Documents and Information You Need to Have for your Upcoming International Travel
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Preparing for your international travel can quickly begin to feel overwhelming. Use this checklist to make sure you have everything you need! Is there anything you’d add?
Valid driver’s license/state ID - if you’re traveling within the US, you can use these for your proof of identity
International Driver’s Permit (IDP) - offered only by AAA. Click HERE to view more details on the IDP and if it’s something you’d like to have on your international trip
Valid US Passport - use the OFFICIAL United States Government State Department website (click HERE) for information, to apply, or to renew your passport. Be sure to check the current wait times and if necessary, pay extra to expedite your passport.
Copies of your passports - it’s likely that your destination will require you to carry identification on you. Carry copies of your passport to present as ID, and secure your physical passports in your hotel or accommodation safe. NEVER leave your passports anywhere you feel is unsecure. Copies of your passport may also assist in expediting your emergency passport replacement in case of loss or theft.
Boarding Pass - Boarding passes are generally available 24 hours prior to your flight’s departure. You can check in online on a computer, on your phone, on the airline’s app, or when you arrive to the airport.
TSA PreCheck - this service offers expedited service through security lines in the U.S., but does not expedite your return into the U.S. when traveling from abroad. Find more information HERE on the official United States Government website. If you have TSA PreCheck, make sure that you’ve added your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to your flight and that you see ‘TSA PreCheck’ on your boarding pass
Global Entry - INCLUDES membership to TSA PreCheck, which is why I always recommend it over the TSA PreCheck membership. It also includes access to the expedited customs line when returning to the U.S. from travel abroad. Find more information HERE on the official United States Customs and Border Patrol website. If you have Global Entry, make sure that you’ve added your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to your flight and that you see ‘TSA PreCheck’ on your boarding pass.
Clear - is a privately owned company offering biometric recognition to expedite your time in security lines. It does not include TSA PreCheck or Global Entry in its membership. Find more information HERE.
Entry Requirements for your Destination - some countries require documentation or other applications to be filled out prior to arrival
Travel Documents - if you are booked with Fresh World Travel Co., your travel documents will be available on your personalized, password protected Traveler Page 3-4 weeks prior to departure, and you will be notified that they are ready. You can print, download, and save these documents, or access them from your phone easily like an app. Watch this short video to learn how!
Complete Itinerary - if you are booked with Fresh World Travel Co., this information is available on your Traveler Page
Travel confirmations, vouchers, and tickets if applicable- if you are booked with Fresh World Travel Co., this information is available on your Traveler Page
24/7 Contact Information - if you are booked with Fresh World Travel Co., this information is available within your itinerary and travel documents
Important Addresses - if you are booked with Fresh World Travel Co., this information is available within your itinerary and travel documents
US Embassy/Consulate Information - if you are booked with Fresh World Travel Co., this information is available within your itinerary and travel documents
Local Currency - the most cost effective way to obtain local currency is through your bank prior to travel. You can get local currency at the airport upon arrival with a currency exchange or ATM, but the conversion fees are VERY high. You can also find ATMs in your destination, but the cost/exchange fees are higher than using your bank.
Credit Card - let your credit card company know that you will be traveling so they don’t put a flag and stop on your card. If you’re traveling internationally, I recommend a credit card that doesn’t charge exchange fees. I use the Delta American Express because we fly Delta exclusively and it helps us earn SkyMiles and status. Personally, I prefer to use my credit card (NOT a debit card) for purchases when traveling rather than carrying cash. I find it easier, and more secure, because credit card charges can be disputed and resolved whereas stolen cash is pretty much gone for good.
Wishing you a lovely trip!
I’m Erin, your travel bestie. Based in Michigan with plans to see the entire globe, I am passionate about empowering my travel clients to create and experience your very best adventure. After studying abroad in Rome during college, marrying the love of my life in 2020 (COVID wedding!), and becoming a mom, I know that we all want to spend less time stressing on the internet and more time enjoying the people we love. Let me help you achieve this by taking on the work of your next vacation so you can spend more time enjoying your people.
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