11-Step Planning Guide To Traveling Internationally

You’ll discover:

• Budget travel hacks
• Helpful websites for choosing destinations
• Essential travel apps
• Expert tips on planning solo or with support

Step 1: Should You Hire a Travel Agent for International Travel?

Travel agents can be a great asset for certain types of trips, especially complex itineraries, international group travel, or journeys with tight schedules. They save you time, offer expertise, and may even unlock exclusive deals. However, for many travelers, DIY planning is not only possible but preferred.

Consider These Three Key Questions:

1. Is Cost a Concern?

Most travel agents charge a fee for their services. On average, you might pay:

• $20 for airline ticket booking
• $50 for cruise reservations
• $100–$200 for full trip itineraries (according to Angi)

However, they may also save you money through access to deals, partnerships, and expert negotiation. According to U.S. News, a good agent could help you save up to $500 on airfare alone.

When weighing your options, compare the potential savings with the agent’s fees. Often, the total cost ends up similar whether you book everything yourself or through an agent.

2. How Complicated Is Your Trip?

Multi-country itineraries, large group trips, or destination weddings can quickly get complicated. Travel agents can coordinate everything from synchronized flight bookings to tickets for must-see events—ensuring nothing gets missed.

Example: Planning a European family trip across three countries with a tight schedule? A travel agent can manage flights, train connections, accommodations, and group excursions with ease.

3. Do You Have Time to Plan?

Don’t let a lack of time keep you from traveling. A study by Expedia Media Solutions found that travelers spend an average of 30 hours planning a trip and visit 38 different websites in the process.

If that sounds exhausting, outsourcing the planning can provide peace of mind and save precious time.

On the other hand, if you enjoy research and love the thrill of building your own itinerary, skip the agent fees and follow this guide to plan like a pro.

Step 2: Start With Your Destination

Already have a dream destination in mind? Great. Still browsing for ideas? Even better—this is the fun part!

Tips for Choosing Where to Go:

• Follow your interests. Love skiing? Surfing? History? Wildlife? Choose destinations known for those experiences.
• Explore hidden gems. Look beyond the usual tourist traps and consider underrated travel destinations. They’re often more affordable and less crowded.
• Use destination finders. Platforms like Lonely Planet, Culture Trip, and Pinterest are excellent for discovering new places.

Make a wishlist of:

• Countries and cities
• Bucket-list activities
• Events or festivals you want to attend

Narrow Down Your Options:

Once you’ve got a few destinations in mind, narrow it down by asking:

• How far are you willing to travel?
• What’s your budget?
• What’s the local climate during your travel dates?
• How safe is the destination?
• Do you need a visa or specific vaccinations?

Step 3: Check Travel Advisories and Entry Requirements

Before finalizing your destination, check for travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State or your country’s equivalent.

What Are Travel Advisories?

The U.S. Department of State ranks countries on a scale from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel) based on:

• Crime rates
• Political instability
• Health risks
• Terrorism
• Natural disasters

Why It Matters:

Travel advisories also include:

• Visa and entry requirements
• Local laws and customs
• Health alerts (like COVID-19 policies or outbreaks)
• Transportation infrastructure
• Important contact information for U.S. embassies

You should reconsider any destination rated Level 3 and avoid Level 4 destinations unless absolutely necessary.

Bookmark the State Department’s Travel Advisory page and sign up for STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to receive real-time updates and emergency alerts while abroad.

Step 4: Set (Preliminary) Travel Dates

Choosing your travel dates early gives you a major advantage—it opens up time to plan thoroughly, secure better deals, and ensure time off work or school. The further ahead you plan, the more flexibility and savings you can enjoy.

Timing is Everything

When picking your dates, consider your personal calendar:

• Are the kids on break from school?
• Will your workplace be slow during a certain season?
• Are there family events you need to work around?

Planning with these factors in mind ensures your travel fits smoothly into your schedule.

Research the Best Time to Visit Your Destination

Not all times of year are created equal when it comes to international travel. Use sites like:

• WorldTravelGuide.net
• ChampionTraveler.com

These resources help you learn the ideal months to visit specific destinations based on weather, local events, costs, and tourist volume.

Peak vs. Off-Season Travel

• Peak Season: Typically coincides with good weather, festivals, and school holidays. While more expensive and crowded, it also offers the most attractions and best conditions.
• Off-Season: Often means fewer tourists and lower prices—but may come with less predictable weather and limited access to certain tours or sites.

Budget Tip: If you’re on a tighter budget, traveling during the shoulder or off-season can save you a significant amount. Just double-check that any key attractions, museums, or activities you’re interested in are still operating during that time.

Step 5: Settle Your Travel Documents

One of the most critical steps in preparing for international travel is getting your travel documents in order. From passports to visas and international driving permits, this paperwork can make or break your trip.

Passport

A valid passport is non-negotiable for international travel. If you already have one, check the expiration date. some countries require that your passport be valid at least 3 to 6 months beyond your arrival date.

How to Apply (or Renew):

• Apply early, passport processing in the U.S. typically takes 6 to 8 weeks.
• Expedited processing (2–3 weeks or sooner) is available for an extra fee (usually $60).
• You’ll need proof of citizenship, a photo ID, passport photos, and the application fee.

Visa

A visa is an official document that allows you to enter and stay in a country for a specific period and purpose.

Do You Need a Visa?

It depends on the country you’re visiting, the purpose of your trip, and how long you plan to stay.

• France, Japan, and many EU countries allow short stays without a visa for U.S. citizens (typically under 90 days).
• China, Russia, and India, however, require most foreign travelers to apply in advance—sometimes including biometric data and interviews.

Check your destination’s visa requirements on their official government or embassy website well in advance.

International Driver’s Permit (IDP)

Planning to drive abroad? Then you’ll likely need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). This document translates your driver’s license into multiple languages and is recognized in over 175 countries.

Eligibility:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must hold a valid domestic driver’s license for at least six months

Where to Get One (U.S. only):

• American Automobile Association (AAA)
• American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)

Application Process:

• Apply in person or by mail
• Requires two passport-sized photos, a completed form, a copy of your driver’s license, and a fee (around $20)
• Valid for 1 year

Step 6: Check for Required Vaccinations and Immunizations

Before traveling internationally, it’s essential to check if your destination requires any vaccinations or health-related documentation. Each country has its own guidelines, especially regarding diseases like yellow fever, hepatitis, malaria.

Why It Matters

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting vaccinated at least 4–6 weeks before your departure date. This gives your body time to build immunity and ensures you can complete all necessary doses on schedule.

How to Prepare:

• Visit the CDC’s Travelers’ Health page to check vaccine requirements and health notices by country.
• Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider well in advance—some vaccines may not be readily available at local clinics and may require ordering.
• Consider any routine immunizations that may need updates, such as tetanus or influenza.

Step 7: Choose Your Accommodations

Once your health requirements are sorted out, it’s time to decide where you’ll stay during your trip. Your choice of accommodation can significantly impact your experience, budget, and comfort level.

Most common options:

Resorts & Hotels

Best for travelers looking for:

• Comfort, privacy, and full-service amenities
• On-site dining, spas, gyms, and concierge services
• Peace of mind and predictable standards

Vacation Rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo, etc.)

Perfect for:

• Group travelers or extended stays
• Those wanting a home-like experience abroad
• Travelers looking to cook and live like a local

Hostels

Best for:

• Budget travelers
• Solo backpackers and social explorers
• Those who don’t mind sharing space

Just be sure to check for:

• Lockers or safe storage for valuables
• Gender-specific or mixed dorm options
• Cleanliness and safety ratings

Step 8: Book Your Transportation

Now that you’ve picked your travel dates and lodging, it’s time to tackle the logistics of getting there and getting around.

Book Your Flights Early

Airfare can fluctuate dramatically. According to a study by CheapAir.com, the best window to book an international flight is 70 to 207 days in advance—depending on your destination.

Tips for Scoring the Best Airfare (from U.S. News):

• Fly midweek: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays are usually cheapest.
• Avoid booking on weekends: Prices tend to spike.
• Buy tickets at least 3 weeks before departure.
• Use flight comparison tools: Try Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to find the best deals.

Step 9: Research Your Destination Inside and Out

This is one of the most exciting parts of planning, learning about where you’re going and what you’ll experience.

Create a Bucket List

• Travel blogs and YouTube vlogs
• Pinterest boards for visual inspiration
• Guidebooks like Lonely Planet or Rick Steves
• Official tourism websites

Make a bucket list of must-see attractions, local foods to try, and unique experiences you don’t want to miss. Keep a list or use tools like Google Maps Saved Places or the Wanderlog app to organize your stops.

Understand the Local Culture

To avoid culture shock or unintentional faux pas, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with local customs, etiquette, and social norms.

Things to look up:

• Tipping practices
• Dress codes (especially for religious or conservative areas)
• Greeting gestures (a bow vs. a handshake)
• Dining rules (some cultures eat with hands, others with utensils only)

Tools to Help:

• Visit Commisceo-Global.com for in-depth cultural guides by country.
• Download cultural awareness or language apps like Duolingo, Culture Trip, or Google Translate to help you connect more meaningfully with locals.

Step 10: Finalize Last-Minute Essentials Before Departure

As your travel date approaches, it’s important to tie up loose ends and take care of critical logistics. These final preparations will help you avoid unexpected issues and make your trip more seamless.

Manage International Cell Phone Use and Roaming Charges

Before you take off, double-check your cell phone plan’s international roaming policies. Using your phone abroad without a proper plan can rack up expensive fees quickly. To keep costs low:

• Stick to Wi-Fi whenever possible for calls, messaging, and navigation. Apps like Google Maps allow you to download maps offline in advance.
• Consider buying a local SIM card or a cheap temporary phone once you arrive. This is often a cost-effective solution, especially for longer stays.
• Call your provider before departure to explore international plans or roaming bundles. Some carriers offer short-term international packages that are much cheaper than pay-as-you-go roaming.

Alert Your Bank and Review International Fees

It’s a smart move to notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans. If your bank sees unfamiliar foreign charges without a heads-up, they may freeze your accounts for security reasons—definitely not what you want while abroad.

Here’s what to do:

• Inform your bank and credit card issuers of your travel dates and destinations.
• Ask about foreign transaction and ATM withdrawal fees. Some cards charge up to 3% per transaction.
• Consider applying for a travel-friendly credit card that waives foreign transaction fees and offers travel perks.
• Avoid exchanging currency at airport kiosks, where fees are typically higher. Use local ATMs or city-based exchange services for better rates.

Purchase Travel Health Insurance

Even the best-planned trips can take an unexpected turn. That’s why travel health insurance is essential. Your regular insurance plan may not cover you abroad, leaving you vulnerable to high out-of-pocket costs in the event of illness or injury.

Travel medical insurance can cover:

• Emergency medical treatment abroad
• Hospitalization and surgeries
• Medical evacuation to a suitable facility
• Trip interruptions or delays due to emergencies
• Lost or delayed luggage

Plans like Atlas Travel Insurance offer flexible coverage tailored for international travelers. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples or relaxing on a remote beach, it’s reassuring to know you’re protected.

Real-world scenarios where travel insurance can help:

• You suffer food poisoning in Austria and need to be hospitalized.
• A hiking accident in Bali requires emergency evacuation to a better-equipped hospital.
• You get news of a family emergency and must fly home immediately, cutting your trip short.
• A weather delay forces you to stay overnight at an airport hotel, incurring unplanned expenses

Step 11: Time to Pack Smart

With your reservations confirmed and itinerary mapped out, it’s finally time to tackle the suitcase. Packing may feel like a chore, but doing it thoughtfully can make your journey far more comfortable and stress-free.

Start by creating a checklist of everything you’ll need. This helps ensure you don’t forget essential items—especially those that can be hard or expensive to replace abroad.

International Travel Packing Essentials

Here are some must-have items to include:

Prescription Medications: Always pack enough for your entire trip (plus a little extra) and keep them in your carry-on.

Universal Power Adapter/Converter: Many countries use different voltage and plug types. A universal adapter is a simple way to keep your devices powered.

Emergency Cash: While digital payments are common, it’s always wise to have a small amount of local currency for tips, taxis, or places that don’t accept cards.

Travel Documents & Copies: Make photocopies or digital backups of your:

• Passport and visa
• Travel insurance ID card
• Flight tickets and hotel confirmations
• Emergency contact info

Conclusion

Traveling internationally is one of the most enriching experiences life has to offer, but it requires more than just a passport and a plane ticket. With the right planning, you can turn a stressful process into a smooth and enjoyable journey from start to finish.

This 11-step guide has walked you through everything from ensuring your documents are in order, to choosing budget-friendly accommodations, to staying safe and healthy while abroad. By following each step, you’ve laid the groundwork for a trip that’s not only exciting and memorable, but also safe, cost-effective, and well-organized.