Travel tips

 US Citizens traveling anywhere outside of the United States will be required to present a valid US passport and possible other documentation. If traveling within the United States, a Real ID is required. 

• Passports must be valid for 6 months past your return date to the US. 
•  Some countries require a visa for transit or entry.
• Immunizations may also be required.
• When traveling with minors without both parents, a notarized letter from the non-traveling parent(s) or other accepted documentation may be required.
• An ETA is required for the UK. Apply at gov.uk/eta at least 2 weeks before your trip. Read more about the requirement here.
• All names on travel documents must match the legal name on your passport.
• Failure to comply with these regulations may result in denied boarding, denied entry and/or other government-imposed fines.
• Passengers are responsible to ensuring they have the appropriate documentation. Please refer to travel.state.gov for further information and requirements.

 Tip 1: Beware of tight connections - Ensure you have enough wiggle room in your flight connections as delays can occur. As a rule of thumb, I recommend having a minimum of 1 hour connection for USA domestic flights (although I prefer 1.5 - 2 hours) and a minimum of 3+ hours connection for an international flight. 

Tip 2: Be prepared in case of lost baggage - Lost baggage happens. As a general rule of thumb, I recommend carrying the following items in case of a lost checked bag: travel size deoderant, travel size toothpaste + toothbrush, travel size contact lens solution + case, hairbrush, eyeglasses, change of clothes. Additionally, if you are traveling somewhere warm, carry-on your bathing suit + flip flops. If you are traveling somewhere cold, carry-on your coat. Always carry your passports, ID, cell phone, medications (in original prescription packaging), devices and chargers in your personal items bag. 

Tip 3: Track your belongings Utilizing air tags can help you better track your belongings in the event your checked bags go missing. I recommend putting them in the lining of your checked luggage (or in a discreet pocket area of your luggage). 

Tip 1: Know the local emergency numbers

Research and save the local emergency numbers for police, medical services, and fire departments in your destination country. 

Tip 2:  

Register with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) 

Register your trip with STEP at travel.state.gov for these reasons: 

• Real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country. 
• Information from the local U.S. embassy. 
• Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency. 

Tip 3: Keep important documents handy 

Carry copies of your passport, travel insurance, and emergency contact information. Keep digital copies accessible as well. 

Tip 4: Have a communication plan 

Ensure you have a way to communicate with family and friends. Consider international phone plans or local SIM cards. 

Tip 5: Know your insurance coverage 

 Understand what your travel insurance covers, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations and lost belongings. 

Tip 6: Read up on local laws  

Before your trip, familiarize yourself with local laws and travel tips at travel.state.gov 

Tip 7: Familiarize yourself with local tipping practices

Have an understanding of what tipping practices are customary in your travel destination.

Tip 8: Be proactive in your communication with allergies and/or mobility requirements

Arrive prepared in your destination with translations of any food allergies you may have.  Additionally, make sure all lodging, drivers, tours, etc.. are aware of and can accommodate any mobility requirements or food allergies you may have.  Research and utilize apps such as Spokin for personalized restaurant recommendations for people with food allergies and understand labeling laws in your travel destination.

Always consult with your physician before planning a trip.