6 essential preparations for long-term travel abroad

Last year, my husband’s job gave us the opportunity to live in Zurich for the summer. It was our first time doing something like this, and it was an eye-opening experience with stunning landscapes, amazing food, and, of course, its fair share of challenges.

With remote work on the rise, many families are exploring the possibility of extended stays abroad. The chance to immerse in a new culture, discover new environments, and make lasting memories is an opportunity that’s hard to ignore.

As we prepare for our second summer abroad in Europe, I’ve put together a list of key considerations before embarking on an extended international trip, particularly when traveling with kids. Here’s a guide to help ensure your adventure is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Secure travel insurance

One of the most important preparations for traveling abroad is securing travel insurance that covers both routine and emergency care. This is especially crucial when you're traveling with children, as I am.

During a long-term trip, you're bound to face a few bumps, bruises, or even catch a virus. Having travel insurance that covers these common but potentially stressful health issues can save you both money and worry.

It’s essential to choose a travel insurance plan that provides comprehensive coverage, including doctor visits and emergency care. Make sure the policy covers outpatient services, prescriptions, and hospital stays so you're covered from minor accidents like scraped knees to more serious concerns like a late-night fever.

Fortunately, we didn’t need to use it last year, but knowing that our son is prone to strep, it’s reassuring to have travel insurance that would cover a visit to a local clinic if needed.

As with any type of insurance, it's important to carefully review the policy details before purchasing. Pay attention to what’s covered and what isn’t, check for any time restrictions (some plans only cover trips up to 30, 45, or 90 days), and make sure the policy includes any emergency benefits you might need.

Take care of your mail

Managing your mail while you're away for an extended period is another essential task. You don’t want to return to an overwhelming stack of mail, or worse, miss important communications while you’re gone.

There are a couple of solutions for this: You can have your mail held at the post office or forwarded to a reliable friend or family member.

Last summer, we chose to have our mail forwarded to my sister's house. She kept us informed about anything urgent and even opened a few letters that required immediate attention. We'll be doing the same again this year.

The United States Postal Service offers a scanning service that lets you preview your mail, so you can stay on top of any important items. Alternatively, you can have your mail delivered as usual and ask someone to check it for you.

Whatever method you choose, make sure you have a plan in place. It's a small but vital step that can save you from unnecessary hassle and help you avoid missing anything important while you’re abroad.

Look into housing options

Finding the right accommodation is crucial, especially for an extended stay. Begin your search early to secure a place that suits both your family’s needs and budget.

Last year, we rented an Airbnb just outside of central Zurich. It was still within walking distance to grocery stores and public transit, which meant we didn’t need to rent a car. This spot worked out perfectly as it offered both convenience and an authentic local experience.

When selecting your accommodation, think about what matters most to you: proximity to public transport, access to grocery stores, nearby parks for kids, and a community vibe. Also, consider details like whether Wi-Fi or air conditioning is included.

Platforms like Airbnb and HomeAway, as well as local real estate agents, can be great tools for finding the right place. This year, we’re returning to the same rental because it really felt like a home away from home.

Make sure all your documents are up to date

Before you start packing, make sure all your legal documents are in order. This includes your passport, visas, and any necessary permits. Also, check if your passport needs to be valid for a certain number of months after arrival. Don’t forget to verify the expiration dates of everyone’s passports and apply for renewals if needed.

Some destinations also require specific vaccinations or health certificates, so be sure to research these requirements well ahead of time.

Certain countries also have restrictions on how long foreigners can stay. For example, in Switzerland, you can only stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, so familiarize yourself with similar rules in your destination.

Last year, I thought I had plenty of time to renew my passports, but longer-than-usual wait times meant my new passport arrived just a day before our departure. It was a stressful reminder of how important it is to double- and triple-check your paperwork, as having everything in order can prevent last-minute disruptions.

Create a financial plan

Planning your finances is essential for a smooth experience abroad. Let your bank and credit card companies know about your travel plans to avoid disruptions with international payments. Also, take the time to research the cost of living in your destination to ensure your budget is realistic.

Switzerland, with its strong franc, can be expensive. We were surprised by the higher-than-expected prices at places like the grocery store last year. This time around, we've come up with a more thorough budget to help manage costs.

Another tip is to get a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges. Also, set up automatic payments for any bills that need to be paid while you're away, or opt for digital bill versions to stay on top of payments.

Select the right mobile plan

Staying in touch with family and friends while traveling is key, especially on extended trips. Consider setting up an international phone plan, or use apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Zoom for free or low-cost communication. Before last summer, we switched to a plan offering unlimited international data, allowing us to keep our numbers without racking up huge charges. Alternatively, a temporary international phone or SIM card may be a more affordable option than upgrading your current plan.

By planning ahead and keeping these tips in mind, you’ll increase your chances of a smooth experience while abroad. That way, you can focus on enjoying the journey. From securing the right insurance to organizing your mail, attention to detail will help turn your overseas adventure into a memorable family experience.