EASY TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME INTERNATIONAL TRAVELERS

Even for someone who has traveled extensively, going abroad might be stressful. Nonetheless, a novice may find it to be completely overwhelming. After a lengthy trip, you must acclimate to a foreign land where the time zone, language, and currency may differ from what you are accustomed to. Not to mention any unexpected circumstances that might arise.

In light of this, getting ready for an overseas trip in advance will result in an easier trip. Here are some pointers to help you prepare for your first international trip.

Check on your documents.

Make sure key documents are in order before you start making travel arrangements. To begin with, a valid passport must be used for overseas travel. Your passport must have enough blank pages for visa stamps. Most nations just require a quarter page for their stamp, however some countries demand a full page or more. As you'll be traveling for the first time, you shouldn't have any problems because your passport will be fresh new and have lots of blank pages.

Once you've sorted out your passport, it's time to look into visas. Many countries will issue a tourist visa on arrival to US passport holders. Other destinations, such as Australia or Vietnam, require you to apply ahead of time and frequently charge a fee. Check the visa requirements for your final destination and complete any necessary paperwork.

Consider getting a travel rewards card.

You're about to incur significant travel expenses, so why not use them to earn a sign-up bonus? With a card that rewards travel purchases, you'll get bonus points as well as a slew of useful benefits, such as travel insurance.

Check that the card you use for this trip does not charge foreign transaction fees and that it works internationally, especially where you're going.

Some travel rewards cards, such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, provide up to a $100 credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. This is an excellent time to enroll in one of these Trusted Traveler Programs to help you get through airport security lines faster. Because you'll be traveling abroad, you're probably better off with Global Entry.

Once you've chosen the best card for your trip, make sure to use it to maximize your rewards on your international trip.

Allow yourself a long booking window.

To get the best ticket prices for international travel, book at least a month in advance. Begin looking for flights as soon as you know when you want to travel. To keep track of flight deals for your desired destination, use an app like Hopper.

To get the most out of your flight, make use of mileage loyalty programs and travel rewards cards. Look into promotions and special offers if you're a loyalty member of an airline or hotel chain, especially if you have a co-branded airline card or hotel credit card.

Choose your lodging wisely.

Your flights have been booked, and it is now time to find a place to stay. Look for lodging in or near the city center so you can walk to attractions. Airbnb is a great way to find affordable accommodations abroad, and many travel cards offer bonus rewards for Airbnb bookings. One advantage of using Airbnb is that your host will frequently serve as a local contact who can help you find your way around and make recommendations for things to do.

Consider the uncommon necessities.

Whether or not you're the type who spends hours planning what to wear on your trip, there are a few essentials you should bring with you. To begin, a digital luggage scale will enable you to keep track of the weight of your checked luggage. It comes in handy, especially with all of your souvenir purchases on your return flight.

You should also bring a universal power adapter to keep all of your electronic devices charged in case the hotel doesn't have one. Finally, bring a good pair of walking shoes. You'll most likely be walking for much of your sightseeing. Even if you get caught in the rain, a pair of all-terrain walking sandals or trek shoes will keep you moving.

Pack appropriately for the flight.

Travel day has arrived, and you've arrived at the airport with your luggage. Most international flights allow for two checked bags. However, some destinations, such as Mexico and Canada, only provide one. Check with your airline to see how many pieces of luggage are permitted. Also, check the weather at your destination before leaving to ensure you're prepared.

Keep any liquids or creams weighing more than three ounces in your checked bags, but keep your passport and important travel documents on you at all times. Pack any medications you're taking, something warm to wear on the flight, a travel pillow, and an empty water bottle to fill once you arrive at the airport terminal. (Any empty bottles will be thrown away by airport security.

Consider packing a toothbrush and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in case your luggage doesn't arrive with you. If this occurs, if you purchased your ticket with a credit card that provides lost or delayed baggage insurance, you will be covered. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, for example, provides up to $100 per day for up to five days if your baggage is delayed for at least six hours.

Notify your credit card company.

You've finally arrived at your destination and started making purchases with your credit card — and your card is declined. It's possible that this was done without your knowledge for your own protection.

Foreign transactions are taken seriously by credit card companies. They want to ensure that nothing fishy is going on with your accounts. If your issuer is unaware that you are suddenly making these foreign transactions, they may suspend your account.

So, before you embark on your world tour, notify your credit card company of your itinerary and where you will be traveling. A simple phone call ahead of time will save you time on the road and allow you to make the necessary purchases.

Make the timepiece your companion.

It's best to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your international flight, especially if you don't have Global Entry. Keep in mind that when traveling internationally, you must go through customs and immigration in addition to regular security. This procedure takes some time. You don't want to be late for your flight because of a long line.

International travel involves a few more factors than domestic travel. However, with these pointers, you'll be able to get started right away. Having the right travel credit card can help you earn rewards on your purchases while also providing valuable travel coverage. You'll spend less time trying to figure out currency exchange rates and more time enjoying the sights and sounds around you if you use a credit card.