Summer Travel Checklist: 4 Things You Must Do Before Going Abroad

Summer Travel Checklist: 4 Things You Must Do Before Going Abroad

Summer Travel Checklist: 4 Things You Must Do Before Going Abroad

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of booking that summer getaway you’ve been dreaming about all year. Whether you’re heading to the beaches of the Carribean, the streets of Europe, or the markets of Thailand, international travel opens the door to unforgettable adventures.

But before you zip up your suitcase and head to the airport, there are a few important steps you should take to make sure your trip goes smoothly—because nothing ruins a vacation faster than a preventable issue.

At iTravel2Getaway, we’re all about making travel stress-free, so we’ve put together four essential tips every traveler should follow before heading abroad this summer:

1. Do Your Research at Travel.State.Gov

Before booking your flight or finalizing your itinerary, check travel.state.gov for the latest passport rules, entry requirements, and local laws for your destination. This site also includes up-to-date travel advisories, helping you make informed decisions about your trip. Each country has different rules, so its always a good idea to check. 

2. Check Your Passport Expiration Date

This one’s easy to overlook, but it’s so important. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Even if your passport looks fine, if it’s set to expire within that window, you could be denied boarding or entry. Double-check now—passport renewals can take several weeks, especially during the summer rush.

3. Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov. This free service allows the U.S. Embassy to contact you in case of emergencies such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or family emergencies back home. It also gives you access to important safety and security updates throughout your trip.

4. Don’t Skip Travel Insurance (Especially Medical Coverage)

Travel insurance is more than lost luggage protection—it can be your lifeline in a medical emergency abroad. Make sure your policy includes emergency medical coverage and evacuation services. Some destinations even require proof of insurance for entry. Don’t wait until the last minute—build this into your planning.

Let iTravel2Getaway Handle the Details

The best part? You don’t have to figure this all out on your own. At iTravel2Getaway, we handle all of this for you—passport and visa requirements, travel advisories, insurance options, and more. When you book your group trip with us, you’re not just buying a vacation. You’re gaining peace of mind.