5 Essential Things To Do Every Time You Travel Internationally

Based on years of travel experience (and the occasional hard-learned lesson!), here are the five essential things to do every time you travel internationally. Trust me, if you have these 5 things covered beforehand, your travel journey will be so much easier.

1. Check Your Passport’s Validity

Making sure that your passport is valid is one of the most important steps in preparing for international travel.

Airlines, especially are required to follow strict entry regulations of your destination country, and if your passport doesn’t meet validity requirements, you could be denied boarding your flight.

Many countries require a six-month validity window beyond your travel dates, and airlines won’t let you fly if your passport does not comply. To avoid the stress of being stopped boarding a flight, it’s crucial to check your passport’s dates and confirm the validity rules for your destination in advance. Having a current and compliant passport ensures your travel plans proceed without disruption.

This is the checklist I use to ensure my passport is always valid for travel:

• Validity Period – Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date. So keep your passport renewed at least 6 months before it expires.
• Undamaged Passport – Passport is in good condition, with no tears, water damage, or missing pages.
• Blank Pages – Some countries require at least two consecutive blank pages in your passport for entry/exit stamps. So always have two consecutive blank pages.
• Matching Information – The name on your passport must match the name on all your travel tickets and travel documentation.
• Biometric Data – If your passport includes a chip, ensure it is functioning properly and not damaged.
• No Alterations – Passports with any unauthorised alterations or markings may be considered invalid.
• Emergency Contact Information – While not mandatory, it’s a good idea to fill out the emergency contact section in your passport.

2. Obtain the Right Visa or Travel Approvals

Every country has unique visa and entry requirements, and this another essential things to do before you travel internationally. You may need a specific visa for your holiday, work trip, or even a layover, depending on the rules of each country. Always check visa and entry requirements for the country you are travelling to, including any stop overs and flight connections.

How To Tackle Visa Preparation

Here’s a comprehensive list of things to do to help with your visa or travel approval process :

• Visit Official Government Websites – Start with the most reliable source of information. Government immigration websites provide the specific entry requirements for your nationality and detail the documents needed if a visa is required. If your travel plans are in the future, keep checking as rules can change.
• Research Visa Processing Times – Check how long it takes to process the type of visa you need. Some visas are issued within days, while others may take weeks or even months. Apply within the recommended timeframes based on your travel dates to avoid last-minute stress.
• Check Out Visa Services – If a visa is required, research professional visa service providers like iVisa or VFS Global. These services can assist you with your application process, helping you manage paperwork and ensuring all forms are correctly submitted. So always consider using these services.
• Use Forums & YouTube for Guidance – Online forums and Youtube are excellent resources for firsthand experiences. Look for advice from travellers of your nationality who’ve successfully secured the same visa or travel approvals you need and follow their tips.
• Understand Visa Waivers & Electronic Authorisations – Even if a visa isn’t needed, you may still require an electronic travel authorisation. For example when you visit the US, an ESTA is need or an eTA for Canada. Again, check your government website for guidance and instructions on how to apply. Many countries have their own Apps, so download asap to your smartphone in preparation. Remember to apply within the required timeframe and make sure the approvals are in the same window that you are travelling in.
• Prepare Supporting Documents – Ensure you gather all required documents, such as passport photos, financial proof, return flight tickets, accommodation details, and any letters of invitation if applicable. Every country has unique requirements, so double-check what is required.
• Budget for Fees – Be aware of visa processing fees and ensure you’re prepared to pay upfront. Some countries require additional charges for expedited processing or multiple entries, so check what applies to your situation.
• Check Visa Validity & Restrictions – Make sure you apply for the correct visa to cover the purpose of your trip. Review the duration of stay allowed and any restrictions on activities, for example not studying on a holiday visa. Overstaying your visa or not complying with the visa you obtain can result in significant consequences.
• Double-Check Transit Visas – Some countries may require a transit visa even for a layover or taking connecting flights. So check visa requirements for the whole journey; and not just your end destination.

3. Get Travel Insurance As Soon As You Have Booked

Travel insurance might seem something you organise nearer the time, but it is so important that you arrange your insurance as soon as you have booked your travel.

This is because things come up even before you leave home. Therefore, travel insurance can protect you from financial loss if unforeseen events disrupt your plans. For example, if a family emergency or sudden illness forces you to cancel. By purchasing travel insurance as soon as you book, you ensure coverage for any potential hiccups leading up to your departure. Thus, saving yourself from stress and financial loss from not being able to travel.

Travel insurance of course is just as crucial when you are away from home. From trip interruptions, medical emergencies to lost or stolen belongings; comprehensive travel insurance is a essential. Your travel policy must cover the following:

• Medical – For protection for medical emergencies.
• Trip Coverage – Coverage for cancellations, delays, or interruptions.
• Baggage & Personal Items – Protection for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and valuables.
• Adventure Cover – Ensure you have the right cover for all your travel activities, including cruise cover, skiing, scuba diving etc. Do not assume you are covered, make sure the policy you buy covers you properly.

4. Check Your Vaccines & Health Requirements

Another essential thing to do every time you travel internationally is to check vaccine and health requirements. International travel can expose you to new environments, cuisines, and potential health risks.

Some countries even mandate proof of specific vaccinations, like yellow fever, for entry. Therefore, it is important that you have checked and are up to date on your travel health before entering a country.

How to Stay Ahead on Travel Health

• Update Your Routine Vaccines – Ensure that all your routine immunisations, like tetanus are up-to-date.
• Research Destination-Specific Requirements – Some regions have unique health precautions. For instance, parts of Africa and Asia may require malaria prophylaxis, while South American countries may need you to have your yellow fever vaccination.
• Visit Your Doctor Or A Travel Health Clinic – Book an appointment with your doctor or a travel health specialist ideally 4–6 weeks before departure. They can provide tailored advice and ensure you’re protected with the right immunisations for your trip.
• Stay Updated with Reliable Sources – Check trusted health resources like your government website, CDC or WHO for the latest travel health updates and health guidelines for your destination.

5. Review Airline Baggage Policies

Not all airlines have the same baggage or carry-on policies , so being unprepared can lead to surprise fees or, worse, leaving things behind. Always check your airline’s specific policies before travelling, never assume it will be the same for all airlines.

Airlines often follow one of two systems for checked luggage: a “piece system” or a “weight system.” The piece system, common for travelling around North and South America, allows you to check a specific number of bags with weight and size limits per bag.

On the other hand, the weight system, ofter used when travelling in Asia, Europe, and Africa, sets a total weight allowance regardless of the number of bags.

Knowing which system is used based on your airline and destination country can save you from paying unexpected fees and stress. Furthermore, it lets you plan how to pack smartly and stick to the limits without stress.

It’s equally important to review the policies for carry-on bags. Carry-on restrictions often include size limits for overhead bins, weight limits, and allowances for personal items. Some airlines may only permit one small bag on board, while others also allow a smaller, additional bag such as a laptop bag or purse.

Finally, for all luggage, pay close attention to prohibited items, such as power banks, liquids, or specific electronics.

So To Wrap Up On 5 Essential Things To Do Every Time You Travel Internationally…

Preparing for international travel can feel like a lot of work, but covering off these 5 essential things to do every time you travel internationally ensures smoother journey.

For some more great travel hacks, head to our dedicated Travel Hacks page.