Before You Go: What to Know Before Traveling to Any Country
People often say I make travel look easy. And sure, these days I mostly don’t end up crying in airports or getting stuck in visa limbo. But behind every trip is a mess of open tabs, passport stamps, and way too many questions like: Can I drink the tap water? Do I need a plug adapter? Is this the kind of place where you tip or where tipping is insulting?
The truth is, good travel doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built on preparation—and a little bit of trial, error, and Wi-Fi scavenging. So whether you’re booking your very first international trip or you’ve got a few passport pages to go, this checklist is here to save you from the little things that turn into big problems when you land.
What to Research Before Traveling to Any Country
1. Do You Need a Passport, Visa, or Vaccinations?
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Check if you need a visa—and if you can get it on arrival, online, or in advance.
Research vaccination requirements. Some destinations require yellow fever, COVID-19, or others as a condition of entry.
Tip: Don’t rely on blogs alone—always double-check with the destination’s embassy or official government site.
2. What’s the Culture Like?
Are there clothing customs? Can you enter temples or churches in shorts?
Is tipping expected—or considered rude?
How do locals greet each other? Is eye contact welcome or offensive?
Understanding basic etiquette can go a long way in avoiding uncomfortable moments—or just not being that tourist.
3. Do You Speak the Language?
You don’t need to be fluent, but learning “hello,” “thank you,” and “where’s the bathroom?” never hurts.
Download offline Google Translate.
Screenshot key addresses or phrases.
Know how to ask for help or say “I don’t speak [language].”
4. How Are You Getting There—and Around?
Look up flight, train, and bus options.
Research public transportation or rideshare apps (some places don’t have Uber).
Will you need to rent a car? If so, check local driving laws and if you’ll need an International Driving Permit.
5. Where Are You Staying?
Compare hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals. Don’t just go for pretty photos—read reviews for safety, location, and noise.
Check what’s included: Wi-Fi, breakfast, towels, air conditioning?
6. What Kind of Experience Are You Looking For?
Are you here to relax? To explore? To hike volcanoes or sip wine on balconies?
Clarify your goals so you don’t come home thinking, “I should’ve just stayed in one place.”
7. How Will You Pay for Everything?
What currency do they use?
Are credit cards accepted?
Do you need to bring cash—and how widely are ATMs available?
Should you tip, and how much?
Also, check your credit cards for foreign transaction fees, and notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid account freezes.
8. What Tours or Excursions Are Worth Booking?
Research tours ahead of time—some sell out weeks in advance.
Check if it’s cheaper to book locally or online.
Read reviews to avoid overpriced tourist traps.
9. What’s the Weather Like?
Just because it’s summer at home doesn’t mean it’s beach season where you’re going.
Look up average temperatures and rainfall.
Pack accordingly: layers, rain gear, walking shoes, sunscreen.
10. Will You Have Internet Access?
Can you use your phone plan abroad?
Is a local SIM or eSIM more affordable?
Does your hotel have Wi-Fi?
If you’re working remotely or need to navigate maps on the go, this is crucial.
11. What’s the Political Climate or Safety Situation?
It’s not about fear—it’s about awareness.
Check travel advisories.
Look up local laws (especially around protests, drugs, alcohol, and dress codes).
Be aware of common scams or tourist-targeted thefts.
12. How Long Do You Want to Stay?
Think about travel fatigue and how long it takes to adjust to jet lag.
Don’t overbook yourself—build in recovery time or flexibility in case plans change.
13. Will You Stay in Touch With People Back Home?
Share your itinerary with someone you trust.
Make a plan for staying connected (WhatsApp, email, local SIM).
Be sure at least one person knows where you are and when you’re due back.
14. What Are the Emergency Options?
Know where the nearest hospital or clinic is.
Look up how to contact your country’s embassy or consulate.
Consider travel insurance for medical, cancellations, and lost luggage.
Bonus: Don’t Forget These (Surprisingly Important) Details
Sometimes it’s the small stuff that makes the biggest difference. Here are a few things I’ve forgotten before—so you don’t have to.
Screenshot everything: Hotel addresses, confirmations, directions. Don’t rely on Wi-Fi.
Bring the right adapter and check voltage: Otherwise your favorite hair tool becomes a souvenir.
Watch for local holidays: Parades are fun—until you realize your train is canceled.
Know photo etiquette: Some sites, people, and places are off-limits or sacred.
Avoid credit card surprises: Foreign transaction fees are real. Choose the right card.
Don’t pack banned meds: Some OTC meds are illegal in places like Japan and the UAE.
Learn a few emergency phrases: Especially if you have allergies or a medical condition.
Check for airport exit fees: Yes, some countries charge you to leave.
Pack a reusable bag: Many places charge for plastic, and you’ll want one for snacks, beach gear, or laundry.
