Preparing for an international flight can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time travelling abroad. From packing essentials to settling visa concerns, there’s an abundance of things to consider.
In this article, we’ll help make the process more seamless for you. Here are some tips to make sure you’re well-prepared for your international flight.
1. Plan your itinerary and research your destination
It’s important to plan a rough itinerary that includes the duration of your stay, the sights you want to see, and the activities you plan on doing. Also, research your destination thoroughly, so you are aware of the cultural norms, local customs, climate, and the best places to go for food, shopping, and entertainment. This information can be the basis of your packing list as well.
2. Check your passport and visa requirements
Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your return date, and you should make a copy of it and leave one with someone you trust. Determine whether or not you need a visa to visit your destination country. Applying for a visa can be a time-consuming process, so make sure to allow enough time before your trip to obtain one.
3. Book your accommodations and transportation
Once you have a rough itinerary, book your accommodations, whether that be a hotel, hostel, or Airbnb. Research the transportation options available in your destination and plan how you will move around the city. You can use public transportation apps like Moovit or Google Maps to navigate your way around.
4. Pack wisely
Pack light and smartly to avoid overstuffing your suitcase and paying extra fees at the airport. Always pack a change of clothes and essentials like your toothbrush, medication, and your passport in your carry-on luggage in case your checked luggage gets lost or delayed. A packing checklist can be your best friend when preparing for a long trip.
5. Prepare for in-flight comfort
Long haul flights can be exhausting, so prepare appropriately to ensure your comfort during the flight. Wear comfortable and breathable clothing, pack your headphones, and download some movies or books to keep you entertained. You can also pack a neck pillow, eye mask, and noise-cancelling headphones to aid in getting a good rest.
6. Inform your financial institutions
Inform your bank and credit card companies that you will be travelling overseas to avoid having your transactions declined, and to ensure that your account is not flagged for suspicious activity. Also, keep a mix of cash and credit cards with you in case one option is not accepted.
7. Keep important documents handy
Keep your passport, visa, and boarding passes in one designated folder, organized and easily accessible. You do not want to be digging through your bags at the airport looking for important documents. Also, keep your phone, wallet, and keys in one designated pocket to avoid losing them.
8. Arrive early at the airport
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight because international flights have longer security checks and check-in processes. Arriving early will give you time to deal with any unforeseeable issues that may arise, such as long security lines or delayed flights.
Travelling internationally can be an exciting adventure, and it’s imperative to be well-prepared when taking on such a trip. Planning your itinerary, packing wisely, preparing for in-flight comfort, and staying organized throughout the entire process can make the experience smooth and enjoyable. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful international trip!
