Plan a Trip Abroad
I was born and raised in Bangladesh before moving to the US. Growing up, we would visit my dad’s family back home, and it was great being at home with my cousins, enjoying my aunts’ cooking, and spending time with my uncles.
International travel comes with its own set of rules and requirements, and it was always my dad who prepared all the necessary documents and prepared for our trips. My dad took care of everything from booking a room for an overnight stay at the airport to booking a flight. While I have yet to book an international trip, I have learned much from my dad and know how to be well-prepared.
Everyone should go on at least one international trip in their life!
Here are a few things you must do before any International Trip
1. Research Countries You Want to Visit
Find out what the weather will be like, especially for South Asian countries that experience monsoon season from June to September. Also, consider the political climate; if a particular country is going through political unrest during your visit, it might not be a good idea to visit. Find out if the country you plan to visit requires a tourist visa.
2. Apply for Visa (if needed) 2-3 Month in Advance
You want to give yourself some time in case something happens and you must reapply. Every country has different timelines for how long tourist visas are valid, so check out exactly how long you can stay and the application requirements. You should also check how far in advance you need to apply.
3. Make Sure Your Passport is Up to Date
You will need your passport to travel internationally, so ensure it is current and has the correct information.
4. Book your Tickets in Advance
It is best to book tickets for international flights at least 2-3 months before your trip since international flights are more expensive than domestic ones. If your flight has an overnight layover, find out if your airline offers complimentary hotels. Emirates Airlines and Singapore Airlines provide complimentary rooms in the airport, or you can even book a room at a different rate.
5. Start Looking for Hotels
Once your visa (if required) is approved, it’s time to look at hotels. Do you want your hotel to be closer to the airport? Do you want your hotel to be in the city? Do you need your hotel to have specific amenities? Researching a few hotels regarding location, price, and service is always a good idea.
6. Check for any Vaccination Requirements
Check to see if the country you visit has any medical requirements, specifically if they require you to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Ensure that proof of examination from a doctor is obtained and approved by the Consulate.
7. Obtain Travel Medical Insurance
A few months back, my family and I took a trip to India, and it was there that my father fell ill and needed medical treatment. The ordeal made me realize how vital travel medical insurance is because you never know when you need it.
I strongly suggest that anyone traveling overseas buy travel medical insurance. If you have health complications or are on medications but can travel, let your doctor know about your travel plans, keep a copy of all your medicines with someone back home, and give a copy to the hotel concierge if necessary. (Forbes recently came out with a list of the Best Travel Insurance Companies of September 2023. Best Money has a list as well.)
There are many resources online to help you find the right travel medical insurance for you.
8. Exchange Currencies and Notify Credit Card
You can exchange currency at many places, including Banks, Currency Exchange places, and airports. You can even exchange it at your hotel. Also, call your credit card company(s) and let them know where you will be traveling and the duration of your trip to prevent your card from being closed.
9. Book Your Transportation
Whenever we visited my family in Bangladesh, my dad would always book a car for our entire trip. There are two benefits to this: 1) you have reliable transportation for your entire trip, and 2) it prevents the hassle of finding commuting ways.
10. Notify the Post Office
If you will be gone for a month or longer, it’s a good idea to let the Post Office know so they can keep your mail until you return.
Everyone should experience one trip abroad. I can say from experience overseas trips are a great way to broaden one’s horizon. Having traveled to different countries and being exposed to different cultures has helped me see life in a whole new light.
What is your all time favorite trip abroad?
Happy Journey!
