international trip planning

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• Trip Planner

Trip Planner | Travel Itinerary Planner | Plan a Trip

Are you looking for an itinerary planner to plan your next trip? We know creating a customized travel itinerary manually is an overwhelming task. You have to put a lot of time into selecting destinations, booking hotels, flights, and comparing prices. On top of that calculating budgets & booking hotels and flights is another challenge that makes itinerary planning tough.

But what if all of this is done within a few minutes for you? Yes with TripHobo trip planner you can do this smartly. We have observed that many travelers end up spending more time in researching information than enjoying the actual trip. Not only first-time travelers but also experienced travelers struggle in creating perfect travel plans.

Even though it is a tedious task to create a customized itinerary, everyone agrees on the importance of itinerary for an enjoyable holiday. So Triphobo came up with this easy to use automatic itinerary planner.

How Trip Planner Works / Steps to Plan a Trip

Do you want to create your travel itinerary quickly & easily? Are you ready to use this tool now? TripHobo's trip planner plays a major role to ease the itinerary creation process and helps you overcome the pain in the trip planning .  Follow these 4 simple steps to plan a trip & let us know your experience.

1) Choose Your Destination & Dates when you want to travel

Visual algorithmic trip planner lets you choose destinations you want to travel to. You have the freedom to choose the real dates from the calendar. After selecting travel dates, planner runs algorithms to optimize a trip. It starts suggesting activities, sightseeing spots, tours and transport options with the details. For every attraction, it suggests open/close timings, time to spend, and nearby restaurants.

You can drag & drop activities and complete your itinerary within a matter of minutes. You can book yourself a nice vacation once you are sure of all the details, making you plan your trip very easily.

2) Refer to User Created Itineraries

If you have a lot of travel ideas but confused about where to start? Don't worry. Thousands of other people have visited the same destination before and created itineraries with us. Choose from a pool of more than 1 million user-generated itineraries around the globe. You can view other travelers’ itineraries for any location and duration to inspire yourself and then customize them to suit your own preferences.

3) Book Hotels and Flights

TripHobo always tries to offer the best from the travel industry to our valued planners. It has formed alliances with Expedia , Skyscanner, Zomato and Booking.com. Its ratings and reviews come courtesy of TripAdvisor whereas Google (as well as other partners) powers its location data.

TripHobo aims to cater to travelers at every stage of the travel planning process. It provides one platform to create personalized itineraries and hassle-free bookings .

4) Get Ready with a Perfect Itinerary

Once you’ve created your customized itinerary, you can print it. Save your plan for future reference or share it with your friends. When you’re ready, you can finalize and have a perfect travel itinerary ready.

Why Is TripHobo a Smart Trip planner?

There are few things included in the Triphobo planner algorithm & app which builds itinerary within minutes.

• A free virtual map-based trip planner with a smart algorithm
• International trip planner with about 1,50,000 popular destinations
• The largest repository of user-generated itineraries
• Hassle-free booking options for hotels, tours & flights
• Provides local transit options like metro, rail, bus, and car
• Calculates an estimated budget
• Provides options to save, print and share itinerary
• Strategic Partnerships with leading travel companies

TripHobo: Around the Web

• Trip of Your Own
• Traveling made easier with TripHobo
• Making The Southeast Asian Travel Connection
• Ex-HCL employee’s led ‘TripHobo’ is on a mission to become a global brand – a goto place for travel planning!
• Interview: Praveen Kumar, Founder & CEO of TripHobo
• TripHobo inks partnership with Zomato
• How a trip planning startup can succeed
• Karthik Ramachandram Co-Founder COO, TripHobo - Phocuswright Conference

Here's what travelers have to say about our travel planner

• Excellent 238

Great and genuinely wonderful website that makes a proper vacation plan simple, like it should. All reviews are 5 stars. The only suggestion I have to enhance this fantastic website is to include a mobile application. Even paying for a version without ads wouldn't bother me.

Every traveller should use this!

So much easier & more helpful than a travel agency, given lots of fantastic ideas, and was extremely helpful for planning the trip. Would strongly advise my family and friends to use this!

Great tool for trip planning. Impportantly it's free and automatically tailors travel plans to your preferences and is completely customisable. The integration with skyscanner and booking.com, and other OTA like priceline and expedia makes it very easy to plan the whole trip along with the bookings in one place.

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The 19-Step International Travel Checklist: How to Prepare to Go Abroad

Last Updated on July 6, 2023 by Michela

Traveling internationally is both exciting and intimidating – with so many moving parts to keep track of while trip planning, you don’t want to forget essentials that will make your international travel experience safe and stress-free. With this international travel checklist , you’ll know exactly the steps to take in preparing for your upcoming trip.

Preparing for an international trip is not just about deciding what outfits you’re going to wear or what activities you’re trying to cross off your bucket list or how you’re going to stay entertained on a long-haul flight .

Travel prep includes everything from researching the visa requirements of your destination to finding a pet-sitter to simply having a pen on the plane.

This international travel checklist gives an overview of all the steps you should take before departure, plus important travel tips we often overlook, to ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

Download the PDF International Travel Checklist

Step one is to convert this informative post into a handy checklist you can download and print as your international travel prep gets underway!

You will receive tons of information about preparing for international travel throughout this post, but if you’re looking for a quick and easy fix, you can jump straight to the downloadable checklist of the actionable steps you need to take.

It’s also a helpful handout to keep things organized as you’re preparing to go abroad – you have a lot to think about, so a printed list can at least streamline one aspect of your trip prep!

Not to mention you can download so much more, like a packing list or photo editing presets, since this checklist is part of The Travel Library .

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Preparing for International Travel: Before Departure

1. check visa entry requirements for your destination.

The first thing you should do when preparing for international travel is update yourself if there are any visa requirements for entering the country with the passport you hold (I have the most experience with my US passport, so I’ll mostly be referencing travel as a US citizen.)

You can do a quick check for visa requirements by country and then contact the embassy covering your jurisdiction to proceed with applying for a visa if necessary.

2. Book Plane Tickets & Other Important Reservations In Advance

As soon as you know you’re leaving the country, start looking to book flights, accommodation, car rentals, and any other reservations that would be detrimental to your itinerary to not have planned.

Use my favorite cheap flight hacks to find a flight and keep in mind countries can be strict if you don’t have a return ticket home. Have some kind of proof of onward travel or your return plane ticket when going through customs.

3. Ensure Documents Are Up To Date

The most important document for international travel is your passport. Besides not losing it, you must make sure the document is not expired.

Passport renewals should be done as soon as possible if you realize your passport is expired before your next trip.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some destinations will not allow you in their country if your passport will expire within 6 months of your trip or if you don’t have enough blank pages.

4. Enroll In The STEP Program

United States citizens should always enter their trip information into the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , offered by the US Department of State.

By entering your information, you will then be notified by email of any relevant safety news affecting your destination, including protests, emergencies, and embassy contact information.

If an emergency does occur, it makes it easier for the embassy to contact you and your family, so this is one of the most important things to do on this international travel checklist.

5. Plan For How You Will Use Your Phone

This has always been a big one for me – probably because I’ve been in countless situations where my phone doesn’t work while I travel!

You have several options for figuring out how you will use your phone abroad:

• Pay for your international phone plan through your domestic provider. (Typically expensive, but convenient)
• Only use free WiFi.
• Buy a local SIM card. (You can learn about the basics in my guide to buying a SIM card in Italy .)
• Pay for a WiFi roaming hotspot like Solis .

Depending on your budget and duration of your trip, some options are better than others. If you’re only abroad for a week, then I would just use free WiFi or pay for an international phone plan through my provider.

Anything longer and paying for a SIM card is way more worth it. The SIM takes a few days to activate, so even though it’s cheaper still than an international phone plan, it’s not very convenient for travels less than a week.

6. Notify Your Bank Where You’re Traveling To

Depending on your bank, you may have to submit a travel notification so they know what days and where you will be out of the country in order to not flag your purchases as fraud.

Also find out if the bank or certain credit card companies charge fees for international transactions.

7. Buy Travel Insurance

I typically never buy travel insurance, but going abroad is a different story. Not only is your trip abroad expensive, but your health insurance will likely not cover you for anything while you’re in a foreign country.

It is worth it to protect your trip and be prepared for any emergencies by investing in travel insurance. World Nomads has different policies for your needs and budget to keep you covered and have some peace of mind while traveling.

8. Ensure You Have Enough of Any Prescription Medication During Your Travels

Before embarking on your trip, order and pick up any medication or vitamins you will need for the duration of your trip.

Items like toiletries and clothes are easy to get abroad, but prescription medication is not something you want to forget.

Pro Tip: Always keep medicine in your carry-on in case your checked bag gets lost.

9. Obtain An International Driving Permit (If Necessary)

If you are planning to go on a road trip abroad, rent a car, or drive for any reason, then make sure to check if your US Driver’s License is valid in that country.

In most cases, you will have to get an International Driving Permit which is basically an authentication of your US Driver’s License.

Do this step several weeks in advance of your trip in case you have to wait for the permit by mail.

10. Receive Required Vaccinations (If Necessary)

The CDC has a feature to search for health information according to each destination around the globe. This includes current public health situations in the country and required vaccines, if any, upon entry.

11. Research Your Destination’s Current Conditions

What’s the weather like where you’re traveling to? Is there a holiday occurring during your travel dates? Asking yourself these questions and finding the answers will help you to avoid bumps in your itinerary as best as possible.

Being far away from home, you won’t have the same comforts and resources. Surprises like a national holiday where no stores are open or a train strike (yes, both of these happen in Italy where I live) can freak you out if you have to change around your travel plans!

Spontaneity is one of the most fun parts of traveling, but having a plan to be prepared can help you avoid sticky situations.

Handle Things at Home

12. Schedule a Pet or House Sitter

Taking a trip means you can forget about your troubles at home – well, not entirely. If you need your house taken care of or someone to watch a pet, get those services in order well before you leave for your trip.

Scheduling services last-minute can mean no availability, which creates a stressful situation, which we are trying to AVOID with this checklist!

13. Stop Mail Service

You’re on vacation, but your mail is not! If your mail piles up while you’re abroad, you run the risk of items stopped being delivered.

The US post office, for example, can usually hold mail up to 30 days . If you are traveling for longer than that, you may have to sign up for a forwarding service so your mail is received.

14. Share Your Itinerary With Friends & Family

The last step for handling things at home is to share your itinerary with someone staying behind. This tip is especially important for solo travelers, so friends and family can know where you’re supposed to be and when in case something happens.

You can share your detailed itinerary through apps like Wanderlog , where you can also update it as you travel.

At minimum, give loved ones or close neighbors an idea of where you’ll be and for how long so they can keep an eye out for things back home and know how to contact you if necessary.

It’s also to helpful to leave copies of documents like your passport with your family in case of emergency.

Carry-On Packing Essentials for International Travel

There are certain items you should always keep in your carry-on – medicine, valuables like jewelry, as well as an extra outfit (especially for international trips with connecting flights – you never know if you’ll be the unlucky one to have their luggage lost.)

Keep essentials easy-to-reach all throughout your airport experience. When you need to sign something or charge your phone, you don’t want to have to open up your suitcase and dig through your stuff at the airport gate trying to try and find a pen or charging cord.

Pro Tip: Take photos of your suitcases in case they get lost. It may assist the airline in recovering your lost bags quicker!

15. Extra Pens

It may be the simplest thing to cross off on this international travel checklist, but don’t forget to throw some pens into your carry-on bag or personal item.

On international flights, you’ll have to fill out customs forms and potentially other documentation based on the destination or airline. Always bring a pen with you and keep it accessible throughout your flight.

You don’t want to be stressed trying to ask neighbors for a pen or being unprepared for customs (they like to move quickly and efficiently.)

16. Important Document Folder

Especially when traveling alone and now in 2021 with COVID-related travel restrictions and rules still in place, I always carry an easily-accessible, closable folder that holds my important documents.

In this folder I’ll keep:

• Printed Boarding Pass
• Printed Itinerary
• Copies of any necessary documents like birth certificate, SSN, etc. (I only do this if I’m doing long-term travel, like study abroad)
• Visa Documentation
• Passport (I typically keep my passport in my WANDRD Backpack because it has a secret, unidentifiable pocket on the backside for anti-theft security)
• COVID-related Travel Documents – Proof of Vaccination, Proof of Negative Test, etc.

Keep the folder accessible for check-in and customs. You may also add customs forms to this folder along your journey to make sure you don’t lose them.

Pro Tip: Make sure to also take photos of important documents like your passport. If you lose it, it could help you get a replacement faster.

17. Portable Charger

I never leave for a trip – especially a long one- without my Anker Powercore Portable Charger . While traveling internationally, you never know what can happen.

You may have the wrong outlet adapter or the USB port in the plane cabin might not work and the last thing you want to do is be without a phone.

It may be the only place you have evidence of hotel reservations, transportation tickets, and moreover, where you can contact family and friends to tell them you’re safe.

The Anker portable chargers are the best brand I’ve come across, lasting me years, and worth the $60 in comparison to buying a cheap one that will stop working after a few charges.

Storytime! I once traveled to London for a weekend and on my return flight to Italy, the plane was stuck on the tarmac for SIX HOURS! I returned to Pisa eight hours late, having missed my bus back to Florence, and my phone had been dead for hours – which also happened to be the only place I had evidence of a bus ticket to try to get on the next bus. These are the kind of situations you want to avoid by always having a portable charger on you!

18. Universal Adapter

Along the lines of keeping your phone battery alive, you want to make sure you’re traveling with a universal adapter that will fit the plugs of the country you are traveling to!

No plug adapter equals no way to charge devices, use hair appliances, or power up whatever other electronics you travel with.

Most universal adapters are inexpensive and – as they say – universal, meaning they can work with a lot of different plug types. Make sure your destination is one of the plug types included before you purchase.

19. Cash in Local Currency

I personally prefer to use my card when I travel, but it depends on your destination and your bank’s policies if that’s a viable option for you.

For example, if your bank charges high fees for using your card abroad, then paying in local currency may be more economical. On the other hand, some destinations more than others are going to widely accept debit and credit cards.

Whether you wish to pay in cash or card throughout your travels, I recommend exchanging at least a couple of days’ worth in currency to ensure you have a backup method of payment in case of emergency.

Think about if you will need to take a taxi from the airport to your hotel and any purchases you may have to make as soon as you arrive in the country. The more things that fall into that category, the more money I would exchange into local currency.

Plus, if you forgot to notify your bank of your travels, you may not be able to take out cash from ATMs or your card may be declined.

Find out more about currency and using ATMs abroad before you go. Just remember, it’s always good to have a backup plan!

Final Thoughts

Traveling abroad is an incredibly rewarding experience. This international travel checklist covers all the serious stuff you need to take care of before your trip.

But it’s all so that you can avoid stressful situations and travel away from home with peace of mind!

I hope these tips were helpful and allow you to enjoy your international travel while being adequately prepared!

Any questions about the international travel checklist? Leave me a comment!

Save this checklist on Pinterest!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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How to Plan a Trip When You’re Short on Time—And Cash

Aaron is a Project Integration Manager at an international technology company, currently working ...

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Knowing how to plan a trip abroad comes down to patience, goal-setting, and budgeting. Don’t worry—we’ll walk you through it. ☆ Sometimes, life comes at you fast. Caught up in the day to day chores and to do lists and studying, it can be easy to lose track of time. All the sudden, you have a break coming up and you have no plans or you realize the end of your college career is on the horizon and you haven’t studied abroad yet! 

If this sounds like you, don’t fret. Just like that last minute paper, you can plan travel when you’re short on time. But, before we dive into how to plan a trip on a short budget (both time and cash), there are a few things to take into account. 

Short on time and cash? With the right resources, you’ll be onto your next destination in no time! Let the adventure begin. ?

Three things to consider when you plan an international trip

If you're wondering how to plan an international trip, the most basic principle is NOT trying to tackle all of your trip planning at once, as it can quickly become overwhelming. Hotels and transportation and location and budget and all the other parts of what make a good trip quickly become too much to handle simultaneously. 

When figuring out how to plan for a trip, it is best to start with these three key things: decide where you are headed, think about when you are planning on heading out on your adventure, and find a program that fits your schedule and budget. 

1. Figure out where you’re headed

This can sometimes be the most overwhelming part when you plan travel: with the world at your feet how can you possible chose a location?

For those strapped for time and money, we suggest looking to places that are a bit off the beaten path. Why? For one, less mainstream places are less likely to fill up as quickly, so you can buy tickets and book accommodations closer to your departure and not pay out the nose for booking last minute. 

These opportunities also offer more meaningful travel experience, and at GoAbroad, meaningful travel is something we are really into. Sure, Cabo with your friends is cool, but if a trip to Angkor Wat costs the same and offers greater chances for some truly meaningful and unforgettable experiences, it might be a better option.

The key to success! Map out your game plan and get the show on the road.✈️

2. When it comes to cost, timing is everything 

Airlines and hotels are smart enough to know when the high season is for different locales and, of course, they price gauge those choosing to travel during high season. If you learn nothing else about how to plan an international trip, learn this: The difference between visiting a locale in high season versus low-season can be the difference of literally hundreds or thousands of dollars. 

But, this works in the reverse as well. If you are able to be patient and flexible, you can find some amazing deals online to locations during low season. This can mean 80% of the same experience (maybe slightly less ideal weather or a few less available activities) but you get to travel at a steep discount. 

When you are selecting when to travel and are hoping to save some money, look into when the high and low seasons are of your final destination. This can help rule out a few locations as well as unearth some new locales you didn’t originally didn’t consider.   

Places that tend to be hotter will have their high season in the winter when the weather is bearable, making their summer low season. Of course, the disadvantage of going somewhere that is hot in the summer is that, well, it might be really hot. But if you can find a way to cope with the heat, you will enjoy a nice discount on hotels and flights. 

[ Get 5 FREE Trip Matches → ] 

If a locale has a winter off season, it can mean battling through some less than ideal weather, but again, if you can hack it, you will enjoy steep discounts. The other advantage of traveling in a low season is that there are less people, plus shorter lines for activities and less hustle and bustle. 

Look around your house for some old knick knacks you can sell— every dollar counts!?

3. Look into what adventure travel programs are available

What if the easiest way to plan an international trip...involved the least amount of actual planning? Finding a program to take you on your international adventure has a few advantages. First, it takes some of the guesswork out of travel, which is really nice if you are short on time. Many programs also will help set up everything from activities to accommodations , so all you have to do is show up and enjoy! Especially on a short term trip, this means you don’t waste any time “figuring things out” and all of your time exploring. 

How does one go about finding a program? An online advisor can help you find a program and figure out how to plan an international trip!

[ View ALL Adventure Travel Programs ]

Affordable trips to help get you started .

To get you started, below are a few awesome awesome programs located around the world. You can peruse these (and more!) at GoAbroad .

1. Study Chinese in China with CIP

Study Chinese at a Chinese university in China! CIP offers intensive language courses in some of China’s most vibrant cities. And since students who join the program are living in China, they have the opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom in everyday as they navigate life in China. 

• Where? Beijing, Nanjing, Shanghai, or Shenzhen
• When? Summer
• More info: Read CIP reviews

2. Volunteer and teach in South Africa with IVHQ

IVHQ is the answer to how to plan a trip when you’re short on time and on a tight budget. They’re low cost options make it easy to have an incredible (while still affordable) experience abroad. Volunteer teachers in South Africa will work closely with teachers in their school, helping to tutor students one-on-one. Typical subjects taught at the school could include English, Mathematics, Life Skills, Social Studies, Art and Physical studies. As a volunteer you may also be asked to help with other programs at the school, including sports programs.

• Where? Cape Town 
• When? Year round
• More info: Read IVHQ reviews

Choosing the right program will let you eat like a king for the low-low (well… kinda)?

3. Trek in India and Nepal with GapForce

You’re a different kind of trekkie. With GapForce, you can stop asking how to plan a trip and just start planning it! Join Gapforce on an amazing journey through the Indian subcontinent. This program is the perfect combo of volunteering programs in two countries followed by an epic 2,000 mile adventure. Just make sure your pack is on straight! 

• Where? Chitwan and Kathmandu
• More info: Read Gapforce reviews

4. Work as a conservation volunteer in New Zealand with GoEco

Calling all nature lovers and humans of Middle Earth! There are more than 2000 projects in need of your helping hands year-round. Most projects include challenging physical work and provide both long lasting friendships, and central knowledge about wildlife in the region. So if you’re looking to get involved with reforestation efforts and nature surveying, you’re going to want to plan this international trip asap! 

• Where? Auckland or Christchurch
• More info: Read GoEco reviews

5. Hit the waves and then the mountains in Costa Rica with Global Works

With Global Works, planning an international trip that’s meaningful is easy. Your days will include hiking through lush cloud forests, rafting the Pacuare, taking volcano tours, participating in environmental volunteer projects, taking rainforest excursions, and surfing at pristine beach locations. HELLOOOOO DREAM TRIP. 

• Where? Heredia, San Jose, Monteverde, etc. 
• More info: Read Global Works reviews

[ Browse ALL the Adventure Travel Programs Out There ]

#Mood…. At the end of the day, we die with our memories—not our money.?

How to plan a trip for you too-stoked travelers

Are you all psyched up for your upcoming international trip? Great! Below are a few more helpful resources to help you in your planning phase:

• Check out GoAbroad’s Online Advisor . Our experts can help you find the right time and program for you to travel abroad. 
• Need some ideas on how to fund your travels? Just for you: How to Fund a Trip Abroad
• Check out our article on 8 Essential “To-Dos” Before you Travel Abroad  
• 20 Best Travel Tips from 20+ Years of Travel (so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel!).

These resources are just scraping the top of the iceberg of all the great resources you can find at GoAbroad!

Knowing how to plan an international trip will be second nature

Don’t let a lack of time, money, or know-how keep you from traveling abroad. Using the resources provided above and a little bit of planning, traveling abroad can totally be done even on limited time or budget. Have a great trip! 

Find Adventure Travel Programs Now!

Explore Adventure Programs on GoAbroad.com

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How to Plan an International Trip: Practical Tips for Traveling Abroad

Posted on June 23, 2021

Categories Blog , Resources , Travel Planning

If you’re wondering how to plan an international trip and feel overwhelmed, I completely understand. There are just so many details to think about when it comes to travel planning, especially international travel planning. Don’t worry, I’ve been planning trips overseas for years and I’ve perfected this art through arranging many trips abroad.

By following this easy, step-by-step plan, you’ll have the best international trip plans ever! You can apply this practical trip planning advice to any journey, pretty much anywhere in the world. You’ll need to mostly do the same things to prepare for travel anywhere you go. Within no time, you’ll be jet setting across the world!

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

If you’re looking for how to plan a trip overseas, you’re in luck. Here are some of the basics that we’ll cover in this article that will help with your international travel planning:

• Choosing a destination and the basics
• Booking your flight, accommodations, and transportation
• Researching your itinerary
• Choosing travel insurance
• Creating a packing list and luggage
• Last minute details before you go

Table of Contents

How to Plan an International Trip: Destination, Length of Trip, Budget

There’s no shortage of places in the world where I want to travel. So many places, so little time! You probably already have a destination in mind. I’ve chosen countries in the world to visit based on a number of factors. There might be a personal connection, it might be somewhere I’ve always wanted to travel, or perhaps a good deal pops up that I can’t refuse.

Choosing a Destination

You might have a vague idea of where you want to go, but you’re not entirely sure. Thinking about visiting Europe? Check out the most beautiful cities in Europe for some inspiration. Want to base your trip around an activity, like snorkeling? Here are the top snorkeling spots in the Caribbean for some travel inspo.

You might be traveling as a digital nomad and working as you go. I wrote this guide about teaching English abroad from anywhere in the world, and I’ve listed some great locations to establish a temporary home base.

I usually choose a destination based on advice from friends, articles I’ve read on travel blogs, and photos I’ve seen on Instagram and Pinterest. I’ve also chosen destinations before based purely upon finding an incredible flight deal.

You’ll also want to consider the time of year you are traveling. Some destinations are wonderful during some seasons…and not so much during others. For instance, you might not want to travel somewhere during the rainy season or hurricane season. On the other hand, some destinations get so busy during the summer months that you’ll be battling crowds and overinflated prices. It’s important to do your research in this regard, too.

How Long Will You Travel

This will vary for everyone. You might be looking to plan a getaway for a week or two, or you could be traveling for longer. If you have a gap year or career break, you’ll have lots of time to travel from place to place.

Once you decide the length of your trip, you might want to think about how many places or countries you want to visit. Can you establish a home base and travel from there? Maybe you want to do some country hopping? Do you prefer slow travel and want to experience one place for a longer amount of time?

Plan Your Budget and Save for the Trip

Budgeting is always key. You don’t want to run out of money on your trip. Decide how much money you have for travel and how much you can save for your trip. If you’re looking for advice on saving money, I have lots of fantastic tips for saving money to travel .

When you’re thinking about how to plan a trip overseas, your budget will be one main consideration and it might even influence the destination itself. Countries in Southeast Asia are notoriously inexpensive, whereas Scandinavian countries come at a premium price.

Passport, Visa Requirements, Vaccinations

Having a passport is crucial for traveling, so you’ll want to get your passport sorted out before you go anywhere. You’ll also want to make sure your passport doesn’t expire for six months or more before you travel (otherwise, you should renew it).

While obtaining a visa isn’t necessary for many international destinations for a Canadian (like us!) or Americans, there are many places where you will need to get a visa in advance. Some of these can be obtained upon arrival at the airport. However, you can get many in advance online, usually a month before you travel. I suggest doing the research on visas before you plan anything else. Then, remember to get the visa before you go!

Some countries will require certain vaccinations to enter the country. For example, Justin and I had to get our yellow fever shots before visiting Tanzania . I suggest seeing a doctor at a local travel clinic to get the correct vaccines in advance.

Travel Planning: Book the Flight

The flight might be the most expensive part of your trip. But, it doesn’t have to break the budget. I’ve managed to score some pretty awesome deals by using travel price comparison websites when planning a holiday.

I’ve even jumped on deals at the spur of the moment, like the one I found between Toronto and New Zealand (round trip with only one stopover for $800 CDN!). It’s even possible to  find error fares  where there’s a mistake in the pricing, and you reap all the rewards.

My favorite website for comparing flights is  Skyscanner . Have you heard of Skyscanner before? It’s become quite popular and for excellent reasons. Skyscanner provides numerous ways to scour the web for the best savings on flights and travel, across airlines and third party sites. It’s the best way to go about booking the cheapest flight.

International Travel Planning: Book Accommodations

Hotels are a big travel expense, too. Depending on the duration of your trip and the type of accommodation you seek, these overnight stays can quickly add up. That’s why I always look for my hotels on  Booking.com .

I can quickly search for the city or town I’m visiting and see the price of every hotel. Plus, I can book the hotel without any strings attached. If I need to cancel my stay, I can do so without any additional costs. I love the flexibility of Booking.com.

For those on a tighter budget (or if you love hostels), I suggest beginning your search on Hostel World . You’ll find amazing, top rated hostels from around the world. The benefit of staying in hostels? You’ll be able to meet fellow travelers much easier – and save money.

Once you find a fantastic hotel, be sure to compare it to the  reviews on Tripadvisor  to make sure you’re staying in a highly recommended accommodation.

Book Transportation (Train Tickets, Car Rental)

Getting from point A to point B is an important consideration. If you are traveling to Iceland , Ireland , or New Zealand , you should consider a road trip. Renting a car will help you visit so many more places that public transportation doesn’t reach.

However, if you’re planning a Euro trip, train travel is one of the best ways to go. You could even fly from place to place, depending on the destinations. Justin and I usually travel either by car or train to get around, and we take public transportation within a city (or walk!).

Traveling By Car

Did you know that you can use travel price comparison websites for car rentals, too? Renting a car for epic road trips spanning a couple of weeks can cost thousands of dollars. Thankfully, you can  search for car rentals  on Discover Cars.

Type in your pickup location and choose from popular brands and companies for your car hire, including all both popular chain companies and local car hire services. This helps you compare prices for the cheapest and most reliable options. Also, if you’re taking a road trip, check out our road trip packing list for a safe and comfortable journey.

Traveling By Train

Thinking about traveling by train? Train travel is awesome, especially around Europe. We usually take the train if we’re in Europe as it’s really easy to get from place to place. If you’re spending a lot of time in Europe, you should consider getting a Eurail Pass . You’ll travel around with ease and save money, too.

If you’re visiting Italy, you’ll likely use ItaliaRail to get around. I suggest buying train tickets in Italy as soon as possible. ItaliaRail tends to list them four months ahead of the travel date. The earlier you purchase your train tickets, the more likely it is that you’ll get a better deal. We bought many two-for-one train tickets this way.

Airport Transfers

I love to book my airport transfers ahead of time, or at least figure out how to get from the airport to the city. After a long flight (usually they’re overnight flights, too), the last thing I want to do is struggle with my airport transfers.

This information is usually found pretty easily by Googling it online. Rome2Rio is also a great resource for sorting out how to get from one place to the next, too.

Get Travel Insurance

Getting travel insurance is one of the most important things you can do before you plan any international trip. We highly recommend that you choose SafetyWing for your travel insurance needs.

Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing has a fantastic product called Nomad Insurance . It’s perfect for those traveling long term and short term. This insurance includes medical insurance (illness, accidents, etc.) and travel insurance (trip delay, lost luggage, natural disasters, emergency response, and more). Take a look at the graphic below for even more specific details about what’s covered with Nomad Insurance.

In terms of Covid-19, SafetyWing has got you covered. Nomad Insurance covers Covid-19 treatment and unexpected quarantine outside of your home country. Coverage is the same as any other illness, just as long as it wasn’t contracted before your coverage start date.

Travel Insurance Resources

Borderless is a fantastic resource where you’ll be able to track travel restrictions, border openings and closures, and global vaccination rates. It’s updated regularly and you can sign up for email alerts to keep yourself in the know.

Here is a global directory for insurance requirements by country . This takes specific insurance restrictions by country and makes it easy to read and digest. Usually, this information is scattered in several places online and it’s hard to navigate. It’s a good idea to take a look at this directory before you travel anywhere.

Please feel free to check out our travel insurance guide for even more information on the various kinds of insurance abroad, and why you need to protect yourself when you go overseas.

Research and Plan the Itinerary

Now, for the fun part! When you’re coming up with how to plan an international trip, the itinerary is the best part. It’s time to research and plan your itinerary. I create spreadsheets and maps for my travels. I’ll figure out all of the things that I want to do in a place and list them out. Then, I’ll organize them by day, making sure not to pack too many things into one day.

When it comes to certain cities, I’ll make a Google Map and place markers for the attractions, cafes, restaurants, and more. Then, I’ll know how to get there when I’m out and about.

Plan the Best Things to Do, Activities, Attractions

There are so many ways to research the best activities, attractions, and things to do in a place. Be sure to check out our travel blog’s destinations page to see if we’ve visited as I create detailed itinerary posts so you can “steal” my trip!

Once you decide what you’d like to do, see if you have to book tickets or tours ahead of time. For tours and tickets, I usually order them ahead of time on Viator or Get Your Guide . Sometimes you can find “city pass” tickets where you’ll get huge discounts for local attractions, public transportation, and more. These are almost always worth the cost.

Find Recommended Restaurants, Coffee Shops

As I follow a vegan diet, it’s even more important that I make sure there’s excellent plant-based meals where I’m going. I will usually research by looking up vegan travel blog posts and using the Happy Cow app.

Once I find the restaurants and cafes that I’d like to visit, I place them on my Google Map and in my spreadsheet (making note of restaurant hours and location). I usually don’t plan the restaurants too much unless it’s one that I really want to visit. When I get hungry, I’ll look at my map and see which restaurant marker is closest to where I’m standing.

Create a Packing List

A packing list will depend on where you’re going, how long, and the weather. A winter trip will be much more difficult than a summer trip. And if you’re traveling between different climates in the same trip, it’s even tougher!

Bring only what you feel is necessary because you don’t want to be weighed down. You also might end up buying some clothes on your trip, especially if you visit a country where clothing is far cheaper.

Checked Bags or Carry On Only?

There are advantages and disadvantages to going with carry-on luggage only or checked bags. Bringing a checked bag will allow you to bring a lot more things. But, you will have to lug that bag around with you and you will have to pay extra fees to check it at the airport (and wait at the luggage carousel).

Carry on only is awesome because you won’t need to carry many things, plus you won’t need to check any bags. But, you’ll need to bring less items and less liquids on the plane (big bottles of shampoo are out!).

My advice? Carry as little as possible, do laundry while you’re abroad, and do what you feel is right. Don’t think you can fit all of your belongings into a carry-on bag? Bring a wheeled suitcase! There’s nothing wrong with it, and there’s no shame in it. You’re not any less of a traveler if you bring luggage with you!

With that said, I highly recommend checking out this special carry on bag by Standard Luggage . It’s the very best carry-on bag I’ve ever used. It’s designed for the traveler in mind. You can fit so much into it and it still fits in the overhead compartment. Get your Standard Luggage bag here .

What to Pack

I won’t go into too much detail about clothing. I love bringing a few pieces that you can mix and match outfits, like black leggings and flowy tops. Bring a dress or two for evenings out. Make sure you bring comfortable shoes if you’re walking around a lot. Even if you don’t think you’ll be swimming, it never hurts to pack a bathing suit. It doesn’t take up much space, and you never know!

We have lots of packing tips on our blog if you’re looking for more details. I suggest making a packing list ahead of time so you know exactly what you’ll need. Aside from clothing, here are a few things you’ll want to consider bringing:

• Universal travel adapter
• Reusable water bottle (GRAYL is the best for filtering water from anywhere!)
• Packing cubes
• Portable power bank (to charge phones and devices on the go)
• Travel locks for your luggage and belongings

Last Minute Details Before You Leave

Depending on your situation, you’ll need to sort out some last minute details before you head out on your trip. When you’re thinking about how to plan an international trip, don’t forget these small details before you leave home.

For instance, as we have two cats, we have to arrange for their care while we’re away. You might need someone to check in on your house or plants.

Make Copies of Your Passport

I always recommend making photocopies of your passport before you leave home. Store this separately from your passport. It’s a good idea to have a copy of your passport in case it gets lost or stolen on your journey.

Call Your Credit Card Company and Your Bank

Notify your bank and credit card companies before you travel. I once had a situation with my credit card overseas. The credit card company said that they no longer needed to be informed when I traveled. Unfortunately, my credit card stopped working in Sweden and I was unable to buy anything (most places didn’t seem to accept cash either!).

I had to wait until my credit card company was available to chat (not until hours later as they’re located in North America) and I couldn’t use my card until later that day. The situation could have been a lot worse, but it was very annoying to have to deal with it all on my trip.

Local SIM Card or Travel Wi-Fi Device

It’s always a good idea to get a local SIM card or a travel Wi-Fi device. You don’t want to rely exclusively on Wi-Fi for your phone because it might be unavailable. Having a local SIM card or a travel Wi-Fi device means that you’ll have access to information on your phone when you’re away. Whether it’s directions on Google Maps or looking up any last minute information, you’ll need it more than you think!

If it’s a country where local data is cheap, pick up a SIM card at the airport when you arrive. You might also be able to stop by a local shop in the city that you’re visiting. You’ll need to make sure your phone is unlocked before using any other SIM cards.

I personally love the TravelWifi portable devices . You can buy or rent their portable Wi-Fi devices in advance. Then, you’ll get unlimited data while you travel. These are the absolute best when we’re traveling around Europe because they continue to work as we hop from country to country. Your phone doesn’t need to be unlocked to connect to a portable hotspot either.

Get Local Currency

You might want to get local currency ahead of time if you can find a good exchange rate. Don’t exchange currency at the airport because you’ll get the worst rates there. It’s always a good idea to travel with cash. While you can use your credit card in many places, cash is the best method of payment in other spots.

When you’re planning international long term travel, you’ll likely end up taking money out from an ATM machine. Choosing a bank that’s a member of the Global ATM Alliance will help you avoid some of the fees. When you take out money from a member bank, you won’t be charged any ATM withdrawal fees. Canadian banks will almost always charge a 2.5% currency conversion fee.

Inform the Embassy and Your Family About Your Trip

Make sure that you notify your local embassy about your travel plans so they have them on file. In the USA, you can enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program). In Canada, you can sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.

Email a copy of your itinerary to some family members so they know where you are when you’re traveling overseas. Let them know your flight details, hotel details, and how to get in touch with you. You might have an emergency situation or there might be an emergency back home. It’s good to be able to stay in touch and have a clear line of communication for these situations.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

The Beginner's Guide to Overseas Trip Planning

A guide for how to plan an international trip for the first time

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How to Plan a Trip

Planning a trip overseas can be overwhelming. There are so many things to think about! Will they speak the same language as you, where is the best place to exchange money, and are ANY stores open on Sundays??

If you’ve never planned an overseas trip before, I’ve put together some ideas, tips and things to know to help you get started. So here is your guide on how to plan an international trip

Start the Planning Process

This is my favorite part of trip planning; the door is absolutely wide open and anything is possible!

Pick a Destination

The very first thing to do when planning a trip is to pick a destination (or two!). You most likely already have a destination in mind, like you want to go to New Zealand to visit the hobbit holes or Canada to see Niagara Falls .

The destination is pretty broad, not just a specific city. I usually start with a country I know I want to visit, like Germany at Christmastime. I will narrow down what specific parts of Germany to visit later.

If you don’t already have a destination, do some research on Pinterest or Instagram to see what places stand out to you.

Research Things to Do

Now that you have a country picked out, it’s time to do some more in depth (but still broad) research.

I search for “things to do in …” to see what that country has to offer, other than what I already know about. For example, I knew that I wanted to visit Hobbiton in New Zealand, but I had to find other things to do in New Zealand .

You do not have to plan your whole trip out minute for minute via the iternet. We’ll leave room for change and spontaneity. But this step gives us an idea of what there is to do, and gives us the outline for our trip.

Here are some places to search for things to do:

Travel blogs

Schedule Your Trip

Decide How Long Your Trip Will Be

Everyone has a different timeline they’re able to take for their trip. Some people can travel long term, and some people only have a week, or even a few days.

If I’m traveling internationally, I like to see as much as possible while I’m there. Most of my international trips are planned for 2 weeks. I would suggest your trip be around 10-14 days.

Be sure to account for travel time. Most international trips lose a day in travel.

Decide When You Want to Go

Do you want to go during a certain season or for a specific event? Like visiting Germany for Christmas markets, Hobbiton for International Hobbit Day , or Niagara Falls in summer?

Decide if you want to be there when the weather is warm, or if you want to avoid crowds and get the best prices during the off-season. Do you have to travel around a school break or your work schedule, or can you go whenever you get the cheapest price?

Decide on Your Travel Style

I like to see as many places as possible, but I also like to stay in the same place every night.

For your trip you will have to decide how often you want to move around between places. Do you want to stay in London for a week, exploring the city and also day tripping to nearby places, but always coming back to the same place every night? Or do you want to rent a car and road trip through Scotland and wake up somewhere new every day?

I personally like a mix of the two. I try to day trip as much as possible to the places I want to see, so I have some consistency every night. But I’m not opposed to picking up and moving around to see everywhere.

You also should consider if you want to be somewhere at night or in the early morning. As a photographer, I love being places at sunrise and sunset. I rented a car in Scotland specifically so I could be at certain places on my own time to take pictures, instead of coming with a tour during the day.

Make a Schedule

This is the fun part (at least for me—I’m obsessed with planning)!

Make a list of your “Must-dos” from all your research. Map out where they are in relation to each other. Are a few of them near a major city that would be easy to day trip from? Are you going to need a car to get to them?

Plan out a route that can get you to all of your must-dos and fit them in your time frame (remember to account for travel time!).

I usually make up a million different iterations of what my route could be (I love to plan…). It’s ok if you have to try a few different plans to get everything in. If you can’t fit everything in your time frame or budget, you might have to consider cutting a few of your must-dos.

This isn’t the final version of our trip, but basically an outline of all the major stops. Figure out in what city or town you’re going to stay every night.

Here is an example from our trip to England:

Day 1-Fly out of US

Day 2-Arrive in London. Afternoon tea

Day 3-London: Harry Potter Studio Tour

Day 4-London: Day trip to Oxford

Day 5-London: Day trip to Warwick Castle

Day 6-London: St. Paul’s Cathedral

Day 7-Central England: Chatsworth House

Day 8-Central England: Belton House

Day 9-York: See the Shambles!

I didn’t have everything specifically planned out for each day, but I knew the major things I wanted to do. We can fill in all the little details later.

Book Your Trip

Once you have a rough schedule figured out, with all the main things you want to do and the places you want to stay, you can start to book things like your flight and your hotels.

Where/When to Book Airline Tickets

There are a million places to book airline tickets out there. A lot of travel bloggers suggest Skyscanner for comparing flights.

I usually look at flights in Google Flights . If you want to book directly from the airline, search for a flight on Google Flights to find the one that you want, and then look up that specific flight on the airline’s website.

Things to pay attention to:

Is there a charge for bags (including carry-ons)?

Is there a long layover (look out for overnight layovers!)

Does it require a change of airports?

Consider the cost of the flight vs. the time of the flight

How far ahead to book:

There really is no one answer to this question. Costs of flights vary greatly. If you’re able to be flexible, look for a good deal, and just fly out whenever you can get that deal.

What is the best day to book flights:

Also look at the prices for different days of the week. They vary greatly amongst flights, so the best way is to start searching for flights to your destination and see what days have the cheapest flights (usually week days are cheaper than weekends, but not always).

You might not have much flexibility with your dates, so just go for the best that’s available on your dates. I like to travel Saturday to Sunday to maximize my time in a destination. But if you’re able to be flexible, you can get the best prices on random days of the week!

What to Book Ahead of Time

There are so many things to book for your trip! Your flights, your hotels, dining, transportation, activities!

It’s good to have some things booked ahead of time, but also to have free time for things to not go as planned.

Things to book ahead of time:

Your flight!

Rental cars

Popular attractions

Anything you absolutely MUST do

Literally EVERYTHING at Disney World

Anything else you are probably good purchasing on the go. Something like train tickets for day trips or moving between cities are really up to you. There are perks to booking ahead of time, and perks to buying them as you go, so that will be based on your travel style.

Again, if there is anything that you absolutely MUST do, book that, and all the transportation required for it, because you don’t want to risk not being able to do it.

Tips for Booking

Pay attention to what day of the week their calendar starts! A lot of countries start their calendar week on Monday, NOT Sunday.

Try to keep your first day pretty open, so you can adjust to the time difference or in case your transportation gets delayed.

Travel Documents

Make sure you have your passport for any international trip! But there are a lot of other things to consider. Do you need a visa or any immunizations to get into the country? Make sure you have all of the required documents well before you plan to leave.

Research Your Destination

Of course you’ve already researched your destination, but now it’s time to get into the nitty gritty of it.

Find Potential Things to Do

You already have your must-dos, but now it’s time to fill up all the rest of your trip.

Now that you have specific destinations for each day, you can research that specific city more in-depth. For example, if you’re staying in London to go to the Harry Potter Studio Tour , this is the time to start finding other things to do in London (and there are a lot!).

These are not things that you absolutely have to do, but rather possibilities to fill up your free time. That way you are not stuck in the middle of downtown Boston wondering what you should do, and ending up paying $25 a person to go to the aquarium because it’s the only thing you can think of to do.

You also have room to be spontaneous here, if you find something in the city, like the Cadbury Chocolate Factory you didn’t know was there! Since not every minute of your trip is accounted for, you have time to visit said chocolate factory, but you’ll also have back up things to do that you researched ahead of time.

You might even find some more “must-dos” here, so don’t be afraid to go ahead and book some more things after you research your destination.

Look Up Places to Eat

It’s good to have an idea of where the restaurants are in a city. In some places, it’s easy to walk out the door of your hotel, head down the street, and find somewhere local to eat. In other places, things are so far spread out it can be very hard to be spontaneous.

Research popular areas for food, like Borough Market in London. Also research popular foods to try in that city or country, so you know things to be on the look-out for.

Pro-Tip: Research whether or not it is common to leave a tip at restaurants. While this is common in the US, it is not always typical around the world.

Research Common Scams

It’s a good idea to Google “common scams in …” Tourists are an easy target for scams, so even though you hopefully won’t have to worry about it, it’s good to be aware of common scams so you won’t fall for them.

One common scam in Europe I discovered (since it happened to us…) is to be charged for damage to your rental car after you’ve already returned it and passed inspection. Always take your own pictures of your rental car (before and after), so you can dispute any false claims.

Figure out Transportation

The first step to figuring out transportation is to research how people usually travel around that country. Is it somewhere that is well-connected by trains, or is it somewhere more spread out, where people commonly drive themselves everywhere?

Then you have to decide for yourself what your style of travel is. Do you want more freedom? Book a rental car. Do you want less responsibility? Book a tour. Or maybe… a bit of both?

Pro-Tip: When I’m trying to figure out how to get somewhere, I start by Googling “How to get to … from …”

For example: “ How to get to Warwick Castle from London .”

The most convenient way to get around is to drive yourself with a rental car. Of course, this means having to drive in a foreign country, where they might drive on the opposite side of the road or have road signs in different languages.

If you want to travel to a lot of off the beaten track places, or have the freedom to be somewhere at a certain time of day, or just at your own pace, renting a car is a good idea. Just read up on the travel rules of the country you’re visiting, and common scams as well.

Renting a car in a foreign country always feels very intimidating, but just relax and go for it, and you’ll probably find it starts to feel natural after a little while.

Book a Tour

The easiest way to get around is to book a tour. Just book the tour, show up to the meeting spot, and you won’t have to worry about anything else. This is especially good if you’re worried about driving in a foreign country or are prone to getting lost (me…).

Unfortunately, this is also the most expensive method, and you will be stuck with a bunch of other tourists (you can also book private or smaller tours, that will help with that).

I, personally, prefer to go somewhere using public transportation, but if it is challenging to get to, I would rather book a tour. That way I get some experience of really “traveling,” but also can relax and just enjoy myself.

Viator or Tripadvisor are good places to book tours.

Public Transportation

My favorite way to get around is public transportation. It is often the cheapest way to get places, but it can sometimes be a real hassle ( like when the London Overground line we needed was shut down ).

Much of Europe is connected by train, so using public transportation is fairly simple and common. Other places, like New Zealand, are not so well connected, so your best bet is to book a tour or drive yourself.

Learn the Language

What language do they speak in the country where you are traveling? Even if they speak the same language as you, do they have different words/phrases for common things like “where is the bathroom???”

Here are some common phrases to look up how to say:

Hello/Good Day

Thank you/You’re Welcome

Could you help me please?

Where is the bathroom?

How do I get…/How do I find…?

How much does this cost?

It’s a good idea to download the Google Translate app to your phone before you travel, although you might not always be able to access it.

What to Pack

What Will the Weather be Like?

Research what the average weather is like in your destination for the time of year that you are going. You can also Google “What to pack for…” Google is the answer to everything!

Pro-Tip: Bring some plastic bags, in case you need to transport wet clothes. Like if you went swimming in the pool the night before you leave, or you can’t figure out the washer/dryer combo and end up washing your clothes three times before you have to leave to catch your train… Stuff like that.

What Kind of Outlets do They Have?

Make sure you check what kind of outlets your destination has, and get an outlet converter if you need one. You can get a universal outlet converter , and then you’ll be able to travel anywhere!

Consider Luggage Size

Are you going to be traveling around a lot? Will you have to roll your luggage from city to city and across train stations? Do you have to pay for checked bags, and do you even want to check a bag, or do you just want to stuff everything in your carry-on? Is there a weight limit for luggage on ANY of your flights, OR any of your trains?

These are all things to consider when packing.

Pro-Tip: If you’re starting out at a smaller airport, a lot of times the flights get full and they need volunteers at the gate to check their bags for FREE! So as much as I like to keep all my stuff with me, I also like not to have to drag it around everywhere ( if it’s not gonna cost me!).

Easy Foods to Pack:

Raisins (or other dried fruit)

fruit leather

Granola bars

Fruit snacks

Nuts (if you’re not allergic…)

Gum (to stop your ears from popping!)

Microwave popcorn

Microwavable meals (like mac n cheese)

Little cereal boxes

Jerky sticks

Applesauce pouches (like…the kind my two-year-old niece eats… Super great for traveling!) Or just regular cups of applesauce and a spoon.

If you’re unsure if anything is allowed in your carry-on bag, just Google “Is … allowed on a plane.” Google is the answer to everything.

Watch Movies!

I love watching movies or TV shows that take place somewhere before I go. Or reading books that were written there.

I find it makes the experience more full. Plus it just gets me excited to go (I also love watching movies when I come back, and dramatically pointing from my couch and shouting “I’ve been there!”).

So Google “movies to watch before going…” and “books to read before going…” and make yourself a list.

I like to include a few suggestions at the bottom of all my articles. Unless I have SO many suggestions, that they need their own article! Here are the destinations I have specific read/watch lists for:

What to Read & Watch Before Going to the UK

What to Read & Watch Before Going to New Zealand

What to Watch Before Going to Disney World (or Land)

Any more questions?

If you have any questions about how to plan a trip overseas, don’t hesitate to email me , or ask them in the comments below!

Any tips or advice from your own trip planning? Share those in the comments below as well!

Planning a trip?

Save one of the pins below for future trip planning:

You might also like:

The Beginner’s Guide to London

The Beginner’s Guide to New Zealand

The Beginner’s Guide to the Dominican Republic

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The Complete Beginner’s Guide to International Travel

So you’ve decided to travel internationally, have you? Traveling to another country is something I wish for everyone to experience at least once in a lifetime.

Unfortunately, not everyone has the privilege to do so. But for those of us with passports that allow us such opportunity, it’d be a shame to never explore an international destination in our great, big, beautiful world !

It might seem a bit scary to take your first international trip, but I promise it’s not that bad. To help you, I’ve put together this thorough guide on everything you need to know in order to have a successful international trip ! Let’s get straight to it.

Before You Depart for Your Trip

There’s quite a bit to get ready before your international trip. But, don’t worry. It’s all doable, and it’ll all be worth it!

Apply for a Passport

First things first. In order to travel internationally, you’ll need to have a valid, unexpired passport . On top of that, many countries require you to also have at least three or even six months validity left on your passport from your date of travel. So, if you don’t have a valid, unexpired passport or your passport is expiring in three to six months, it’s time to get a new passport before your trip. This process can take a couple months! So plan ahead, and submit your passport request early to save yourself stress and/or expediting fees closer to your departure date.

If this is your very first passport, your last passport was from when you were under 16 years old, your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged, or your last passport was from 15 or more years ago, you will need to apply for your passport in person. Here are the official steps for the new passport process .

If the above doesn’t apply to you, you simply have to renew your passport. You can do this via mail. Here are the official steps for the renewal process .

Choose Your International Destination

Yipee! Now that you’ve either already got your passport or have applied for a new one, you can choose your international travel destination. This is largely based on your own interests. But as this is your first trip internationally, keep in mind things like language, similarity in culture to back home, and ease of travel-related infrastructures (like trains or buses).

Apply for Any Visa(s)

Once you have chosen your destination(s), check whether you need visas or not . A visa is basically permission from a foreign government for you to be in their country. Some countries may grant you a free visa upon arrival with a simple stamp on your passport. Some countries simply require you to fill out a form online and pay a small fee before you can board your flight. And some countries require expensive visas which you must apply for months in advance. It all depends on that country you are visiting, your passport country, and how long you plan to stay. I love using Travisa ‘s free search tool to quickly and easily check what requirements exist for me before I book a flight. 

Get Any Necessary Vaccines

Before confirming your destination, you should check if any vaccines are necessary for that place. Some vaccines are simply recommended for your own health, while others are requirements before you will be allowed into the country , or even allowed into other countries afterwards (like yellow fever). The CDC website is an easy way to check this. Some vaccines, like yellow fever, are low in supply and hard to get last minute. Others, like malaria pills, require a doctor’s prescription. So don’t leave this step until the last minute !

Check Travel Restrictions

Lastly, make sure there are no travel restrictions or decision-altering political tensions for your destination. Do this by checking the Travel Department site . Simply type in your destination country’s name into the search bar on the left hand side of the screen. 

Preparing Your Finances

Now that your passport is on its way and you’ve settled on your international travel destination(s), it’s time to start thinking about finances.

Some destinations are very credit card friendly. Others operate on only cash and debit cards. And some don’t even have ATM machines! So you’ll need to do a bit of planning before departure to make sure you’re not stressing during your trip, and to save yourself transaction fees.

Get a No Fees Credit Card

Most banks charge a 3% fee every time you use your credit card to pay for a foreign transaction. As you can imagine, this adds up to a lot over the course of even a one week international trip. The good news is, many banks offer credit cards without foreign transaction fees . Do a quick internet search to see if your bank offers such a card. 

Get a No Fees Debit Card

Most banks charge a 3% fee and $5 each time you withdraw foreign currency from an ATM. Especially if you are traveling to a mostly-cash destination, this is a surefire way to rack up unnecessary travel costs. To avoid this, consider opening a free brokerage account with Charles Schwab to also receive their debit card with zero transaction fees . I first heard about this card when moving to London to study abroad, and I have to say it’s served me well. 

Get Foreign Currency Beforehand

Sometimes, but not often, it’s necessary to have cash in your destination’s currency either before you depart home or right when landing . This might be because your destination does not have ATMs, or because you just want to feel prepared.

If you need foreign cash before leaving home, head to your local bank and exchange currencies. (Just FYI, you’ll get a bad conversion rate doing this, since the bank needs to make commission.) If the currency you need isn’t a common one, your bank won’t have it on hand. In that case, you’ll have to request the exchange online with your bank. 

Many countries that don’t have ATMs also don’t allow their currency to be taken outside their country (like Cuba). In this case, you’ll need to bring enough cash with you in a common currency (like USD, GBP, or Euro). Then, when you arrive at your destination’s airport, you can exchange your cash from home for the local currency.

Sign Up for Airline Rewards Programs

You might already know this if you fly domestically, but most airlines have rewards programs. These allow you to accumulate “miles” in your rewards account each time you fly. Eventually, you might rack up enough to redeem those miles in exchange for a flight !

Consider Travel Hacking

Now, some people use airlines rewards programs and racking up miles on steroids, and this is called travel hacking. Many airlines and banks offer huge amounts of miles when you sign up for a card, or offer miles every time you use that card for a purchase. This allows you to rack up enough miles for a free flight or hotel stay more quickly (or sometimes immediately!). I personally have no energy for travel hacking, as I’m not convinced the miles rewards are worth more in dollars than my current card’s cash reward system. But I would be amiss to not mention travel hacking in a guide to international travel.

Planning Your International Trip

Phew! Now that you’ve got all the annoying administrative work out of the way, it’s time for the fun stuff; planning your trip .

I have a whole ten-step guide to planning a trip , so I won’t go into too much detail here. But this can be broken down into planning out your travel itinerary, booking your flight, and booking your accommodation.

Create Your Dream Itinerary

Decide everything you want to see in that destination. I love using Pinterest , Instagram , and travel blogs for inspiration. This is my favorite part of planning a trip , because it gets me so excited about what’s to come! Then, figure out how many days each spot deserves if you are moving around, and figure out how to get from point A to point B (train, cab, ferry?). 

Book Your Flight

After you’ve decided how many days you need, you can decide what your travel dates are and start looking for a flight. You can sometimes find good deals really close to the date, but that isn’t guaranteed. I recommend not leaving this until the last minute! I go into more detail how I search for cheap flights in my trip planning guide .

Book Your Housing

Once you have your flight booked, all that’s left is your housing. I love using Booking.com because of its interface, but any hotel search engine will suffice. Also consider AirBnB if you like the idea of staying in a local apartment, or Hostelworld if you’re looking for a social (and often budget-friendly) option. I go into more detail on different types of travel accommodation in my trip planning guide .

Here are some discounts if it’s your first time using AirBnB or Booking.com:

• Save 15% off your first booking by using this link  to sign up for AirBnB for the first time.
• Get  10% back  from your first booking when you use this link  for your first time using Booking.com.

Preparing for Departure

Woohoo! You’ve got your passport, your trip is planned, and all that’s left is to depart. There are a couple things you should do to best prepare for your upcoming international trip.

Scan the Front Page of Your Passport

Before leaving home, make a copy of the front page of your passport (the page with your picture). Either print it out or send it to yourself via email. In case your passport gets lost, stolen, or damaged during your international trip, this makes it easier to have your passport replaced abroad at an embassy.

Expect Cultural Differences

Every country or region has its own culture and norms, and that’s what makes traveling so great. In some places, like the US, it’s common to greet strangers “hello,” or for shop associates and waiters to be extra doting. In other places, like much of Europe, the slower cafe and restaurant culture means your waiter might not come to you unless beckoned. It’s almost seen as if the waiter is rushing you! Similarly, in Japan, it’s offensive to tip waiters, as it suggests their only incentive to do their job well is receiving your pocket change. No culture is right or wrong, but keep an open mind as you travel, and don’t assume something means the same as it does back home .

Prepare for Language Barriers

Many popular travel destinations have adopted English as a common language due to how many international tourists they receive. So, if you know English, chances are you’ll be fine getting around many travel destinations around the world. But it still doesn’t hurt to learn some basic words in your destination’s language .

Saying “hello” or “thank you” in a person’s mother tongue can go a long way in warming them up towards you. Learning common menu items or words on train station signs will also likely make your life easier and give you more confidence abroad. I love using the free version of Duolingo’s mobile app ( iOS and Android ) for a few weeks before I head somewhere new to learn a language’s basics. Alternatively, you could simply head to Google translate and jot down key words on a small piece of paper before you depart. Then, keep this paper handy while you’re out exploring for easy access.

What to Expect on an International Flight

Even if you’ve flown domestically before, flying internationally can be a whole different experience . Here are my top tips for flying internationally.

What to Pack in Your Carry On

Packing carry on luggage for an international trip is similar in many ways to for a domestic trip. The same rules apply with regards to liquid sizes and electronics. However, as international flights tend to naturally be longer than domestic flights, there are a few extra considerations.

Make sure you are comfortable. Bring your own favorite headphones instead of using the uncomfortable free or for sale ones on board the flight. Also bring an eye mask (and a neck pillow if you need that) so that you can try to sleep a bit. You’ll also want to pack clothing items like one pair of pajamas and one or two proper outfits, in case your luggage is lost or delayed . It would be super inconvenient to buy these things right after you land in a foreign country!

Common Flight Etiquette

No one likes flying. So to make it easier on everyone, here are some best practices for being polite while in the airport and on the plane.

• While in the airport, don’t stand up and crowd around the gate way before your boarding group is called. Everyone will get their chance to board.
• Once on the plane, the middle seat person gets dibs on the inner arm rests .
• Right after the plane lands, don’t rush to pull your luggage from the overhead before the plane doors have even opened (especially if you’re in the back of the plane!). If you’re in a rush to catch a connection you think you might miss, ask the flight attendants before landing if they can help you get off first. Sometimes they’ll make an announcement that everyone should stay seated until those about to miss a connection exit first!

Staying Healthy While Flying

The last thing you want is to get off your flight and feel unwell the first days of your epic trip! Here are precautions you should take to ensure you land in tip-top shape.

• Stay hydrated . Airplane air has less humidity (only about 10 – 20%!), so make sure you are drinking enough water, especially on long haul flights. I always bring a large, refillable water bottle when I fly. I fill it up at an airport water fountain right after passing security and finish it all before boarding. Then, I refill it again to have a full supply while on board. This is important not only for headaches and such, but also to prevent skin breakouts in the days after landing.
• Keep the blood flowing . Not only are you not moving for hours upon hours when flying internationally, but your feet are flat on the floor the entire time, too. This isn’t great for blood circulation, and can cause swelling in your ankles and feet the days after your land. (It’s also just not good for your health to not move!) So, make it a point to get up and walk around the plane. Since you’ll be drinking a lot of water anyways, maybe walk up and down the aisles for some minutes each time you finish using the toilets. Do some stretches , like pulling your feet up to your booty one at a time and holding, or lifting each knee up and holding. If you have a layover with enough time, walk around the terminal for some time before boarding your second flight.
• Stay clean . Even pre-Covid-19, planes and airports have never been the cleanest places to be. Wash your hands frequently with soap, use hand sanitizer , and consider disinfecting your food tray, screen, and arm rests right after getting on board. Make sure not to touch or pick your face too much, especially since it’s already dealing with the dehydrating air!

Flying with Dietary Restrictions

Airplane food is pretty much never great, especially if you aren’t flying first class. But if you’re on a particular diet or have dietary restrictions, you’ll need to plan ahead of time. Consider packing some of your favorite nutritious snacks instead of relying on the salty pretzels you can expect on board. If you have a specific need, like vegan meals, call the airline 24 hours before your flight to put in your request for a special meal . You might also want to double-check the meal request before take off at the gate.

Staying Safe While Traveling Internationally

While the world isn’t the big, bad, scary place we’re often made to believe, that doesn’t mean travel is free of risks.

A lot of the safety precautions and considerations you should take while traveling abroad are similar to those you take at home. But a few aren’t. Here are my main safety tips for international travel.

Solo Travel

By its very nature, traveling alone is more risky than traveling with a companion. Is it significantly more risky? I think not. But that’s not to say you shouldn’t take any extra precautions when traveling alone.

One precaution I take is to always let someone know where I am . If I have a full itinerary planned, I send my mom a summary of each city and accommodation I plan to stay at. If I’m doing something like a hike without any new friends I’ve met, I’ll let the front desk know my plans before I head out. I also try to be confident . Even if I don’t know where I’m going, I try to look like I do! If I need to look directions up on my phone, I might do it before leaving the hotel or shop or restaurant.

Another thing to remember is that traveling solo is not traveling alone . Especially if staying in hostels, you’ll meet other people traveling solo like you are, and you can do activities with them.

Solo Female Travel

Something my loved ones tell me often is how it’s so unsafe to travel alone as a woman. But the truth is, is it perfectly safe to be a woman anywhere in the world? Even when I’m in in the comfort of my home country, I rush to my car when in public garages at night, receive uncomfortable comments from strangers on the street, and face the potential of sexual harassment or even assault. Sexism exists everywhere, not just abroad. Of course, I do take extra precautions as a solo female traveler compared to a male solo traveler. But I also take extra precautions as a female in my home country, too.

These are some of the precautions I take while traveling as a woman, in addition to the precautions I take for traveling solo in general:

• I never walk alone past dark . Ever, ever. Even if I “feel” safe in a place (which is most of the time), it’s just something I’ve promised myself I wouldn’t do.
• I try to dress conservatively in certain destinations. Especially as a Californian, I’m used to super short shorts and low-cut shirts being totally normal. While these are still often acceptable abroad, they definitely cause a lot of stares that I personally have decided I’d rather avoid if I can. So, I’ll wear looser, longer shorts instead of tight short-shorts, or midi skirts and dresses instead of what I consider normal length. This isn’t so much because I feel unsafe, but because I’ve realized it decreases bothersome male comments and advances immensely.
• I haven’t actually done this yet, but it’s a trick I have in my back pocket. Bring a fake wedding ring . Depending on the destination, this can help ward off some comments (and even playful marriage proposals!).

Traveling as a Person of Color

Similar to the solar female travel issue, a lot of my family fear that I’ll stand out like a sore thumb as a black woman. Also similar to the solo female travel issue, racism is simply something that exists everywhere, not just abroad . Of course, I do take extra precautions as a black solo traveler compared to a white solo traveler. But I also take extra precautions as a black person in my home country, too.

The main extra consideration I take while traveling as a person of color is to research the experiences of other black people or black women in destinations I know less about , or that I know have few black people or tourists. I recommend you do the same for whatever race or ethnicity you might identify with, as destinations might be used to one group but not a different group. This, of course, can be difficult, as the voices in the travel sphere are mostly white men, and next white women. (This is why it’s important to have better representation.) If you can’t find the insight you need online, consider directly emailing or messaging any travel writers or influences whose experiences you’d like to hear.

Traveling with Cash and Valuables

Like you would in certain areas of your home country, don’t flash valuables while traveling. Be cognizant as you withdraw or exchange any cash . Being a tourist can make you a target already, so don’t give pickpockets any extra incentive!

Be careful not to carry all your cash and cards in one place. If you can, take some with you as you explore, and then leave back up cards, unneeded cash, and your passport back in a safe in your accommodation . That way, if anything gets stolen or lost while out exploring, you have back ups to hold you over.

Bring Locks for Hostels

If you are planning on staying in hostels, definitely purchase a lock before your trip. Hostels usually have lockers, but charge a couple bucks to rent a lock. It’s much more economical to purchase once and not pay each time.

Register with Your Country’s Embassy

This is a step I never usually did before, but one I’ll be doing every time in the future! I was “one of those” people who got stranded abroad in a foreign country when the world started closing borders in response to Covid-19. I always thought registering with the local embassy for my country was a waste of time, but this turned out to be the best way to get up-to-date information on the situation. After missing out on crucial info once, I signed up. And it’s thanks to that I was able to eventually get home!

You never know what could happen when you are abroad, whether that is a pandemic, weather-related disaster, local protests, or political tensions. It’s near-impossible to keep up with your foreign destination’s news while traveling. So registering with your embassy is an easy way to get a simple email for key things you should know . For Americans, this program to register is called the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , but other countries have pretty much the same thing.

Get Travel Insurance

I’m not sure I believe “everyone” should “always” get travel insurance. But for a first trip abroad, it’s worth considering. I typically never purchased it when I traveled places I knew well. But these days, as I’m no longer on my parents’ good insurance, and as I travel mostly solo, I do purchase travel insurance. It often only costs a couple dollars a day , and usually covers lost baggage, medical visits for accidents or illnesses, theft, and more. Especially if you are planning adrenaline activities or traveling somewhere distant, you should consider it! 

What Do You Think About My International Travel Guide?

And there ya have it, folks! Are you feeling prepared for your international trip! I hope this guide was helpful. If you still have more questions before your trip abroad, definitely comment below and I’ll answer. Or, if you have any advice you think I missed that others should know, please also comment below!

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Further Reading...

How to Travel Cheaper: A Beginner’s Guide to Budget Travel

How to Travel Carry On Only: A Beginner’s Guide to Minimalist Packing

Best Offline Travel Map App: Ulmon CityMaps2Go Review

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The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad

Shannon McMahon

Editor Shannon McMahon is always planning her next trip and often writing in her travel journal. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ and on Instagram @shanmcmahon .

Shannon joined SmarterTravel in 2015. A former news reporter, she's lived in the south of Spain, spotted elephants in Sri Lanka, gone spelunking in the Caribbean, hiked Jordan's Petra Basin, interviewed Sao Paulo's Michelin-Star chefs, and explored China via bullet train. Travel trends, news oddities, and her visits to up-and-coming destinations are some of her favorite things to write about.

Her stories have also appeared online on USA Today, The Sun, Huffington Post, Business Insider, blog.TripAdvisor.com, Boston.com, and more. Her educational background is in journalism, art history, gender studies, Spanish, and film. She's been quoted as an expert travel source by CNBC, People.com, MarketWatch, The Washington Post, USA Today, and more.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Plenty of extra thick hair elastics. They tame my frizzy curls and come in handy in a surprising number of packing and hotel dilemmas."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Climbing (yes, climbing, it's steep!) the Great Wall of China before it's gone."

Travel Motto : "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." - Mark Twain

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window, of course."

Email Shannon at [email protected] .

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Traveling internationally is an adventure best planned ahead of time, and not just when it comes to booking flights and packing. Sure, showing up at your gate sans passport or forgetting melatonin for your red-eye flight can put a damper on your long-awaited escape, but most of your preparation should be dedicated to ensuring health, safety, and financial necessities are covered. To save you some prep time, we’ve compiled this international travel checklist for your next long-distance journey.

Focus on Safety First

One of the easiest and most important items on an overseas travel checklist is also arguably the most ignored. Travel insurance and State Department alerts can be incredibly important in emergencies abroad, but many tourists bet they won’t become part of the small percentage of travelers who require evacuation assistance or protection from hotel or flight cancellations.

Subscribing to the State Department’s STEP alerts for your destination can help you stay up to date on upcoming and current travel restrictions, strikes, and areas of political unrest. Any alerts you receive will let you know whether or not to plan for some unexpected obstacles in advance.

Travel insurance can cost as little as a few dollars per travel day and cover anything from replacing a broken camera to emergency medical attention, potentially saving you hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars.

Get Your Travel Documents and Credit Cards in Order

Make sure your passport and any necessary travel visas are up to date. Some countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months after your scheduled return, so make sure you won’t be turned away or delayed at customs because of an old passport. Not sure if you need a visa? See this list of every country that requires a visa for Americans .

Keep physical and digital copies of your passport and all your paperwork in case anything is lost, and give copies as well as your itinerary and contact numbers to family and friends whom you can contact in case of an emergency.

Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates so they don’t deny your purchases, and ask about international ATM fees so you can find out which ones won’t charge you. It’s always a good idea to bring multiple cards in case one stops working.

Don’t underestimate how helpful a cell phone photo of your passport can be. Whether you have to go to the consulate and report it lost, or are just filling out a customs card and need your passport number, it will likely come in handy. Email the image to yourself to have an extra digital copy in case your phone runs out of batteries or goes missing. You may also want to bring a spare copy of your passport photo on your trip; having it handy will speed the processing of a new document.

Your Questions About Online Passport Renewal, Answered

Get Vaccinated

It’s best to get the necessary vaccinations out of the way as soon as possible since it can take a few weeks to build full immunity. Some also require multiple doses, which may need to be administered over days, weeks, or even months. Talk to your doctor about getting the CDC-recommended shots , as the protocol for vaccines varies by country. For example, dozens of countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you’ve been to at-risk areas. A travel clinic can help you sort out which vaccinations and medications you might need.

Keep your vaccination certificate in your carry-on in case customs requires you to present it when entering the country.

Study Up on Your Destination

Whether you’re a travel app connoisseur or more of a paperback guidebook person, having some source of knowledge about your destination is invaluable. Read about the region you’re traveling to in advance to gain insight into important information such as currency exchange rates, useful phrases, tipping norms , appropriate clothing, and cultural/legal customs. It’s best to be prepared so you don’t land yourself in a compromising situation.

8 English Words You Should Never Use Abroad

Make Sure Your Home Is Cared For

There’s nothing worse than realizing once you’re six time zones away that you forgot to stop your mail delivery or ask someone to water your expertly cultivated house plants. Make sure your daily tasks are covered before you leave, or appoint a trusty friend to do them for you.

You can find a house or pet sitter to do your chores if you’re willing to list your home on TrustedHouseSitters.com . Plus, you could find lodging through the site for your trip abroad if you’re willing to spend some time with someone else’s furry friends.

Stay Connected

Want to stay in touch while traveling abroad? If you haven’t taken your phone overseas before, call your mobile provider to make sure it will work in the country you’re visiting and to ask about international phone plans that might be available. If your carrier’s plans are expensive, a mobile hotspot can be a cost-effective alternative.

Download the Necessities

Sometimes the most important thing you’ll pack is in your smartphone rather than your suitcase. Offline maps are your best friend when it comes to traveling with limited data or battery. You can find Wi-Fi in many places, but downloading offline maps through Google Maps or CityMaps2Go will allow you to follow your GPS without using up battery life and roaming data.

Downloading in-flight entertainment could also save you if your TV malfunctions on the long-haul flight. Streaming won’t be available without consistent in-flight Wi-Fi (which you shouldn’t ever depend on) but you can pre-download movies and TV shows through Amazon Prime , and music streaming service Spotify allows paying users to download tracks for offline use with the press of a button.

Don’t forget a portable backup charger . Watching hours of your favorite TV show is sure to drain your battery life, and there’s nothing worse than finally finding a Wi-Fi spot only to have your phone die.

The 10 Best Travel Podcasts

Check Your Destination’s COVID Policies

Make sure you’re aware of your destination’s most up-to-date policies regarding COVID and vaccination status. Check with the State Department website well before your trip to make sure you meet the requirements, and check in periodically to monitor for potentially changes. Similarly to the US, mask-wearing policies may be left up to the discretion of an event or venue, so its a good idea to have a few masks on hand when out and about.

Pack These Essentials

While the contents of your checked bag will largely depend on the climate you’re visiting, you’ll want most of your trip’s essentials on hand in your carry-on. Start with this international travel checklist of items to pack:

• Passport and visa
• Medications
• Insurance and ID cards
• Cash, debit cards, and credit cards
• Pen to fill out customs forms
• Portable charger
• Earplugs , eye mask , and sleeping pills
• Electrical converters and adapters specific to your destination
• Antibacterial wipes
• Sweater / scarf in case the plane is chilly
• Cell phone and charger

For more ideas, check out our ultimate packing list .

Consider taking photos of your packed suitcase (both inside and out) in case it gets lost. That way, airline employees will know what to look for, and you’ll know what was inside in case you don’t get it back and need to file a claim.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

An important item to check off the list: make sure you have a place to stay when you reach your destination! Book your hotel for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels .

Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ .

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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The Ultimate International Trip Packing List

Here’s everything you didn’t know you needed to make your international trip as seamless as possible.

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Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

We don’t tend to complain a whole lot when it comes to planning and preparing for travel. Sure, there are bad parts, boring parts, and stressful parts… but all the negative aspects of the travel process give way to some of the best and most memorable life experiences. The packing process may fall into the less-fun side of preparing for travel but, with the right mindset and strategy, it can make the whole trip.

Packing for an international trip specifically requires careful planning; sure, you can probably find forgotten items while abroad in many destinations but having everything already secured in your suitcase will make your trip a whole lot easier. Nobody wants to spend a half day of travel searching for something they forgot at home.

Packing Checklist for an International Trip

This guide will help ensure you’ve packed everything you could possibly need for an international trip, whether it’s your first time leaving the country or you’re a seasoned traveler. Having these items on hand — along with the appropriate clothing and shoes for your destination — will help make your trip as smooth and seamless as possible.

• Best Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Best Wi-Fi Hotspot: Simo Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot
• Best Camera:   Nikon ZF
• Best Tripod: Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand
• Best Portable Power Bank: Nimble Champ
• Best Noise-canceling Headphones: Apple AirPods Max
• Best Luggage Tracker: Eufy SmartTrack Link

Accessories

• Best Passport Cover: Paravel Cabana Passport Case
• Best Travel Wallet: Leatherology Travel Wallet
• Best Luggage Belt: Cincha Travel Belt for Luggage
• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Memobottle A5
• Best Packing Cubes: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
• Best Neck Pillow: Cabeau TNE S3
• Best Money Belt: Raytix Money Belt
• Best Compression Socks: Comrad Compression Socks

Luggage and Bags

• Best Lightweight Backpack: Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage
• Best International-sized Carry-on: Away The Carry-on
• Best Checked Bag: July Checked Plus
• Best Belt Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Best Travel Laundry Bag: Miamica Travel Laundry Bag
• Best Tote: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe
• Best Toiletry Bag: Away The Toiletry Bag
• Best Rolling Duffel: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel

We know, we know. You’re not setting out on an international trip to be consumed by your tech, but there are certain essentials that can make a good trip even better, whether aiding an itinerary, ensuring your safety, or simply entertaining you while in transit. Packing things like a reliable wi-fi hotspot and a portable power bank means you’ll always have access to your smartphone for emergencies (or just to use Google Maps to navigate your self-guided walking tour without having to pop into a cafe every few blocks).

Best Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Effectiveness 4 /5

Traveling abroad with a good adapter like the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is non-negotiable. It comes equipped with plugs for more than 150 countries but the convenient sliding design means you won’t have to fuss with (or be responsible for) multiple attachments. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated that this option comes with so many USB ports (four USB-A and one USB-C) as it cut down the need for multiple adapters and made it incredibly easy to charge all our tech at the same time.

Best Wi-fi Hotspot

Skyroam solis lite.

Do you remember the days of traveling before Google Maps? It’s hard to imagine a time when we’d actually have to ask locals for directions or hope we’re reading a paper map properly. The Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot makes modern travel even easier by ensuring you’re always connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network, wherever you are. It doesn’t require a SIM card or a contract and functions seamlessly in more than 135 countries around the world. It can also support up to 10 devices at a given time — which means your travel buddies will thank you, too.

Best Camera

Nikon zf mirrorless camera.

The Nikon ZF immediately catches the eye with its beautiful, retro-inspired body. Don’t let the decidedly cool aesthetic fool you though — this camera also makes it super easy to channel your inner photographer. The 24-megapixel, full-frame mirrorless camera is very simple and user-friendly but offers enough bells and whistles to quell more advanced photographers. It’s also incredibly small and lightweight which makes it great for throwing into your day bag (no oversized camera bag required!).

Best Tripod

Phopik aluminum extendable tripod stand.

Another way to ensure great vacation photos? Investing in a decent tripod stand. Selfies have their time and place but being able to set up a tripod to get group shots in idyllic settings will ensure frame-worthy visual souvenirs. The Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand is a great option for those who travel with both a digital camera and a smartphone as the convertible device can actually be used as a selfie stick and tripod for smartphones while also extending into a more stable tripod suitable for a heavier camera. It also packs down ultra-small when not in use so you won’t have to run around all day with a full-sized tripod under your arm.

Best Portable Power Bank

Nimble champ portable charger.

The Nimble Champ is a game changer for long travel days when you might not have the chance to wait by an outlet for your smartphone to refuel; the 10,000 mAh battery is more than enough to charge the average smartphone between three to five times in full. If you’re concerned about having your phone for safety purposes (like to grab an Uber, use Google Maps, call for help, etc.), a compact lightweight charger will also offer serious peace of mind. We like that this option is made using 99 percent certified recycled plastic so you can feel good about the sustainable choice. And, if you need even more juice, there’s a more powerful Nimble Champ Pro with a 20,000 mAh battery instead.

Best Noise-canceling Headphones

Apple airpods max.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Sound Quality 5 /5
• Battery Life 5 /5

The AirPods Max are admittedly a bit expensive but they’re worth the price point for the quality and overall ease of use, especially if you’re a lover of Apple devices. During the testing process, we found the user experience to be the best out of all the headphones we tried. We really like how easy they are to connect to an iPhone or MacBook without having to go searching into the Bluetooth settings (there’s a simple pop-up that’ll ask you if you want to switch and that’s that). We found the headphones very intuitive to use and the sound quality is excellent as well with a strong enough noise-canceling feature to provide serenity everywhere from the airplane to the subway.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Accuracy 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Popping a luggage tracker, like the Eufy SmartTrack Link, into your checked luggage will allow you to track a suitcase in real time which offers peace of mind and can help expedite the return of lost-in-transit baggage. This tiny tracker was our top pick during testing due to its ease of use and convenient size and shape. The durable square comes equipped with a hole in the top corner that makes it easy to add a carabiner or key ring onto the tracker to attach to internal zippers or other items, too.

It can be tricky to strike a healthy balance between actual travel essentials and products that seem useful in theory but actually just end up taking up precious space in your suitcase or carry-on. The following items are designed to make travel as easy and comfortable as possible and are all compact, easy to pack, and won’t end up weighing you down. They’re also highly practical for staying organized and put together while making your way through passport control or while taking public transport from the airport to your hotel.

Best Passport Cover

Paravel passport case.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

You might not think you need a passport cover, but this Paravel Cabana Passport Case is a particularly great option since it not only keeps your passport safe and secure but holds up to eight cards, too. During the testing process, we found the luxe material to also be durable, and it was very easy to get our cards and passport in and out of the slots without having to stretch things out. We also like that this one comes in several colorways and can be customized with a hand-painted initial as well.

Best Travel Wallet

Leatherology zip around travel wallet.

If you’re hoping to score something with a little extra space, the Leatherology Travel Wallet is a particularly great choice as it’ll keep all your stuff organized without becoming too bulky or heavy. The compact design has a slot for pretty much everything you could need including your passport, cards, printed boarding pass, coins, cash, and even a pen. During the testing process, we found that this option stood out for its buttery soft leather that feels much more expensive than it is, and for the expansive interior that could easily hold more than a couple of passports. 

Best Luggage Belt

Cincha travel belt.

The Cincha Travel Belt is one of those travel accessories that you don’t realize just how much you need until you have it on-hand while on the go. The travel belt is designed to attach your personal items — like a coat, shopping bags, and even your handbag — to the handle of your rolling luggage without worrying about it sliding around or falling off the top of your luggage. This is a particularly handy option to have on hand while changing terminals or taking trains to the city center when you don’t want to have to worry about lugging multiple loose pieces.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Memobottle a5 the flat water bottle that fits in your bag.

There are certain things that all responsible travelers should consider when setting off on a trip — and being a more sustainable citizen of the world is one of them. The easiest way to cut down on your carbon footprint while traveling? Investing in a reusable water bottle. The Memobottle A5 makes it easy to ditch single-use plastic while traveling without feeling like, you know, you’re carrying a massive water bottle around with you. It’s designed to be ultra thin and can fit in a briefcase or handbag. However, don’t let the thin size fool you. This water bottle fits a standard 750 milliliters which is the exact same as the single-use bottle of Smartwater in the airport shop.

Best Packing Cubes

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Design 5 /5

Packing the right amount of clothing for an international trip can be a bit of a daunting task which is why we’re such major advocates for the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes . The set of four cubes comes in a variety of sizes to help keep garments in order while planning for your trip. The compression cubes are also designed to squish down into the smallest size possible so you can fit even more into that carry-on roller without worrying about taking up too much space in the overhead bin or running out of room for souvenirs.

Best Neck Pillow

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

• Quality 4.8 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Think of the Cabeau TNE S3 as the neck pillow for travelers who hate carrying a neck pillow. The compact neck support folds down into a tiny bag that can easily be stored away in your carry-on or handbag while on the go. We loved this neck pillow during the testing process for its memory foam material and 360-degree support. It’s designed to attach to your seat and will keep you from that annoying head bobbing that can often happen when trying to sleep upright.

Best Money Belt

Raytix rfid money belt.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

Money belts might not be the most exciting of travel gear — but having this under-clothes accessory can offer major peace of mind if you’re nervous about carrying your valuables out in the open while on the go. The Raytix Money Belt was our top pick during our tests because of its smooth material that feels comfortable on the skin and a discreet size that doesn’t bulge when placed properly under your clothing. We also really liked that it was wide enough to comfortably fit a passport without having to wiggle the zipper in order to close the pouch.

Best Compression Socks

Comrad compression socks.

The Comrad Compression Socks do the impossible: make compression socks look cool and stylish. The double-dip ombre design is fun and aesthetically pleasing — especially compared to your average drugstore alternative — and the socks themselves are extremely soft to the touch. During the testing process, we found they offered gentle compression without being uncomfortable. They were breathable and we could easily wear them on a long-haul flight without any itchiness whatsoever either.

Selecting the right luggage for your international trip is half the battle. For example, if you’re hoping to avoid checking a bag at all costs, you’ll want something that is no bigger than 21.5 inches, and as lightweight as possible. If you’re looking for a suitcase that’ll handle the arduous checked baggage process, you’ll want to look for a hard-sided spinner with enough give that it won’t crack or puncture while in transit.

Choosing the right personal item and day bag is an equally important decision. Handbags and backpacks should be lightweight and multi-purpose, meaning that you’ll be able to use them at multiple times, like day trips to the country, jaunts around the city center, and evenings out.

Best Lightweight Backpack

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

Given the brand's reputation for high-quality bags , it's no surprise the Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage is forever our go-to travel bag when we’re aiming to pack light but stylish. Longchamp Le Pliage in general is kind of the perfect bag concept for travel as it packs down ultra small when not in use but can expand to a full-sized bag as needed. The backpack is no exception; it’s small and lightweight but stylish and large enough to fit a day — or night — of essentials without screaming tourist or looking too bulky. We also like that this option is made from a durable nylon and can withstand the bright sun and heavy rain without getting damaged.

Best International-sized Carry-on

Away the carry-on.

Packing for international air travel can sometimes be a little dicey, especially if you’re going to be flying on budget airlines with little wiggle room on suitcase sizing. The Away The Carry-on sits just below most international carrier limits so you won’t run into any surprises at the gate, but we also found that it’s incredibly roomy. During the testing process, we were able to fit everything we needed for a four-day trip with room to spare. The hard plastic shell is also incredibly durable — even when clobbered with a baseball bat — so it will hold up with heavy duty use, too.

Best Checked Bag

July large luggage.

• Organization 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5

The July Checked Plus is our top choice when it comes to the best checked luggage for international travel , especially if you tend to be an overpacker as it fits 110 liters worth of items. Even if you don’t fill it to the brim, we particularly like the number of pockets and organizational features inside to keep things sorted. During our testing process, we found it was incredibly easy to pack a fair amount while giving everything a designated spot. We also found the wheels and handle to be the smoothest we’ve found in a suitcase which made it easy to trolley the suitcase around through the airport and into the city.

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag.

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is, well, kind of everywhere, but it’s easy to see why. It’s incredibly lightweight and durable while offering a discreet but stylish solution to storing your daily essentials in a safe and secure manner. It’s also made of water-repellent polyester so you can get caught in the rain with less issue than a leather or cotton alternative. This option also comes in a huge variety of colorways to best suit your style, but we’re major fans of the classic black. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated how easily the zipper glides; it doesn’t pull or stick which makes it easy to quickly grab items like a wallet or passport out without having to use two hands. Plus, if you have even more to carry, there’s a 2-liter version , too.

Best Travel Laundry Bag

Miamica travel laundry bag.

The Miamica Travel Laundry Bag is another one of those items that is easy to forget or brush off as being unimportant but can actually make such a big difference while on the go. This lightweight laundry bag will take up no room in your luggage but makes staying organized while traveling so much easier. Whether you’re doing your own laundry in your hotel room or planning on sending the essentials off for dry cleaning, having a separate bag to store your dirty clothes in means you won’t have to rifle through your suitcase trying to decipher what is clean versus what needs to be washed.

MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote

• Portability 3 /5
• Ease of Use 3 /5

Don’t underestimate the power of a great tote while traveling as options like this lightweight MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe won’t take up much space in your luggage but can be a lifesaver if you somehow find yourself with more stuff to pack on your way home. We found this bag to be super roomy without overpowering us with a ton of built-in pockets and even a removable pouch to keep gear organized on the go. It’s also worth noting that this tote comes in a few different sizes from mini to large if you’re looking for something a bit bigger or smaller instead.

Best Toiletry Bag

Away large toiletry bag.

There are a lot of utilitarian toiletry bags out there but options like this one from Away both get the job done, and look good in the process. We found it very easy to pack and organize, thanks to an abundance of pockets and pouches to store everything from makeup brushes to delicate bottles. The material feels high-end and sleek but we found it to be secure and waterproof so nothing spilled out while in transit either.

Best Rolling Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 3 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel is our top pick for the best rolling duffel for international travel since it’s huge yet still incredibly easy to roll through the airport or tote by hand on public transit. We particularly loved that this bag came with its own packing cubes and could easily convert from duffel to backpack to rolling suitcase. Despite its multi-functional design, it really excelled at everything. We found the bag very smooth to roll and just as easy to grab and go when needed. The material also feels very durable; like it could withstand heavy use without having to be too precious with it.

Unfortunately, yes, there are quite a few items that you can’t bring on your international trip depending on the country you’re heading to. Take this into consideration when shopping for travel products. Some destinations don’t allow certain tech — like drones — while others are very strict about the medication you’re allowed to bring into the country. If you have any doubts or concerns about what you can and cannot bring to a certain locale, be sure to check the official TSA security screening rules and the screening rules of the specific country you’re planning to visit.

Every airline has its own set of rules when it comes to carry-on and checked baggage size and weight restrictions. The standard carry-on size outside of the United States tends to be a lot smaller, so you’ll want to ensure your hand baggage doesn’t exceed the restrictions of the airlines you’re flying. It tends to be about 26 pounds and 21.5 inches in height for most European carriers, for example, but always check with the exact airlines you plan to use.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a full-time travel writer to curate the best options to suit most needs and international destinations.

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A Step-By-Step Guide To Planning An International Trip (For First-Timers)

The most important details begin before a traveler even commits to purchasing plane tickets or booking accommodations.

When travel reopens again, it will be a joyous and thrilling experience. The past year may have been responsible for canceling many a trip, but the years to come are beginning to take on a brighter future, and, with it, a way to see and experience the world once again . If nothing else, it has made many people realize that if they weren't traveling before, then it's something they should take advantage of in the future of safer vacations. Many people are even starting to consider international travel, as the overall attitude towards vacations has become far more of the 'seize the day' variety.

Related:  24 Thoughts Every Young Foreigner Has When Visiting The US For The First Time

However, it can be a challenge to plan a vacation out of the country . Crossing borders and being immersed in a new culture can be overwhelming at first, but the process of getting there doesn't need to be. There are a few simple steps to do when deciding that it's time to take the international plunge, and it all happens before you even get around to purchasing plane tickets. Before you plan anything, take the time to do these steps to get the most out of your travel planning.

Figure Out Where You Want To Go And Do Some Smart Research

It goes without saying that the first step to planning any trip is deciding where you want to go. The destination is just as important as the journey in this case, especially when it comes to a person's first international trip. Picking a destination is only the beginning, though. A person could read one hundred articles on a destination and still only know statistics and facts; the real truth when it comes to visiting any location is in the blog posts, social media photos, and YouTube videos that have been shared by those who have done it prior. By swapping out Pinterest-worthy vacation photos for those that have been taken by travelers just sharing their experience, it'll provide a more realistic feel.

Searching hashtags on social media and doing a quick Google search on 'vacation in such-and-such' place will go a long way. Sometimes, it's better to get the negative things about a place out of the way before researching everyone's positive experiences.

Decide How Long You Want To Go For And How Much Vacation Time Is Needed

This past year also taught everyone that perhaps taking that extra day or two is well worth it in terms of self-care. Prior to this, many people were hesitant to use all, or any, of their vacation time, for fear of the separation from work and the large pile of it waiting for them when they returned.

Now, the way of thinking has been altered and many people are ready and willing to take full advantage of their vacation days in order to have the experiences they've wanted for so long. Therefore, planning how much time is needed rather than wanted has become more important. If your research says that it takes a week to explore most of the city or country you're interested in, then take the week! If the consensus says that a weekend is more than enough, then stick with a weekend and maybe an extra day to see some less popular locations.

The First Means Of Commitment Is A Passport

The key to truly following through is ensuring a way out. If your passport is up to date and not expired then this doesn't apply but if it's not, then go through with getting it renewed ! Or, if you haven't had one yet, commit to actually obtaining a passport. There's something about holding such a powerful little book in your hands and knowing that it's the key to exploring a new country.

Related:  10 Mistakes Rookies Make Their First Time Traveling By Plane

If nothing else, it'll make you feel committed before any money (aside from purchasing the passport) is even spent on transportation, lodging, and additional travel expenses. It also makes things feel a bit more real, even if your vacation isn't for another year or so.

Plan Out The Budget And Where Money Should Be Allotted

One of the most important details to avoid neglecting when planning a vacation is money. It does cost money to travel and while there are many places that are very affordable, this all depends on lodging, transportation, and what activities a traveler wants to do once they arrive. These costs add up quickly and the best thing to do is write out what experiences are on the list and then price those out. Then, pick a suitable lodging option whether it's an Airbnb or hotel, and write out those prices. Lastly, compare plane ticket prices or, if driving, consider how much money needs to be set aside for gas or how much a rental will cost. The sum of all these numbers will be the 'baseline' price, plus activities, food, and drink throughout the trip.

Next:  15 Cheap No-Fuss Destinations For First-Time Backpackers

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How to plan your dream vacation

Sometimes you crave a vacation — but actually taking one feels out of reach. Maybe you're struggling to find the time or save up the money. Or maybe you just can't seem to launch those plans out of the group chat. Overcome that planning inertia and take the big trip of your dreams. Here's where to start your search, organize your logistics and enjoy yourself.

MARIELLE SEGARRA, HOST:

You're listening to LIFE KIT...

(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)

SEGARRA: ...From NPR.

Hey, everybody. It's Marielle. You remember the early part of the pandemic when the days of isolation stretched into months? At night, I would lay on the floor of my apartment with my eyes closed and listen to guided meditations, to try to take myself to a happier place. One time the prompt was something like, picture yourself doing something that brings you great joy. The first thing that popped into my head was an image of me wandering the cobblestone streets of some small European village, probably in France. The sun was shining, and every step I took was a feast for the eyes. Medieval houses, colorful flowers resting in vases on outdoor tables, patisseries with gorgeous pastries in the window, just waiting to be eaten.

I didn't realize until that moment just how much I missed traveling and how badly I wanted to look at something outside of my four walls or the blocks of my neighborhood. The next year, I took a three-week trip to the U.K. and France, and I ate those pastries and wandered until my feet hurt and filled a hole that had been growing inside of me.

Big trips can do that. Lale Arikoglu knows what I'm talking about. She's the articles director at Conde Nast Traveler.

LALE ARIKOGLU: On a really basic level, I think it's just being able to have a break from the crush of regular life, whether that's work or childcare or school, wherever it may be, you know, the opportunity to just take yourself out of your routine and be somewhere else and get to immerse yourself in that place to me is, like, the main draw of it.

SEGARRA: Now, when we talk about a big trip, that could mean different things depending on your travel style and your budget. You know, it might be a long road trip or an extended stay at a cottage in the woods or a multi-city tour on another continent. But it's typically something you save up for and plan months in advance. Lale has a big trip coming up. She's going to Peru.

ARIKOGLU: I've been waiting to do it for a long time. The reason to go there is for a friend's wedding. And now I'm building a trip around it, and it's going to be about ten days long with multi-stops, you know, having to choose multiple places to stay. And logistically, you know, it's actually taking some thought and some planning. One of the things that we're going to do when we're there is hike Machu Picchu. There's a group of us going. And Machu Picchu - it's a dream to see and experience.

SEGARRA: Now, it's easy to get bogged down in trip planning. And it might stop you from booking the thing entirely, but Lale says, do it. It's worth it.

On this episode of LIFE KIT, Lale shares her best tips on planning the big trip of your dreams. We'll talk about where to start your search, what logistical questions you should ask yourself and how to actually relax and enjoy yourself once you're there.

SEGARRA: Let's say I do want to take a big trip, right? I'm feeling that itch to travel, but...

ARIKOGLU: Right.

SEGARRA: ...I don't have a destination in mind yet or a duration. I'm really starting from scratch. Where does the planning start?

ARIKOGLU: When you start the planning, you've really got to think what you want to get out of the trip. You know, If you really just want to decompress and relax and rest, then you probably don't want to do some like multi-stop European city trip, right? You probably don't want to hike Machu Picchu. Perhaps it is that you're incredibly bored of your surroundings, and you need adventure and you need excitement. And therefore, you're going to be thinking of some really different destinations. It might be that you're traveling alone for the first time. You've decided to do a solo trip. You know, where is a place that might feel comfortable for you as a solo traveler, but still feels like it's taking you out of your comfort zone? So I think it's sitting with yourself and thinking, OK, what is, like, the goal here? That's takeaway one. Ask yourself what do you want to get from this? Set the mission of your trip.

It feels like another really important detail at the beginning is budget, right? Like, how much money do you realistically want to spend on this trip or can you afford to spend?

ARIKOGLU: And, you know, that's going to look different for everyone. If we're talking big trips, rarely are they spontaneous, right? You're planning for a long time. So that also allows you to save and finance for it. No, there's lots of great savings apps that can just, you know, that take a little bit of money out of your paycheck every few weeks, and you can kind of start, like, a travel fund that way. I think that's quite a nice way to do it. But I think, you know, you can do a big trip on a budget. It doesn't have to be, I think, a lavish, international trip. I mean, you know, we're going into spring and summer, there are so many incredible national parks to see, there are so many amazing, very diverse, different cities. There's, like, so much on your doorstep, so I think you can really argue, you don't have to cross continents to have a big trip. And so if that feels a more affordable way to get away for a couple of weeks, then, you know, look in your backyard.

SEGARRA: Right. I wonder, too, like, part of budget, besides money, is also time. Like, how much vacation time do you have? Do you have any tips for people who don't have that much vacation time?

ARIKOGLU: So I think if you look at the calendar and you look at where the holiday weekends fall, There are some tricks to being able to kind of, like, turn your limited number of vacation days into - kind of you can stretch it out if you bookend it with a holiday weekend or something like that. But on the flip side, it's also most expensive time to travel, right? There is an argument for choosing shoulder season, so that's not traveling to a destination when it's at its peak. And this is great for your own personal experience, but it's also in terms of helping that destination deal with overtourism, overcrowding. If we're talking about Europe, for example, the summers are getting hotter. So avoiding those really intense, hot, summer seasons can actually be really advantageous for your own travel plans.

SEGARRA: Yeah. That seems like maybe the next thing to consider as you're planning a big trip before you start looking at destinations is what time of year are you looking to travel?

ARIKOGLU: Definitely. And that's more of a luxury for some people because If you're having to navigate school holidays, then you're a little bit more limited. But again, it's sort of when you're thinking about carving out those goals and what you want to get out of the trip. Maybe it's the seasonality that's really important. Maybe it's all you want is hot weather and a beach. You know, if you're planning some summer travel, you could totally flip things on its head and go experience winter somewhere. I went to Patagonia when it was entering into their fall in Chile, and it was a really magnificent time to be there, and it was when New York City was going into spring. It felt like upside-down land to be choosing to do that, and it was so wonderful. It was great.

SEGARRA: Yeah. I think there's a lot of room for creativity there. And also, as you said, like, it opens up more possibilities if you consider going places during the shoulder season.

ARIKOGLU: And you get to be in a place and actually be in the place with the people who live there. One thing in August, if you go to Europe, everyone who lives there has, you know, gone off somewhere else on vacation to escape the heat and the tourists, and so, you know, you're in Rome with just all the other tourists and none of the Romans.

SEGARRA: All right, so takeaway two. Before you land on a destination, think about your constraints. What time of year do you plan to travel? For how long? What budget are you working with? If you're short on time, you can make use of holidays or pick a destination closer to home. If you're short on money, think creatively. You know, maybe you do a road trip through some parks or cities nearby.

SEGARRA: It seems like another thing to consider here is, how much do you like crowds? Because for me, it kind of ruins a trip or an experience if everywhere I go is super crowded. I get very overwhelmed by that and overstimulated.

ARIKOGLU: And it's also, you know, who are the crowds? Because there's been times when I've gone somewhere and I've gone and done the same bucket list site that everyone else is, and you're sort of standing there and you're thinking, What am I actually here for? Well, what is the purpose of this? What am I getting out of it? What am I giving to this destination other than just being another member of the crowd?

SEGARRA: Yeah. I think that's an important question, right? 'Cause, like, we have been talking about what are you looking to get out of it, for the most part. But there's another side to this - right? - and it's what am I giving? And also, what am I taking? Like, am I taking too much from this place?

ARIKOGLU: I think about that a lot. When you're planning, be really thoughtful about where you're spending your money. When you're choosing a hotel, is it a hotel that is locally owned? What restaurants are you booking? Where are you shopping? Where are you buying your souvenirs? You know, I think there's lots of ways to be really thoughtful about, you know, how you spend your money, and that can go into your budgeting, as well.

SEGARRA: I know there are certain places that at a certain time, at least, they said, please, tourists, like, please stop coming or stop coming during this time.

ARIKOGLU: Yeah. When a destination says that, I mean, it's something to be taken so seriously because they're usually destinations that have an infrastructure or an economy that really relies on tourism. So things have to have gotten pretty bad for a destination to say, take a beat, not right now, and listen to that, and, you know, the place will be better for it when you do go see it.

SEGARRA: I picture it as if you were, like, going to - going over, like, a friend's house uninvited, or, like, if they were like, please, today's not good. Like, our whole family's sick, like, we're all throwing up, and then you were still banging on the door, like, hey, what are you doing? Can I come stay over?

ARIKOGLU: I think that is a perfect analogy. Perfect. And no one wants to be that person.

SEGARRA: No.

ARIKOGLU: I'd hate to be that person.

SEGARRA: That'd be weird behavior.

ARIKOGLU: Yeah.

SEGARRA: Takeaway three, travel responsibly. Research the places you're interested in, and make sure they want tourists at the time you're looking to visit. When you're booking, consider putting your money toward the local economy rather than international chains. Also, learn about whatever destination you choose. Be open to the cultural practices and languages there. And be a respectful visitor.

Anything else that people would want to figure out before they start narrowing down or looking at destinations?

ARIKOGLU: I think it's also thinking about who you want to travel with. Someone can be your best friend, but they can be your worst roommate. I think travel's kind of the same, so kind of finding someone to travel with or a group of people to travel with who you're aligned with in the planning stage, rather than when you get there and then you suddenly discover you all want to do different things. So I think communicating right off the back what you all want out of the trip and what you're excited about and also being really honest with each other about finances.

If you're on a group trip, I mean, it's like splitting the bill, but a thousand times worse. And so I think if you can kind of, like, set some parameters at the start and be really honest about what you feel comfortable spending money on because inevitably, there is going to be some people on the trip who want to spend more money on some things than others.

SEGARRA: Yeah. And it seems like that conversation, there should be some form of that before you book anything.

ARIKOGLU: Yes, 100%. And, you know, I think even if you don't feel comfortable doing it, speaking up if something just feels too expensive.

SEGARRA: All right. So takeaway four, figure out who you're traveling with. You might prefer to travel alone, or if you're going with friends, partners, or family, just make sure you're on the same page about what you want from the trip - the pace, the activities and how much money you can spend.

SEGARRA: OK. So it sounds like we've given people a lot of things to consider before they choose a destination. Once they've done this soul searching, how can they start to find destinations that fit those desires and limitations?

ARIKOGLU: For me, part of the fun of travel planning is doing the research, whether it is a trusted travel publication or reading some books you love or going on to - you know, there's, like, a ton of just, like, online communities of people who love swapping travel tips and actually, I think, can be really helpful.

SEGARRA: Yeah. I think it can be helpful maybe to in the brainstorming stage to just, like, not go in too deep but just make a list of places that seem exciting to you and that might fit your parameters. Like, I have a Google Doc, and it's just, like, places that I would be really excited to go.

SEGARRA: When you are considering a destination, how helpful is social media - is - like, seeing where your friends are going or where influencers are going? Is it a good idea to follow those trends?

ARIKOGLU: I think it can be useful in picking things you want to do once you're there, particularly if it's, like, based around, like, big events or openings. You know, we have our best places to go list that runs every year. It could be, like, new train routes, new hiking routes, new museums that have opened, things that are happening in destinations centered around an anniversary. So, you know, kind of consulting those sorts of lists and rounds up as well can be very helpful. But I think, you know, going back to what we were talking about in terms of over tourism or overcrowding - you know, on social media, you will see people at the same spots time and time again. And they're usually spots where just around the corner, there's also something equally beautiful to see.

SEGARRA: Yeah. Like, I remember when Santorini was really popular. And it's like, whew - like, if you could actually see what was going on behind that photo, like, you would hate being there because it's so - it's just way too many people...

ARIKOGLU: Right. Right.

SEGARRA: ...All lining up to take a picture in - against that beautiful backdrop.

ARIKOGLU: Exactly. And, you know, it's Santorini. It's all beautiful. It's all amazing.

SEGARRA: OK. So takeaway five is to choose a destination. And cast a wide net when you're brainstorming 'cause you never know what's going to catch your eye. Also, Lale says, do your best to think outside of the current travel trends. Though you can use them for inspiration.

So once you've got a destination in mind, how can you start to sketch out the details of the trip? And I guess I should say, how much detail do you really need to figure out?

ARIKOGLU: So I was going to say, don't overschedule yourself, and don't overbook yourself. I think I've been guilty of doing that before, and then you realize that you have no downtime. It might seem like you're being really efficient, but you need a little bit of spontaneity on your trip. Don't overschedule. If there are a few key things you really want to do that you feel you will be crushed if you don't get to do it, then book it. Make sure that's arranged all in advance. So maybe it's finding one thing on each day of your trip. That's what you center your day around and you can frame your itinerary around that, but I wouldn't overschedule.

SEGARRA: Yeah. And then I think when you look at these things potentially sketched out on different days, then you say like, you know, that seems too busy. What's the most important to me here? Like, which of these activities do I want to book ahead?

ARIKOGLU: Right. You know, if you're suddenly realizing - you're like, I am cramming a lot in if I try to go to these three places, then choosing which one to let go.

SEGARRA: Yeah. 'Cause that's always a consideration, too. Like, if you're flying somewhere far, you might think, well, I'm already going to Poland, should I also do Germany?

SEGARRA: There's that impulse, you know? Or I'm going to Poland, so I want to see all of Poland. But that can make for a very frenetic kind of trip.

ARIKOGLU: And you wouldn't tell someone who was visiting America to be like, well, you've come all the way to America, so if you're going to New York, then you also need to go to New Orleans.

SEGARRA: Right, right. Exactly. That's Takeaway 6 - keep your schedule light and malleable. Lally recommends picking only one activity to do for each day of your trip and then building a flexible itinerary around those.

You know, it occurs to me that another element of a big trip when I'm going into them - I know that something's going to go awry during it.

ARIKOGLU: Always (laughter).

SEGARRA: Yeah.

SEGARRA: I remember being in Barcelona when I was in college. I went by myself for, like, a week. And I speak Spanish, but it wasn't fluent at the time. And I just got - I just missed being able to easily say what I wanted to say, and I went into, like, a Wendy's or something because I just wanted something kind of American. And I got some chicken nuggets. I couldn't think how to say nuggets in Spanish. Like, I was like, is that even a word, like, in Spanish, or did they just say nuggets? And I just broke and started speaking in English because I was trying to only speak Spanish. And I was like, I give up. Like, can I get some chicken nuggets, please?

ARIKOGLU: The true American in you comes out screaming at chicken nuggets in a foreign McDonald's.

SEGARRA: Yeah, yeah, give me my nuggies.

ARIKOGLU: (Laughter).

SEGARRA: Yeah, I just - like, sometimes you just need to go roll up into a ball and eat your chicken nuggies and be by yourself for a minute and then come back out, you know?

ARIKOGLU: Yeah. I mean, like, travel so much of the time is sort of, like, infantilizing because you're so powerless. But it's, like, the same in an airport. You're just sort of powerless at a certain extent when things go wrong. And I think my approach to it - to sort of very taxing and challenging air travel schedules, with connections and potential miss flights and lost luggage and all the things that come with that - is to sort of just give myself up to the airport gods, and just as soon as I'm, like, through TSA, just be like, what will be will be. I'll get there eventually and just, like, I'm powerless. And that's been, like, for me, quite liberating. And it also means that I'm not the person screaming at some poor gate agent when things go wrong.

SEGARRA: Yeah, it's a moment of - it's actually an opportunity for mindfulness. Like, I think that could even be helpful going into a big trip, to tell yourself, like, something is going to go wrong. Yeah, just keep that in mind.

ARIKOGLU: Oh, my God, so much of travel is about being tired and hungry.

SEGARRA: We're really selling this.

ARIKOGLU: I know.

SEGARRA: (Laughter).

ARIKOGLU: I'm like, my whole job is to travel. It's great.

SEGARRA: Isn't it terrible? Yeah.

SEGARRA: I try to remind myself, like - what is the point? - like, go back to those goals. What is the point of this? It's to have a good experience, to meet those needs, to give myself what I've been craving.

ARIKOGLU: Exactly. And I don't know. This sounds a little cheesy and a little trite, but anyone who gets to travel is really lucky. Ultimately, it's a real privilege that you get to do it. And it's such a freedom and it's such a special thing.Don't make it stressful.

SEGARRA: That's our final takeaway. Something on your trip is bound to go wrong. So once you're there, sit back and try to surrender. After all, traveling in the first place is a treat.

SEGARRA: OK, jet-setters, time for a recap. First, figure out what you want from this vacation. Decide your budget and time constraints. Commit to traveling ethically. Make sure you're aligned with the people you're traveling with. When you choose a destination, cast a wide net and have fun with the research. Don't overschedule yourself, and once you're there, relax and roll with the punches. For more LIFE KIT, check out our other episodes. We've got one on how to find cheap flights and another on how to pack your suitcase like a pro. You can find those at np.org/lifekit. And if you love LIFE KIT and you just cannot get enough, subscribe to our newsletter at np.org/lifekitnewsletter. Also, we love hearing from you, so if you have episode ideas or feedback you want to share, e-mail us at [email protected].

This episode of LIFE KIT was produced by Margaret Cirino. Our visuals editor is Beck Harlan and our digital editor is Malaka Gharib. Meghan Keane is our supervising editor and Beth Donovan is our executive producer. Our production team also includes Andee Tagle, Clare Marie Schneider and Sylvie Douglis. Engineering support comes from Robert Rodriguez. I'm Marielle Segarra. Thanks for listening.

Copyright © 2024 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

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Planning a trip? Here are the best eSIMs for international travel

Published on April 24, 2024

Traveling is exciting, but dealing with SIM cards can be a hassle. Thankfully, eSIMs (embedded SIMs) are changing the game. You don’t have to put up with long queues for a new SIM or fumble with tiny plastic cards. You can get a local plan while in your country of origin and enjoy seamless connectivity before getting off the plane.

eSIMs are great, but with so many providers, how do you choose the right one? We’ve researched to find the best eSIM for international travel in 2024, whether you’re heading to Europe, Asia, Africa, or Australia.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that works with a chip built into your device. With a supported phone, you can get started from anywhere. Switching operators is as simple as getting a new carrier, scanning a code, and installing and activating the eSIM. This is in sharp contrast to the plastic physical SIM you have to get from the carrier and insert in your phone to get connectivity.

While eSIMs have been around for a while, they caught everyone’s attention when Apple made the bold move to go all-in on them, ditching the traditional SIM card slot altogether.

eSIMs aren’t just about convenience; they’re also eco-friendly. By eliminating physical cards, eSIMs reduce the amount of plastic waste the mobile industry generates. Plus, they free up space inside your device that manufacturers can use to fit in larger batteries or make it more sleek.

The real game-changer is how eSIMs enable 5G connectivity in devices that struggle to fit a SIM card, like smart glasses and fitness trackers . Their compact size makes them perfect for the next generation of connected gadgets.

Best eSIMs for international travel

We’ve covered some of the best eSIMs for international travel, whether you’re taking the trip alone or with loved ones.

• Local, regional, and global plans
• Customizable plans
• 150+ countries, seven regions
• Some plans support data sharing
• Unlimited data, SMS, and call options
• Covers all regions
• Expensive in Africa and America

Airhub is a global marketplace with eSIMs available in over 150 countries. Thanks to strategic partnerships with local companies, it offers several plans per destination that you can use to browse and, in some cases, send texts and make calls.

Local eSIMs cover over 150 countries. Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and South America. The Europe regional eSIM, for example, covers 48 countries, while the South American eSIM covers 18 countries. There are multiple global plans covering countries on all continents.

Airhub shows the network you’ll use at your destination. Plus, you can get unlimited data with SMS and voice minutes in certain countries and regions like Europe, North America, and South America. The Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Eurasian eSIMs only offer capped data volumes without voice credits. Meanwhile, the global plans include data-only options and options with SMS and voice minutes.

Prices vary across regions. European and Eurasian plans are generally cheaper, while North and South American plans are more expensive. African plans are not available at the time of writing.

You can get started with Airhub using the company’s website or mobile application. Choose your destination country and prepaid eSIM data plan, and make payment using your credit card, debit card, or PayPal. You’ll receive a QR code to activate your eSIM.

• Flexible, customizable plans
• 200+ countries, seven regions
• Supports data sharing
• Data validity up to 180 days
• Data-only local and regional plans
• Expensive in Africa
• No unlimited plans

Airalo is regarded as the first-ever eSIM store globally and is a top choice for eSIMs thanks to its budget-friendly options and worldwide availability. It offers local, regional, and global eSIMs, with prices varying by destination and local data rates.

Local eSIMs cover over 200 countries. Local USA plans, for example, range from 1–20GB and are valid for 7–30 days. However, there are no unlimited plans.

Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia, the Caribbean Islands, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, North Africa, and North America. The Eurolink regional eSIM covers 39 European countries and offers as much as 100GB of data for 180 days, while the Island Hopper is good for 24 Caribbean islands.

Prices vary across regions. 1GB of data costs $5 for European and American regional plans, $15 for Caribbean, Latin America, and Middle Eastern regional plans, and $27 for an African regional plan.

The global eSIM plans cover 124 countries simultaneously and are perfect for interregional adventures. Local and regional plans only cover data, while global plans may be data-only or include data, calls, and texts.

To get started with an Airalo eSIM, download the app, create an account, select your destination and package, and install the eSIM. Payment methods include credit and debit cards, Paypal, Apple Pay (in some countries), Google Pay, Alipay (via the app), and Airmoney (Airalo’s reward currency).

• Local and regional plans
• Flexible plans with top-up options
• 175+ countries, 11 regions
• Nifty data calculator
• Free SMS and voice minutes via third-party
• Referral-only loyal points
• No global plans
• No African or Middle Eastern regional plans

aloSIM is a Canadian tech company founded in 2022 that offers low-cost prepaid data eSIMs and a nifty data calculator that estimates data usage based on daily activities. This ensures you only pay for what you need.

aloSIM has local plans covering over 175 countries across all continents. Regional plans cover Europe, America, and some parts of Asia, with unique options for Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. However, regional offers are limited in Africa and the Middle East.

The European regional plan spans 34 countries and lets you buy 1–10GB of data for seven to 30 days, with the option to add more if needed. You can get 5GB of data for around $20. If your journey only takes you to the UK, a cheaper UK-Ireland plan that costs $20 for 10GB of data is available. Prices are more expensive in North and South America, with the same 10GB going for $50 or more.

Like Airalo, aloSIM shows you which networks you’ll be connected to and the speed availability before purchasing a plan. You also can’t get unlimited data. While the eSIMs do not include phone numbers for calling and texting, aloSIM offers free numbers with voice minutes and SMS from its sister app, Hushed.

You can get started with aloSIM on the web or mobile app. There are three installation methods: Automatic, QR code, and manual.

• 170+ countries, 11 regions
• Small regional price disparity
• Prepaid SMS plans
• Some eSIMs support data sharing
• Data-only plans

Nomad was founded in 2020 and has headquarters in Silicon Valley. It has local, regional, and global plans.

Local eSIMs cover 170+ countries across all continents. Regional plans include Asia–Pacific, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and smaller three-country combinations. The global plan covers 109 countries.

You can see which network you’ll be connected to within your destination country and the speed. You can also top up your data when necessary. Note that there are no unlimited plans or options with voice minutes, but you can get separate SMS plans in the US and Canada at $4 for 100 texts lasting 30 days.

Prices vary by region. The European plan costs $5 for 1GB of data for seven days. Prices are similar for American and Asian plans. The African plans are slightly more expensive, starting at $11 for 1GB of data. But this is still significantly cheaper than Airalo’s $27 for 1GB.

• 170+ countries, seven regions
• Two global coverage plans
• Unlimited global and European plans
• Offers eSIMs and physical SIMs
• Pay-as-you-go option
• Pricier in the Middle East and Africa
• No info on destination networks
• Auto-renewal feature
• No data sharing

BNESIM was founded in 2017 in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island. It provides eSIMs and SIM cards in several countries and regions, but we’ll focus on eSIMs.

BNESIM offers local eSIM plans in over 170 countries. Its seven regional plans cover Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, Oceania, and South America. It has a global plan for 102 countries and a mini global plan for 56 countries, mainly consisting of North America, Europe, and some parts of Asia.

Aside from its base plans that renew automatically, BNE offers one-time plans with relatively shorter expiration dates and pay-as-you-go plans that never expire. It also provides unlimited European and global data plans with voice minutes — other plans are data-only.

You can top up your plan anytime using the app. However, you can’t see the network you’ll connect to within your destination country.

Local US plans start at €4.36 for 3GB of data lasting a month. It’s cheaper in European countries, costing about €3.96 for the same 3GB in the UK. Prices are higher in Africa and South America, with a rate of around €18.72/3GB and €15.34/3GB, respectively. Regional plans follow a similar pricing pattern.

• 190+ countries and some regions
• Unlimited data plans in several locations
• Small price disparity across regions

Holafly was founded in 2017 and has offices in Ireland, Columbia, Peru, and Thailand. It offers local and regional eSIMs with unlimited data in several locations.

Holafly eSIMs are available in over 190 destinations worldwide. Coverage includes countries, cities like Barcelona, and regions like Asia and Europe. Plans vary widely, with some places only offering fixed data bundles while others have unlimited volumes.

You can get unlimited data at a rate of €6/day and €19/5 days in Australia, Canada, Japan, the US, the UK, and several other places. Prices are slightly more expensive in countries like Nigeria and South Africa, with five days of unlimited data costing €29. The data volume is capped in several other countries.

Finding regional plans on the website is tricky. However, a quick search on the website brought up plans for Asia, Europe, Latin and North America, and the Caribbean.

The Holafly website highlights several details about your purchase, including the available networks in your destination and places that are likely to have high-speed internet. However, the plans are data-only, so you can’t make phone calls or send text messages, except with the Europe eSIM, which gives you 60 minutes of normal voice calls.

Holiday eSIM

• Regional and global plans
• Great European coverage
• Plans include calls, SMS, and data
• Poor coverage of other regions
• Poor website design

Holiday eSIM is a top choice for travelers heading to Europe. Thanks to robust connections in nearly every European country, you can enjoy high-speed data wherever you are.

Holiday eSIM includes a French number in your plan, a rare find among eSIM providers. Its most popular plan costs £17.50 for 12GB of data in Europe, unlimited calls and texts in Europe, and 30 minutes and 200 SMS from Europe to anywhere in the world. There are other plans as well.

While its major offerings cover Europe, Holiday eSIM has Asia-only plans covering several countries. Aside from these two regions, every other location is part of a global plan that covers parts of Europe and other continents.

Thanks to the user-friendly Orange Holiday app, installing the eSIM is simple. Download the app, install the eSIM, and you’ll automatically connect to the strongest local European mobile network. However, the Holiday eSIM website interface leaves a lot to be desired. Navigating through plans is challenging, especially if it’s your first time.

Should you get an eSIM?

One of the most incredible things about eSIMs is their flexibility — you can store multiple eSIMs on your phone (up to eight or more in some cases) and activate them as needed without worrying about extra roaming charges.

If your current network offers free roaming, you might not need a travel-specific or local SIM. But if not, the hassle of finding a new operator and dealing with language barriers can be a real headache.

Security-wise, eSIMs have a leg up on physical SIMs. Since they’re not removable, they’re practically impossible to lose. And if your phone goes missing, tracking it through the eSIM is much easier than with a physical SIM that the perpetrator can remove.

While international roaming works the same way with physical and eSIMs, the real advantage of eSIMs is their flexibility. You can have multiple eSIMs from different countries saved on your device, making it a breeze to switch between them when you’re hopping from one country to another.

The best part? Switching between eSIMs is as easy as buying and activating a plan online. There is no need to juggle physical SIM cards or worry about losing your old number.

Which phones support eSIMs?

To use an eSIM, your phone must support the technology and be unlocked (not tied to any carrier). We’ll cover a list of phones with built-in eSIM support and how you can check if they’re unlocked.

To see if your iOS device supports eSIMs and is carrier unlocked:

• Go to Settings > General > About .
• Scroll down to Carrier Lock . If the device is unlocked, it will show No SIM restrictions .
• For iOS 15 or higher, scroll down to Available SIM . For earlier versions, look for Digital SIM . If your phone supports eSIMs, it will display a 15-digit IMEI number.

Here are the iPhone models that support eSIMs:

• iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
• iPhone 11 series
• iPhone 12 series
• iPhone 13 series
• iPhone SE 2 and 3
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone 15 series

Here are the iPad models that support eSIMs:

• iPad Pro 1st generation and newer
• iPad Air 3rd generation and newer
• iPad 7th generation and newer
• iPad Mini 5th generation and newer

To check if your Android phone supports eSIMs:

• Go to Settings > Network & Internet .
• Tap on eSIM cards .
• Your device is compatible if you see the “Download a SIM instead?” option.

You can also check for an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number by dialing *#06#.

Some popular high-end Android phones that support eSIMs include:

• Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20 series
• Samsung Galaxy Fold series
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series
• Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
• Google Pixel 4 series and newer (and older Google Fi Pixel phones)
• Google Pixel Fold
• Xiaomi 12T Pro and 13 series
• Oppo Find X5 series
• Huawei P40 series

This list is not exhaustive, and compatibility can vary based on where the device was manufactured. Check with your manufacturer to confirm.

Types of eSIMs

There are two main types of eSIMs: data-only and data with SMS and voice credits. Which one should you choose?

• Data-only eSIM: As the name implies, a data-only eSIM only works for browsing. It connects you to major networks in your destination country so you can surf the web and use your favorite apps. While you can’t make phone calls with it, you can leverage apps like WhatsApp to speak with others over the web.
• Voice, SMS, and data eSIM: This option is perfect for those seeking the whole package — calling, texting, and browsing. It usually comes with a separate phone number for this purpose. While most providers give you a fixed number of SMS messages or call minutes, some add this for free. Meanwhile, most unlimited data plans come with unlimited calls and texts.

Jeppesen International Trip Planning Services

Trip planning, fueling and ground handling services for all your flight operation’s needs..

Jeppesen International Trip Planning Services (ITPS) provide tailored, flexible and optimized solutions to meet your unique trip planning, fueling and ground handling needs. With decades of expertise our 24/7/365 team works with you to build and execute a plan to support worldwide operations and augment your flight department. We fill your operational gaps, enabling your business to find more and new efficiencies.

Customized Subscription Pricing

Offered as a convenient monthly fixed volume-based service that provides predictable costs to help simplify the budgeting and billing processes. Subscription pricing is based on the customer’s response to a simple survey and is tailored to the operator’s unique flight operation’s needs.

Vast Aviation Expertise

• More than 40 years of experience in trip planning coordination from trip inception to completion.
• Complex itinerary and route planning with high ATC filing acceptance rates. Intricate coordination factoring weather, NOTAMs and ETOPS protocols.
• Regulatory expertise with country permit requirements and global airspace rules to eliminate overflight violations and penalties.
• Strong long-standing relationships with government and airport authorities.
• Extensive experience with airport slots, local customs notifications and applicable APIS requirements.
• Multiple operation centers that are focused on regional procedures and local knowledge

Extraordinary Service Delivery

• Accessible and immediate support. Personalized dedicated account assistance available, with multilingual personnel available to meet your diverse needs.
• Scalable offerings to rapidly adjust to changing environments for all your flight operations requirements. Customizable services to meet your unique demands and operational structure.
• Comprehensive ground handling, fueling and security arrangements, in addition to hotel, ground transportation, catering and general travel services.
• After-hours and back-up support to enhance your flight department and alleviate resource constraints or to allow your staff and crew to focus on other aspects of the operation.
• Strict adherence to SLAs to ensure consistent quality service delivery performance and customer satisfaction rates above industry standards.

Jeppesen Trip Planning Assistant

Pilots stay connected through the Jeppesen Trip Planning Assistant mobile application

Jeppesen Trip Planning Assistant is integrated with ITP to provide essential real-time flight information in a quick reference format. Pilots can see at-a-glance:

• Assigned flights
• Aircraft type
• Destination
• Departure/arrival times
• Number of segments
• Checklist trip status and trip summary
• Flight plan
• Scheduled trip planning services
• Crew and passenger information
• METAR/TAF information

Robust Vendor Relationships with Reliable and Flexible Payment Options

• Proven global vendor relations team who manages a thorough assessment process for choosing ground handlers and suppliers with an emphasis on safety and quality programs.
• Established credit with worldwide third party vendors to allow for prompt payment at time of service. Jeppesen rebills you for vendor fees such as FBOs, handlers, airport fees, hotels, catering and transport companies.
• Line-item invoicing option available that itemizes each transaction to assist with reporting and budgeting.
• A rigorous customer survey process with feedback regularly communicated to vendors to promote continuous service and quality improvements.

Partnership with World Fuel Services

Additional resources.

Here is more detailed information about this product and what it can do for you.

Fact Sheet - International Trip Planning Services

Jeppesen and aeg fuels: strategic alliance for international trip planning and fuel services, want to know more.

Learn more about how ITPS can be a solution for your operation or set up a live demo by contacting us using the button below.

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• Mexico Travel News

10 Best Travel TRIP PLANNER APPs To Have in 2024

In a fast-paced world where the stress of work and school is overwhelming, we all need a break to de-stress our minds. Traveling is one good way to take your mind off of stressful things – a breather. And a scheduled vacation gives you something to look forward to.

Whether it’s a local trip alone, a family holiday, or a getaway with your best friends, it just excites you to wish the day would come faster. 

10 Best Trip Planner Apps in 2024

The freeform app.

• TripIt: Travel Planner

Hopper – Flight & Hotel Deals

• Sygic Travel Maps Trip Planner

Roadtrippers: Trip Planner

Tripadvisor, travelspend: track travel expense & trip budget, tripcase – travel organizer app, travel planning apps for your next trip.

The Freeform app is an endless whiteboard that lets users add information from a variety of websites, photos, videos and files.

Because the boards are kept in iCloud, they can be accessed from any device anytime inspiration hits. While you and your travel companions plan your dream trip, the specifics can be shared with several individuals working together on the same whiteboard, making them an ongoing work in progress.

The Freeform app is free to iPhone users on iOS 16.2, iPad users on 16.2, and Mac users on Ventura MacOS Venture 13.1. 

Download the brand-new app here .

Read our full post: Apple Launches New Travel App Freeform – What to Know

Wanderlog Trip Planner App

Wanderlog is your all-in-one destination for planning future trips, sharing travel guides, and blogging past trips.

Its trip planning features are incredibly flexible: you can research destinations and activities, organize reservations by connecting your email, and map out a day itinerary with start/end times. You can also add notes and links all throughout.

Everything is stored offline so you can access your itinerary when traveling abroad. For road trips, it calculates the time and distance between places and exports them to Google Maps (and there are no limits to the number of stops you have on a trip!).

Plus, there’s a fun social component: collaborate with friends on itineraries, write your own travel guide, and blog about past trips. Wanderlog is available on the web and on your smartphone, so you can seamlessly plan while at home and on-the-go.

iOS  /  Android

TripIt: Trip Planner App

If you need any help organizing the dozens of itineraries, TripIt is the app for you. Users simply need to forward your flight, hotel, restaurant, and car rental confirmation emails to [email protected] and the app will create a free master doc for each of your trips. The best thing about this app is that you can get access to your itinerary anywhere, even without an internet connection. 

In addition, the Pro version will find you alternative routes for canceled flights and send out notifications for delayed flights, cancellations, and more from the airlines. 

iOS / Android

Rome2rio is a versatile travel planning app that simplifies the process of finding and booking travel options. It’s a handy tool for travelers seeking to explore various transportation choices between destinations. Rome2rio offers users a comprehensive view of travel options, including flights, trains, buses, ferries, and even driving directions.

Key features of Rome2rio include:

• Route Information: The app provides detailed information on different routes, including estimated travel times, costs, and the number of transfers required.
• Booking Integration: Users can book flights, train tickets, and other transportation options directly through the app, streamlining the booking process.
• Map Integration: Rome2rio integrates with maps, allowing users to visualize their travel routes and explore nearby attractions.
• Multi-Modal Travel: It offers options for combining various modes of transportation, making it easy to plan complex journeys.
• Accurate Pricing: The app provides real-time pricing information, helping users make informed decisions based on their budget.
• Offline Access: Rome2rio offers offline access to previously searched routes, which can be handy when traveling without a data connection.

Hopper is an amazing trip planner app to have on your phone. The app predicts airfares up to 1 year in advance, with 95% accuracy. It analyzes over billions of flight prices and hotels within the day – telling you whether to book your trip now or wait for just a little longer.

Here’s how it works: Key in your destination and a color-coded calendar will display the cheapest and most expensive date to fly. The app will then recommend you to either book the flight now or sit it out and wait for airfare to get cheaper. Also, you can filter predictions to custom-fit your trip – remove long layovers, extra fees, restrictions, and more. 

And if you worry about missing out the cheap flight bookings, don’t be! Hopper will send you a notification when fares have dropped to its lowest point.

SYGIC Travel Maps Trip Planner

Sygic Travel Maps , the new version of Sygic Trip Planner, is the first travel app to display all of the attractions and places a traveler needs to see and visit on a single map.

Sync your trips with the Sygic Travel app and find hidden gems in all cities you visit. The app boast a large database that allows you to find the best hotels, tourist attractions, museums, restaurants, bars, and stores wherever you go.

This mobile app also let you download offline maps and guides, which come in helpful when traveling to remote locations with poor or non-existing Wi-Fi.

It also has a dedicated section to worldwide places of interest for travel business. Get location information for individual cities, countries, continents, or the entire planet.

The app is available in 18 languages.

iOS / Android iOS

Planning on a cross-country road trip ? Roadtrippers is the app for you! Not everyone is fond of waiting long hours at the airport while sitting through your red-eye flight. Hit the road with your friends instead.

Roadtrippers provides everything you need to know on your road trip. Just enter your starting point, destination, and let the app do its work for you! From camping sites to rest stops, outdoor activities, exciting adventures along the way that you didn’t know existed. This app is the perfect buddy for your road trip regardless of your mode of transportation – a sedan, a rental car, or a huge family RV.

Most of us dream of going to places! But planning an amazing trip to places we have not been to is pretty hard as you don’t know where to stay, what to do, places to eat, and adventures to try. We mostly rely on recommendations, most of which are not even right, that we find online. 

TripAdvisor has over millions of travel recommendations on hotels, top dining spots, must-do experiences, and treasured gems to over 8 million destinations at your perusal. It is an all-in-one app that lets you book tables at restaurants and compares low prices on hotels and flights.

You can also follow friends and travel experts for advice that match your interests, watch videos, and read articles. In return, you can share your experiences, reviews, and helpful guides for other users too!

Setting up a budget for your trip is easy, however, sticking to it is hard. TravelSpend will help you with that. It starts with entering your budget and expenses over multiple days so you don’t go overboard. The app helps you in sticking to your budget effectively.

Being in another country is not a problem at all: enter your expenses in any currency and the app will automatically convert it to your home currency.

Track your travel expenses whether going on a solo around-the-world trip or backpacking holiday with your best friends. The app allows you to share your trip with your friends and track your expenses together. Pay debts, split bills, and check your balances – all in the app!

TripCase, a comprehensive travel organizer app, has emerged as a popular choice among travelers seeking a streamlined and efficient way to manage their journey details.

Here’s a breakdown of its key features and functionalities:

Centralized Itinerary Management : TripCase allows users to consolidate all their travel details, including flights, hotels, and car rentals, into a single, easily accessible itinerary.

Real-time Flight Alerts : The app keeps travelers informed with up-to-the-minute notifications on flight statuses, including delays, cancellations, and gate changes.

Itinerary Sharing : TripCase offers a sharing option that enables users to send their travel plans to friends, family, or colleagues.

Travel Directions and Maps : To aid navigation in unfamiliar locations, the app provides directions and maps.

Nearby Recommendations : TripCase offers recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and other services close to the traveler’s location.

Document Storage : For added convenience, the app allows users to store essential travel documents digitally, ensuring that important information like passport details, visas, and insurance policies are readily available.

Customizable Notifications : Users can customize their notification preferences, choosing what types of alerts they receive and how they are notified, tailoring the app to suit individual needs and preferences.

iOS / Android 

Hi, great List. I couldn’t travel without my Apps! I have one App you could check out =) Its called ” ATM Fee Saver” and it gives a list with all ATMs and their fees and limit. I found it super helpful and it really helped me to save some money. Best regards, Charlotte

Thank you for your suggestions! Those apps are very useful and various

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Announcing the Hot List Winners of 2024

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants , and cruise ships , a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech, or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List hotel winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North Island Okavango

Angama Amboseli

Jannah Lamu

Farasha Farmhouse , Marrakech

Kozo Kigali

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island — Seychelles

SOUTH AFRICA

Nikkei Cape Town

Molori Mashuma , Mana Pools National Park

Pemako Punakha

Regent Hong Kong

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Naar , Darwa

Papa's , Mumbai

Cap Karoso , Sumba

Further , Bali

Locavore NXT Bali

Le Pristine Tokyo

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park , Tokyo

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection , Jomsom

SOUTH KOREA

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Pot Au Phở , Ho Chi Minh

Le Foote , Sydney

Southern Ocean Lodge , Kangaroo Island

Sun Ranch , Byron Bay

MIDDLE EAST

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

SAUDI ARABIA

Six Senses Southern Dunes , Umluj

The St. Regis Riyadh

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Guild , Dubai

SIRO One Za'abeel, Dubai

Soul Kitchen , Dubai

The Lana, Dorchester Collection , Dubai

Koan , Copenhagen

Hotel Maria , Helsinki

1 Place Vendôme , Paris

The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel , Cannes

Datil , Paris

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin , Paris

La Nauve Hôtel & Jardin , Cognac

Rosewood Munich

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

Monument , Athens

One&Only Aesthesis , Athens

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

Bulgari Hotel Roma , Rome

Trattoria del Ciumbia , Milan

Hotel La Palma , Capri

La Roqqa , Porto Ercole

Nolinski Venezia , Venice

Palazzo Roma , Rome

Saporium , Florence

Hotel Violino d’Oro , Venice

Mamula Island

NETHERLANDS

De Durgerdam , Amsterdam

Canalha , Lisbon

Andreu Genestra , Mallorca

Barro , Ávila

César Lanzarote , Lanzarote

Hotel Corazón , Mallorca

Grand Hotel Son Net , Mallorca

Palacio Arriluce , Getxo

Son Vell Menorca , Menorca

The Peninsula Istanbul

UNITED KINGDOM

Broadwick Soho , London

Chishuru , London

The Devonshire , London

Chelsea Townhouse, London

Estelle Manor , Cotswolds

Fish Shop , Ballater

Raffles London at The OWO

Colima 71 , Mexico City

Maizajo Mexico City

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya EDITION

The St. Regis Kanai Resort , Riviera Maya

SOUTH AMERICA

Casa Lucía , Buenos Aires

Trescha , Buenos Aires

Oseille , Rio de Janiero

99 Restaurante, Santiago

Our Habitas Atacama , San Pedro de Atacama

Puqio , Arequipa

THE CARIBBEAN

Silversands Beach House

UNITED STATES

The Celestine , New Orleans

Dawn Ranch , Sonoma, California

The Fifth Avenue Hotel , New York

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The Georgian , Santa Monica, California

The Global Ambassador , Phoenix

Hotel Bardo, Savannah

Ilis , New York

Kiln , San Francisco

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , Kona, Hawaii

Maty's , Miami

Warren Street Hotel , New York

Yess , Los Angeles

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

CRUISE SHIPS

Silver Nova , Silversea

Norwegian Viva

Seven Seas Grandeur , Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

Oceania Vista

World Voyager , Atlas Ocean Voyages

Scenic Eclipse II

Emerald Sakara

Celebrity Ascent

Seabourn Pursuit

Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean

MSC Euribia

Viking Aton

Resilient Lady , Virgin Voyages

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler's Hot List issue. Never miss an issue when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler.

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