July 21, 2026
Let’s be real for a second… traveling is kind of stressful, even for the pros. Between “wait, what are the carry-on rules again?!”, random weather delays, and everything else that can go sideways, it’s no secret travel comes with a side of anxiety 🥴
And if it’s your first international trip? That adds a whole other layer.
But here’s the thing. Most of the stress around international travel doesn’t actually come from the process itself. It comes from not knowing what to expect. After your first trip, you’ll be a total pro. Until then, let’s take the mystery out of it with these tips for first time international travel.
Before You Go
Every destination has its own quirks, but these are the non-negotiables for just about every international trip:
Passport
Most countries require at least 6 months of validity beyond your return date. Double check this before you book anything. And even if the actual validity rule is less, always plan for 6 months – because you never want to get denied entry if requirements change or you suddenly find yourself rerouted to a new destination while in flight.
Visa
Some countries require additional documentation alongside your passport for entry. Always worth confirming ahead of time, especially since some Visa applications require more lead time than others..
Entry requirements
Think forms, arrival cards, or pre-arrival paperwork. Every country has its own rules here. You may only need to fill out your travel documents on the official website or you may have to pay an entry or exit tax. Always confirm what is required and don’t listen to the randoms on the internet who tell you it’s not necessary to complete this step because “no one ever checks it.”
Health
Certain destinations may require proof of specific vaccinations, so make sure you are up to date on all those vaccines prior to your trip.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
It’s free, optional, and takes about two minutes. It lets the U.S. Embassy contact you in case of an emergency. You can enroll by clicking here.
Upon Arrival
Every airport looks a little different, but the flow is almost always the same:
Immigration
This can be as easy as simply scanning your passport at the E-Gate, getting your photo taken, and then walking out. Or you may actually go to an officer, show your passport and answer a few simple questions such as why you’re visiting, how long you’re staying, where you’re staying. This can be the slowest step if several planes land at once making the lines longer. My pro tip – try to go to the bathroom near the end of the flight so you don’t have to stop immediately once you deplane and end up further back in the line.
Baggage claim
Grab your bags just like you would at home, then follow the signs to the next step.
Customs
Sometimes you breeze right through. Other times there might be bag checks, scans, or a quick form to hand over. Either way, you’ll be on your way out of the airport soon.
Coming Home
Arguably the hardest part emotionally (and sometimes logistically).
Immigration & customs
You’ll go through both again when you re-enter the U.S. If you’re connecting to another flight, you’ll also go back through security, so yes, empty that water bottle. In many airports, you also will need to pick up your checked bags from baggage claim and then recheck them for your connecting domestic flight.
Global Entry
Optional, but if you plan to travel internationally more than once, this trusted traveler program makes the whole process significantly faster. Learn more about it by clicking here. And a bonus – it may even be free if you have the right credit card perks!
The Bottom Line
If you’ve been putting off that first international trip because it feels overwhelming, let these tips for first time international travel be your sign to stop overthinking it. With the right prep (and the right support), it’s a lot simpler than it seems!
Ready to plan your trip? Let’s schedule a call to talk about where you’re headed and I’ll help you navigate every step, from booking to boarding. Click here to view my calendar and schedule the time.
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