10 Critical Questions to Ask Yourself Before Traveling Abroad
When traveling abroad for the first time, or frequently, it is important to ask yourself these questions so that you are fully prepared for your journey! Sometimes you don't know what you don't know, so it is hard to ask the right questions and prepare properly. These questions will help eliminate some of the common frustrations a traveler faces abroad.
#1: Do I need a VISA?
Okay, maybe this sounds too generic, but it is SO important! Americans have a strong passport and can go to most places without a visa for at least a few weeks. So, questions when researching a visa may include...
- How long can I travel without one?
- Do I need a transit visa for a country I pass through? (yes, this is required in countries like India or Tanzania)
- How long does the visa take to process?
- Do I need to submit my passport for this visa or can it be done online?
- Do I need to print documentation to bring to a visa office or the airport?
#2: How many bags can I travel with?
Are you a light packer or do you want many options? I personally like to only take a personal item and carry-on abroad. This minimizes additional fees and the likelihood of my bags getting lost. Check with every airline their restrictions on sizes, weights, and amounts of bags.
Usually, your flight overseas will include a checked bag, but national flights will not.
#3: How many souvenirs do I want?
Ask yourself what you want to buy before traveling. This will help you pack accordingly to save space for extra items and help you budget. It also helps you plan if items you buy need to be in a checked bag or can remain in a carry-on.
Also, be aware of what your items are constructed of. Many materials are not allowed through the customs of your home country.
#4: How will I stay connected to home?
It's great to plan this ahead for yourself and your loved ones. If you have an iPhone, then you can still use iMessage and FaceTime to connect. However, those who do not have this luxury need to look into other options such as social media messaging or WhatsApp. Inform loved ones to download WhatsApp ahead of time if you choose this option (my personal favorite)!
#5: What is my budget?
Consider this in-depth with the cost of the country and then itemize your budget by sections. Consider flights/transportation, accommodation, food, emergency, souvenirs, and activities.
#6: How am I paying for things?
Convert currency! I like to do this right away in the airport with big bills (best currency exchange rate). But, also travel with an emergency credit card (beware of your card overseas fees). And, have a debit card on hand for withdrawing from ATMs.
Some countries have little to no card transactions for purchases, so you can only use cash. Some countries are the opposite. So be prepared.
#7: What is my emergency plan?
If your safety is at risk in a country, how will you leave? If your health takes a turn, where can you get medical assistance? Do you have travel insurance? Where is the closest embassy? Did I alert the embassy I was traveling to my location?
These are all questions you need to consider to be proactive in tight situations.
#8: What are the language barriers?
In my experience, English is the most common language to speak with foreigners. It is what people prepare to learn to communicate with foreigners. However, not all people are fluent or know any English at all. Prepare yourself by downloading translation apps and learning common phrases of the country you are visiting.
Also, keep in mind that the same language is not always the same throughout a country.
#9: What should I be culturally sensitive to & aware of?
Research this!! Please do this to represent yourself well, and respect those around you. You are representing your country when you travel abroad and foreigners will judge your home as they judge you. You pave away for those who proceed you.
Research greetings, appropriate interactions, meal etiquette, posture, body language (especially facial), and clothing.
#10: What would make this a successful trip for me?
This is crucial to ask yourself before traveling to guarantee your satisfaction. If you don't know what you desire, your trip may flop and cause frustration. Make lists (mental or physical) of places you want to go, foods you want to eat, and experiences you want to have. This is especially important to consider if you are traveling with someone. You need to communicate with your companion so that both parties feel respected and receive what they want from their trip.
Even more puzzled than when we began? Not knowing how to answer these questions? No problem! Access my guide or schedule a consultation to bring ease to your travels.
The home for unique & authentic travel
