Photo by Priscilla Du Preez

Did you know that less than half of Americans have a passport?

Whether you’re an experienced globetrotter or a new passport owner, planning trips abroad can be a life-changing experience that everyone should have.

Do you need help figuring out what you need for international travel? Keep reading for 5 essential items that will cover your international travel needs.

1. SNACKS AND ENTERTAINMENT

It may not seem like much, but snacks and entertainment are some of the most important international travel essentials. Depending on where you’re going, some flights could add up to over 24 hours of travel time.

Snacks are great for keeping your energy up if the plane food isn’t palatable and when you’re out and about in a foreign country. An e-reader loaded with books and a phone filled with music, podcasts, and video streaming apps are a couple of things that can make your travel time pass faster.

2. A TRANSLATOR TOOL

Thanks to modern technology, planning what you need to travel internationally has become a lot easier. Instead of lugging around a big bilingual dictionary book or studying a foreign language for months in advance, you can download one app and communicate with anyone around the world. You can read more about how you can familiarize yourself with these translator tools so your trip can go smoothly.

3. A PORTABLE CHARGER AND TRAVEL ADAPTER

As an international traveler, your phone will be your lifeline. With your phone, you can have access to your translator app, directions, and more. This is why no traveler should leave without a portable charger that can help keep their phone running while they’re on the go.

You should also pack a travel adapter so you’ll be able to plug all of your electronics into any foreign outlet.

4. NECESSARY TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND COPIES

No international travel checklist would be complete without your passport and any other necessary travel documents like a visa. Not only will you need these documents to board your plane, but you should be prepared to show your passport to any law enforcement if you get stopped during your stay. Since these documents are important, it’s always a good idea to make copies of them for extra safety.

5. CASH AND TRAVEL CREDIT CARDS

Cash and travel credit cards are other must-haves on any international travel packing list. Take some time to research the currency and see if your bank has a good exchange rate. If you wait to withdraw cash at the airport or elsewhere, you could get hit with a huge loss on the exchange rate.

Travel credit cards are also handy because many of them offer 0% foreign transaction fees. Just make sure that the country you’re traveling to will accept that credit card at all major stores and restaurants.

NOW YOU CAN HAVE ALL OF YOUR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEEDS COVERED

If you’re planning a trip abroad, it’s important to make sure all of your international travel needs are covered so you can enjoy yourself to the fullest. This guide will ensure you don’t forget any essentials.

Do you aspire to become a seasoned world traveler? If so, don’t forget to check out the rest of our blog to find more helpful tips.