International travel checklist
Passport and Documents:
- Passports must be valid 6+ months past your return date to the USA.
- Remember - kids' passports expire in 5 years (not 10 years!)
- Apply for visas if required. Refer to travel.state.gov and the embassy.
- Get an International Driver License if planning to drive abroad. You can obtain this at a AAA office and you do not have to be a member to get one.
- Get a notarized letter of consent to travel abroad if traveling with minors from any non-traveling parents.
Health and Medications:
- Check if your medications are legal abroad (some US prescriptions are illegal overseas)
- Pack medication in original labeled packaged with prescription label.
- Get any required vaccinations 4-6 weeks early.
- Always consult with your physician for any health concerns before planning a trip.
- Always carry translations of any allergies, medical conditions or dietary restrictions with you.
- Carry any emergency medication, such as an inhaler or EpiPen on you at all times and make sure travel companions know where your emergency medication is located and how to administer it.
Copy Everything:
- Make copies / keep digital copies of your passport and visa to take with you.
- Make copies of your passport to leave at home with a trusted friend or family member.
- Give a copy of your itinerary to a trusted friend or family member.
Insurance and Registration:
- Buy Travel Insurance!
- Enroll in STEP at travel.state.gov to receive free alerts from US embassies.
Final Prep:
- Notify banks and credit cards of travel dates.
- Save embassy and emergency contacts in your phone.
- Arrive to the airport 3 hours early.