Tips for Worry Free International Travel

International travel can be an exhilarating experience. Without proper planning, it can also be frustrating. At AAA Travel Agency, we are here to help make your travel worry-free. Here are some tips for making the most of your trip outside the United States.

Before Departure

• Review your insurance policies to determine coverage for trip cancellation or interruption, loss or theft, and accident or injury while traveling overseas. If appropriate, purchase additional coverage.
• Leave copies of your passport identification page, credit card account numbers, travelers check numbers, airline ticket number and trip itinerary with a friend or relative who is accessible by telephone. Travel with a copy of all the information, plus a set of spare passport photos. Passport Information
• Purchase an International Driving Permit if you'll be driving in a country where English is not the primary language spoken. Even if you won't be driving, an IDP is an excellent form of identification. In case of an accident, IDP's may be surrendered instead of your U.S. driver's license. IDP's are available for purchase at your local AAA office.
• Obtain prepaid travel money cards instead of carrying large amounts of cash. AAA members can order online.
• Put all necessary medications in their original containers and pack in your carry-on bag. Verify that your medications do not violate foreign drug laws. Ask your doctor if international certificates of vaccination are required at your destination.
• Reconfirm your flight with the airline 48 hours prior to departure.
• Arrive at the airport two hours prior to departure. International travelers must check in at the ticket counter where proper identification will be requested, including a passport (depending on the destination).

Upon Arrival

• Be alert at all times. Keep your distance from luggage or packages left unattended at airports and other public places.
• Use an authorized money exchange outlet to purchase enough local currency to pay for arrival expenses, such as taxis and tips. Most airports have 24-hour currency exchange windows.
• Use authorized airport and hotel taxis. Avoid those that pick up additional persons enroute. Only travel in a taxi with a meter.

At the Hotel

• Check-in time is usually 3:00 PM. After a long flight, you may want to reserve the room for the night before. Alert the hotel of your arrival time.
• Check with the hotel staff whether or not debit cards are needed with public telephones.
• Unless you need them during the day, leave your passport, airline ticket and other valuables in the hotel safe. There may be a small fee, but it is worth the cost.
• Before exchanging large sums of money at your destination, compare exchange rates and service fees with the hotel cashier, bank and local foreign exchange office.

In the City

• Travel with a detailed map and prominently mark your hotel, embassy and police station. Carry a piece of hotel stationery with you-- it comes in handy when communicating with local taxi drivers.
• Wear a money belt or neck purse under your clothing. If a handbag is necessary, place the shoulder strap over your head and hold it in front.
• Be cautious of street vendors and attention-gathering distractions. While your focus is diverted, a second person may try to steal your belongings.
• Travel with a good phrase book or international translator to aid in communication.
• If your passport is lost or stolen, notify the local police immediately. Bring the police report, identification and spare passport photos to the nearest U.S. embassy for replacement. If your credit cards or travelers checks are lost or stolen, contact the issuing company immediately.
• Take along an inexpensive nylon duffel bag for your purchases and keep them all in one bag for ease in going through customs. Keep all receipts together.

For more information, contact AAA by e-mail or call your nearest AAA Travel Office at 1.888.366.4222.