When traveling overseas, there are so many things to think of, like your passport.  More than just what hotel to stay at or which flight to pick.  Lets look at a few here.

Passport

If you don’t already have one, make sure that you apply several months BEFORE leaving.  If you already have your passport, make sure that it has NO damage, and that it is valid for at least 6 months AFTER travel.  You will also want to make sure that you have at least two or more blank pages depending on your destination.

For your children who are under 16 please remember that their passports expire in 5 years, not 10 like adults, so verify their expiration dates as well.

To find out more about where and how to apply or renew your passport, click here.

Visa

For some destinations, you may need a Visa to arrive.  Please check with that country’s embassy to see if you will need a Visa.

Medications

Always travel with your medications in their original prescription bottles.  However, some medications such as narcotics that are legal in the US may not be legal in other countries.  You will want to check with their countries’ embassy to see what their regulations and documentation requirements are BEFORE travel.

Traveling Alone with Children

If you are traveling alone with minors, foreign border officials may require custody documents or notarized written consent from the other parent.  To verify what you may need BEFORE travel, check with the embassy of your foreign destination.

Are you planning on driving on vacation?

Although your US driving license is as good as gold here, not every country recognizes it.  You may need to get an International Driving Permit as well as supplemental driving insurance.  Here’s a link to some great information from the U.S. Department of State on driving in other countries.  Click here.

As always working with a trusted travel adviser, they will help you navigate through all of these questions.