Safety is the number 1 priority of all travel. When traveling internationally you can consult the US STATE DEPARTMENT website to get the latest travel recommendations and safety information. For the most up to date security information while abroad, US citizens can enroll in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

It is always recommended to do your research before traveling to a new location both domestic and abroad. Ensure you understand local laws and customs.

Write down important telephone numbers- such as your credit card customer support, local law enforcement, local ambulance, and emergency contact- and keep in a secure place. You should also have the information for your nearest US embassy or consulate available as well. 

Leave important information such as a copy of your itinerary, contact information, and passport with someone at home.

Water borne disease is a common concern when traveling to certain regions and countries. Prevention of waterborne disease is of paramount importance and now easier then ever with LIFESTRAW filtration products. It is advisable to carry a Lifestraw on all longer hikes and any travels where concerns over accessible potable water exists.

Particularly with international travel, it is recommended to carry a secure copy of all important documents. Laminated documents are even better to prevent water damage. 

Where to stay is a personal choice informed by different priorities and expectations. When choosing lodging, it is often best to consider function. Is the function of your accomodations to host a majority of activities and provide the bulk of entertainment? Do you simply require a secure place to rest and store belonging while exploring a new destination? What about needing a walkable location with accessible public transport? Answering the question of function often helps narrow down an at times overwhelming amount of options and can help you make a well informed and practical decision. It is reasonable to check local hotel prices first before then checking hostels, AirBnB, or your other preferable type of lodging. 

If your name ends in Bezos or Musk, skip to the next section. For everyone else, prioritizing your finances is of paramount importance when considering sustainable habits of travel and adventure.  Everyone has personal priorities and interests when traveling, but one general mantra to consider is to cut corners when possible and splurge where it matters. Don’t miss out on a once in a lifetime experience to save a few bucks. Make your travel goals possible by prioritizing what really matters to you and making a conscious effort to cut cost in areas that you don’t find as important. Consider grocery shopping and preparing some of your own meals. Consider traveling during off seasons. Most travelers spend the majority of funds on transportation (airfare, rental car, etc.) followed by lodging, and therefore these are the two prime targets when considering cutting costs. 

Don’t worry about looking like a tourist. Make sure to take lots of photos and videos to help chronicle your trip. Your future self will thank you. When traveling with a group, make sure to bring a selfie stick. Your friends may tease you but don’t worry, they will all be asking for all your great group photos later!

Travel credit cards are a great way to fund your travel with ordinary day to day purchases. Many competitive cards will offer 2-5 cents of rewards for each 1 dollar spent, which is a great passive way to make the most of your daily expenditures. Furthermore, most cards will provide additional incentives such as some form of travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees as well.  Travel credit cards are a great way to prevent hefty ATM transaction fees.  

You should always investigate your personal need for travel insurance prior to every trip. Credit cards, airlines, and other third parties may already provide certain perks such as free trip cancelation or company credit.  Unfortunately, most domestic medical insurance plans do NOT cover you internationally. You can consider and compare reputable travel insurance companies such as Safety Wing, Allianz Travel, or World Nomads. Note that travel insurance companies have exclusions. For example, many do not cover pre-existing conditions or injuries sustained in “high risk activities” like white water rafting

DISCLOSURE: World Nomads provides insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. 

Call your car insurance company prior to renting a car. You will likely have rental coverage included in your policy. To accept the rental company insurance may waive your personal coverage. One phone call can save you money and a lot of confusion at the rental counter.

Always carry more than one credit card

You should always alert your credit card company to your travel plans to prevent an inconvenient locking of your account. You can call or typically set travel dates and destinations online. 

Always carry some spare cash just in case.

Use travel credit cards without international transaction fees when you can. When you need to use cash, it is typically worth while to use the countries native currency. DON’T use currency exchanges at airport or hotel unless absolutely necessary. Exchanging USD for a different currency is usually cheapest at your own brick and mortar bank. 

Recommended vaccines by destination as well as other general travel advice can be found at the CDC website