Before You Travel

Planning a trip? Before you go, explore the trusted travel resources below.

📌 Bookmark this page for quick access before every trip.

Everything you need to prepare for your journey is gathered in one convenient place. From passport and entry requirements to packing tips, and travel insurance, these resources are designed to help you prepare for travel with confidence.

Travel requirements can change. While I do my best to keep these resources current, travelers are responsible for confirming passport validity, visa requirements, health requirements, and entry regulations before departure. Always refer to the official government websites linked below for the most up-to-date information.

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These are the trusted resources I use when planning my own trips

Know Your Embassy Contact Info

Passports & Entry Requirements

Safety & Travel Advisories

Flights & Airports

Transportation Planning

Money Matters

  • Exchange money at your local bank for the best exchange rates. They usually need a minimum of 48 hours for this service so plan ahead.

  • VAT Refund Information (Global Blue)
    Track VAT refund eligibility and claim information.

  • Check your Credit Card Foreign Transaction Fee Information.

  • Notify your credit card company of travel (if required).

  • Credit Cards: Lost or Stolen While Traveling

    If your credit cards are lost or stolen while traveling, notify the credit card companies right away.

    Before you leave for your trip, make sure you have the lost/stolen card phone number for each credit card company saved in your phone and printed out in case your phone is also lost or stolen. The phone number is typically listed on the back of your credit card.

    Tip: Keep these phone numbers somewhere separate from your wallet so you can access them if your wallet is lost or stolen.

Phones & Connectivity

  • WhatsApp
    Download WhatsApp before you leave. Send free messages, make voice and video calls, and share photos over Wi-Fi or mobile data while traveling.

  • Check with your mobile carrier before you travel. Many carriers offer international plans for about $10–$20 per month, which may be easier—and sometimes less expensive—than purchasing an eSIM. You can usually add the plan before your trip and remove it when you return.

  • Airalo eSim
    Purchase affordable eSIM data plans for international travel.

    Availability and coverage vary by destination. Check your destination before downloading or purchasing.

Rental Cars

International Driving Permit

If you're planning to rent a car overseas, consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you leave the U.S.

An IDP translates your U.S. driver's license into multiple languages and is recognized in more than 150 countries.

Some countries require an IDP to drive legally, while others may require or recommend one for rental cars.

An IDP does not replace your U.S. driver's license—you must carry both when driving abroad.

Important: Requirements vary by country, so check the driving requirements for your specific destination before you travel.

Where to Get One

AAA is authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue International Driving Permits in the United States. You do not have to be a AAA member to obtain one.

Apply for an International Driving Permit through AAA

You will generally need:

  • A valid U.S. driver's license

  • Two passport-style photos if applying in person

  • A completed IDP application

  • The applicable permit fee

An IDP is generally valid for one year from its effective date and must be carried together with your valid U.S. driver's license.

Go Confidently Tip: Don't wait until you're at the rental counter to find out you need an IDP. Check the requirements for your destination before your trip and get your permit in advance.

Packing & Preparation

  • My travel essentials

  • TSA Liquids Rule (3-1-1)
    Review the TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-on baggage.

  • Electrical Plug & Outlet Guide
    Find the plug and outlet types used in your destination.

  • Voltage Guide
    Check your destination's electrical voltage and power standards.

  • Medication & Prescriptions

    Don't assume a medication is permitted simply because you have a valid U.S. prescription. Check the rules before you pack.
    Verify that your medications are permitted at your destination. Keep them in their original labeled containers if possible, and bring a note from your physician listing your medications and dosages.

‍ ‍ Helpful Resources

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Travel Insurance

I strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance for every trip, especially when you have significant prepaid, nonrefundable expenses. If you want the greatest flexibility, consider a Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policy.

I'm happy to help you compare options and find coverage that is the best fit for your trip.

Before you leave, print your travel insurance policy, emergency contact information, and claim instructions, and keep a copy with your travel documents. It's also a good idea to save this information on your phone so you can easily access it if you need assistance while traveling.

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Personal Information to Print Before You Travel

  • Medication list & copies of prescriptions — medication names, dosages, and prescribing doctor

  • Pharmacy information — pharmacy name and phone number

  • Credit card company contact numbers — lost/stolen card phone numbers; include the last four digits of each card

  • Bank/debit card contact numbers — lost/stolen card phone numbers

  • Emergency contacts — names and phone numbers of people to contact if needed

  • Doctor/medical provider contact information

  • Copies of your passport and driver’s license

  • Health insurance information — member ID and customer-service phone number, if applicable

  • Address & phone number for the US Embassy where you are traveling to

Do Not print passwords, PINs, your full credit card numbers, or your Social Security number.

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Pre-Travel Checklist

Download my printer-friendly checklist to
make sure you're ready before you leave home.