Know Before You Go!

Before every international trip, I recommend:

✔️ Verify your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date as this is required by most countries.

✔️ Check visa requirements for every country on your itinerary.

✔️ Register your trip with STEP if traveling internationally.

✔️ Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

✔️ Download airline, hotel, and cruise line apps before departure.

✔️ Save digital and printed copies of your passport, travel insurance, and itinerary.

✔️ Make sure your cell carrier has your international calling plan connected.

Useful Links

U.S. Passport Information & Renewals (USAGov) Apply for or renew a passport, report a lost passport, and find passport processing times.
U.S. Department of State Travel Information Country-specific travel information, passport services, visa information, and international travel advisories.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Register your international trip with the U.S. Department of State to receive safety alerts and help the U.S. Embassy contact you during emergencies.
Country Travel Advisories
View current safety information and travel advisories for destinations around the world.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Security screening information, airport procedures, and travel requirements.
TSA – What Can I Bring? Check whether an item belongs in your carry-on or checked luggage before you pack.
REAL ID Information Learn about REAL ID requirements for domestic air travel.

Global Entry Expedite customs when returning to the U.S. Includes TSA PreCheck® benefits.
TSA PreCheck® Speed through airport security at participating U.S. airports.
Trusted Traveler Program Portal Compare Global Entry, TSA PreCheck®, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST.

Google Translate Translate text, speech, menus, and even signs while traveling.
Rome2Rio Compare flights, trains, buses, ferries, and driving routes between destinations.
FlightAware Track flights in real time.
AirHelp Learn about passenger rights and check eligibility for compensation after qualifying flight disruptions.

CDC Travelers’ Health Destination-specific health recommendations, vaccination guidance, and travel notices.

International Driving Permit Information (AAA) Learn when you need an International Driving Permit and how to obtain one before traveling overseas.

XE Currency Converter Live exchange rates and international currency conversions.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Travel Resources Information on customs, immigration, and re-entering the United States.