Preparing for International Travel
International travel can be exhausting and stressful sometimes. It doesn't really have to be though. Check out these tips to make it just a little easier for you.
#1: Sleep
This is a given. You should be getting an ample amount of sleep the night before your flight. And bring some melatonin for your flight, especially if it is a long one. You want to feel rested when you get to your destination and not grumpy because of the lack of sleep.
#2: Dress in your Comfy Clothes
Dress in your favorite loungewear because people don’t care what you are wearing. Dress comfortably because you will be sitting in a tight spot for a couple of hours or half a day! You don’t want to be wearing something tight or have a zip/button poking into you. Be as comfy as possible.
#3: Pack Lightly
Pack only the things that you need. I get it. Sometimes you aren’t sure what to pack due to fun activities that are planned or weather conditions, but the last thing that you want is to be hauling an extra-large suitcase that is bulky and heavy. Not fun. Pack only what you need to make things easier.
#4: Get TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry
If you haven’t heard about TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry, you are in for a special treat. Think of Global Entry as a Disney FastPass that will help you cut the line at security and customs. Save time with both TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry. No more waiting in line and have extra time to walk around the terminals for your last stretch walk break, potty break or time to get that Starbucks before your flight.
#5: Put eyes on your passport.
Before you leave locate your passport. Make sure it does not have any rips or missing pages. Make sure it does not expire within six months of your travel date. Be sure to do this inspection at least 6 weeks before you travel. This way you have time to make any needed corrections without interrupting your travel plans.
#6: Arrive at the Airport Early
Most airports suggest for you to be at the airport two hours before you depart, but it wouldn’t hurt to get there a bit earlier to avoid the stress of thinking you won’t make your flight.
#7: Stay Hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle with you that is empty BEFORE you go through airport security. You can find a fill-up station or water fountain to fill it up for FREE. You must stay hydrated because the air cabins are extremely dry and you want to avoid getting a dehydration headache.
#8: Devices, Devices, Devices
When it comes to devices be sure to bring headphones to cancel out the noise for a more enjoyable flight experience, a laptop/tablet to watch some movies that you download from your Netflix account, and an extra charger. The last thing you want is for your device to run out of battery then be bored for the remainder of your flight
#9: Travel Apps
There’s an app for everything that you can think of such as maps, translation help, staying in touch with your airline, and much more. Try adding your airline's app for flight updates and in-flight entertainment, the mobile Passport app for expedited customs options, and Viator to coordinate activities and tours while you're on vacation.
#10: Airport Lounges:
Have a long layover? Consider purchasing time in an airport lounge. Listen, those Delta, United, and American airline lounges are not exclusive to cardholders. If they have space, simply pay to enter and get your relax on!
Hopefully, you have a trip planned in the future so you can put these tips to use. If not get in touch with us so we can put a quote together for you and get you started.