the way, no harm in having a fallback list of exciting places just in case. You’ll never regret it and it also gives you a sense of where you’re going beforehand.
- Travel Insurance
When you are investing so much in a down payment for your trip, no harm in adding on the insurance just to secure it. It’s unlikely you’ll need it but it will be more than worthwhile if you do.
- Managing JetLag
Jet Lag can change your entire experience if you don’t manage it well. Trying to stay awake and adapt to a new clock can be very difficult but remember that exercise, hydration and good nutrition are a must for minimizing the ill-effects of jet lag.
- Safe Pouch for Valuables
A sleek safe pouch to fit under your clothes is a great idea if you’re traveling alone or even to a place where security can be an issue. Put valuables like your passport and spare cards in this pouch. Besides the pouch, also remember to keep a list of emergency numbers handy.
It’s well established that research should be a top priority for anyone looking to travel abroad. Everything else stems from this ability to carry out your research. You may think you’re not good at it, but once you start it’s easy to keep going. After all, we all like to know what to expect even if we claim to only live in the moment. While research is incredibly important it’s also essential to know where to draw the line.So put away your screen and just enjoy your trip!
