plan an international trip

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Trip Planner | Travel Itinerary Planner | Plan a Trip

Are you looking for an itinerary planner to plan your next trip? We know creating a customized travel itinerary manually is an overwhelming task. You have to put a lot of time into selecting destinations, booking hotels, flights, and comparing prices. On top of that calculating budgets & booking hotels and flights is another challenge that makes itinerary planning tough.

But what if all of this is done within a few minutes for you? Yes with TripHobo trip planner you can do this smartly. We have observed that many travelers end up spending more time in researching information than enjoying the actual trip. Not only first-time travelers but also experienced travelers struggle in creating perfect travel plans.

Even though it is a tedious task to create a customized itinerary, everyone agrees on the importance of itinerary for an enjoyable holiday. So Triphobo came up with this easy to use automatic itinerary planner.

How Trip Planner Works / Steps to Plan a Trip

Do you want to create your travel itinerary quickly & easily? Are you ready to use this tool now? TripHobo's trip planner plays a major role to ease the itinerary creation process and helps you overcome the pain in the trip planning .  Follow these 4 simple steps to plan a trip & let us know your experience.

1) Choose Your Destination & Dates when you want to travel

Visual algorithmic trip planner lets you choose destinations you want to travel to. You have the freedom to choose the real dates from the calendar. After selecting travel dates, planner runs algorithms to optimize a trip. It starts suggesting activities, sightseeing spots, tours and transport options with the details. For every attraction, it suggests open/close timings, time to spend, and nearby restaurants.

You can drag & drop activities and complete your itinerary within a matter of minutes. You can book yourself a nice vacation once you are sure of all the details, making you plan your trip very easily.

2) Refer to User Created Itineraries

If you have a lot of travel ideas but confused about where to start? Don't worry. Thousands of other people have visited the same destination before and created itineraries with us. Choose from a pool of more than 1 million user-generated itineraries around the globe. You can view other travelers’ itineraries for any location and duration to inspire yourself and then customize them to suit your own preferences.

3) Book Hotels and Flights

TripHobo always tries to offer the best from the travel industry to our valued planners. It has formed alliances with Expedia , Skyscanner, Zomato and Booking.com. Its ratings and reviews come courtesy of TripAdvisor whereas Google (as well as other partners) powers its location data.

TripHobo aims to cater to travelers at every stage of the travel planning process. It provides one platform to create personalized itineraries and hassle-free bookings .

4) Get Ready with a Perfect Itinerary

Once you’ve created your customized itinerary, you can print it. Save your plan for future reference or share it with your friends. When you’re ready, you can finalize and have a perfect travel itinerary ready.

Why Is TripHobo a Smart Trip planner?

There are few things included in the Triphobo planner algorithm & app which builds itinerary within minutes.

• A free virtual map-based trip planner with a smart algorithm
• International trip planner with about 1,50,000 popular destinations
• The largest repository of user-generated itineraries
• Hassle-free booking options for hotels, tours & flights
• Provides local transit options like metro, rail, bus, and car
• Calculates an estimated budget
• Provides options to save, print and share itinerary
• Strategic Partnerships with leading travel companies

TripHobo: Around the Web

• Trip of Your Own
• Traveling made easier with TripHobo
• Making The Southeast Asian Travel Connection
• Ex-HCL employee’s led ‘TripHobo’ is on a mission to become a global brand – a goto place for travel planning!
• Interview: Praveen Kumar, Founder & CEO of TripHobo
• TripHobo inks partnership with Zomato
• How a trip planning startup can succeed
• Karthik Ramachandram Co-Founder COO, TripHobo - Phocuswright Conference

Here's what travelers have to say about our travel planner

• Excellent 238

Great and genuinely wonderful website that makes a proper vacation plan simple, like it should. All reviews are 5 stars. The only suggestion I have to enhance this fantastic website is to include a mobile application. Even paying for a version without ads wouldn't bother me.

Every traveller should use this!

So much easier & more helpful than a travel agency, given lots of fantastic ideas, and was extremely helpful for planning the trip. Would strongly advise my family and friends to use this!

Great tool for trip planning. Impportantly it's free and automatically tailors travel plans to your preferences and is completely customisable. The integration with skyscanner and booking.com, and other OTA like priceline and expedia makes it very easy to plan the whole trip along with the bookings in one place.

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The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad

Shannon McMahon

Editor Shannon McMahon is always planning her next trip and often writing in her travel journal. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ and on Instagram @shanmcmahon .

Shannon joined SmarterTravel in 2015. A former news reporter, she's lived in the south of Spain, spotted elephants in Sri Lanka, gone spelunking in the Caribbean, hiked Jordan's Petra Basin, interviewed Sao Paulo's Michelin-Star chefs, and explored China via bullet train. Travel trends, news oddities, and her visits to up-and-coming destinations are some of her favorite things to write about.

Her stories have also appeared online on USA Today, The Sun, Huffington Post, Business Insider, blog.TripAdvisor.com, Boston.com, and more. Her educational background is in journalism, art history, gender studies, Spanish, and film. She's been quoted as an expert travel source by CNBC, People.com, MarketWatch, The Washington Post, USA Today, and more.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Plenty of extra thick hair elastics. They tame my frizzy curls and come in handy in a surprising number of packing and hotel dilemmas."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Climbing (yes, climbing, it's steep!) the Great Wall of China before it's gone."

Travel Motto : "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." - Mark Twain

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window, of course."

Email Shannon at [email protected] .

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Traveling internationally is an adventure best planned ahead of time, and not just when it comes to booking flights and packing. Sure, showing up at your gate sans passport or forgetting melatonin for your red-eye flight can put a damper on your long-awaited escape, but most of your preparation should be dedicated to ensuring health, safety, and financial necessities are covered. To save you some prep time, we’ve compiled this international travel checklist for your next long-distance journey.

Focus on Safety First

One of the easiest and most important items on an overseas travel checklist is also arguably the most ignored. Travel insurance and State Department alerts can be incredibly important in emergencies abroad, but many tourists bet they won’t become part of the small percentage of travelers who require evacuation assistance or protection from hotel or flight cancellations.

Subscribing to the State Department’s STEP alerts for your destination can help you stay up to date on upcoming and current travel restrictions, strikes, and areas of political unrest. Any alerts you receive will let you know whether or not to plan for some unexpected obstacles in advance.

Travel insurance can cost as little as a few dollars per travel day and cover anything from replacing a broken camera to emergency medical attention, potentially saving you hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars.

Get Your Travel Documents and Credit Cards in Order

Make sure your passport and any necessary travel visas are up to date. Some countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months after your scheduled return, so make sure you won’t be turned away or delayed at customs because of an old passport. Not sure if you need a visa? See this list of every country that requires a visa for Americans .

Keep physical and digital copies of your passport and all your paperwork in case anything is lost, and give copies as well as your itinerary and contact numbers to family and friends whom you can contact in case of an emergency.

Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates so they don’t deny your purchases, and ask about international ATM fees so you can find out which ones won’t charge you. It’s always a good idea to bring multiple cards in case one stops working.

Don’t underestimate how helpful a cell phone photo of your passport can be. Whether you have to go to the consulate and report it lost, or are just filling out a customs card and need your passport number, it will likely come in handy. Email the image to yourself to have an extra digital copy in case your phone runs out of batteries or goes missing. You may also want to bring a spare copy of your passport photo on your trip; having it handy will speed the processing of a new document.

Your Questions About Online Passport Renewal, Answered

Get Vaccinated

It’s best to get the necessary vaccinations out of the way as soon as possible since it can take a few weeks to build full immunity. Some also require multiple doses, which may need to be administered over days, weeks, or even months. Talk to your doctor about getting the CDC-recommended shots , as the protocol for vaccines varies by country. For example, dozens of countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you’ve been to at-risk areas. A travel clinic can help you sort out which vaccinations and medications you might need.

Keep your vaccination certificate in your carry-on in case customs requires you to present it when entering the country.

Study Up on Your Destination

Whether you’re a travel app connoisseur or more of a paperback guidebook person, having some source of knowledge about your destination is invaluable. Read about the region you’re traveling to in advance to gain insight into important information such as currency exchange rates, useful phrases, tipping norms , appropriate clothing, and cultural/legal customs. It’s best to be prepared so you don’t land yourself in a compromising situation.

8 English Words You Should Never Use Abroad

Make Sure Your Home Is Cared For

There’s nothing worse than realizing once you’re six time zones away that you forgot to stop your mail delivery or ask someone to water your expertly cultivated house plants. Make sure your daily tasks are covered before you leave, or appoint a trusty friend to do them for you.

You can find a house or pet sitter to do your chores if you’re willing to list your home on TrustedHouseSitters.com . Plus, you could find lodging through the site for your trip abroad if you’re willing to spend some time with someone else’s furry friends.

Stay Connected

Want to stay in touch while traveling abroad? If you haven’t taken your phone overseas before, call your mobile provider to make sure it will work in the country you’re visiting and to ask about international phone plans that might be available. If your carrier’s plans are expensive, a mobile hotspot can be a cost-effective alternative.

Download the Necessities

Sometimes the most important thing you’ll pack is in your smartphone rather than your suitcase. Offline maps are your best friend when it comes to traveling with limited data or battery. You can find Wi-Fi in many places, but downloading offline maps through Google Maps or CityMaps2Go will allow you to follow your GPS without using up battery life and roaming data.

Downloading in-flight entertainment could also save you if your TV malfunctions on the long-haul flight. Streaming won’t be available without consistent in-flight Wi-Fi (which you shouldn’t ever depend on) but you can pre-download movies and TV shows through Amazon Prime , and music streaming service Spotify allows paying users to download tracks for offline use with the press of a button.

Don’t forget a portable backup charger . Watching hours of your favorite TV show is sure to drain your battery life, and there’s nothing worse than finally finding a Wi-Fi spot only to have your phone die.

The 10 Best Travel Podcasts

Check Your Destination’s COVID Policies

Make sure you’re aware of your destination’s most up-to-date policies regarding COVID and vaccination status. Check with the State Department website well before your trip to make sure you meet the requirements, and check in periodically to monitor for potentially changes. Similarly to the US, mask-wearing policies may be left up to the discretion of an event or venue, so its a good idea to have a few masks on hand when out and about.

Pack These Essentials

While the contents of your checked bag will largely depend on the climate you’re visiting, you’ll want most of your trip’s essentials on hand in your carry-on. Start with this international travel checklist of items to pack:

• Passport and visa
• Medications
• Insurance and ID cards
• Cash, debit cards, and credit cards
• Pen to fill out customs forms
• Portable charger
• Earplugs , eye mask , and sleeping pills
• Electrical converters and adapters specific to your destination
• Antibacterial wipes
• Sweater / scarf in case the plane is chilly
• Cell phone and charger

For more ideas, check out our ultimate packing list .

Consider taking photos of your packed suitcase (both inside and out) in case it gets lost. That way, airline employees will know what to look for, and you’ll know what was inside in case you don’t get it back and need to file a claim.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

An important item to check off the list: make sure you have a place to stay when you reach your destination! Book your hotel for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels .

Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ .

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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The Complete Beginner’s Guide to International Travel

So you’ve decided to travel internationally, have you? Traveling to another country is something I wish for everyone to experience at least once in a lifetime.

Unfortunately, not everyone has the privilege to do so. But for those of us with passports that allow us such opportunity, it’d be a shame to never explore an international destination in our great, big, beautiful world !

It might seem a bit scary to take your first international trip, but I promise it’s not that bad. To help you, I’ve put together this thorough guide on everything you need to know in order to have a successful international trip ! Let’s get straight to it.

Before You Depart for Your Trip

There’s quite a bit to get ready before your international trip. But, don’t worry. It’s all doable, and it’ll all be worth it!

Apply for a Passport

First things first. In order to travel internationally, you’ll need to have a valid, unexpired passport . On top of that, many countries require you to also have at least three or even six months validity left on your passport from your date of travel. So, if you don’t have a valid, unexpired passport or your passport is expiring in three to six months, it’s time to get a new passport before your trip. This process can take a couple months! So plan ahead, and submit your passport request early to save yourself stress and/or expediting fees closer to your departure date.

If this is your very first passport, your last passport was from when you were under 16 years old, your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged, or your last passport was from 15 or more years ago, you will need to apply for your passport in person. Here are the official steps for the new passport process .

If the above doesn’t apply to you, you simply have to renew your passport. You can do this via mail. Here are the official steps for the renewal process .

Choose Your International Destination

Yipee! Now that you’ve either already got your passport or have applied for a new one, you can choose your international travel destination. This is largely based on your own interests. But as this is your first trip internationally, keep in mind things like language, similarity in culture to back home, and ease of travel-related infrastructures (like trains or buses).

Apply for Any Visa(s)

Once you have chosen your destination(s), check whether you need visas or not . A visa is basically permission from a foreign government for you to be in their country. Some countries may grant you a free visa upon arrival with a simple stamp on your passport. Some countries simply require you to fill out a form online and pay a small fee before you can board your flight. And some countries require expensive visas which you must apply for months in advance. It all depends on that country you are visiting, your passport country, and how long you plan to stay. I love using Travisa ‘s free search tool to quickly and easily check what requirements exist for me before I book a flight. 

Get Any Necessary Vaccines

Before confirming your destination, you should check if any vaccines are necessary for that place. Some vaccines are simply recommended for your own health, while others are requirements before you will be allowed into the country , or even allowed into other countries afterwards (like yellow fever). The CDC website is an easy way to check this. Some vaccines, like yellow fever, are low in supply and hard to get last minute. Others, like malaria pills, require a doctor’s prescription. So don’t leave this step until the last minute !

Check Travel Restrictions

Lastly, make sure there are no travel restrictions or decision-altering political tensions for your destination. Do this by checking the Travel Department site . Simply type in your destination country’s name into the search bar on the left hand side of the screen. 

Preparing Your Finances

Now that your passport is on its way and you’ve settled on your international travel destination(s), it’s time to start thinking about finances.

Some destinations are very credit card friendly. Others operate on only cash and debit cards. And some don’t even have ATM machines! So you’ll need to do a bit of planning before departure to make sure you’re not stressing during your trip, and to save yourself transaction fees.

Get a No Fees Credit Card

Most banks charge a 3% fee every time you use your credit card to pay for a foreign transaction. As you can imagine, this adds up to a lot over the course of even a one week international trip. The good news is, many banks offer credit cards without foreign transaction fees . Do a quick internet search to see if your bank offers such a card. 

Get a No Fees Debit Card

Most banks charge a 3% fee and $5 each time you withdraw foreign currency from an ATM. Especially if you are traveling to a mostly-cash destination, this is a surefire way to rack up unnecessary travel costs. To avoid this, consider opening a free brokerage account with Charles Schwab to also receive their debit card with zero transaction fees . I first heard about this card when moving to London to study abroad, and I have to say it’s served me well. 

Get Foreign Currency Beforehand

Sometimes, but not often, it’s necessary to have cash in your destination’s currency either before you depart home or right when landing . This might be because your destination does not have ATMs, or because you just want to feel prepared.

If you need foreign cash before leaving home, head to your local bank and exchange currencies. (Just FYI, you’ll get a bad conversion rate doing this, since the bank needs to make commission.) If the currency you need isn’t a common one, your bank won’t have it on hand. In that case, you’ll have to request the exchange online with your bank. 

Many countries that don’t have ATMs also don’t allow their currency to be taken outside their country (like Cuba). In this case, you’ll need to bring enough cash with you in a common currency (like USD, GBP, or Euro). Then, when you arrive at your destination’s airport, you can exchange your cash from home for the local currency.

Sign Up for Airline Rewards Programs

You might already know this if you fly domestically, but most airlines have rewards programs. These allow you to accumulate “miles” in your rewards account each time you fly. Eventually, you might rack up enough to redeem those miles in exchange for a flight !

Consider Travel Hacking

Now, some people use airlines rewards programs and racking up miles on steroids, and this is called travel hacking. Many airlines and banks offer huge amounts of miles when you sign up for a card, or offer miles every time you use that card for a purchase. This allows you to rack up enough miles for a free flight or hotel stay more quickly (or sometimes immediately!). I personally have no energy for travel hacking, as I’m not convinced the miles rewards are worth more in dollars than my current card’s cash reward system. But I would be amiss to not mention travel hacking in a guide to international travel.

Planning Your International Trip

Phew! Now that you’ve got all the annoying administrative work out of the way, it’s time for the fun stuff; planning your trip .

I have a whole ten-step guide to planning a trip , so I won’t go into too much detail here. But this can be broken down into planning out your travel itinerary, booking your flight, and booking your accommodation.

Create Your Dream Itinerary

Decide everything you want to see in that destination. I love using Pinterest , Instagram , and travel blogs for inspiration. This is my favorite part of planning a trip , because it gets me so excited about what’s to come! Then, figure out how many days each spot deserves if you are moving around, and figure out how to get from point A to point B (train, cab, ferry?). 

Book Your Flight

After you’ve decided how many days you need, you can decide what your travel dates are and start looking for a flight. You can sometimes find good deals really close to the date, but that isn’t guaranteed. I recommend not leaving this until the last minute! I go into more detail how I search for cheap flights in my trip planning guide .

Book Your Housing

Once you have your flight booked, all that’s left is your housing. I love using Booking.com because of its interface, but any hotel search engine will suffice. Also consider AirBnB if you like the idea of staying in a local apartment, or Hostelworld if you’re looking for a social (and often budget-friendly) option. I go into more detail on different types of travel accommodation in my trip planning guide .

Here are some discounts if it’s your first time using AirBnB or Booking.com:

• Save 15% off your first booking by using this link  to sign up for AirBnB for the first time.
• Get  10% back  from your first booking when you use this link  for your first time using Booking.com.

Preparing for Departure

Woohoo! You’ve got your passport, your trip is planned, and all that’s left is to depart. There are a couple things you should do to best prepare for your upcoming international trip.

Scan the Front Page of Your Passport

Before leaving home, make a copy of the front page of your passport (the page with your picture). Either print it out or send it to yourself via email. In case your passport gets lost, stolen, or damaged during your international trip, this makes it easier to have your passport replaced abroad at an embassy.

Expect Cultural Differences

Every country or region has its own culture and norms, and that’s what makes traveling so great. In some places, like the US, it’s common to greet strangers “hello,” or for shop associates and waiters to be extra doting. In other places, like much of Europe, the slower cafe and restaurant culture means your waiter might not come to you unless beckoned. It’s almost seen as if the waiter is rushing you! Similarly, in Japan, it’s offensive to tip waiters, as it suggests their only incentive to do their job well is receiving your pocket change. No culture is right or wrong, but keep an open mind as you travel, and don’t assume something means the same as it does back home .

Prepare for Language Barriers

Many popular travel destinations have adopted English as a common language due to how many international tourists they receive. So, if you know English, chances are you’ll be fine getting around many travel destinations around the world. But it still doesn’t hurt to learn some basic words in your destination’s language .

Saying “hello” or “thank you” in a person’s mother tongue can go a long way in warming them up towards you. Learning common menu items or words on train station signs will also likely make your life easier and give you more confidence abroad. I love using the free version of Duolingo’s mobile app ( iOS and Android ) for a few weeks before I head somewhere new to learn a language’s basics. Alternatively, you could simply head to Google translate and jot down key words on a small piece of paper before you depart. Then, keep this paper handy while you’re out exploring for easy access.

What to Expect on an International Flight

Even if you’ve flown domestically before, flying internationally can be a whole different experience . Here are my top tips for flying internationally.

What to Pack in Your Carry On

Packing carry on luggage for an international trip is similar in many ways to for a domestic trip. The same rules apply with regards to liquid sizes and electronics. However, as international flights tend to naturally be longer than domestic flights, there are a few extra considerations.

Make sure you are comfortable. Bring your own favorite headphones instead of using the uncomfortable free or for sale ones on board the flight. Also bring an eye mask (and a neck pillow if you need that) so that you can try to sleep a bit. You’ll also want to pack clothing items like one pair of pajamas and one or two proper outfits, in case your luggage is lost or delayed . It would be super inconvenient to buy these things right after you land in a foreign country!

Common Flight Etiquette

No one likes flying. So to make it easier on everyone, here are some best practices for being polite while in the airport and on the plane.

• While in the airport, don’t stand up and crowd around the gate way before your boarding group is called. Everyone will get their chance to board.
• Once on the plane, the middle seat person gets dibs on the inner arm rests .
• Right after the plane lands, don’t rush to pull your luggage from the overhead before the plane doors have even opened (especially if you’re in the back of the plane!). If you’re in a rush to catch a connection you think you might miss, ask the flight attendants before landing if they can help you get off first. Sometimes they’ll make an announcement that everyone should stay seated until those about to miss a connection exit first!

Staying Healthy While Flying

The last thing you want is to get off your flight and feel unwell the first days of your epic trip! Here are precautions you should take to ensure you land in tip-top shape.

• Stay hydrated . Airplane air has less humidity (only about 10 – 20%!), so make sure you are drinking enough water, especially on long haul flights. I always bring a large, refillable water bottle when I fly. I fill it up at an airport water fountain right after passing security and finish it all before boarding. Then, I refill it again to have a full supply while on board. This is important not only for headaches and such, but also to prevent skin breakouts in the days after landing.
• Keep the blood flowing . Not only are you not moving for hours upon hours when flying internationally, but your feet are flat on the floor the entire time, too. This isn’t great for blood circulation, and can cause swelling in your ankles and feet the days after your land. (It’s also just not good for your health to not move!) So, make it a point to get up and walk around the plane. Since you’ll be drinking a lot of water anyways, maybe walk up and down the aisles for some minutes each time you finish using the toilets. Do some stretches , like pulling your feet up to your booty one at a time and holding, or lifting each knee up and holding. If you have a layover with enough time, walk around the terminal for some time before boarding your second flight.
• Stay clean . Even pre-Covid-19, planes and airports have never been the cleanest places to be. Wash your hands frequently with soap, use hand sanitizer , and consider disinfecting your food tray, screen, and arm rests right after getting on board. Make sure not to touch or pick your face too much, especially since it’s already dealing with the dehydrating air!

Flying with Dietary Restrictions

Airplane food is pretty much never great, especially if you aren’t flying first class. But if you’re on a particular diet or have dietary restrictions, you’ll need to plan ahead of time. Consider packing some of your favorite nutritious snacks instead of relying on the salty pretzels you can expect on board. If you have a specific need, like vegan meals, call the airline 24 hours before your flight to put in your request for a special meal . You might also want to double-check the meal request before take off at the gate.

Staying Safe While Traveling Internationally

While the world isn’t the big, bad, scary place we’re often made to believe, that doesn’t mean travel is free of risks.

A lot of the safety precautions and considerations you should take while traveling abroad are similar to those you take at home. But a few aren’t. Here are my main safety tips for international travel.

Solo Travel

By its very nature, traveling alone is more risky than traveling with a companion. Is it significantly more risky? I think not. But that’s not to say you shouldn’t take any extra precautions when traveling alone.

One precaution I take is to always let someone know where I am . If I have a full itinerary planned, I send my mom a summary of each city and accommodation I plan to stay at. If I’m doing something like a hike without any new friends I’ve met, I’ll let the front desk know my plans before I head out. I also try to be confident . Even if I don’t know where I’m going, I try to look like I do! If I need to look directions up on my phone, I might do it before leaving the hotel or shop or restaurant.

Another thing to remember is that traveling solo is not traveling alone . Especially if staying in hostels, you’ll meet other people traveling solo like you are, and you can do activities with them.

Solo Female Travel

Something my loved ones tell me often is how it’s so unsafe to travel alone as a woman. But the truth is, is it perfectly safe to be a woman anywhere in the world? Even when I’m in in the comfort of my home country, I rush to my car when in public garages at night, receive uncomfortable comments from strangers on the street, and face the potential of sexual harassment or even assault. Sexism exists everywhere, not just abroad. Of course, I do take extra precautions as a solo female traveler compared to a male solo traveler. But I also take extra precautions as a female in my home country, too.

These are some of the precautions I take while traveling as a woman, in addition to the precautions I take for traveling solo in general:

• I never walk alone past dark . Ever, ever. Even if I “feel” safe in a place (which is most of the time), it’s just something I’ve promised myself I wouldn’t do.
• I try to dress conservatively in certain destinations. Especially as a Californian, I’m used to super short shorts and low-cut shirts being totally normal. While these are still often acceptable abroad, they definitely cause a lot of stares that I personally have decided I’d rather avoid if I can. So, I’ll wear looser, longer shorts instead of tight short-shorts, or midi skirts and dresses instead of what I consider normal length. This isn’t so much because I feel unsafe, but because I’ve realized it decreases bothersome male comments and advances immensely.
• I haven’t actually done this yet, but it’s a trick I have in my back pocket. Bring a fake wedding ring . Depending on the destination, this can help ward off some comments (and even playful marriage proposals!).

Traveling as a Person of Color

Similar to the solar female travel issue, a lot of my family fear that I’ll stand out like a sore thumb as a black woman. Also similar to the solo female travel issue, racism is simply something that exists everywhere, not just abroad . Of course, I do take extra precautions as a black solo traveler compared to a white solo traveler. But I also take extra precautions as a black person in my home country, too.

The main extra consideration I take while traveling as a person of color is to research the experiences of other black people or black women in destinations I know less about , or that I know have few black people or tourists. I recommend you do the same for whatever race or ethnicity you might identify with, as destinations might be used to one group but not a different group. This, of course, can be difficult, as the voices in the travel sphere are mostly white men, and next white women. (This is why it’s important to have better representation.) If you can’t find the insight you need online, consider directly emailing or messaging any travel writers or influences whose experiences you’d like to hear.

Traveling with Cash and Valuables

Like you would in certain areas of your home country, don’t flash valuables while traveling. Be cognizant as you withdraw or exchange any cash . Being a tourist can make you a target already, so don’t give pickpockets any extra incentive!

Be careful not to carry all your cash and cards in one place. If you can, take some with you as you explore, and then leave back up cards, unneeded cash, and your passport back in a safe in your accommodation . That way, if anything gets stolen or lost while out exploring, you have back ups to hold you over.

Bring Locks for Hostels

If you are planning on staying in hostels, definitely purchase a lock before your trip. Hostels usually have lockers, but charge a couple bucks to rent a lock. It’s much more economical to purchase once and not pay each time.

Register with Your Country’s Embassy

This is a step I never usually did before, but one I’ll be doing every time in the future! I was “one of those” people who got stranded abroad in a foreign country when the world started closing borders in response to Covid-19. I always thought registering with the local embassy for my country was a waste of time, but this turned out to be the best way to get up-to-date information on the situation. After missing out on crucial info once, I signed up. And it’s thanks to that I was able to eventually get home!

You never know what could happen when you are abroad, whether that is a pandemic, weather-related disaster, local protests, or political tensions. It’s near-impossible to keep up with your foreign destination’s news while traveling. So registering with your embassy is an easy way to get a simple email for key things you should know . For Americans, this program to register is called the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , but other countries have pretty much the same thing.

Get Travel Insurance

I’m not sure I believe “everyone” should “always” get travel insurance. But for a first trip abroad, it’s worth considering. I typically never purchased it when I traveled places I knew well. But these days, as I’m no longer on my parents’ good insurance, and as I travel mostly solo, I do purchase travel insurance. It often only costs a couple dollars a day , and usually covers lost baggage, medical visits for accidents or illnesses, theft, and more. Especially if you are planning adrenaline activities or traveling somewhere distant, you should consider it! 

What Do You Think About My International Travel Guide?

And there ya have it, folks! Are you feeling prepared for your international trip! I hope this guide was helpful. If you still have more questions before your trip abroad, definitely comment below and I’ll answer. Or, if you have any advice you think I missed that others should know, please also comment below!

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Further Reading...

How to Travel Cheaper: A Beginner’s Guide to Budget Travel

How to Travel Carry On Only: A Beginner’s Guide to Minimalist Packing

Best Offline Travel Map App: Ulmon CityMaps2Go Review

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How to Plan an International Trip: Practical Tips for Traveling Abroad

Posted on June 23, 2021

Categories Blog , Resources , Travel Planning

If you’re wondering how to plan an international trip and feel overwhelmed, I completely understand. There are just so many details to think about when it comes to travel planning, especially international travel planning. Don’t worry, I’ve been planning trips overseas for years and I’ve perfected this art through arranging many trips abroad.

By following this easy, step-by-step plan, you’ll have the best international trip plans ever! You can apply this practical trip planning advice to any journey, pretty much anywhere in the world. You’ll need to mostly do the same things to prepare for travel anywhere you go. Within no time, you’ll be jet setting across the world!

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

If you’re looking for how to plan a trip overseas, you’re in luck. Here are some of the basics that we’ll cover in this article that will help with your international travel planning:

• Choosing a destination and the basics
• Booking your flight, accommodations, and transportation
• Researching your itinerary
• Choosing travel insurance
• Creating a packing list and luggage
• Last minute details before you go

Table of Contents

How to Plan an International Trip: Destination, Length of Trip, Budget

There’s no shortage of places in the world where I want to travel. So many places, so little time! You probably already have a destination in mind. I’ve chosen countries in the world to visit based on a number of factors. There might be a personal connection, it might be somewhere I’ve always wanted to travel, or perhaps a good deal pops up that I can’t refuse.

Choosing a Destination

You might have a vague idea of where you want to go, but you’re not entirely sure. Thinking about visiting Europe? Check out the most beautiful cities in Europe for some inspiration. Want to base your trip around an activity, like snorkeling? Here are the top snorkeling spots in the Caribbean for some travel inspo.

You might be traveling as a digital nomad and working as you go. I wrote this guide about teaching English abroad from anywhere in the world, and I’ve listed some great locations to establish a temporary home base.

I usually choose a destination based on advice from friends, articles I’ve read on travel blogs, and photos I’ve seen on Instagram and Pinterest. I’ve also chosen destinations before based purely upon finding an incredible flight deal.

You’ll also want to consider the time of year you are traveling. Some destinations are wonderful during some seasons…and not so much during others. For instance, you might not want to travel somewhere during the rainy season or hurricane season. On the other hand, some destinations get so busy during the summer months that you’ll be battling crowds and overinflated prices. It’s important to do your research in this regard, too.

How Long Will You Travel

This will vary for everyone. You might be looking to plan a getaway for a week or two, or you could be traveling for longer. If you have a gap year or career break, you’ll have lots of time to travel from place to place.

Once you decide the length of your trip, you might want to think about how many places or countries you want to visit. Can you establish a home base and travel from there? Maybe you want to do some country hopping? Do you prefer slow travel and want to experience one place for a longer amount of time?

Plan Your Budget and Save for the Trip

Budgeting is always key. You don’t want to run out of money on your trip. Decide how much money you have for travel and how much you can save for your trip. If you’re looking for advice on saving money, I have lots of fantastic tips for saving money to travel .

When you’re thinking about how to plan a trip overseas, your budget will be one main consideration and it might even influence the destination itself. Countries in Southeast Asia are notoriously inexpensive, whereas Scandinavian countries come at a premium price.

Passport, Visa Requirements, Vaccinations

Having a passport is crucial for traveling, so you’ll want to get your passport sorted out before you go anywhere. You’ll also want to make sure your passport doesn’t expire for six months or more before you travel (otherwise, you should renew it).

While obtaining a visa isn’t necessary for many international destinations for a Canadian (like us!) or Americans, there are many places where you will need to get a visa in advance. Some of these can be obtained upon arrival at the airport. However, you can get many in advance online, usually a month before you travel. I suggest doing the research on visas before you plan anything else. Then, remember to get the visa before you go!

Some countries will require certain vaccinations to enter the country. For example, Justin and I had to get our yellow fever shots before visiting Tanzania . I suggest seeing a doctor at a local travel clinic to get the correct vaccines in advance.

Travel Planning: Book the Flight

The flight might be the most expensive part of your trip. But, it doesn’t have to break the budget. I’ve managed to score some pretty awesome deals by using travel price comparison websites when planning a holiday.

I’ve even jumped on deals at the spur of the moment, like the one I found between Toronto and New Zealand (round trip with only one stopover for $800 CDN!). It’s even possible to  find error fares  where there’s a mistake in the pricing, and you reap all the rewards.

My favorite website for comparing flights is  Skyscanner . Have you heard of Skyscanner before? It’s become quite popular and for excellent reasons. Skyscanner provides numerous ways to scour the web for the best savings on flights and travel, across airlines and third party sites. It’s the best way to go about booking the cheapest flight.

International Travel Planning: Book Accommodations

Hotels are a big travel expense, too. Depending on the duration of your trip and the type of accommodation you seek, these overnight stays can quickly add up. That’s why I always look for my hotels on  Booking.com .

I can quickly search for the city or town I’m visiting and see the price of every hotel. Plus, I can book the hotel without any strings attached. If I need to cancel my stay, I can do so without any additional costs. I love the flexibility of Booking.com.

For those on a tighter budget (or if you love hostels), I suggest beginning your search on Hostel World . You’ll find amazing, top rated hostels from around the world. The benefit of staying in hostels? You’ll be able to meet fellow travelers much easier – and save money.

Once you find a fantastic hotel, be sure to compare it to the  reviews on Tripadvisor  to make sure you’re staying in a highly recommended accommodation.

Book Transportation (Train Tickets, Car Rental)

Getting from point A to point B is an important consideration. If you are traveling to Iceland , Ireland , or New Zealand , you should consider a road trip. Renting a car will help you visit so many more places that public transportation doesn’t reach.

However, if you’re planning a Euro trip, train travel is one of the best ways to go. You could even fly from place to place, depending on the destinations. Justin and I usually travel either by car or train to get around, and we take public transportation within a city (or walk!).

Traveling By Car

Did you know that you can use travel price comparison websites for car rentals, too? Renting a car for epic road trips spanning a couple of weeks can cost thousands of dollars. Thankfully, you can  search for car rentals  on Discover Cars.

Type in your pickup location and choose from popular brands and companies for your car hire, including all both popular chain companies and local car hire services. This helps you compare prices for the cheapest and most reliable options. Also, if you’re taking a road trip, check out our road trip packing list for a safe and comfortable journey.

Traveling By Train

Thinking about traveling by train? Train travel is awesome, especially around Europe. We usually take the train if we’re in Europe as it’s really easy to get from place to place. If you’re spending a lot of time in Europe, you should consider getting a Eurail Pass . You’ll travel around with ease and save money, too.

If you’re visiting Italy, you’ll likely use ItaliaRail to get around. I suggest buying train tickets in Italy as soon as possible. ItaliaRail tends to list them four months ahead of the travel date. The earlier you purchase your train tickets, the more likely it is that you’ll get a better deal. We bought many two-for-one train tickets this way.

Airport Transfers

I love to book my airport transfers ahead of time, or at least figure out how to get from the airport to the city. After a long flight (usually they’re overnight flights, too), the last thing I want to do is struggle with my airport transfers.

This information is usually found pretty easily by Googling it online. Rome2Rio is also a great resource for sorting out how to get from one place to the next, too.

Get Travel Insurance

Getting travel insurance is one of the most important things you can do before you plan any international trip. We highly recommend that you choose SafetyWing for your travel insurance needs.

Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing has a fantastic product called Nomad Insurance . It’s perfect for those traveling long term and short term. This insurance includes medical insurance (illness, accidents, etc.) and travel insurance (trip delay, lost luggage, natural disasters, emergency response, and more). Take a look at the graphic below for even more specific details about what’s covered with Nomad Insurance.

In terms of Covid-19, SafetyWing has got you covered. Nomad Insurance covers Covid-19 treatment and unexpected quarantine outside of your home country. Coverage is the same as any other illness, just as long as it wasn’t contracted before your coverage start date.

Travel Insurance Resources

Borderless is a fantastic resource where you’ll be able to track travel restrictions, border openings and closures, and global vaccination rates. It’s updated regularly and you can sign up for email alerts to keep yourself in the know.

Here is a global directory for insurance requirements by country . This takes specific insurance restrictions by country and makes it easy to read and digest. Usually, this information is scattered in several places online and it’s hard to navigate. It’s a good idea to take a look at this directory before you travel anywhere.

Please feel free to check out our travel insurance guide for even more information on the various kinds of insurance abroad, and why you need to protect yourself when you go overseas.

Research and Plan the Itinerary

Now, for the fun part! When you’re coming up with how to plan an international trip, the itinerary is the best part. It’s time to research and plan your itinerary. I create spreadsheets and maps for my travels. I’ll figure out all of the things that I want to do in a place and list them out. Then, I’ll organize them by day, making sure not to pack too many things into one day.

When it comes to certain cities, I’ll make a Google Map and place markers for the attractions, cafes, restaurants, and more. Then, I’ll know how to get there when I’m out and about.

Plan the Best Things to Do, Activities, Attractions

There are so many ways to research the best activities, attractions, and things to do in a place. Be sure to check out our travel blog’s destinations page to see if we’ve visited as I create detailed itinerary posts so you can “steal” my trip!

Once you decide what you’d like to do, see if you have to book tickets or tours ahead of time. For tours and tickets, I usually order them ahead of time on Viator or Get Your Guide . Sometimes you can find “city pass” tickets where you’ll get huge discounts for local attractions, public transportation, and more. These are almost always worth the cost.

Find Recommended Restaurants, Coffee Shops

As I follow a vegan diet, it’s even more important that I make sure there’s excellent plant-based meals where I’m going. I will usually research by looking up vegan travel blog posts and using the Happy Cow app.

Once I find the restaurants and cafes that I’d like to visit, I place them on my Google Map and in my spreadsheet (making note of restaurant hours and location). I usually don’t plan the restaurants too much unless it’s one that I really want to visit. When I get hungry, I’ll look at my map and see which restaurant marker is closest to where I’m standing.

Create a Packing List

A packing list will depend on where you’re going, how long, and the weather. A winter trip will be much more difficult than a summer trip. And if you’re traveling between different climates in the same trip, it’s even tougher!

Bring only what you feel is necessary because you don’t want to be weighed down. You also might end up buying some clothes on your trip, especially if you visit a country where clothing is far cheaper.

Checked Bags or Carry On Only?

There are advantages and disadvantages to going with carry-on luggage only or checked bags. Bringing a checked bag will allow you to bring a lot more things. But, you will have to lug that bag around with you and you will have to pay extra fees to check it at the airport (and wait at the luggage carousel).

Carry on only is awesome because you won’t need to carry many things, plus you won’t need to check any bags. But, you’ll need to bring less items and less liquids on the plane (big bottles of shampoo are out!).

My advice? Carry as little as possible, do laundry while you’re abroad, and do what you feel is right. Don’t think you can fit all of your belongings into a carry-on bag? Bring a wheeled suitcase! There’s nothing wrong with it, and there’s no shame in it. You’re not any less of a traveler if you bring luggage with you!

With that said, I highly recommend checking out this special carry on bag by Standard Luggage . It’s the very best carry-on bag I’ve ever used. It’s designed for the traveler in mind. You can fit so much into it and it still fits in the overhead compartment. Get your Standard Luggage bag here .

What to Pack

I won’t go into too much detail about clothing. I love bringing a few pieces that you can mix and match outfits, like black leggings and flowy tops. Bring a dress or two for evenings out. Make sure you bring comfortable shoes if you’re walking around a lot. Even if you don’t think you’ll be swimming, it never hurts to pack a bathing suit. It doesn’t take up much space, and you never know!

We have lots of packing tips on our blog if you’re looking for more details. I suggest making a packing list ahead of time so you know exactly what you’ll need. Aside from clothing, here are a few things you’ll want to consider bringing:

• Universal travel adapter
• Reusable water bottle (GRAYL is the best for filtering water from anywhere!)
• Packing cubes
• Portable power bank (to charge phones and devices on the go)
• Travel locks for your luggage and belongings

Last Minute Details Before You Leave

Depending on your situation, you’ll need to sort out some last minute details before you head out on your trip. When you’re thinking about how to plan an international trip, don’t forget these small details before you leave home.

For instance, as we have two cats, we have to arrange for their care while we’re away. You might need someone to check in on your house or plants.

Make Copies of Your Passport

I always recommend making photocopies of your passport before you leave home. Store this separately from your passport. It’s a good idea to have a copy of your passport in case it gets lost or stolen on your journey.

Call Your Credit Card Company and Your Bank

Notify your bank and credit card companies before you travel. I once had a situation with my credit card overseas. The credit card company said that they no longer needed to be informed when I traveled. Unfortunately, my credit card stopped working in Sweden and I was unable to buy anything (most places didn’t seem to accept cash either!).

I had to wait until my credit card company was available to chat (not until hours later as they’re located in North America) and I couldn’t use my card until later that day. The situation could have been a lot worse, but it was very annoying to have to deal with it all on my trip.

Local SIM Card or Travel Wi-Fi Device

It’s always a good idea to get a local SIM card or a travel Wi-Fi device. You don’t want to rely exclusively on Wi-Fi for your phone because it might be unavailable. Having a local SIM card or a travel Wi-Fi device means that you’ll have access to information on your phone when you’re away. Whether it’s directions on Google Maps or looking up any last minute information, you’ll need it more than you think!

If it’s a country where local data is cheap, pick up a SIM card at the airport when you arrive. You might also be able to stop by a local shop in the city that you’re visiting. You’ll need to make sure your phone is unlocked before using any other SIM cards.

I personally love the TravelWifi portable devices . You can buy or rent their portable Wi-Fi devices in advance. Then, you’ll get unlimited data while you travel. These are the absolute best when we’re traveling around Europe because they continue to work as we hop from country to country. Your phone doesn’t need to be unlocked to connect to a portable hotspot either.

Get Local Currency

You might want to get local currency ahead of time if you can find a good exchange rate. Don’t exchange currency at the airport because you’ll get the worst rates there. It’s always a good idea to travel with cash. While you can use your credit card in many places, cash is the best method of payment in other spots.

When you’re planning international long term travel, you’ll likely end up taking money out from an ATM machine. Choosing a bank that’s a member of the Global ATM Alliance will help you avoid some of the fees. When you take out money from a member bank, you won’t be charged any ATM withdrawal fees. Canadian banks will almost always charge a 2.5% currency conversion fee.

Inform the Embassy and Your Family About Your Trip

Make sure that you notify your local embassy about your travel plans so they have them on file. In the USA, you can enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program). In Canada, you can sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.

Email a copy of your itinerary to some family members so they know where you are when you’re traveling overseas. Let them know your flight details, hotel details, and how to get in touch with you. You might have an emergency situation or there might be an emergency back home. It’s good to be able to stay in touch and have a clear line of communication for these situations.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

• Adventure Travel

How to Plan a Trip When You’re Short on Time—And Cash

Aaron is a Project Integration Manager at an international technology company, currently working ...

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Knowing how to plan a trip abroad comes down to patience, goal-setting, and budgeting. Don’t worry—we’ll walk you through it. ☆ Sometimes, life comes at you fast. Caught up in the day to day chores and to do lists and studying, it can be easy to lose track of time. All the sudden, you have a break coming up and you have no plans or you realize the end of your college career is on the horizon and you haven’t studied abroad yet! 

If this sounds like you, don’t fret. Just like that last minute paper, you can plan travel when you’re short on time. But, before we dive into how to plan a trip on a short budget (both time and cash), there are a few things to take into account. 

Short on time and cash? With the right resources, you’ll be onto your next destination in no time! Let the adventure begin. ?

Three things to consider when you plan an international trip

If you're wondering how to plan an international trip, the most basic principle is NOT trying to tackle all of your trip planning at once, as it can quickly become overwhelming. Hotels and transportation and location and budget and all the other parts of what make a good trip quickly become too much to handle simultaneously. 

When figuring out how to plan for a trip, it is best to start with these three key things: decide where you are headed, think about when you are planning on heading out on your adventure, and find a program that fits your schedule and budget. 

1. Figure out where you’re headed

This can sometimes be the most overwhelming part when you plan travel: with the world at your feet how can you possible chose a location?

For those strapped for time and money, we suggest looking to places that are a bit off the beaten path. Why? For one, less mainstream places are less likely to fill up as quickly, so you can buy tickets and book accommodations closer to your departure and not pay out the nose for booking last minute. 

These opportunities also offer more meaningful travel experience, and at GoAbroad, meaningful travel is something we are really into. Sure, Cabo with your friends is cool, but if a trip to Angkor Wat costs the same and offers greater chances for some truly meaningful and unforgettable experiences, it might be a better option.

The key to success! Map out your game plan and get the show on the road.✈️

2. When it comes to cost, timing is everything 

Airlines and hotels are smart enough to know when the high season is for different locales and, of course, they price gauge those choosing to travel during high season. If you learn nothing else about how to plan an international trip, learn this: The difference between visiting a locale in high season versus low-season can be the difference of literally hundreds or thousands of dollars. 

But, this works in the reverse as well. If you are able to be patient and flexible, you can find some amazing deals online to locations during low season. This can mean 80% of the same experience (maybe slightly less ideal weather or a few less available activities) but you get to travel at a steep discount. 

When you are selecting when to travel and are hoping to save some money, look into when the high and low seasons are of your final destination. This can help rule out a few locations as well as unearth some new locales you didn’t originally didn’t consider.   

Places that tend to be hotter will have their high season in the winter when the weather is bearable, making their summer low season. Of course, the disadvantage of going somewhere that is hot in the summer is that, well, it might be really hot. But if you can find a way to cope with the heat, you will enjoy a nice discount on hotels and flights. 

[ Get 5 FREE Trip Matches → ] 

If a locale has a winter off season, it can mean battling through some less than ideal weather, but again, if you can hack it, you will enjoy steep discounts. The other advantage of traveling in a low season is that there are less people, plus shorter lines for activities and less hustle and bustle. 

Look around your house for some old knick knacks you can sell— every dollar counts!?

3. Look into what adventure travel programs are available

What if the easiest way to plan an international trip...involved the least amount of actual planning? Finding a program to take you on your international adventure has a few advantages. First, it takes some of the guesswork out of travel, which is really nice if you are short on time. Many programs also will help set up everything from activities to accommodations , so all you have to do is show up and enjoy! Especially on a short term trip, this means you don’t waste any time “figuring things out” and all of your time exploring. 

How does one go about finding a program? An online advisor can help you find a program and figure out how to plan an international trip!

[ View ALL Adventure Travel Programs ]

Affordable trips to help get you started .

To get you started, below are a few awesome awesome programs located around the world. You can peruse these (and more!) at GoAbroad .

1. Study Chinese in China with CIP

Study Chinese at a Chinese university in China! CIP offers intensive language courses in some of China’s most vibrant cities. And since students who join the program are living in China, they have the opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom in everyday as they navigate life in China. 

• Where? Beijing, Nanjing, Shanghai, or Shenzhen
• When? Summer
• More info: Read CIP reviews

2. Volunteer and teach in South Africa with IVHQ

IVHQ is the answer to how to plan a trip when you’re short on time and on a tight budget. They’re low cost options make it easy to have an incredible (while still affordable) experience abroad. Volunteer teachers in South Africa will work closely with teachers in their school, helping to tutor students one-on-one. Typical subjects taught at the school could include English, Mathematics, Life Skills, Social Studies, Art and Physical studies. As a volunteer you may also be asked to help with other programs at the school, including sports programs.

• Where? Cape Town 
• When? Year round
• More info: Read IVHQ reviews

Choosing the right program will let you eat like a king for the low-low (well… kinda)?

3. Trek in India and Nepal with GapForce

You’re a different kind of trekkie. With GapForce, you can stop asking how to plan a trip and just start planning it! Join Gapforce on an amazing journey through the Indian subcontinent. This program is the perfect combo of volunteering programs in two countries followed by an epic 2,000 mile adventure. Just make sure your pack is on straight! 

• Where? Chitwan and Kathmandu
• More info: Read Gapforce reviews

4. Work as a conservation volunteer in New Zealand with GoEco

Calling all nature lovers and humans of Middle Earth! There are more than 2000 projects in need of your helping hands year-round. Most projects include challenging physical work and provide both long lasting friendships, and central knowledge about wildlife in the region. So if you’re looking to get involved with reforestation efforts and nature surveying, you’re going to want to plan this international trip asap! 

• Where? Auckland or Christchurch
• More info: Read GoEco reviews

5. Hit the waves and then the mountains in Costa Rica with Global Works

With Global Works, planning an international trip that’s meaningful is easy. Your days will include hiking through lush cloud forests, rafting the Pacuare, taking volcano tours, participating in environmental volunteer projects, taking rainforest excursions, and surfing at pristine beach locations. HELLOOOOO DREAM TRIP. 

• Where? Heredia, San Jose, Monteverde, etc. 
• More info: Read Global Works reviews

[ Browse ALL the Adventure Travel Programs Out There ]

#Mood…. At the end of the day, we die with our memories—not our money.?

How to plan a trip for you too-stoked travelers

Are you all psyched up for your upcoming international trip? Great! Below are a few more helpful resources to help you in your planning phase:

• Check out GoAbroad’s Online Advisor . Our experts can help you find the right time and program for you to travel abroad. 
• Need some ideas on how to fund your travels? Just for you: How to Fund a Trip Abroad
• Check out our article on 8 Essential “To-Dos” Before you Travel Abroad  
• 20 Best Travel Tips from 20+ Years of Travel (so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel!).

These resources are just scraping the top of the iceberg of all the great resources you can find at GoAbroad!

Knowing how to plan an international trip will be second nature

Don’t let a lack of time, money, or know-how keep you from traveling abroad. Using the resources provided above and a little bit of planning, traveling abroad can totally be done even on limited time or budget. Have a great trip! 

Find Adventure Travel Programs Now!

Explore Adventure Programs on GoAbroad.com

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6 Simple Tips for Planning Your First International Trip

If you're planning your first vacation beyond American borders, you're probably feeling overwhelmed. After all, there are so many factors to consider. Should you book a hotel or will a hostel provide a more authentic experience? Should you sign up for guided tours or be adventurous and explore on your own? Is it safe to use your credit card? And perhaps the most important question, where should you go? From choosing a destination to prepping your smartphone, use this simple checklist to prepare for your first trip abroad.

See: World's Best Places to Visit in 2015-16

Before you put on a blindfold and throw darts at the globe, determine how much money you're willing to spend on this trip. Also, think about how much time you can afford to spend away from your day job. Factoring in your schedule will rein in some of your wanderlust and force you to put far-flung destinations like Bali and Fiji on the bucket list. Not only do these trips cost a pretty penny, but they require at least six to 10 days to make the most of the destination. If you only have a four-day window, it's not worth the 20-hour flight.

Aside from the money you'll spend on flights and lodging, you should also consider the incidental costs of your trip. For instance, will you have to budget for pet boarding or a house sitter? And don't forget about the money you'll spend en route to your destination, including the meals and drinks you'll purchase at the airport and on the flight. The cost of ground transportation from departure city and in the destination is often overlooked, as well as petty cash for tips for shuttles drivers, taxis, hotel staff and tour guides. 

For risk takers , you may try the strategy of random selection. If you take this route, consider using a travel search engine like Skyscanner . You can put "everywhere" in the destination box, and it will sort flights according to prices (lowest to highest) to literally anywhere in the world based on the dates you entered. This will get your wheels spinning for your new adventure.

If you'd rather play it safe,select a destination that speaks a language that you're familiar with or uses your native language regularly. If you're most comfortable with English that may be regions like the U.K., South Africa and the Caribbean. But doesn't mean you should restrict yourself to English-speaking countries. The Philippines are an example of a destination that has acclimated its English-speaking travelers. Though Filipino is the official language, there are signs in Tagalog, Spanish and English in main cities like Manila, meaning you should still feel comfortable getting around and interacting with locals.

So you've picked a destination, now what? Find out as much information as you can. Check the U.S. Department of State for any travel warnings and sign up for its free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . STEP allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By signing up for the service, you'll receive updates about safety conditions from the U.S. Embassy during events like natural disasters, civil unrest or family emergencies. The State Department is also the place to find out if you need a visa for the country you're traveling to. Some countries require you to have a visa, in addition to your passport (which is an additional cost). Keep in mind: some visas can take up to a month to process. 

See: Do You Really Need Money When You Travel Abroad?

If you're headed to a tropical locale, the simplest option — especially if you're just getting your feet wet with international travel — is to book an all-inclusive resort . These resorts are practically set up for tourists, as they make it easy to plan off-property activities and often feature multiple eateries located on site. Packages can vary, but you'll most likely pay in advance for your meals and some activities on the resort and be given a wristband in exchange. That is your ticket to roam the property and take advantage of all its amenities.

If you're on a tight budget or traveling to a destination that doesn't offer all-inclusive resorts, consider booking a hostel. No longer just a haven for backpackers and college students, the modern hostel is more high-end, with private rooms, complimentary breakfast and on-site language classes. Renting a room or apartment with a home-sharing site like Airbnb or VRBO is another option worth considering, especially if you want to feel more like a local and less like a tourist.

Just a few years ago, the most affordable way to use your cellphone abroad was to buy a prepaid SIM card and insert it to your phone. But since smartphones now allow for Wi-Fi communication, you can virtually check in with your friends and family for free. Check with your carrier and plan to see if it allows free Wi-Fi calling because that means you can do it anywhere in the world.

If your plan doesn't allow for that, but you can still connect to the Internet, there are a number of chat services (i.e. Skype, Google Hangout, Facebook, Tango) that allow you to connect with your family back home. And internationally, it's easy to find a signal — from hotel lobbies to coffee shops — just look for the Wi-Fi sticker on the door.

Planning for the worst-case scenario will ultimately give you the most peace of mind. Before you embark on your trip, take pictures of your passport, photo I.D., medical cards, travel itinerary and contacts, and email them to yourself, along with a couple of family members or friends back home. If any of items are stolen or misplaced, you can use any computer from anywhere to retrieve what you need. Also, your friends and family at home can alert authorities on your behalf with your information.

Carrying only the necessary amount of cash will also make you feel more secure. Other than the petty cash you need for on-the-spot services, try to expense the bulk of the trip on a credit card. And if you have a credit card that also gives you reward points that's even better.

Plus, expensing your trip on a credit card is a good way to keep track of the total costs, and a great way to protect your funds while traveling. See if your credit card provider offers a card with embedded  chip-and-PIN technology , which minimizes the chances of your card being rejected and helps protect it from fraud.

See: Your Travel Insurance Questions Answered

About the author: Dayvee Sutton is a two-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, public speaker and entrepreneur. She is the founder of www.daily-affair.com , where she and her team write about lifestyle topics. Follow @dayveesutton on  Facebook ,  Twitter  and  Instagram .

World's Best Places To Visit

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The 19-Step International Travel Checklist: How to Prepare to Go Abroad

Traveling internationally is both exciting and intimidating – with so many moving parts to keep track of while trip planning, you don’t want to forget essentials that will make your international travel experience safe and stress-free. With this international travel checklist , you’ll know exactly the steps to take in preparing for your upcoming trip.

Preparing for an international trip is not just about deciding what outfits you’re going to wear or what activities you’re trying to cross off your bucket list or how you’re going to stay entertained on a long-haul flight .

Travel prep includes everything from researching the visa requirements of your destination to finding a pet-sitter to simply having a pen on the plane.

This international travel checklist gives an overview of all the steps you should take before departure, plus important travel tips we often overlook, to ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

Download the PDF International Travel Checklist

Step one is to convert this informative post into a handy checklist you can download and print as your international travel prep gets underway!

You will receive tons of information about preparing for international travel throughout this post, but if you’re looking for a quick and easy fix, you can jump straight to the downloadable checklist of the actionable steps you need to take.

It’s also a helpful handout to keep things organized as you’re preparing to go abroad – you have a lot to think about, so a printed list can at least streamline one aspect of your trip prep!

Not to mention you can download so much more, like a packing list or photo editing presets, since this checklist is part of The Travel Library .

Email address

Preparing for International Travel: Before Departure

1. check visa entry requirements for your destination.

The first thing you should do when preparing for international travel is update yourself if there are any visa requirements for entering the country with the passport you hold (I have the most experience with my US passport, so I’ll mostly be referencing travel as a US citizen.)

You can do a quick check for visa requirements by country and then contact the embassy covering your jurisdiction to proceed with applying for a visa if necessary.

2. Book Plane Tickets & Other Important Reservations In Advance

As soon as you know you’re leaving the country, start looking to book flights, accommodation, car rentals, and any other reservations that would be detrimental to your itinerary to not have planned.

Use my favorite cheap flight hacks to find a flight and keep in mind countries can be strict if you don’t have a return ticket home. Have some kind of proof of onward travel or your return plane ticket when going through customs.

3. Ensure Documents Are Up To Date

The most important document for international travel is your passport. Besides not losing it, you must make sure the document is not expired.

Passport renewals should be done as soon as possible if you realize your passport is expired before your next trip.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some destinations will not allow you in their country if your passport will expire within 6 months of your trip or if you don’t have enough blank pages.

4. Enroll In The STEP Program

United States citizens should always enter their trip information into the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , offered by the US Department of State.

By entering your information, you will then be notified by email of any relevant safety news affecting your destination, including protests, emergencies, and embassy contact information.

If an emergency does occur, it makes it easier for the embassy to contact you and your family, so this is one of the most important things to do on this international travel checklist.

5. Plan For How You Will Use Your Phone

This has always been a big one for me – probably because I’ve been in countless situations where my phone doesn’t work while I travel!

You have several options for figuring out how you will use your phone abroad:

• Pay for your international phone plan through your domestic provider. (Typically expensive, but convenient)
• Only use free WiFi.
• Buy a local SIM card. (You can learn about the basics in my guide to buying a SIM card in Italy .)
• Pay for a WiFi roaming hotspot like Solis .

Depending on your budget and duration of your trip, some options are better than others. If you’re only abroad for a week, then I would just use free WiFi or pay for an international phone plan through my provider.

Anything longer and paying for a SIM card is way more worth it. The SIM takes a few days to activate, so even though it’s cheaper still than an international phone plan, it’s not very convenient for travels less than a week.

6. Notify Your Bank Where You’re Traveling To

Depending on your bank, you may have to submit a travel notification so they know what days and where you will be out of the country in order to not flag your purchases as fraud.

Also find out if the bank or certain credit card companies charge fees for international transactions.

7. Buy Travel Insurance

I typically never buy travel insurance, but going abroad is a different story. Not only is your trip abroad expensive, but your health insurance will likely not cover you for anything while you’re in a foreign country.

It is worth it to protect your trip and be prepared for any emergencies by investing in travel insurance. World Nomads has different policies for your needs and budget to keep you covered and have some peace of mind while traveling.

8. Ensure You Have Enough of Any Prescription Medication During Your Travels

Before embarking on your trip, order and pick up any medication or vitamins you will need for the duration of your trip.

Items like toiletries and clothes are easy to get abroad, but prescription medication is not something you want to forget.

Pro Tip: Always keep medicine in your carry-on in case your checked bag gets lost.

9. Obtain An International Driving Permit (If Necessary)

If you are planning to go on a road trip abroad, rent a car, or drive for any reason, then make sure to check if your US Driver’s License is valid in that country.

In most cases, you will have to get an International Driving Permit which is basically an authentication of your US Driver’s License.

Do this step several weeks in advance of your trip in case you have to wait for the permit by mail.

10. Receive Required Vaccinations (If Necessary)

The CDC has a feature to search for health information according to each destination around the globe. This includes current public health situations in the country and required vaccines, if any, upon entry.

11. Research Your Destination’s Current Conditions

What’s the weather like where you’re traveling to? Is there a holiday occurring during your travel dates? Asking yourself these questions and finding the answers will help you to avoid bumps in your itinerary as best as possible.

Being far away from home, you won’t have the same comforts and resources. Surprises like a national holiday where no stores are open or a train strike (yes, both of these happen in Italy where I live) can freak you out if you have to change around your travel plans!

Spontaneity is one of the most fun parts of traveling, but having a plan to be prepared can help you avoid sticky situations.

Handle Things at Home

12. Schedule a Pet or House Sitter

Taking a trip means you can forget about your troubles at home – well, not entirely. If you need your house taken care of or someone to watch a pet, get those services in order well before you leave for your trip.

Scheduling services last-minute can mean no availability, which creates a stressful situation, which we are trying to AVOID with this checklist!

13. Stop Mail Service

You’re on vacation, but your mail is not! If your mail piles up while you’re abroad, you run the risk of items stopped being delivered.

The US post office, for example, can usually hold mail up to 30 days . If you are traveling for longer than that, you may have to sign up for a forwarding service so your mail is received.

14. Share Your Itinerary With Friends & Family

The last step for handling things at home is to share your itinerary with someone staying behind. This tip is especially important for solo travelers, so friends and family can know where you’re supposed to be and when in case something happens.

You can share your detailed itinerary through apps like Wanderlog , where you can also update it as you travel.

At minimum, give loved ones or close neighbors an idea of where you’ll be and for how long so they can keep an eye out for things back home and know how to contact you if necessary.

It’s also to helpful to leave copies of documents like your passport with your family in case of emergency.

Carry-On Packing Essentials for International Travel

There are certain items you should always keep in your carry-on – medicine, valuables like jewelry, as well as an extra outfit (especially for international trips with connecting flights – you never know if you’ll be the unlucky one to have their luggage lost.)

Keep essentials easy-to-reach all throughout your airport experience. When you need to sign something or charge your phone, you don’t want to have to open up your suitcase and dig through your stuff at the airport gate trying to try and find a pen or charging cord.

Pro Tip: Take photos of your suitcases in case they get lost. It may assist the airline in recovering your lost bags quicker!

15. Extra Pens

It may be the simplest thing to cross off on this international travel checklist, but don’t forget to throw some pens into your carry-on bag or personal item.

On international flights, you’ll have to fill out customs forms and potentially other documentation based on the destination or airline. Always bring a pen with you and keep it accessible throughout your flight.

You don’t want to be stressed trying to ask neighbors for a pen or being unprepared for customs (they like to move quickly and efficiently.)

16. Important Document Folder

Especially when traveling alone and now in 2021 with COVID-related travel restrictions and rules still in place, I always carry an easily-accessible, closable folder that holds my important documents.

In this folder I’ll keep:

• Printed Boarding Pass
• Printed Itinerary
• Copies of any necessary documents like birth certificate, SSN, etc. (I only do this if I’m doing long-term travel, like study abroad)
• Visa Documentation
• Passport (I typically keep my passport in my WANDRD Backpack because it has a secret, unidentifiable pocket on the backside for anti-theft security)
• COVID-related Travel Documents – Proof of Vaccination, Proof of Negative Test, etc.

Keep the folder accessible for check-in and customs. You may also add customs forms to this folder along your journey to make sure you don’t lose them.

Pro Tip: Make sure to also take photos of important documents like your passport. If you lose it, it could help you get a replacement faster.

17. Portable Charger

I never leave for a trip – especially a long one- without my Anker Powercore Portable Charger . While traveling internationally, you never know what can happen.

You may have the wrong outlet adapter or the USB port in the plane cabin might not work and the last thing you want to do is be without a phone.

It may be the only place you have evidence of hotel reservations, transportation tickets, and moreover, where you can contact family and friends to tell them you’re safe.

The Anker portable chargers are the best brand I’ve come across, lasting me years, and worth the $60 in comparison to buying a cheap one that will stop working after a few charges.

Storytime! I once traveled to London for a weekend and on my return flight to Italy, the plane was stuck on the tarmac for SIX HOURS! I returned to Pisa eight hours late, having missed my bus back to Florence, and my phone had been dead for hours – which also happened to be the only place I had evidence of a bus ticket to try to get on the next bus. These are the kind of situations you want to avoid by always having a portable charger on you!

18. Universal Adapter

Along the lines of keeping your phone battery alive, you want to make sure you’re traveling with a universal adapter that will fit the plugs of the country you are traveling to!

No plug adapter equals no way to charge devices, use hair appliances, or power up whatever other electronics you travel with.

Most universal adapters are inexpensive and – as they say – universal, meaning they can work with a lot of different plug types. Make sure your destination is one of the plug types included before you purchase.

19. Cash in Local Currency

I personally prefer to use my card when I travel, but it depends on your destination and your bank’s policies if that’s a viable option for you.

For example, if your bank charges high fees for using your card abroad, then paying in local currency may be more economical. On the other hand, some destinations more than others are going to widely accept debit and credit cards.

Whether you wish to pay in cash or card throughout your travels, I recommend exchanging at least a couple of days’ worth in currency to ensure you have a backup method of payment in case of emergency.

Think about if you will need to take a taxi from the airport to your hotel and any purchases you may have to make as soon as you arrive in the country. The more things that fall into that category, the more money I would exchange into local currency.

Plus, if you forgot to notify your bank of your travels, you may not be able to take out cash from ATMs or your card may be declined.

Find out more about currency and using ATMs abroad before you go. Just remember, it’s always good to have a backup plan!

Final Thoughts

Traveling abroad is an incredibly rewarding experience. This international travel checklist covers all the serious stuff you need to take care of before your trip.

But it’s all so that you can avoid stressful situations and travel away from home with peace of mind!

I hope these tips were helpful and allow you to enjoy your international travel while being adequately prepared!

Any questions about the international travel checklist? Leave me a comment!

Save this checklist on Pinterest!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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12 Tips to Prepare for an International Trip

Tips for take-off to landing

Going on an international trip soon? The rules for international flights have many dos and don't's. Here are 12 tips gleaned from experienced globe trotters designed to make that long-haul flight easier. 

Pack Lightly

On one of my first international business trips as an adult, I overpacked drastically. Guess who had to carry a large heavy suitcase, a large purse, and a garment bag around Paris at Metro and train stations that didn’t have elevators or escalators? After that, I swore to only pack what I could comfortably carry by myself. Check out my packing tips here.

Choose an Aisle Seat

On long flights, it’s recommended that you get up and walk to stretch your muscles and avoid blood clots in your legs. This is much easier to do in an aisle seat, so book one as soon as you book your ticket.

There's an App for That!

Apps can be a savior when traveling, but especially when you're abroad. You can use travel apps them to keep in touch with your airline, translate different languages, search for services at airports, choose your seats and myriad other tasks.

Dress Accordingly

On a long flight, you want to look well-dressed, but you also want to be comfortable. so you don’t want to wear clothes that cut or bind. I wear a wrinkle-proof jacket that can double as a blanket or a pillow, and I always wear a long pashmina for the same reason. The pashmina can also be used as a wrap, a pillow, a skirt cover and an accessory to dress up travel outfits. Buy my favorite for $10 at the Bijoux Terner website. I also wear slip-on flat shoes that are easy to take on and off at security and on your flight. All of this isbeautifully illustrated here at the Chelsea Tells Storiesblog.

Arrive Early

Most airlines want you at the airport at least two hours before your flight takes off, especially if you’re leaving from a U.S. international gateway airport . It will give you time to check your bags, check in, navigate the airport security checkpoint and get to your gate in plenty of time and arrive ​stress-free.

Zip Through Customs

Those who travel internationally know that U.S. Customs and Immigration lines can be a nightmare, especially at peak arrival times at the major international U.S. airports. Smart travelers carry the  Global Entry  card, which speeds you right past the Immigration and Customs lines. And a bonus -- it also works for the domestic Transportation Security Administration's PreCheck program .

Lounge Around

Because you need to be at the airport so far in advance, consider paying for access to an airline-branded or airport lounge. There are plenty of lounges that allow you to pay a fee for entry. It's good to have time away from the masses before boarding your flight.

Drink Water

It’s OK to have a glass of wine or two while on your flight, but you really need to stay hydrated, because aircraft cabins are extremely dry. And instead of bothering flight attendants for endless little cups of water, go to your local dollar store, buy a water bottle and ask them to fill that up.

Cone of Silence

Nothing is worse than being on a plane with a screaming child or a chatty Cathy seatmate. That’s why I never travel without either a pair of  noise canceling headphones or my Beats Flex By Dr. Dre earbuds. Pop on either of them and enjoy the silence.

Sleepy Time

When it’s time to rest, you want to be comfortable. So invest in an inflatable neck pillow (I know they look silly, but they are a great sleep enhancer), an eye mask and comfortable socks.

Charge Me Up

More airlines are installing power ports on their aircraft, but you can’t always depend on that. When I flew to Paris for Christmas, the flight over had a USB port, but the flight home didn’t. That’s why I always carry mytrusty Mophie Juice Pack Powerstation Duo, which allows me to charge my iPhone and iPad quickly.

Show The Love

The flight attendants are there for your safety. But they also work hard to ensure that our flight is comfortable and stress-free. Show your appreciation by presenting them with a box of sealed chocolates, like Ghiradelli Chocolate Squares or Ferrero Rocher truffles. And although you're not expecting it, they may show the love back to you in return. 

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Here's what you need to know to plan a trip around the world

Dec 29, 2021 • 7 min read

Don't start planning your round-the-world trip without reading this guide © Getty Images

In 1924, a team of aviators from the USA successfully completed the first-ever circumnavigation of the globe by airplane, a feat that took 175 days, 76 stops, a cache of 15 Liberty engines, 14 spare pontoons, four aircraft and two sets of new wings. This achievement ushered in an era of international air travel, and nearly a century later, travelers are still creating their own round-the-world itineraries. 

You might not have the same worries as those early aviators, but planning a round-the-world trip has never been a more complex process. As COVID-19 continues to alter world travel , heading out on a multi-country trip might be more complicated than it has been in decades. While it might not be the right time to hit the road, luckily it's never too early to start figuring out the logistics of a trip around the globe. After all, who doesn't have a lot of pent-up wanderlust at the moment? 

When it comes to booking your trip, there are several options for booking your airfare, as well as flexibility on timing, destinations and budget. But don't let that overwhelm you – start here with our handy guide on how to plan that round-the-world trip you’ve always dreamed of.

Where and how to get a round-the-world plane ticket

The most economical way to circumnavigate the globe is to buy a round-the-world (RTW) plane ticket through a single airline alliance. These are confederations of several different airlines that make it simple to maximize the number of places you can travel and pay for it all in one place or with points. There are three primary airline alliances to choose from: Star Alliance, OneWorld and Skyteam.  Star Alliance is a coalition of 26 airlines that fly to 1300 airports in 98% of the world’s countries.  OneWorld includes 14 airlines traveling to 1100 destinations in 180 territories.  Skyteam is made up of 19 airlines that serve 1000 destinations in 170 countries.  

Read more:   How to save money when you're traveling

Once you pick an airline alliance, whether because of a loyalty program you’re already a member of or because you like its terms, conditions and destination list, you can purchase a single RTW airline ticket made up of several legs fulfilled by that alliance’s partners. The RTW ticket rules vary between each of the airline alliances, with particulars like Star Alliance’s rule that a RTW ticket can include two to 15 stops. But there are some general principles that apply to most RTW tickets, no matter which airline group you go with. 

You typically must follow one global direction (east or west – no backtracking); you must start and finish in the same country; and you must book all your flights before departure, though you can change them later (though this could incur extra charges). Typically you have one year to get from your starting point to the finish line.

How long do I need for a round-the-world trip?

You could whip around the world in a weekend if you flew non-stop, especially with the advent of new ultra-long-haul flights that can clock in at 20 hours of flight time. However, the minimum duration of most RTW tickets is 10 days – still a breathless romp. To get the most out of your round-the-world ticket, consider stock-piling vacation days, tagging on public holidays or even arranging a sabbatical from work to take off at least two months (but ideally six months to one year). Because most airline alliances give you up to a year to use your ticket, you can maximize your purchase if you plan well.

When should I travel on a round-the-world trip?

The weather will never be ideal in all your stops, so focus on what you want to do most and research the conditions there. In general, city sightseeing can be done year-round (escape extreme heat, cold or rain in museums and cafes), but outdoor adventures are more reliant on – and enjoyable in – the right weather.

Research ahead of time if any must-see destinations or must-do activities will mean facing crowds. For example, if you’re hoping to be in Austria for the famous Salzburg Festival, you’ll want to plan ahead and book your tickets months in advance. If you’re hoping to fit a shorter thru-hike into your round-the-world trip, you’ll want to make sure you’re going in the correct season and starting in the right spot. You won’t get far or have as enjoyable an experience if you’re, say, attempting the Tour du Mont Blanc during the dates of the annual winter marathon or headed northbound on the Pacific Crest Trail in July, missing most of the warmer months. 

Accept youʼll be in some regions at the "wrong" time – though this might offer unexpected benefits. For example, Victoria Falls has a dry season each year , which means a slightly less thunderous cascade, but it does open up rafting opportunities and a chance to swim right up to the lip of the falls in The Devil’s Pool. Going to Venice in the winter might mean grayer skies but fewer crowds. Heading to Kenya and Tanzania in April is likely to mean fewer humans, but not fewer chances to spot wildlife, all while saving money on safari.  Also keep in mind that mom-and-pop locations have their downtime and holiday seasons as well; don't be too surprised if your local bakery in Paris is closed for a holiday week or two in August.

Where should I go on my round-the-world trip?

The classic (and cheapest) RTW tickets flit between a few big cities, for example, London – Bangkok – Singapore – Sydney – LA . If you want to link more offbeat hubs ( Baku – Kinshasa – Paramaribo , anyone?), prices will climb considerably. The cost of the ticket is also based on the total distance covered or the number of countries visited.

Remember, you donʼt have to fly between each point: in Australia you could land in Perth , travel overland and fly out of Cairns . Or fly into Moscow , board the Trans-Siberian railway  and fly onwards from Beijing.  Pick some personal highlights and string the rest of your itinerary around those. For instance, if youʼre a keen hiker, flesh out a Peru ( Inca Trail ) – New Zealand ( Milford Track ) – Nepal ( Everest Base Camp ) itinerary with stops in Yosemite , Menz-Gauassa and the Okavango Delta .

If budgetʼs an issue, spend more time in less expensive countries and plan budget city breaks along the way. You’ll spend more in metros like Paris, Dubai and San Francisco than in Nusa Tenggara , Budapest  and Buffalo . 

Tips, tricks and pitfalls of round-the-world tickets

Talk to an expert before you book a round-the-world ticket: you may have an itinerary in mind, but an experienced RTW flight booker will know which routes work best and cost least. A few tweaks could mean big savings in time and money. Hash out a budget well ahead of time, not only for your RTW ticket, but also for the whole trip. Reach out to friends or travel bloggers who have done a round-the-world trip or are full-time travelers because they can offer tips on how to budget for a trip around the world .

Be flexible: moving your departure date by a few days can save money. Mid-week flights are generally cheaper, as are flights on major holidays such as Christmas Day. Avoid days and times popular with business travelers to escape higher prices and more crowded cabins.

Think about internal travel: it can be cheaper to book internal flights at the same time as booking your RTW ticket, but with the global increase of low-cost airlines, you may find it better (and more flexible) to buy them separately as you go.

Be warned: if you donʼt board one of your booked flights (say, on a whim, you decide to travel overland from Bangkok to Singapore rather than fly it) your airline is likely to cancel all subsequent flights.

You might also like: 10 destinations perfect for solo travel Can visiting lesser-known places offer a better travel experience? 6 things I learned from flying 6 days in a row

This article was first published Mar 20, 2012 and updated Dec 29, 2021.

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The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your First International Trip

It’s always the right time to do the things you've wanted to to but it may not always feel that way.

Most people are waiting for the right time to do X:  the right time to quit a soul-sucking job, the right time to end a toxic relationship, the right time to get in shape...

Or, the right time to travel the world.

The truth is, there is no "perfect" moment where you feel feel absolutely comfortable putting everything on hold. Travel is one of those things where you just have to go out and do it.

This extensive guide will help you make the leap and enable you to take that trip you've been dreaming of while extinguishing unnecessary stress.

The first 3 items on this list may seem difficult at first buy they're essential “first steps” to set your intention and put your plan in motion.

The rest of the items will help you become a more prepared, savvy traveler who knows that anticipation is key to success.

Pick a place & do the research

A lot of people talk about how they want to travel more but they never take any solid steps to work towards that goal. Maybe because they feel overwhelmed by the infinite options of beautiful locations to explore.

If this is what’s stopping you from going to awesome places I have an easy solution for you:  just pick one place and GO!

It gets easier when you narrow it down and have a goal to work towards. It’s easier to say “I’m going to Cartagena, Colombia” than “I’m going somewhere in South America”.  

Determine how long you will travel & how

The length of your trip and your style of traveling is going to determine how much money you need to invest in your experience.

5-day trip? 14-day trip? 1 month? 6 months? Budget travel? Backpacking? Luxury travel?......you get the point.

You don’t need to know exact dates but you should at least have a rough idea of what places you are going to visit, for how long, and the style of traveling you want to embark upon.

Put a number on how much you money you need & work towards it

Do your research about destination costs based on your style of traveling. This is going to help you determine your daily expenses and come up with a daily budget for your trip.

Let’s say that you do the numbers and you come up with a budget of $3,000 for your trip that is in 6 months. That’s only $16.66 per day.

If you already have that amount of money saved up, congratulations! You can now go ahead and start booking flights and hotels.  

If you don’t, no worries. That’s why you are planning ahead.

How can you start saving $16.66 per day?

Here are some ways you can save money for your dream vacation:

• Cook at home and eat out less
• Sell your car
• Sell stuff you don’t need
• Get rid of cable
• Sign up for travel newsletters
• Cut coffee, alcohol, and cigarettes
• Cancel any inactive memberships
• Get a second job or more clients and save all the money you earn from it.

Get a passport or check passport expiration date

If you don’t have a passport, get one immediately. The whole process takes about a month. You cannot book flights without your passport number.

Check out the USA Department of State for more information about passport application.

If you do have a passport, make sure that it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your travels. You don’t want to be that person that gets stuck at the airport because of your passport expiration date.

Verify the country’s visa requirements

A visa allows you to enter another country.

No visa = No travel

Countries around the world have different requirements for visitors who want to enter — and it all depends on the country origin of your passport.

For US citizens, you can check the State Department website for details on the requirements of all countries.

Enroll in Global Entry Program

If you are U.S citizen, I highly recommend enrolling in the Global Entry program by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). You get to save time, skip the processing line, and even get access to expedited entry benefits in other countries.

Check CDC required shots/immunizations

The CDC travel website has a great list of countries and their required and recommended immunizations.

Get a travel credit card

There is only one reason to get a travel credit card:  sign-up bonuses and free miles.

The moment you decide you want to travel is the moment you should get a travel credit card. In the months leading up to your trip you can start accumulating miles that can get you free flights, hotels, etc.

Don’t get carried away. You only need one.

The travel card I use is Chase Sapphire with 50,000 sign-up bonus points and no foreign transaction fees.

Book your flight

There’s a special way to hack booking flights and my friend Matt Wilson wrote a full article on saving money and finding cheap flights.

Also, check out these sites for last-minute deals:

• Airfarewatchdog
• Google flights
• The Flight Deal
• Holiday Pirates

Book your accommodations

I suggest you avoid the all inclusive resorts & opt for something that allows you to get a better taste of the culture and lifestyle of the locals.  Plus, it's usually less expensive.

Airbnb, Couchsurfing & hostels are great options for this but they aren't always available. Here is a full list of options that provide great deals to help you feel comfortable no matter where you travel to:

• Couchsurfing
• TripAdvisor
• Hostelworld

Make sure that you book early to get a good deal on your top pick.

Buy travel insurance

Smart travelers get travel insurance because they know shit can happen while traveling and most health plans don’t cover you overseas.

My go-to travel insurance provider is World Nomads. They provide great coverage at a good price and they have amazing customer service.

Plan your activities

Plan out your bucket list activities, figure out how much they cost, and adjust your budget accordingly. 

This will also help you figure out if you need any prior reservations for your chosen activities, as well as get you pumped for your trip.

Get familiar with local transportation

I have been in situations where I don’t know any better and get a taxi for $15 - $20 to take me to my hotel only to realize later on that I could have taken a much cheaper option like a train or bus (or free shuttle).

Before you get on the plane, take a look at where you are going, what neighborhood you are staying in, and the transportation options. Read up about how to use the transportation system, download digital maps for reference, and check operating times and schedules.

It is a wonderful investment of time because you will likely save money AND time in the future. Not to mention how much stress you may alleviate while learning more about the place you are visiting.

Automate your bills

You don't want to worry about bills while you are exploring your destination. Automate them to ensure you pay your bills on time and don’t incur in late fees.

Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel dates

Your debit and credit card are less likely to get blocked if you notify your bank and credit card company about your travels.

It’s not a good feeling having your card rejected overseas while you are trying to pay for dinner. It shouldn't take more than a few minutes so suck it up and make that boring call that will likely involve terrible music while you're on hold.

Notify your embassy & family about your travels

It’s always a good idea to notify your embassy about your travels so they can notify your family in case of emergency.

For US citizens, check out the SMART Traveler Program.

Also, let your family & friends know where you are going, when you are going, flights, and hotel info.

Emergencies can happen on both ends so it’s important to keep your loved ones in the loop.

Make copies of your passport, hotel reservations, travel tickets, and travel insurance (print and digital)

We live in the digital age but in many countries paper is still KING.

Copies of your passport are necessary in case you passport goes missing. You can show this to your embassy to start the process of getting another one & alleviate the stress of not having any documentation in a foreign country.

Copies of your travel insurance are also necessary in case you need medical assistance.

Some airport agents--like Costa Rica--will ask for your ongoing travel tickets.

Some hotels require that you print out the hotel voucher to present at check-in.

You can have all this information on your phone, but in case your phone isn’t working you can show physical evidence of your bookings, reservations, etc.

Overall, you should always have all of your confirmations at your fingertips.

Bring your driver's license

If during your trip you plan on renting a car to explore on your own, then you should definitely bring your driver’s license with you.

In this case, just a passport doesn't cut it.

Check airline baggage rules and restrictions

Be sure to follow your airline's baggage restrictions to avoid paying extra fees. Typically, your luggage can't weigh more than 50 pounds or else you incur an unreasonably large fee so make sure you weigh it beforehand so you're not stuck at the airport shuffling all your things around to get below the weight limit.

In some circumstances depending where you travel, you have to take an additional flight on a small plane to reach your final destination. Keep in mind that these airlines generally have much more strict luggage policies due to their smaller size so be sure you check their guidelines as well.

Adjust your cell phone plan or buy a SIM card abroad

International roaming charges can leave you with a steep bill at the end of your travels.

To avoid this, you should contact your phone company to adjust your cell phone plan so you can make and receive calls/text at a reasonable price.

Even with an adjusted cell phone plan, you should try to use WiFi as much as possible to avoid data fees.

The other option is to buy a cheap SIM card abroad but this only works if you cell phone is UNLOCKED. If your phone is locked by your carrier then you cannot just insert a new SIM.  You must ask them to unlock your phone first, which will often have a fee.

Take out some cash a couple weeks before your trip

It’s always a good idea to have some cash with you in case of emergency.

I always travel with $500 cash:  $300 in USD and $200 in local currency.

You can get local currency at your preferred bank. To stay up to date with the international exchange rates, I highly recommend downloading the XE app.

Pack and go have fun

Don’t know where to start packing? I got your back and just wrote The Essential Guide to Packing Like a Pro to make sure you are always prepared no matter where you go.

Or check out what the travel experts are saying to pack like a pro including tips from our very own Matt Wilson.

Once you are done packing, grab your passport and enjoy the journey!

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The Ultimate International Trip Packing List

Here’s everything you didn’t know you needed to make your international trip as seamless as possible.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

We don’t tend to complain a whole lot when it comes to planning and preparing for travel. Sure, there are bad parts, boring parts, and stressful parts… but all the negative aspects of the travel process give way to some of the best and most memorable life experiences. The packing process may fall into the less-fun side of preparing for travel but, with the right mindset and strategy, it can make the whole trip.

Packing for an international trip specifically requires careful planning; sure, you can probably find forgotten items while abroad in many destinations but having everything already secured in your suitcase will make your trip a whole lot easier. Nobody wants to spend a half day of travel searching for something they forgot at home.

Packing Checklist for an International Trip

This guide will help ensure you’ve packed everything you could possibly need for an international trip, whether it’s your first time leaving the country or you’re a seasoned traveler. Having these items on hand — along with the appropriate clothing and shoes for your destination — will help make your trip as smooth and seamless as possible.

• Best Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Best Wi-Fi Hotspot: Simo Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot
• Best Camera:   Nikon ZF
• Best Tripod: Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand
• Best Portable Power Bank: Nimble Champ
• Best Noise-canceling Headphones: Apple AirPods Max
• Best Luggage Tracker: Eufy SmartTrack Link

Accessories

• Best Passport Cover: Paravel Cabana Passport Case
• Best Travel Wallet: Leatherology Travel Wallet
• Best Luggage Belt: Cincha Travel Belt for Luggage
• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Memobottle A5
• Best Packing Cubes: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
• Best Neck Pillow: Cabeau TNE S3
• Best Money Belt: Raytix Money Belt
• Best Compression Socks: Comrad Compression Socks

Luggage and Bags

• Best Lightweight Backpack: Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage
• Best International-sized Carry-on: Away The Carry-on
• Best Checked Bag: July Checked Plus
• Best Belt Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Best Travel Laundry Bag: Miamica Travel Laundry Bag
• Best Tote: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe
• Best Toiletry Bag: Away The Toiletry Bag
• Best Rolling Duffel: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel

We know, we know. You’re not setting out on an international trip to be consumed by your tech, but there are certain essentials that can make a good trip even better, whether aiding an itinerary, ensuring your safety, or simply entertaining you while in transit. Packing things like a reliable wi-fi hotspot and a portable power bank means you’ll always have access to your smartphone for emergencies (or just to use Google Maps to navigate your self-guided walking tour without having to pop into a cafe every few blocks).

Best Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Effectiveness 4 /5

Traveling abroad with a good adapter like the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is non-negotiable. It comes equipped with plugs for more than 150 countries but the convenient sliding design means you won’t have to fuss with (or be responsible for) multiple attachments. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated that this option comes with so many USB ports (four USB-A and one USB-C) as it cut down the need for multiple adapters and made it incredibly easy to charge all our tech at the same time.

Best Wi-fi Hotspot

Skyroam solis lite.

Do you remember the days of traveling before Google Maps? It’s hard to imagine a time when we’d actually have to ask locals for directions or hope we’re reading a paper map properly. The Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot makes modern travel even easier by ensuring you’re always connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network, wherever you are. It doesn’t require a SIM card or a contract and functions seamlessly in more than 135 countries around the world. It can also support up to 10 devices at a given time — which means your travel buddies will thank you, too.

Best Camera

Nikon zf mirrorless camera.

The Nikon ZF immediately catches the eye with its beautiful, retro-inspired body. Don’t let the decidedly cool aesthetic fool you though — this camera also makes it super easy to channel your inner photographer. The 24-megapixel, full-frame mirrorless camera is very simple and user-friendly but offers enough bells and whistles to quell more advanced photographers. It’s also incredibly small and lightweight which makes it great for throwing into your day bag (no oversized camera bag required!).

Best Tripod

Phopik aluminum extendable tripod stand.

Another way to ensure great vacation photos? Investing in a decent tripod stand. Selfies have their time and place but being able to set up a tripod to get group shots in idyllic settings will ensure frame-worthy visual souvenirs. The Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand is a great option for those who travel with both a digital camera and a smartphone as the convertible device can actually be used as a selfie stick and tripod for smartphones while also extending into a more stable tripod suitable for a heavier camera. It also packs down ultra-small when not in use so you won’t have to run around all day with a full-sized tripod under your arm.

Best Portable Power Bank

Nimble champ portable charger.

The Nimble Champ is a game changer for long travel days when you might not have the chance to wait by an outlet for your smartphone to refuel; the 10,000 mAh battery is more than enough to charge the average smartphone between three to five times in full. If you’re concerned about having your phone for safety purposes (like to grab an Uber, use Google Maps, call for help, etc.), a compact lightweight charger will also offer serious peace of mind. We like that this option is made using 99 percent certified recycled plastic so you can feel good about the sustainable choice. And, if you need even more juice, there’s a more powerful Nimble Champ Pro with a 20,000 mAh battery instead.

Best Noise-canceling Headphones

Apple airpods max.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Sound Quality 5 /5
• Battery Life 5 /5

The AirPods Max are admittedly a bit expensive but they’re worth the price point for the quality and overall ease of use, especially if you’re a lover of Apple devices. During the testing process, we found the user experience to be the best out of all the headphones we tried. We really like how easy they are to connect to an iPhone or MacBook without having to go searching into the Bluetooth settings (there’s a simple pop-up that’ll ask you if you want to switch and that’s that). We found the headphones very intuitive to use and the sound quality is excellent as well with a strong enough noise-canceling feature to provide serenity everywhere from the airplane to the subway.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Accuracy 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Popping a luggage tracker, like the Eufy SmartTrack Link, into your checked luggage will allow you to track a suitcase in real time which offers peace of mind and can help expedite the return of lost-in-transit baggage. This tiny tracker was our top pick during testing due to its ease of use and convenient size and shape. The durable square comes equipped with a hole in the top corner that makes it easy to add a carabiner or key ring onto the tracker to attach to internal zippers or other items, too.

It can be tricky to strike a healthy balance between actual travel essentials and products that seem useful in theory but actually just end up taking up precious space in your suitcase or carry-on. The following items are designed to make travel as easy and comfortable as possible and are all compact, easy to pack, and won’t end up weighing you down. They’re also highly practical for staying organized and put together while making your way through passport control or while taking public transport from the airport to your hotel.

Best Passport Cover

Paravel passport case.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

You might not think you need a passport cover, but this Paravel Cabana Passport Case is a particularly great option since it not only keeps your passport safe and secure but holds up to eight cards, too. During the testing process, we found the luxe material to also be durable, and it was very easy to get our cards and passport in and out of the slots without having to stretch things out. We also like that this one comes in several colorways and can be customized with a hand-painted initial as well.

Best Travel Wallet

Leatherology zip around travel wallet.

If you’re hoping to score something with a little extra space, the Leatherology Travel Wallet is a particularly great choice as it’ll keep all your stuff organized without becoming too bulky or heavy. The compact design has a slot for pretty much everything you could need including your passport, cards, printed boarding pass, coins, cash, and even a pen. During the testing process, we found that this option stood out for its buttery soft leather that feels much more expensive than it is, and for the expansive interior that could easily hold more than a couple of passports. 

Best Luggage Belt

Cincha travel belt.

The Cincha Travel Belt is one of those travel accessories that you don’t realize just how much you need until you have it on-hand while on the go. The travel belt is designed to attach your personal items — like a coat, shopping bags, and even your handbag — to the handle of your rolling luggage without worrying about it sliding around or falling off the top of your luggage. This is a particularly handy option to have on hand while changing terminals or taking trains to the city center when you don’t want to have to worry about lugging multiple loose pieces.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Memobottle a5 the flat water bottle that fits in your bag.

There are certain things that all responsible travelers should consider when setting off on a trip — and being a more sustainable citizen of the world is one of them. The easiest way to cut down on your carbon footprint while traveling? Investing in a reusable water bottle. The Memobottle A5 makes it easy to ditch single-use plastic while traveling without feeling like, you know, you’re carrying a massive water bottle around with you. It’s designed to be ultra thin and can fit in a briefcase or handbag. However, don’t let the thin size fool you. This water bottle fits a standard 750 milliliters which is the exact same as the single-use bottle of Smartwater in the airport shop.

Best Packing Cubes

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Design 5 /5

Packing the right amount of clothing for an international trip can be a bit of a daunting task which is why we’re such major advocates for the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes . The set of four cubes comes in a variety of sizes to help keep garments in order while planning for your trip. The compression cubes are also designed to squish down into the smallest size possible so you can fit even more into that carry-on roller without worrying about taking up too much space in the overhead bin or running out of room for souvenirs.

Best Neck Pillow

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

• Quality 4.8 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Think of the Cabeau TNE S3 as the neck pillow for travelers who hate carrying a neck pillow. The compact neck support folds down into a tiny bag that can easily be stored away in your carry-on or handbag while on the go. We loved this neck pillow during the testing process for its memory foam material and 360-degree support. It’s designed to attach to your seat and will keep you from that annoying head bobbing that can often happen when trying to sleep upright.

Best Money Belt

Raytix rfid money belt.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

Money belts might not be the most exciting of travel gear — but having this under-clothes accessory can offer major peace of mind if you’re nervous about carrying your valuables out in the open while on the go. The Raytix Money Belt was our top pick during our tests because of its smooth material that feels comfortable on the skin and a discreet size that doesn’t bulge when placed properly under your clothing. We also really liked that it was wide enough to comfortably fit a passport without having to wiggle the zipper in order to close the pouch.

Best Compression Socks

Comrad compression socks.

The Comrad Compression Socks do the impossible: make compression socks look cool and stylish. The double-dip ombre design is fun and aesthetically pleasing — especially compared to your average drugstore alternative — and the socks themselves are extremely soft to the touch. During the testing process, we found they offered gentle compression without being uncomfortable. They were breathable and we could easily wear them on a long-haul flight without any itchiness whatsoever either.

Selecting the right luggage for your international trip is half the battle. For example, if you’re hoping to avoid checking a bag at all costs, you’ll want something that is no bigger than 21.5 inches, and as lightweight as possible. If you’re looking for a suitcase that’ll handle the arduous checked baggage process, you’ll want to look for a hard-sided spinner with enough give that it won’t crack or puncture while in transit.

Choosing the right personal item and day bag is an equally important decision. Handbags and backpacks should be lightweight and multi-purpose, meaning that you’ll be able to use them at multiple times, like day trips to the country, jaunts around the city center, and evenings out.

Best Lightweight Backpack

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

Given the brand's reputation for high-quality bags , it's no surprise the Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage is forever our go-to travel bag when we’re aiming to pack light but stylish. Longchamp Le Pliage in general is kind of the perfect bag concept for travel as it packs down ultra small when not in use but can expand to a full-sized bag as needed. The backpack is no exception; it’s small and lightweight but stylish and large enough to fit a day — or night — of essentials without screaming tourist or looking too bulky. We also like that this option is made from a durable nylon and can withstand the bright sun and heavy rain without getting damaged.

Best International-sized Carry-on

Away the carry-on.

Packing for international air travel can sometimes be a little dicey, especially if you’re going to be flying on budget airlines with little wiggle room on suitcase sizing. The Away The Carry-on sits just below most international carrier limits so you won’t run into any surprises at the gate, but we also found that it’s incredibly roomy. During the testing process, we were able to fit everything we needed for a four-day trip with room to spare. The hard plastic shell is also incredibly durable — even when clobbered with a baseball bat — so it will hold up with heavy duty use, too.

Best Checked Bag

July large luggage.

• Organization 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5

The July Checked Plus is our top choice when it comes to the best checked luggage for international travel , especially if you tend to be an overpacker as it fits 110 liters worth of items. Even if you don’t fill it to the brim, we particularly like the number of pockets and organizational features inside to keep things sorted. During our testing process, we found it was incredibly easy to pack a fair amount while giving everything a designated spot. We also found the wheels and handle to be the smoothest we’ve found in a suitcase which made it easy to trolley the suitcase around through the airport and into the city.

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag.

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is, well, kind of everywhere, but it’s easy to see why. It’s incredibly lightweight and durable while offering a discreet but stylish solution to storing your daily essentials in a safe and secure manner. It’s also made of water-repellent polyester so you can get caught in the rain with less issue than a leather or cotton alternative. This option also comes in a huge variety of colorways to best suit your style, but we’re major fans of the classic black. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated how easily the zipper glides; it doesn’t pull or stick which makes it easy to quickly grab items like a wallet or passport out without having to use two hands. Plus, if you have even more to carry, there’s a 2-liter version , too.

Best Travel Laundry Bag

Miamica travel laundry bag.

The Miamica Travel Laundry Bag is another one of those items that is easy to forget or brush off as being unimportant but can actually make such a big difference while on the go. This lightweight laundry bag will take up no room in your luggage but makes staying organized while traveling so much easier. Whether you’re doing your own laundry in your hotel room or planning on sending the essentials off for dry cleaning, having a separate bag to store your dirty clothes in means you won’t have to rifle through your suitcase trying to decipher what is clean versus what needs to be washed.

MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote

• Portability 3 /5
• Ease of Use 3 /5

Don’t underestimate the power of a great tote while traveling as options like this lightweight MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe won’t take up much space in your luggage but can be a lifesaver if you somehow find yourself with more stuff to pack on your way home. We found this bag to be super roomy without overpowering us with a ton of built-in pockets and even a removable pouch to keep gear organized on the go. It’s also worth noting that this tote comes in a few different sizes from mini to large if you’re looking for something a bit bigger or smaller instead.

Best Toiletry Bag

Away large toiletry bag.

There are a lot of utilitarian toiletry bags out there but options like this one from Away both get the job done, and look good in the process. We found it very easy to pack and organize, thanks to an abundance of pockets and pouches to store everything from makeup brushes to delicate bottles. The material feels high-end and sleek but we found it to be secure and waterproof so nothing spilled out while in transit either.

Best Rolling Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 3 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel is our top pick for the best rolling duffel for international travel since it’s huge yet still incredibly easy to roll through the airport or tote by hand on public transit. We particularly loved that this bag came with its own packing cubes and could easily convert from duffel to backpack to rolling suitcase. Despite its multi-functional design, it really excelled at everything. We found the bag very smooth to roll and just as easy to grab and go when needed. The material also feels very durable; like it could withstand heavy use without having to be too precious with it.

Unfortunately, yes, there are quite a few items that you can’t bring on your international trip depending on the country you’re heading to. Take this into consideration when shopping for travel products. Some destinations don’t allow certain tech — like drones — while others are very strict about the medication you’re allowed to bring into the country. If you have any doubts or concerns about what you can and cannot bring to a certain locale, be sure to check the official TSA security screening rules and the screening rules of the specific country you’re planning to visit.

Every airline has its own set of rules when it comes to carry-on and checked baggage size and weight restrictions. The standard carry-on size outside of the United States tends to be a lot smaller, so you’ll want to ensure your hand baggage doesn’t exceed the restrictions of the airlines you’re flying. It tends to be about 26 pounds and 21.5 inches in height for most European carriers, for example, but always check with the exact airlines you plan to use.

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EASTER BASKET IDEAS FOR TODDLERS

How to Plan for an International Trip.

August 31, 2020.

Tips and Tricks

Planning an international trip can feel overwhelming and even a bit daunting, but taking the time to plan ahead will not only make your trip way less stressful, but it will also help you feel less overwhelmed so you can actually enjoy yourself once you get to your destination! That’s why it’s important to make sure you know what you want to do, where you’re going to stay, and how you’re going to get around while you’re traveling. We’ve planned for so many different international trips, and after a lot of trial and error, we’ve found that these are the things we always make sure we’ve thought about and planned before we leave, so we’re not hit with too many surprises once we land. Here’s the best way to plan for a trip abroad:

How to Plan for an International Trip:

1. Pick Where You Want to go and Create a Budget:

2. find a great flight deal:, sign up for dollar flight club here , 3. create a spreadsheet:, 4. research:.

5. Fill In The Itinerary:

Once you have an idea of the activities that you want to do, go to Google Maps to start organizing and filling in your itinerary. Within Google Maps, you can pick the places that are a priority for you on your trip and star them. To create a star, click on “save” on the left hand side and select “star place.” This is a great way to make it so you can start to see which activities are in the same area while you’re trip planning. By starring things on Google Maps, you can easily see which activities are in which area.

Then, once you have an idea of the activities you want to do, start filling in your itinerary. If two or three things are in the same area, then you’ll know that you should do those things on the same day. And if there’s something else nearby that looks fun/worth checking out, you can add that to your itinerary for that day too! To make sure everything is done as “timely” as possible, stick to one area of town each day. That way you won’t be crossing back and forth across town going to different places. And you’ll also save money by not paying for taxis or other transportation.

Once you know the list of things you want to do and what areas they’re in, then you can start to fill in your itinerary and put certain activities on certain dates.

While you’re planning, always check to see when certain activities (museums, restaurants, etc) are open. You can easily “google” the activity and then see what times it’s open right there.

For example, The Louvre in Paris is closed on Tuesdays. So you’re not going to want to visit The Louvre on Tuesday. You’ll also want to make sure you visit your “starred activities” around The Louvre on a different day. Move all of those activities to the next day and then pick a different area of town to explore during your Tuesday in Paris. Obviously this doesn’t apply to all activities. Because if you’re going to a beach it’ll probably always be open. But there are few things worse than flying across the world and showing up somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit only to find out that it’s closed. So it’s always better to check beforehand.

6. Book Your Accommodations:

We always use Hotels.com to book our hotels, because not only do they always have great deals, but they also have a reward system where your 11th night is “free.” What they do is take the average amount that you’ve spent on the previous 10 nights you’ve booked through Hotels.com. And then you get that many dollars toward your 11th night.

So say you’ve spent $100 on 10 nights at hotels, then on your 11th night, you’ll get $100 off. It’s essentially 10% off, which is a pretty good deal if you ask us. So that’s why we always book through Hotels.com . You can also search for hotels based on neighborhood or attractions in the city, which makes it easier to find the best place to stay.

BOOK YOUR HOTEL HERE!

7. Book Transportation:

If you have everything booked ahead of time, then you won’t have to worry about anything once you show up. There’s nothing more stressful than showing up to a foreign city and not knowing how to get around or where you’re going to sleep. Which is why we always suggest booking everything ahead of time.

Are you going to a city with good public transportation, like New York or Paris? Then plan to use the subway or metro. Are you planning a road trip? We rent cars through Expedia . Do you need to hire a driver? Are you going to take a train between cities or fly? These are all good things to think about and book ahead of time. So you don’t have to worry about them when you get there.

BOOK YOUR RENTAL CAR HERE !

8. buy tickets to your “must do” activities ahead of time:, 9. complete your itinerary:.

Fill in the rest of your spreadsheet and make sure all of your activities, places you want to eat, transportation, and accommodations are booked. We also always suggest leaving a few hours open every day for “free” time. That way your days won’t feel too rushed and you’ll have time to do things that you stumble upon as you’re out wandering and exploring the city. We also try to leave one or two days on our itinerary completely empty. We might add one place to eat or one thing to do on that day. But other than that, we leave the rest of the day open. So we can relax on a beach, go back to a place we enjoyed earlier on our trip, wander aimlessly. Or even just relax and take a nap.

Other Things to Consider:

Consider the local culture and customs:, think about what to wear:, get a great travel credit card:, open a bank account that doesn’t have atm fees:, get a passport:.

If you’re traveling internationally, you have to have a passport. If you’re a U.S. Citizen and and don’t already have a passport, you can apply for a passport here . It generally takes about six weeks for your passport to arrive after you’ve applied. You can pay more to have it expedited if you need to. But we suggest planning in advance, so you can save that money (and spend it on something fun during your trip). Also, most countries won’t allow you to enter if your passport expires within six months from the final date of your trip. So to avoid any issues getting into the country you want to visit, apply for a new passport if your passport is expiring within six months.

Check for Visa Requirements:

Travel insurance:, decide on a phone plan:, check the cdc website for vaccine/immunization requirements:, make copies of your passport:.

WHAT TO PACK:

Do you have any advice on phone plans? I usually just rely on wifi, but never know when it makes sense to maybe pay international fees/get a SIM card/etc.

We normally just rely on wifi, but sometimes we buy a local SIM card once we’re in the country or we use a SIM card from KnowRoaming!

Hi – Thank you for the article and tips. I can’t get the international trip planning spreadsheet to open. What file type is it? Thank you.

Sorry you’re having trouble opening it! It’s a "numbers" file. Glad you found the article helpful!

Thank you for all of the great info and advice. You guys have awesome pics! We took our first trip abroad last year which was great but your advice defiantly would have made it easier. 🙂 When talking about car rentals, some countries ask for an International Drivers License. Unless I missed it, it may be good to add to your tips.

So glad you found it helpful! Thank you so much! And yes, you’re right. A lot of places do ask for an international drivers license, so that’s a great thing to keep in mind!

I really enjoy your blog and your travels are truly inspiring! I’m wondering if anyone else has had trouble downloading the international travel spreadsheet you provided. I’ve never been able to get it to open.

Hi Melinda, Sorry about that! The link should be working now. I just tested it. https://ourtravelpassport.com/blog/how-to-plan-for-an-international-trip If you still have trouble let me know!

Very good advice and suggestions. We recently went to China and I was glad that I had purchased a VPN on our devices so I could get to most sites and I had also installed a translator for foreign language exchange. I also rely a lot on Trip Adviser to get reviews of the locations I am going to visit. , I did learn how to ‘star’ on Google and will be using this on our next trip. Thank you for sharing. Happy Travels.

Those are all great ideas too! Hope you had a blast on your trip to China!

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A Step-By-Step Guide To Planning An International Trip (For First-Timers)

The most important details begin before a traveler even commits to purchasing plane tickets or booking accommodations.

When travel reopens again, it will be a joyous and thrilling experience. The past year may have been responsible for canceling many a trip, but the years to come are beginning to take on a brighter future, and, with it, a way to see and experience the world once again . If nothing else, it has made many people realize that if they weren't traveling before, then it's something they should take advantage of in the future of safer vacations. Many people are even starting to consider international travel, as the overall attitude towards vacations has become far more of the 'seize the day' variety.

Related:  24 Thoughts Every Young Foreigner Has When Visiting The US For The First Time

However, it can be a challenge to plan a vacation out of the country . Crossing borders and being immersed in a new culture can be overwhelming at first, but the process of getting there doesn't need to be. There are a few simple steps to do when deciding that it's time to take the international plunge, and it all happens before you even get around to purchasing plane tickets. Before you plan anything, take the time to do these steps to get the most out of your travel planning.

Figure Out Where You Want To Go And Do Some Smart Research

It goes without saying that the first step to planning any trip is deciding where you want to go. The destination is just as important as the journey in this case, especially when it comes to a person's first international trip. Picking a destination is only the beginning, though. A person could read one hundred articles on a destination and still only know statistics and facts; the real truth when it comes to visiting any location is in the blog posts, social media photos, and YouTube videos that have been shared by those who have done it prior. By swapping out Pinterest-worthy vacation photos for those that have been taken by travelers just sharing their experience, it'll provide a more realistic feel.

Searching hashtags on social media and doing a quick Google search on 'vacation in such-and-such' place will go a long way. Sometimes, it's better to get the negative things about a place out of the way before researching everyone's positive experiences.

Decide How Long You Want To Go For And How Much Vacation Time Is Needed

This past year also taught everyone that perhaps taking that extra day or two is well worth it in terms of self-care. Prior to this, many people were hesitant to use all, or any, of their vacation time, for fear of the separation from work and the large pile of it waiting for them when they returned.

Now, the way of thinking has been altered and many people are ready and willing to take full advantage of their vacation days in order to have the experiences they've wanted for so long. Therefore, planning how much time is needed rather than wanted has become more important. If your research says that it takes a week to explore most of the city or country you're interested in, then take the week! If the consensus says that a weekend is more than enough, then stick with a weekend and maybe an extra day to see some less popular locations.

The First Means Of Commitment Is A Passport

The key to truly following through is ensuring a way out. If your passport is up to date and not expired then this doesn't apply but if it's not, then go through with getting it renewed ! Or, if you haven't had one yet, commit to actually obtaining a passport. There's something about holding such a powerful little book in your hands and knowing that it's the key to exploring a new country.

Related:  10 Mistakes Rookies Make Their First Time Traveling By Plane

If nothing else, it'll make you feel committed before any money (aside from purchasing the passport) is even spent on transportation, lodging, and additional travel expenses. It also makes things feel a bit more real, even if your vacation isn't for another year or so.

Plan Out The Budget And Where Money Should Be Allotted

One of the most important details to avoid neglecting when planning a vacation is money. It does cost money to travel and while there are many places that are very affordable, this all depends on lodging, transportation, and what activities a traveler wants to do once they arrive. These costs add up quickly and the best thing to do is write out what experiences are on the list and then price those out. Then, pick a suitable lodging option whether it's an Airbnb or hotel, and write out those prices. Lastly, compare plane ticket prices or, if driving, consider how much money needs to be set aside for gas or how much a rental will cost. The sum of all these numbers will be the 'baseline' price, plus activities, food, and drink throughout the trip.

Next:  15 Cheap No-Fuss Destinations For First-Time Backpackers

A retired Microsoft exec and his wife fell in love with RVing during the pandemic. Now he's using AI to help you plan your next road trip.

• Scott Lengel, a former Microsoft CTO, launched an AI-powered RV road trip planner, AdventureGenie.
• He said when he got into RVing during the pandemic, he couldn't find a great planning tool.
•  AdventureGenie recommends custom routes, campsites, and activities based on user preferences.

Scott Lengel and his wife, Lisa, were Marriott people.

After spending 23 years as a CTO at Microsoft , Lengel retired in 2017, at which point he and his wife knew they wanted to travel the world. They visited places like Cambodia, Vietnam, and India, typically traveling by plane and staying in hotels — often Marriotts.

Then the pandemic hit.

Suddenly, they were stuck at home in South Carolina. That's when the couple realized, "We really haven't seen the good old US of A."

Up until that point, they'd never even been camping .

"We figured if ever there was a time to go RVing, to go camping, this would be it," Lengel told Business Insider.

So they rented an RV and set off for Nashville with a couple of good friends. "We just had a blast," Lengel said. "Hanging around the campsite and the campfire and eating and beverages, and just the camaraderie. We just fell in love with the lifestyle of camping in one week."

Within six months, they purchased an RV of their own and started taking it all over. But when the couple tried to plan a six-week, multi-stop road trip to the national parks of the Southwest, they realized it was actually pretty challenging and that the existing resources were not great.

"There has to be a better way," they thought.

A couple of years later, in May 2023, Lengel launched AdventureGenie — an AI-powered RV trip planner. Lengel, who serves as chairman and CEO, said that in less than a year, AdventureGenie has attracted more than 10,000 users, and not just RVers, but also people traveling in cars on all kinds of road trips.

AI can customize trip planning

AdventureGenie is one of many AI-powered trip-planning tools that have popped up over the past couple of years. It's been featured on lists of the best RV- and road-trip planning AI tools.

Related stories

AdventureGenie is set up to help people plan their trips in three phases, which Lengel said was based on talking to thousands of people about how they plan their trips.

First, you can shape your trip. You can tell AdventureGenie things like where you want to start, where you want to end, how many miles you want to drive in a day, and any places you know you want to stop along the way. AdventureGenie will create a custom route based on your preferences and what the program knows about you, either from what you've told it or from past trips you've planned.

Second, you can select your campsites. AdventureGenie uses AI to compile information about campsites and make recommendations based on your preferences. In addition to generating an overall score on a campsite, AdventureGenie also generates a score that is unique to you, indicating how likely a specific campground is to meet your personal needs.

Third, is finding things to do. For instance, if it knows you like eating at local restaurants, hiking, and biking, as Lengel and his wife do, it can point out those attractions.

The biggest thing AI brings to AdventureGenie's trip planning is the customization, Lengel said. Instead of looking up a generic road trip planner that is the first hit served to everyone on Google, AdventureGenie can create itineraries that are unique to you.

"It feels as if you have a copilot or a travel planner sitting by your side and knows what you're looking for and customizes it for you," Lengel said.

He said that when RVers first use AdventureGenie the "jaw-dropping" moment for them is when it fills in the blanks on a trip with stops along the way.

In the past, if you wanted to road trip from South Carolina to Yellowstone, you'd have to look at a map and try to plot out stops based on how many miles a day you want to drive. But you'd also have to manually figure out whether those stops have campsites that suit your needs, or if they have any other attractions that make them worth passing through, or how far off the highway they are.

Lengel said new AdventureGenie users often say it saves them so much time planning their trip just by filling in their route.

"That's pretty darn rewarding for us," he said.

From Microsoft to tech startup

Lengel, who came out of retirement to launch AdventureGenie, said working on this startup has been a major change of pace from his days at Microsoft, which he also loved.

"We're a startup at our core, and it's a lot different than when I was working for an organization that had 150,000 employees and an incredible budget," he said. "We all wear lots of hats, which has been exciting, thrilling, and even challenging from time to time."

These days, he and his wife are on the road three out of four weeks a month, though now it's usually for work, visiting trade shows and meeting with RV user groups.

However, they do still make a point to do some fun things, too.

When Lengel spoke to BI, he was sitting in his RV in the Florida Keys, with a view of the ocean right out his window .

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

• Main content

Lawyers for Hunter Biden plan to sue Fox News 'imminently'

Lawyers for Hunter Biden plan to sue Fox News “imminently,” according to a letter sent to the network and obtained by NBC News. 

The letter, dated April 23, puts the Fox News Channel and Fox News Digital on notice for litigation claims arising from the network’s alleged “conspiracy and subsequent actions to defame Mr. Biden and paint him in a false light, the unlicensed commercial exploitation of his image, name, and likeness, and the unlawful publication of hacked intimate images of him.” 

Biden has hired attorney Mark Geragos and his firm to represent him in the Fox litigation efforts. The letter is the second outreach to Fox this month. An earlier letter was hand-delivered to Fox’s counsel two weeks ago, and the network asked for more time to respond, according to a source familiar with Biden’s legal efforts. The April 23 letter included a Friday evening, April 26, deadline to respond. The letter is signed by Tina Glandian, a partner at Geragos & Geragos working on the case.

A Fox News media spokesperson said in a statement on the letter that Hunter Biden's lawyers "have belatedly chosen to publicly attack Fox News’ constitutionally protected coverage regarding their client. Mr. Biden is a public figure who has been the subject of investigations by both the Department of Justice and Congress, has been indicted by two different US Attorney’s Offices in California and Delaware, and has admitted to multiple incidents of wrongdoing. Consistent with the First Amendment, Fox News has accurately covered these highly publicized events as well as the subsequent indictment of an FBI informant who was the source of certain claims made about Mr. Biden.”

Much of the letter from Biden's legal team is focused on a six-part “mock trial” titled “The Trial of Hunter Biden” that aired in October 2021, described by Fox as what a trial might look like if Biden was charged with Foreign Agents Registration Act or bribery charges — neither of which Biden has been charged with. “While using certain true information, the series intentionally manipulates the facts, distorts the truth, narrates happenings out of context, and invents dialogue intended to entertain. Thus, the viewer of the series cannot decipher what is fact and what is fiction,” the letter says. The letter demands that the series be removed from all streaming services. 

On Tuesday, a day after initial publication of this article, Fox announced that it had taken the series off its streaming services. “This program was produced in and has been available since 2022,” said a Fox News spokesperson. “We are reviewing the concerns that have just been raised and — out of an abundance of caution in the interim — have taken it down.”

The new threat of litigation comes almost a year after Fox News agreed to pay almost $800 million to Dominion Voting Systems to settle defamation claims related to Fox’s airing of election fraud claims in the 2020 election. Fox News also agreed to a $12 million settlement with a former employee who alleged she was pressured to provide misleading information as part of the Dominion case. 

Fox is currently facing a $2.7 billion lawsuit brought by Smartmatic, another voting system company that was the focus of Fox News coverage, as well as suits brought by shareholders against directors of the company for allowing the channel to air the allegations during its 2020 election coverage. Fox said in its latest financial disclosures that it will contest the lawsuits, but acknowledges that there could be a “material” adverse impact on the company’s business and financial position. 

The plan for Hunter Biden to pursue legal action against Fox News has been in the works for over a year, according to sources familiar with Biden's legal efforts , and was inspired in part by the success of the Dominion lawsuit and the ongoing Smartmatic lawsuit. The effort took on new importance with the revelations that the bribery allegations cited on air originated from the FBI informant Alexander Smirnov, who was indicted by special counsel David Weiss in February.

In a statement, Geragos said: “For the last five years, Fox News has relentlessly attacked Hunter Biden and made him a caricature in order to boost ratings and for its financial gain. The recent indictment of FBI informant Smirnov has exposed the conspiracy of disinformation that has been fueled by Fox, enabled by their paid agents and monetized by the Fox enterprise. We plan on holding them accountable.”

Hunter Biden has been a focus of Fox News coverage for the last several years. A review of network transcripts by the group Media Matters cites at least 13,440 mentions of Hunter Biden since January 2023. Biden’s legal team believes the number of mentions over many years makes the potential case as significant if not more so than the Dominion case, according to sources familiar with the legal strategy.

The Biden letter specifically cites Fox’s advancement of bribery allegations by Smirnov, who was indicted in February on charges of making false statements about the Bidens to the FBI. “Smirnov and the post indictment revelations basically closed the loop on the conspiracy,” Geragos told NBC News.

The letter alleges that Fox News knew that the bribery allegations were unverified at the time but continued to report that the source was “highly credible,” and demands corrections and retractions — including on-air statements by television hosts “including Sean Hannity, Jesse Watters, and Maria Bartiromo, to inform their viewers on air that they have been sharing a debunked allegation from a source who has been federally indicted.”

The letter also alleges that Fox’s airing of “intimate images” belonging to Hunter Biden that his lawyers claim were “hacked, stolen, and/or manipulated” violates Biden’s civil rights as well as copyright law.

This new litigation push comes as Biden prepares for a summer of criminal trials. His trial on gun charges in Delaware starts June 3, and his tax case is expected to go to trial in August. He’s pleaded not guilty in both cases.

Sarah Fitzpatrick is a senior investigative producer and story editor for NBC News. She previously worked for CBS News and "60 Minutes." 

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Dubai plans to move its busy international airport to a $35 billion new facility within 10 years

This artist’s rendering provided by the government of Dubai shows plans for Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday, April 28, 2024. (Dubai government via AP)

This satellite image from Planet Labs PBC shows Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central on Friday, April 26, 2024. Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday, April 28, 2024. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)

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Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s announcement marks the latest chapter in the rebound of its long-haul carrier Emirates after the coronavirus pandemic grounded international travel. Plans have been on the books for years to move the operations of the airport known as DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central which had also been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdom’s 2009 economic crisis.

“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn,” Sheikh Mohammed said in an online statement. “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global center.”

The announcement included computer-rendered images of curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

The financial health of the carrier Emirates has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of this city-state. Dubai and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

The number of passengers flying through DXB surged last year beyond its total for 2019 with 86.9 million passengers. Its 2019 annual traffic was 86.3 million passengers. The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018 — its busiest-ever year before the pandemic, while 66 million passengers passed through in 2022.

Earlier in February, Dubai announced its best-ever tourism numbers, saying it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. Average hotel occupancy stood at around 77%. Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak , nearing all-time high valuations.

But as those passenger numbers skyrocketed, it again put new pressure on the capacity of DXB, which remains constrained on all sides by residential neighborhoods and two major highways.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates’ double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic and slowly has come back to life with cargo and private flights in the time since. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubai’s plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow,” Dubai’s ruler said. “It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.”

However, financial pressures have halted the move in the past. Dubai’s 2009 financial crisis, brought on by the Great Recession, forced Abu Dhabi to provide the city-state with a $20 billion bailout.

Meanwhile, the city-state is still trying to recover after the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the UAE , which disrupted flights and commerce for days.

GOBankingRates

8 Affordable US Trip Ideas So You Can Finally Plan That 2024 Getaway

Posted: November 9, 2023 | Last updated: November 9, 2023

If you have been aching to get away , now is the time to start planning your 2024 vacation. While international travel may still cost an arm and a leg, flights within the U.S. are pretty affordable. If you plan now, you may be able to sneak away for a long weekend for less than ever.

I'm a Luxury Travel Agent: 10 Destinations My Wealthy Clients Are Booking for 2024 Find Out: How To Get Cash Back on Your Everyday Purchases

At GOBankingRates, we asked travel experts from around the country where the best and most cost-efficient destinations will be next year. Here are 8 affordable trip ideas so you can finally plan that 2024 getaway.

Miami or Sarasota, Florida

Molly Egan, a travel and hospitality expert and founder of themollyegan , recommended Florida as an inexpensive destination.

Discover: 8 Tips to Fly Business Class for the Price of Economy Related: Don't Buy Airline Tickets at This Time of Day

She stated, "For a beach getaway in Florida, such as Miami or Sarasota, plan a visit in October or early May to avoid peak times. You will avoid the snowbird crowds, spring breakers and heat, and best of all, snag a great lodging and flight deal!"

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Bozeman, Montana

Egan noted that for western adventures, she would suggest, "Bozeman, Montana, in June and October, which are slow times for the city, so that you can snag an affordable deal! The same timing goes for Western Colorado towns such as Vail, Colorado."

She continued, "The beginning of October is a great time to see the leaves changing, go hiking, feel like you have the whole mountain town to yourself and find the best lodging deals. If you are interested in skiing, the best time is late November or early December and early to mid-April (the skiing conditions vary, but the deals are the best)."

See: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024

Savannah, Georgia

Tracy Kennedy, an experienced travel advisor at Tasmania , noted, "If you're eyeing an affordable yet enriching U.S. trip for 2024, Savannah, Georgia, should be high on your list. The city is a perfect blend of traditional Southern charm and modern allure, and it's an ideal destination for a 2-3 day weekend getaway. Flights to Savannah are usually economical, with multiple carriers offering competitive rates."

She added, "Once there, you can enjoy quintessential forms of tourism such as exploring the historic district, strolling through Forsyth Park, and taking a riverboat cruise. The culinary scene is exceptional but won't break the bank, offering classic Southern dishes that are rich in flavor but easy on the wallet."

She also stated, "However, what sets Savannah apart is its unique offerings like the Sorrel Weed House Museum. This historic haunted house provides an unforgettable experience, especially if you're planning a trip around Halloween. Not only does it offer a glimpse into 19th-century life in the South, but it also has its share of ghost stories and paranormal activities, adding a thrilling element to your visit."

Asheville, North Carolina

Adrian Todd, an outdoor and travel expert, hiking coach and owner of Great Minds Think Hike , said, "One of my favorite places to go to is Asheville. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a great destination with various things to do."

He continued, "Asheville has some of the most breweries in and around than most places East of the Mississippi. You can hike in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit the Biltmore Estate, or explore the artsy downtown area."

Santa Fe, New Mexico

"Santa Fe is a really neat place," Todd also noted. He explained it is "full of neat adobe style houses and architecture. I recommend going to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, but to make sure to book way ahead in advance."

He also suggested, "Check out the oldest house and church in the US near the downtown area. Be sure to visit the Loretto Chapel to see the mysterious staircase and head to the downtown area during the market when all the natives come by to sell handcrafted items."

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Stanley, Idaho

For fishing and outdoor activities, Todd recommended Stanley, Idaho. He said it is "a small town located to the East in Idaho. It is a beautiful mountain time hugged by the Sawtooth Mountains. I highly recommend checking this place out during the summer months when it is a lot warmer."

He continued, "Go fishing along the Salmon River, hiking to Sawtooth Lake, and camping near Redfish Lake. There is so much to do for all outdoor lovers in this destination."

Nashville, Tennessee

"Nashville is historically known for its live music scene and offers a vibrant atmosphere and many free or affordable activities," stated Todd. "You can explore the city's music history, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, and enjoy live music in honky-tonks," he said.

The hiking enthusiast added, "There are also a lot of things to do out in nature in Tennessee if the city life isn't your cup of tea. Check out the Great Smoky Mountains to visit the most popular and visited national park in the US."

Loveland, Ohio

"Loveland, Ohio, is known as the 'Sweetheart of Ohio,'" explained Krista Rose, marketing and communications coordinator for the City of Loveland. "We are the perfect destination for a Midwest trip on a budget! We are often told Loveland feels like a 'resort town' and 'time slows down here.'"

She continued, "Loveland is located about 15 miles north of Cincinnati and close to major highways including I-75 and I-71. We are known for our river and trails, making us a favorite trip for outdoor enthusiasts."

For outdoor adventure seekers she recommended, "the Little Miami Scenic Trail is an 80-mile bike/pedestrian trail across Ohio. This trail runs through the center of Loveland. Visit for a day of canoeing, kayaking, and outdoor adventure! After you explore the trail, explore Historic Downtown Loveland's unique shopping and dining. There are quaint AirBNBs and a boutique hotel in town."

You can learn more about the city by visiting LovinLifeLoveland .

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