Little but very necessary things to remember for international travel
Passport
Passport issuance and renewal takes time so make sure you check that the expiration date. Most countries require three to six months of validity at the time of entry depending upon where you are traveling, you can check each country's requirements here. If you need a new passport or renewal, apply for one in plenty of time, 3-4 months ahead of your trip (in the United States). Typical processing takes 8-11 weeks, according to the U.S. government, but it may take up to two weeks from your application date to when your passport is actually "in process". If you're in a pinch, expedited processing is 5-7 weeks.
In case of loss or theft, keeping a photo copy of your passport identification pages, insurance documents, driver's license, and any other relevant documents are a good idea.
Visas or other documents
Check your destination here (for U.S. citizens) to see if you need a visa. Some countries require sending in your passport to get a visa added before you travel and some visas you can get online or at the airport gate. Always best to research this with plenty of time before you set off.
ATM Card
It is important to check the expiration date of your ATM card before you leave and safest to notify your bank that you will be traveling to ensure access to your cash (this can be done online at some banks.)
Travel Advisories
It is a smart choice to check travel advisories for your destination. Whether they impact your travel planning or not, it is good to know the climate of the country you are visiting. The U.S. government publishes travel advisories here.
Airport Security Guidelines
Before heading to the airport, checking the airport security guidelines is important whether you travel with or without checked luggage. Sometimes things get a little tricky with bringing items to or from your destination, so it is good to double check the rules if you have any questions. The U.S. Travel Security Administration website is available here.
COVID-19 Travel Guidelines
Since it is difficult to know whether COVID restrictions are coming or going, it is best to check in advance to see what kind of regulations are in place both at your destination(s) and upon returning home. Your destination government's website typically offers guidance, however it can be confusing as regulations change on a frequent basis. My favorite resource for COVID-19 guidelines is Sherpa, I use this website as a cross check with my destination's government website.
Travel Insurance
Things can go wrong when you are traveling, from a sprained ankle to lost or stolen items or worse. Securing travel insurance is a good idea to ensure that you have support is case you run into trouble. I have used https://www.worldnomads.com/, they cover everything from trip cancellation to medical insurance, emergency evacuation, and loss or theft of items.
Driving Abroad
If you plan to rent or drive a friend's car abroad, it is important to check to see if you will need an international driving permit. It may take up to two weeks to receive this permit after application. You can see what countries require a driving permit and purchase them here.
Car insurance is another thing to research. You can purchase insurance upon renting a car, talk to your current car insurer about your policy, and/or look into your credit card benefits. I have the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, and they supply cardholders with primary collision and theft insurance abroad as long as you book the vehicle using this card.
Embassy Locations
In case your passport is lost or stolen or you run into serious trouble, it is good to know where your closest embassy is located.
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