How do I start traveling internationally?

Okay, so you’re itching to hop on a plane and explore the world? That’s awesome! International travel can be seriously life-changing. But where do you even begin, right? Don’t worry, it can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but trust me, with a little planning, you’ll be sipping espressos in Italy or hiking through the Andes before you know it.

Here’s how I usually tackle it, and honestly, I still get a little thrill every time I start planning a trip:

1. First things first: Get your documents in order! I mean, you can’t exactly waltz into another country without a valid passport, can you? Check the expiration date – you’d be surprised how many people forget this! And some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your intended stay. Learned that the hard way once when I almost got denied boarding for a flight to Spain… talk about a stressful airport experience! Also, see if you need a visa for where you’re going. Some countries offer visas on arrival, but it’s always safer to get it sorted out beforehand. Imagine getting all the way there and being turned away? Ugh, the nightmare!

2. Do your homework on your destination! This is the fun part, at least for me. What kind of vibe does the place have? What’s the local culture like? What about the language? Even just learning a few basic phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” in the local language can go a long way. I remember trying to order food in a tiny restaurant in Japan using only gestures – it was hilarious, but also kind of frustrating! Oh, and don’t forget to check travel advisories and local laws. You want to be respectful and safe, right?

3. Money, money, money! Figuring out the whole currency thing can be a bit of a headache, but it’s crucial. What’s the exchange rate? Are you better off exchanging money before you go, or withdrawing it from an ATM when you arrive? I usually do a mix of both. And let your bank know you’ll be traveling so they don’t freeze your card for “suspicious activity.” Yep, been there, done that – trying to explain to a cashier in Paris why my card suddenly stopped working was not my finest moment. Also, look into whether your credit card charges foreign transaction fees. Some do, some don’t, and those fees can really add up!

4. Shop around for flights and accommodation. Don’t just book the first thing you see! Use comparison websites, check different dates, and be flexible if you can. Sometimes flying on a Tuesday instead of a Friday can save you a ton of money. And for accommodation, think about what you’re looking for. Do you want a fancy hotel, a cozy Airbnb, or a budget-friendly hostel? I’ve stayed in all sorts of places, from a ridiculously luxurious hotel in Dubai (thanks, work trip!) to a tiny, but charming, guesthouse in Vietnam. Each experience was unique, you know?

5. Book in Advance (when it makes sense)! Especially for flights and popular attractions. This is doubly true now, in the post-pandemic travel boom. Waiting until the last minute can mean higher prices, or worse, things being completely sold out. I missed out on seeing the Mona Lisa once because I didn’t book tickets in advance. Lesson learned! But hey, sometimes being spontaneous can lead to amazing discoveries too, so it’s all about finding the right balance, right?

6. Don’t run yourself ragged. I know, you want to see everything, but trust me, you’ll enjoy your trip a lot more if you don’t try to cram too much into each day. Build in some downtime to relax, soak in the atmosphere, and just wander around without a specific agenda. I once tried to visit five different cities in Italy in a week – it was exhausting! I barely remember anything, other than being constantly stressed about catching the next train.

7. Safety First! Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your valuables secure (a money belt can be a lifesaver), and be wary of scams. And don’t forget about your health! Make sure you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations, and pack a basic first-aid kit with things like pain relievers, bandages, and any prescription medications you take. Better safe than sorry, as they say.

So yeah, those are my tips. International travel can seem daunting at first, but honestly, the world is a pretty amazing place, and it’s totally worth stepping outside your comfort zone to explore it. Just remember to plan ahead, be prepared, and most importantly, have fun! What are you waiting for? Book that trip!