Before leaving the United States and adventuring out on a fun, action-packed, and also a safe vacation, there are some important things you need to remember to do. This list will help ease your worries before you board the plane.
1. Check that your passport isn’t expired.
My friend learned this the hard way when planning her trip to Canada, but be sure that your passport is valid through the time you will be traveling outside of the country. The last thing you want is to be stranded somewhere else.
2. Contact your phone company.
Before leaving, be sure you have an international phone plan. It doesn’t take long to call, it only took me about 5 minutes to call AT&T Wireless. Many different phone companies offer plans that charge by the day if you plan on going on a shorter vacation.
3. Call your credit card company or bank.
This only takes a few minutes, but it is still very important. You should call your credit card company or your bank to tell them that you will be traveling outside of the country. Make sure you let them know the dates you will be away, and where you will be traveling to. If you forget, the company holding the card could think that your card has been stolen and they could block you from making any transactions while you’re away.
4. Buy an adaptor.
Whether it’s a travel adaptor or one for your hotel or apartment, it is important to check if you need to buy an adapter. It would be so annoying to get to your destination and have your phone suddenly die. Imagine that!
5. Pack smart.
Before leaving the country, create a checklist of things you’ll need each day along with clothes or shoes you just can’t go without. For me, this includes many everyday items such as face moisturizer, face wash, hair products, makeup, any medications, and the list goes on. Keep in mind that you’re most likely traveling with one suitcase, so you have to be aware of what you’re packing since there isn’t too much space.
6. Be sure you’re up to date on vaccinations.
Depending on where you’re traveling to, you may need to call your doctor and check you’ve had all your shots and vaccinations (and that they are up to date). You may not need them before you leave the country, but it’s better to call and ask to be sure anyway.
7. Exchange you currency.
If you’re leaving the country, it’s a good idea to keep cash in wallet just in case you need it. Many banks in the U.S. offer a chance to swap out your current currency for whatever new currency you might need. If you wait until you get to your destination, there usually is a big fee to do so.