This blog is provided for informational purposes only. Links to third party web sites are also provided strictly for informational purposes only and should not be deemed as a recommendation or endorsement by the author. For specific questions, conduct your own independent research and refer to the appropriate web sites.
Do I need a passport?
Do I go through customs when leaving the United States?
What about returning to the United States?
Do you have anything to declare?
How do foreign countries process visitors?
What is the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program?
What should I know about the destination?
Do I need foreign currency?
How does electricity work abroad?
Will my mobile phone work in a foreign country?
Why do I need a paper backup of travel plans?
What about prescription medications?
What about emergency medical care?
Disclaimer
Do I need a passport?
Yes! If you are even considering leaving the United States, your first priority should be to obtain your passport. Instructions are provided at the preceding link.
If you already have a passport, check the expiration date; if it has expired, renew or make a new application as soon as possible. If it is going to expire within 6 months, go ahead and renew. Most foreign countries require the expiration date to be at least 6 months beyond your departure date.
Before leaving, make a couple of copies of your passport. Take a copy with you and keep it separate from your passport. Also, leave a copy at home with a family member, significant other, or emergency contact. Why? If you lose it while traveling, you have the copy to present to the United States Embassy; it will also be easier for your loved ones to assist from home, if necessary.
Do I go through customs when leaving the United States?
No. It is not necessary to go through customs when leaving the United States.
What about returning to the United States?
You will go through customs at the first point of reentry back into the United States from a foreign country. If you have a connecting flight, be sure to have a sufficient layover time. Bear in mind that each individual on your flight also has to go through customs and that takes time. Once you clear customs, collect your luggage and recheck it. You will then have to go back through security.
Do you have anything to declare?
I can only speak for the United States, but you are allowed to bring so much merchandise into the country without paying an import tax.
How do foreign countries process visitors?
Some foreign countries call it “customs” or “passport control,” and the process is similar to the United States. Present your passport to the official, who may ask a few questions. Follow their instructions. After processing, you will proceed to collect your luggage.
What is the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program?
The Smart Traveler Entrollment Program (STEP) permits United States citizens who travel or live abroad to register with the nearest United States Embassy or consulate, should you need emergency or other assistance while traveling.
What should I know about the destination?
Always research the destination. For purposes of your safety while traveling, check the embassy’s web site or other reliable web sites for the country you are visiting. Are there any visa requirements or is a passport sufficient? Also, you should know how to contact the United States Embassy in the event of an emergency.
Check for items that may be prohibited in the country. Also check currency exchange rates (discussed in more detail below), whether American currency is accepted, whether you can drink the water, and the weather. You will want to pack accordingly.
Do I need foreign currency?
It depends on the destination. If you are flying to Bermuda, the Caribbean islands, Mexico, or Canada, you may not need foreign currency. Most of these countries are near the United States and may accept American currency. If, however, you are traveling to destinations in Europe or Asia, you may need foreign currency. Check the web site for your destination to make this determination.
If you need foreign currency, you may be able to order it from your financial institution before departure at the current exchange rate. You may also be able to deposit the remainder back into your account upon your return at the current exchange rate.
Foreign currency exchange counters are also available in most airports, but they typically charge fees for the exchange and will probably be more expensive than your financial institution.
How does electricity work abroad?
As you know, the United States uses the imperial system while most other countries use the metric system. The United States just had to be different. 
Why is this relevant? Curling irons, hair dryers, and chargers for mobile phones, tablets, and computers, may not fit an electrical outlet in a foreign country, so be prepared. It’s a good idea to have a portable power pack with you, and you may also need to purchase an international travel adapter.
Will my mobile phone work in a foreign country?
Most smartphones will work in a foreign country; check with your wireless carrier. You may be able to add an international plan, or you may be able to purchase what some carriers call a “travel pass.” A travel pass allows you to use your existing phone and data plan in a foreign country for a daily fee, and you will only be charged for the days you use it. I can only speak for Verizon Wireless; it’s travel pass charge varies by country. Also, when calling the United States from a foreign country with a mobile phone, dial “+1,” in front of the number to ensure it goes through. You may also be able to use a smartphone to make and receive calls at no charge in a foreign country with a WiFi connection.
Why do I need a paper backup of travel plans?
In this digital age of computers, smartphones, and tablets, airplane tickets are electronic, hotels have digital keys, and we sometimes take the old-school way of doing things on paper for granted. No matter where I travel, within the United States or abroad, I always take a paper copy of all reservations for accommodations, travel by air, sea, and land, tours, and any other information I may need. You never know what might happen. A mobile carrier or electric company could have an outage, batteries on electronic devices may become low or die, or any number of things beyond your control could happen. I always say it is better to be prepared for the worst and hope for the best. I highly recommend having a paper backup copy.
What about prescription medications?
Do not pack prescription medications in checked luggage; take them on board the airplane with you. I highly recommend taking a list of medications, serious medical conditions, and allergies with you in case of a medical emergency. Include the following information:
- Medical condition
- Medical professional providing treatment and contact information
- Name of medication
- Dosage
- List of allergies and reactions
What about emergency medical care?
Your health insurance company may not cover medical care in a foreign country. Contact your insurance company before leaving to determine what it may cover. You may want extra coverage. Several insurance companies provide short term policies specifically for individuals traveling abroad. Emergency Assistance Plus also provides emergency medical assistance in foreign countries for an annual fee.
Disclaimer
This blog is provided strictly for informational purposes only and is not a comprehensive guide. Links to third party web sites are also provided strictly for informational purposes only and should not be deemed as a recommendation or endorsement by the author. For specific questions, conduct your own research online.