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Whatever your reason for travelling abroad, you‘re sure to want a trouble free trip. Many of the things that go wrong for travellers can be prevented or made less stressful by taking a few simple precautions. So, it makes sense to spend a little time getting prepared before you travel – you could save yourself a lot of problems later on.
Making sure you are up to date with the latest information on your destination in good time, including things like entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, will take away any last minute stresses and ensure you can focus on on the fun parts of your trip.
State Department advice
Wherever you‘re planning to go the State Department is a great place to help you figure out entry requirements or the latest travel advice, as well as information on health vaccinations, local laws and customs.
For Americans, we recommend you check State Department advisories here. For Canadians, check the Canadians government position here.
Tips include:
Make sure you have valid travel insurance even if you‘re only planning a short trip. Check what vaccinations you need by visiting wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel, or travel.gc.ca/travelling for Canadians, your travel health clinic or Dr at least six weeks before you travel. Read up on your destination, including local laws and customs. Make photocopies of your passport, visas and insurance details and leave a copy with a relative or friend at home.
It's also useful to read up on what the local Embassy or Consulate can do to help you if you run into problems abroad – and what they can’t do.