While traveling outside of the US, documentation is an important part of your journey. Outside the US and even in other States, you and your luggage are recognized by your documents. Carrying the proper travel-related documents and proof of identity could help you avoid unnecessary jitters.
The best advice for international travel is to take original copies of some documents and keep one or two photocopies of the other in case of emergency. You should also leave a copy of your documents with a few friends, who can fax you if you lose yours. Ask your travel agent or friends who have been to those destinations for travel advice needed for the documents.
Tips for vacations and business trips
Whether you’re traveling for pleasure, business, or personal, important documents required to travel outside of the US include: passport, visa, driver’s license, medical certificates, and insurance documents. A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies the identity and nationality of the bearer.
A valid US passport is required to enter and exit most foreign countries. The Office of Passport Services provides information and services to US citizens on obtaining, replacing, or changing a passport. To obtain a passport for the first time, you must go in person to a passport acceptance facility with your two photos, proof of US citizenship, and a valid form of photo identification, such as a driver’s license, and apply for a passport. You can search for travel advice documents from your friends and acquaintances who have traveled to those destinations.
Air travel tips and visa requirements
Most countries require a visa before you can travel there. You can board the plane only if you have a valid visa and a return air ticket to the destination. Few countries allow free passage for US citizens. However, it is mandatory to carry valid proof of identification in these countries to avoid legal complications and to prove your identity in an emergency. It is the responsibility of the travelers to obtain a Visa, when necessary, from the corresponding embassy or the nearest consulate of the country they plan to visit. Certain countries have proper validation requirements for visa applications that take some time before your visa is approved. Therefore, it is necessary to obtain the visa well in advance to avoid last minute problems.
Baggage Check Tips
If you’re carrying valuables and electronics, a good travel tip is to take a copy of your bill, insurance, and troubleshooting manuals with you while you travel. While an invoice and insurance are needed to prove ownership, a manual will help technicians if a problem occurs with it. These documents will also help you take advantage of international warranty and service facilities where applicable.
Travel insurance tips
Most countries require foreign tourists to be covered by insurance before entering the country. However, travel insurance is a critical issue due to the legal differences between the two countries. Contact your insurance company to find out whether or not foreign travel is covered by this insurance. Even your travel agent can help you with important travel insurance tips.