7 Things You Must Do Before Your Next International Trip :

The key to traveling abroad is being prepared. Before you jet off to faraway lands, take care of these important to-dos...,

1. Make sure your passport and visa are up to date

Most countries require that your passport be valid for six months after your return date. The State Department recommends that you renew your passport no less than nine months before it’s set to expire.

2. Check for travel warnings and advisories

Find out whether the U.S. government has issued a travel warning, for countries where long-term issues create a risky environment for travelers, or a travel alert, for countries with short-term conditions that may pose a threat to travelers, for your destination. Many travel insurance policies will not cover travel to countries that are under travel warnings.

3. Get vaccinations and fill prescriptions

Go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website to find out health information and vaccination requirements for your destination. For maximum protection, you should get any required shots six weeks before departure.

4. Register your trip

One option, especially if you are traveling outside industrial countries or to remote areas, is register online with the U.S. Department of State, and enter your itinerary. In case of an emergency, the U.S. government will know about your presence in the country and where to contact you. Also, if specified that your travel information can be shared with third parties, your family and friends can contact the Department of State to locate you if necessary. Registration is free.

5. Stock your wallet

Choose one or two credit cards to take with you, and call the issuers shortly before you leave to inform them of which countries you will be visiting. Otherwise, your credit card could be denied, as the issuer may find the international activity suspiciouS.

6. Buy travel insurance

It is likely that your health insurance won’t cover you while you’re traveling abroad. Depending on where you’re going, consider buying medical evacuation and emergency medical insurance. Also, if your trip requires a large down payment or is booked many months in advance, trip interruption and cancellation insurance can provide valuable protection from the unexpected.

7. Pack appropriately

Other than the necessary electronics, don’t bring valuables with you. Expensive jewelry could attract thieves who are experts at targeting tourists. If you do bring valuables, always travel with them in your carry-on, and keep them locked up in the hotel safe.

A little effort goes a long way

As educators, you know that studying up is the best way to be prepared. The more you know about the history and customs of your destination countries, the more you will enjoy and benefit from your journey.

Do not bring shorts, miniskirts and tank tops if you’re going to a conservative country.

If you’re going to a place where you will have to take your shoes off frequently to enter tourist sites, pack slip-on shoes.

Know whom to tip and how much.

Learn how to say simple phrases in the language, like “thank you” and “good morning.”

THANK YOU...