Before You Head Out of Town...

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Make lists! Checked luggage, carry-on, and notes for caretakers/pet sitters/spouses/kids include feeding schedules, routine, school activities, emergency medical and relative’s contact info. Having things out of your head and shared with others will help curtail last minute stress. 

Refer to the Packing Tips section for comprehensive list of carry-on essentials.

Lay out items on a bed or floor a few days in advance and keep adding or taking away after you have some time to think about what you really need.

Make copies of your passport, visa and driver’s license and credit card lost/stolen phone numbers. Keep 1 copy on you and 1 with someone back home.

Register your international trip with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) https://step.state.gov/step/

If you have dietary restrictions – let the airline know that ahead of time so they can have a special meal(s) for you on the plane.

Plan a schedule a few days in advance for your transportation to the airport. Expect the unexpected – traffic, parking lot congestion/shuttle drive time, long security lines. Security lines in international terminals can be lengthy and may not take TSA pre-check.

Call your bank and credit card companies to alert them of your travel dates and locations. Some banks and credit card companies don’t require this but some do. Better to call ahead than to have no access to your funds while abroad. 

*Also, ask about foreign transaction fees that credit cards charge for each transaction. These     can add up really quickly!

Self-massage with warm sunflower, sesame, or apricot oil every day for at least a week before the trip. Your body will appreciate that stored moisture.

Drink LOTS of water a few days up until the day of departure. This will significantly help with dehydration and jet lag.

Get a good night rest before your trip begins. (Set multiple alarms if you’re worried you might not hear one.)