Planning Your First International Trip
- Angie - Your Guide
- 21 hours ago
- 15 min read
The world is absolutely massive, bursting with vibrant colors, intoxicating smells, and sounds that will make your heart dance. And guess what? You are finally going to see it! Taking that first trip across borders and oceans is a moment you will never forget. It’s the start of a lifelong love affair with discovery. But let’s be real for a second—between the daydreaming and the actual "wheels up" moment, there is a mountain of logistics to climb.
Don’t panic! Planning your first international adventure shouldn't feel like homework. It should feel like the prelude to the best song you’ve ever heard. This guide is your roadmap to navigating the nitty-gritty so you can focus on the magic. We are going to cover everything from snagging that dream flight to making sure your phone works when you land. Let’s dive in and get you ready for takeoff!
The Power of Planning your First International Trip
Spontaneity is romantic in movies, but when you’re 3,000 miles from home and realize all the hotels are booked for a local festival you didn’t know about, it’s less "rom-com" and more "horror flick."
Planning ahead is the first step, the skeleton key that unlocks a stress-free trip. This doesn't mean you need a minute-by-minute itinerary that sucks the joy out of wandering. It means having a framework. Know where you are sleeping your first few nights. Know how you are getting from the airport to your accommodation. It is a good idea to have a basic travel plan.
Research major holidays in your destination. You don’t want to arrive in Paris on a day when the Louvre is closed, or land in a city during a public transport strike. A little foresight gives you the freedom to be spontaneous later because the big, scary details are already handled.
Bonus Section: A Deeper Dive into Itinerary Building
Now that we have the essentials covered, let's talk about the structure of your days. Many first-timers fall into the trap of "checklist travel." They want to see five cities in ten days. They spend more time on trains than on the streets.
Slow Down.
The joy of international travel isn't in seeing everything; it's in experiencing something. Spending three days in one city allows you to find a favorite coffee shop. It allows you to recognize the street vendor on the corner. It lets you breathe.
When building your itinerary, use the "Rule of One." Plan one major activity for the morning and one for the afternoon. That’s it. Leave the rest of the time for wandering, getting lost, and stumbling upon hidden gems.
Morning: This is when you have the most energy. Hit the big ticket items. The museums, the famous landmarks, the hikes. Get there right when they open to beat the crowds. There is something spiritual about seeing the Colosseum or the Taj Mahal before the tour buses arrive.
Lunch: Don't just grab a sandwich and run. Sit down. In many cultures, lunch is the main event. Observe the locals. See how they interact. Food is culture on a plate. Be brave and order the daily special, even if you don't know exactly what it is.
Afternoon: This is for lower-energy activities. exploring a neighborhood, visiting a park, or shopping. It’s also prime time for a siesta if the culture supports it (looking at you, Spain!). Recharging your batteries is not wasting time; it’s ensuring you have the energy to enjoy the evening.
Evening: The city transforms at night. Buildings light up, music spills out of bars, and the air changes. Dinner abroad is often later than you might be used to. Embrace the rhythm of the destination.
The Safety Net: Why You Need Trip Insurance
Let’s talk about something unsexy but essential: Trip Insurance. I know, I know. You’re healthy, you’re careful, and you don’t plan on cancelling. But travel is unpredictable. That’s what makes it exciting, but also what makes it risky.
Trip insurance isn't just for if you decide not to go. It’s for when a volcano erupts in Iceland and grounds all flights. It’s for when your luggage decides to take a separate vacation to Timbuktu. It’s for when you twist your ankle dancing on cobblestones and need a doctor who doesn't speak your language. There are a variety of travel insurance plans, even annual plans too. This makes it easy to fit whatever needs you have.
Medical emergencies abroad can be astronomically expensive. Many domestic health insurance plans do not cover you internationally. For the price of a nice dinner, you can buy peace of mind. If things go sideways, you want to be worried about getting better, not about how you’ll pay the bill.
Hitting the Road: Rental Cars and International Licenses
There is a specific kind of freedom that comes with renting a car abroad. You aren’t tethered to train schedules or bus routes. You can pull over whenever you see a breathtaking view or a cute roadside café. But driving in a foreign country comes with its own set of rules.
First, decide if you really need a car. In cities like London, Tokyo, or New York, a car is a liability. Parking is a nightmare and traffic is worse. But if you’re exploring the countryside of Provence or the coast of Ireland, a car is magical.
Check if you need an International Driving Permit (IDP). This is essentially a translation of your valid driver’s license into multiple languages. It’s not a license itself—you still need your actual license—but many countries require it. Even if the rental agency doesn't ask for it, the police might if you get pulled over. It’s cheap and easy to get from auto clubs like AAA before you leave.
Also, remember that in many parts of the world, manual transmission (stick shift) is the standard. If you can only drive an automatic, you must reserve one specifically, and it will likely cost more. And please, double-check which side of the road they drive on!
If you are not driving, which honestly in busy cities like Rome and Paris, that might be the best idea. Public Transportation is the key. Affordable, convenient stops throughout the cities. Take the trains, subways, metros, and buses. Live like a local for a more authentic travel experience.
The Art of the Deal: Snagging Cheap Airfare
Booking your flight is often the biggest hurdle, both financially and emotionally. Once that ticket is confirmed, the trip becomes real. But nobody wants to spend their entire budget on the seat that gets them there. You want to save that cash for gelato in Rome or a jungle trek in Costa Rica!
Finding cheap airfare is less about luck and more about strategy. It’s a game, and you can win it. First, flexibility is your best friend. If you can fly on a Tuesday or Wednesday instead of a Friday or Sunday, you might save hundreds of dollars instantly. Mid-week flights are often less crowded and significantly cheaper.
Start watching prices early. We’re talking months in advance. Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to track fares. You can set up alerts so your phone buzzes the second a price drops. It’s thrilling, like watching the stock market but way more fun because the payout is a vacation.
Also, don’t be afraid of layovers. Direct flights are convenient, sure, but a flight with a stopover can slash the price. Plus, if the layover is long enough, it’s like a bonus mini-trip! Just make sure you have enough time to sprint to your connecting gate if needed.
When booking your first international flight with a layover, it's important to consider the length of the layover. For instance, I traveled from Boston to Rome, Italy, with a layover in Lisbon, Portugal. When arriving from the United States, you'll need to go through a security line upon disembarking, as you're entering a new country. In Lisbon, the line was very long and slow, so ensure your layover is long enough to accommodate security checks. I had a 2-hour layover, and it took me an entire hour to get through the line. Each airport and country varies, and factors like staffing issues or flight delays can affect line lengths. One positive aspect in Lisbon was that they had staff calling out names of passengers with short layovers from a list, which I found helpful. The person behind me only had a 30-minute layover, so they moved him to the front to ensure he wouldn't miss his next flight. This was great, but I haven't seen this practice in other airports worldwide. Paying for Global Entry can also help with this issue, though it comes at an extra cost and may not be worthwhile if you don't travel internationally often.
Staying Connected: Will Your Cell Phone Work?
We live in a digital age, and while unplugging is nice, you probably still want Google Maps, translation apps, and the ability to post that envy-inducing sunset photo.
The days of astronomical roaming charges are mostly behind us if you plan right. First, check with your current carrier. Many offer international passes where you pay a daily fee to use your normal plan abroad. It’s convenient but can add up on long trips.
The pro move? Unlock your phone before you leave (ask your carrier to do this) and buy a local SIM card when you arrive. You can usually grab one at the airport kiosk or a local convenience store. You’ll get a local number and a chunk of data for a fraction of the price of roaming.
Alternatively, look into e-SIMs. If you have a newer phone, you can download a data plan digitally without swapping physical chips. It’s like magic! You land, turn on the e-SIM, and boom—you’re connected.
Since I live in the United States, I have T-Mobile and they have an international phone plan. I love this, and I never have to worry. Other larger cell phone companies like AT&T and Verizon have similar plans, but prices are always different.
Health First: Vaccines and Medicine
Your health is your ticket to adventure. You can’t hike the Andes if you’re laid up in bed. Months before you leave, visit your doctor or a travel clinic. Tell them exactly where you are going.
Some countries require proof of certain vaccinations (like Yellow Fever) just to enter. Others are highly recommended for your safety, like Hepatitis A or Typhoid, which can be transmitted through food and water.
This is also the time to sort out your prescriptions. Bring enough medication to last the entire trip plus a few extra days just in case. Keep them in their original prescription bottles to avoid questions at customs. And pack a basic first-aid kit: band-aids, pain relievers, stomach medicine (you’ll thank me later), and motion sickness pills.
The Art of Packing: Less is More
There are two types of travelers: those who pack light, and those who wish they had. Lugging a heavy suitcase up five flights of stairs in a historic hotel with no elevator will cure you of overpacking very quickly.
Make a list. Then cut it in half. You really don't need three different outfits for every day. Stick to a color palette so you can mix and match tops and bottoms. Layers are key. A light jacket, a sweater, and t-shirts give you options for hot days and cool nights.
Use packing cubes! These little fabric containers are absolute game-changers. They keep your clothes organized and compressed. You can have a cube for shirts, one for socks, one for bottoms. It stops your suitcase from exploding every time you need a fresh pair of socks.
And leave room for souvenirs. You are going to find treasures you want to bring home. If your bag is bursting at the seams when you leave, you’re doing it wrong.
Weather Research: Don't Get Caught in the Rain
It sounds obvious, but you’d be amazed how many people assume "South America" means "hot" all the time. It’s a big continent! Cusco, Peru, can get freezing at night.
Research the specific weather for your dates. Are you traveling during monsoon season in Southeast Asia? Is it winter in Australia when it’s summer at home? Knowing this dictates everything from your shoe choice to your jacket weight.
Check historical averages, not just the forecast the week before. This gives you a realistic idea of what to expect. But always, always pack a lightweight rain jacket or a travel umbrella. Getting soaked to the bone is a quick way to dampen your spirits.
Power Up: Electric Plug Adapters
Imagine landing in Europe, your phone is dead, you find an outlet, and... your plug doesn't fit. Tragedy! The world does not run on a universal socket.
There are different plug types (Type A, B, C, etc.) and different voltages. The US runs on 110V, while much of Europe and Asia runs on 220V. Most modern electronics like phones and laptops are "dual voltage," meaning they can handle both. But things like hair dryers or straighteners might fry if you plug them into a higher voltage outlet without a converter.
Buy a universal travel adapter. These are clunky little cubes that have sliders for every region—UK, EU, US, AUS. Toss one in your bag and you are ready for almost anywhere on the planet.
Pro Tip: Bring a power bank. It is always a great idea to use one of these for your cell phone, when taking tons of pictures, videos, or using your cell phone as a GPS.
Money Matters: Travel Credit Cards
Cash is king in some places, but credit cards are the emperors of international travel. They offer security, fraud protection, and often, better exchange rates than cash bureaus.
Look for a travel-specific credit card that has no foreign transaction fees. Many standard cards charge you 3% every time you swipe abroad. That adds up fast!
Also, carrying a travel credit card is a safety measure. If your cash gets stolen, it’s gone. If your card gets stolen, you cancel it and you aren't liable for the charges. Just make sure to bring a backup card and keep it separate from your primary wallet, just in case.
Always think about getting local currency for your trip. There might be street vendors that do not take credit cards. That's what I ran into when I was in Aix en Provence France. I was traveling near Christmas and there was a vendor that had roasted chestnuts but only took cash and I did not have any Euros. Luckily there was an ATM nearby and I was able to get some cash, but the fees at the ATM were ridiculous. Still, it was worth it for my first time eating roasted chestnuts outside of the United States.
The "Don't Block My Card" Call: Notifying Your Bank
Picture this: You’ve just finished a delicious meal in Barcelona. You hand over your card to pay. Declined. You try again. Declined. Panic sets in.
Your bank’s fraud detection systems are smart. If they see a sudden charge in Spain when you live in Ohio, they might freeze your account to protect you. It’s nice of them, but highly inconvenient.
Before you go, log into your banking app or call the number on the back of your card. Set a "travel notice." Tell them dates and countries. This clears the path for your spending spree.
The Paper Trail: Understanding Visa Requirements
This is the most critical piece of bureaucracy. A visa is an official document that gives you permission to enter a country. Some countries let you just show up (visa-free). Some grant you a visa upon arrival at the airport. Others require you to apply months in advance and send in your passport.
Do not guess on this. Go to the official government website of the country you are visiting or check your own country’s state department travel page. If you show up without the required visa, they will put you on the next plane home. No arguments, no refunds.
Double-check your passport expiration date, too! Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your date of travel. If your passport expires in three months, you might be denied boarding. Research Visa Requirements early on in your trip planning process.
Breaking the Barrier: Learn the Language (Even a Little)
You don't need to be fluent in Japanese to enjoy Tokyo, but learning a handful of phrases in the local language changes the dynamic entirely. It shifts you from "tourist" to "guest."
Learn the "Magic Four": Hello, Please, Thank You, and Excuse Me/Sorry. Locals appreciate the effort immensely. Seeing someone struggle through a "Bonjour" with a smile opens doors that English never will. It shows respect.
Download a translation app like Google Translate. The camera feature is mind-blowing—you point it at a menu or street sign, and it translates the text on your screen in real-time. It feels like living in the future.
Happy Feet: Comfortable Shoes for Walking
If you take only one piece of advice from this guide, let it be this: pack comfortable shoes.
You are going to walk. A lot. You will walk through airports, down long museum corridors, across uneven cobblestones, and up hills to see castles. If your feet hurt, your trip hurts.
Leave the brand-new, unbroken-in stylish boots at home. Bring the comfortable walking shoes or sneakers you’ve worn a hundred times. Bring shoes with arch support. It doesn’t matter if they don’t perfectly match your evening outfit. When you’re clocking 20,000 steps a day, fashion takes a backseat to function. Your blisters will not care how cute you looked.
The Expert Touch: Use a Travel Agent
In the age of DIY internet booking, travel agents might seem old school. They aren't. They are wizards.
For a first-time international trip, the best way to book a trip is with a travel agent. They can be a godsend. They know the lay of the land. They know which hotels actually centrally located and which ones are just say they are. They can navigate complex flight itineraries and often have access to perks you can’t get on your own, like room upgrades or free breakfasts.
Plus, if something goes wrong—a cancelled flight, a lost reservation—you have a human being to call who will fix it for you. You don't have to sit on hold with an airline for four hours. You call your agent, and then you go get a drink while they handle the stress.
Navigating Cultural Etiquette
Every country has its own unwritten rulebook. In Japan, you don't tip. In Italy, you don't order a cappuccino after 11 AM. In Thailand, you never touch someone's head.
Researching these cultural quirks is part of the fun. It shows you are an observant traveler, not just a consumer of sights.
Tipping: This is the big one. The US tipping culture is unique. In many places, service is included. In others, a small rounding up of the bill is sufficient. Over-tipping can sometimes be seen as flashy or confusing. A quick Google search of "tipping etiquette in [Country]" will save you awkwardness and money.
Dress Code: Be aware of religious sites. Temples, churches, and mosques often require shoulders and knees to be covered. Carry a lightweight scarf in your day bag. It’s the perfect multi-tool to wrap around yourself so you don't get turned away at the door of a beautiful cathedral.
Volume: Americans (and I say this with love) are known for being... audible. We project! In many cultures, public spaces are quieter. Trains and restaurants are hushed. Be mindful of your volume. match the energy of the room.
The Emotional Cycle of Travel
It’s worth mentioning that you might feel a whirlwind of emotions.
The High: Arrival. Everything is new! The adrenaline is pumping. You love everything. The Dip: Day 3 or 4. Jet lag hits. You miss your own pillow. You’re tired of doing math to buy a soda. This is normal. It’s called culture shock. The Rebound: You figure out the subway system. You have a great interaction with a local. You find a meal that blows your mind. You’re back on top.
Knowing this cycle exists helps you ride it out. If you feel overwhelmed, retreat to your hotel, watch a movie in English, order room service, and sleep. It’s okay to take a break from being a traveler.
Documenting Your Journey
You will want to remember this forever. But there is a fine line between documenting the moment and missing it because you’re staring at a screen.
Take the photo. Then put the camera down. Look at the view with your actual eyes. Breathe it in. The memory stored in your brain is higher resolution than any JPEG.
Consider keeping a journal. Not a "Dear Diary" about what you ate, but about how you felt. Sketch the view from your window. Tape in a ticket stub or a sugar packet wrapper. These tactile memories are treasures you will find in a drawer twenty years from now, and they will transport you right back to that café in Paris.
The Return Home
Coming home is the final stage of the trip. You might feel "post-trip blues." Normal life seems boring compared to the technicolor world you just left.
The cure? Print your photos. Frame them. Cook a meal inspired by your travels. And, of course, start planning the next one. Because once you start, you never really stop.
The world is big, beautiful, and waiting. You are ready. Go get it
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Unexpected
You have the list. You have the tips. You are checking the boxes. But the most important thing to pack is your attitude.
Travel is messy. Trains run late. Food tastes different. You will get lost. And it will be wonderful. The moments where things go "wrong" often become the best stories later.
So, go buy that ticket. The world is waiting for you, and it is going to be a spectacular ride. When this first trip is done, you will begin planning your next international trip. Get out there and explore!
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