Planning to travel abroad? Here’s how to navigate international journeys like an expert.

This summer, we’re breaking away from the ordinary—specifically, the US border. Staycations are on the decline, and our statistics reveal a 42% surge in international travel searches alongside a 2% dip in domestic inquiries. This suggests many of us are gearing up to leave the country or are in the planning stages.

Whether it’s your inaugural trip overseas or you just need a refresher on international travel, here are some important factors to keep in mind before your next journey, as suggested by our dedicated Dinogo team.

First things first: verify your passport status. You likely know this if you’ve attempted to book a flight, as many airlines request passport information during checkout. It's vital to ensure your passport isn’t nearing expiration—ideally, it should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Additionally, familiarize yourself with your destination's entry requirements before finalizing those flight purchases. If you don't have a passport or need to renew yours, check out the next steps and allow for extra processing time. Current wait times for US passports can reach 10 to 13 weeks, so start that application process ASAP.

Passport? Check. Now, let’s talk visas. While most destinations only require a valid passport, certain countries like Australia, India, and Vietnam necessitate obtaining a visitor’s visa in advance. Research the entry requirements for your destination or consult resources like CIBTvisas for a quick verification to ensure you have everything needed for entry.

Aim to pack light enough to only require a carry-on. It may be a tight fit, but traveling with just a carry-on ensures your belongings are always with you. We've all heard the horror stories of lost luggage—keeping everything close can help prevent disruptions to your trip. Consider using the capsule wardrobe strategy or choose accommodations that offer laundry services. If you must check a bag, ease your worries by slipping an Airtag into an outer pocket before checking your luggage.

Have essentials delivered to your hotel or rental. Short on luggage space? Preorder necessities—like toiletries, snacks, and extra socks—to be sent to your hotel or rental. This approach is especially beneficial for families with young kids, saving you time and hassle. Just notify your hotel or host beforehand in case your items arrive before you do. 

Streamline your phone setup with an eSIM. Preparing your phone for international use doesn’t have to be complicated. An eSIM, which acts as a digital SIM card, connects your phone to local networks while abroad. Easy to install and typically offering fast internet speeds and security, eSIMs can help you avoid hefty international roaming fees. If you’re unsure where to find one, check out CELITECH for competitive options that can save you up to 80% on data when you book through them. Visit their site for more details.

Research local customs before you go. This isn’t about customs control—though that’s important too! Make sure to familiarize yourself with basic greetings (hello, please, and thank you can make a big difference) in the local language. Understanding the currency, tipping practices, and other customs will boost your confidence and preparation during your travels, helping you engage with and respect the local culture.

If visiting multiple destinations, consider Global Entry. When it comes to customs, Global Entry simplifies your re-entry into the country. If you have several international trips planned soon, applying is a smart move. It includes TSA PreCheck, and many credit card companies cover the application fee. Membership lasts up to 5 years, and the application process is straightforward, although some airports have waitlists for in-person interviews. The time saved at customs is invaluable, and some countries are also adopting Global Entry to expedite arrivals.

Need customer support? Just tweet about it. Experiencing issues while traveling to or from your international destination? Many airlines provide quick and effective customer service via Twitter. If you prefer speaking to someone directly, you can reach out to the airline's international phone line—we’ve compiled a list of numbers here.

Choose a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees. Contrary to common belief, numerous international vendors accept debit cards, meaning you don’t always need to carry large amounts of cash while traveling. Research which credit and debit cards have no extra fees for international transactions, and check if they’re widely accepted at your destination. Traveling is costly enough—there’s no need to incur additional charges abroad.

Pack extra adapters and portable chargers. There's nothing worse than discovering your battery is at 20% halfway through the day. We suggest investing in a portable charger and an extra cable to keep handy while you’re exploring. Even if you don’t need it, someone in your group probably will. Additionally, research your destination’s electrical adapter needs and stock up—aim for at least two, one for your carry-on and another for checked luggage, ensuring you’re never without power.

Ready to plan your next international getaway? Utilize our Best Time to Travel tool to discover the optimal time to book your vacation.