FAQs

For international travel, you'll typically need a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity), visas for your destination country, travel insurance documents, and any required health certificates or vaccination records. Always check the specific requirements for your destination at least 3 months before departure.

For domestic flights, booking 1-3 months in advance usually offers the best prices. For international travel, aim for 2-8 months ahead. The sweet spot is typically 6-8 weeks before departure for most destinations. Sign up for price alerts and be flexible with your dates for additional savings.

Pack versatile clothing that can be layered, 5-7 days worth of outfits (plan to do laundry), comfortable walking shoes, travel-sized toiletries, necessary medications, universal adapter, portable charger, and important documents. Remember the 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule: 1 hat, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 bottoms, 4 tops, 5 pairs of socks/underwear, and 6 accessories.

Research your destination thoroughly, share your itinerary with someone back home, avoid arriving at night, stay in reputable accommodations, keep valuables secure, trust your instincts, learn basic local phrases, and blend in with locals. Consider joining group tours for certain activities and always have emergency contacts saved in your phone.

Use a combination of methods: notify your bank of travel plans, carry a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, get some local currency before arrival, use ATMs for better exchange rates, and keep emergency cash separate. Digital payment apps and prepaid travel cards can also be useful. Always have multiple payment options in case one fails.

Adjust to your destination's time zone during your flight, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, get sunlight exposure upon arrival, and try to stay awake until local bedtime. Consider melatonin supplements for eastbound travel. For short trips, you might maintain your home time zone sleep schedule. It typically takes about one day per time zone crossed to fully adjust.

Essential travel apps include: Google Maps (with offline maps), Google Translate, XE Currency, TripIt (for itinerary organization), Airbnb/Booking.com, Skyscanner, Uber/Lyft or local ride apps, Duolingo for language basics, and a VPN service. For specific destinations, research local apps like transportation schedules or restaurant finders.

Visit local markets, take public transportation, eat where locals eat (avoid restaurants with English menus out front), stay in residential neighborhoods, learn basic phrases in the local language, take small-group or private tours with local guides, attend community events, and use platforms like Meetup to connect with residents who share your interests.

The best travel insurance depends on your needs. Look for policies covering medical expenses (including evacuation), trip cancellation/interruption, lost luggage, and adventure activities if applicable. Compare providers like World Nomads, Allianz, or SafetyWing. Annual policies are cost-effective for frequent travelers. Always read the fine print for exclusions and claim procedures.