7 Tips for International Holiday Travel

The most wonderful time of the year just happens to be the most stressful travel time of the year. This is even more true if you plan on traveling internationally over the winter holidays. We’ve put together a list of 7 essential tips for International holiday travels.

Have Realistic Expectations

Much of the travel infrastructure, from visa agencies to car rentals, has been put on pause for the last 18 months. When countries reopen to fully vaccinated international travelers in November, it will put a sudden strain on the entire travel ecosystem. We’re already seeing signs of this as people race to book their international flights. Travelers can expect long lines, flight delays, overbookings, lack of lodging availability, even food shortages as airports attempt to accommodate the sudden influx of hungry international travelers.

As a general rule, travel plans won’t always go as you’d expect. This will be particularly true this year. There is so much that travelers can’t control, so the best thing to do is focus on what you can control: your mindset. Know that even though there might be a few more bumps in the road this year, you can still have an amazing trip. 

Ensure that Passports, Visas & Other Travel Documents are Up-to-Date

As a general rule, your passport should expire no earlier than six months after you return home from your trip. For some countries, this is a requirement.

If you’re traveling to India on a visa, you’ll want to make sure it’s still valid. Check with your destination country and official agencies to ensure that all your travel documents are up-to-date and meet the specified entry requirements. 

Follow the COVID-19 Restrictions of Your Destination Country

While most countries have lifted their COVID-19 entry restrictions, experts are predicting a surge in Covid-19 this winter. This may prompt countries to reinstate their Covid requirements. Check with government or health authorities in your destination country before you depart to make sure you meet the required Covid protocols.

Check Your Destination Country’s Entry Requirements

In addition to Covid restrictions, you’ll also want to check your destination country’s other entry requirements, like possessing a valid tourist visa, may not be. It’s worth noting that many countries require foreign visitors to buy travel insurance, either through their own country or meeting specific coverage requirements.

Check your destination country’s entry requirements and give yourself ample time to satisfy them.

Have Flexible Trip Plans with Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance

If waiting in long lines and racing around to get your travel documents in order isn’t worth the hassle, or perhaps you’re unsure of the dates you want to travel, trip insurance with Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage can help. With Cancel for Any Reason trip insurance, you can cancel your trip plans for any reason and still recoup some eligible and nonrefundable prepaid travel expenses, like hotel and rental deposits, or even unused event tickets. Travel insurance with Cancel for Any Reason can minimize the financial loss if you decide that traveling now, amidst the sudden onslaught of fellow international travelers isn’t right for you. Keep in mind, though, that trip and travel insurance isn’t something you can buy at the last minute. You’ll want to buy a policy at the same time you book your hotel and schedule your flight. 

Find Ways to Manage Your Travel Anxiety

Whether you fear flying or struggle in large crowds, there are a number of tricks you can use to manage your travel anxiety. From guided meditation to breathing exercises, there’s a lot you can do to manage your emotions. Trip and travel insurance are your secret weapons when it comes to de-stressing. Paying a small amount up front can give you peace of mind that can last through your whole trip.

While trip insurance safeguards you financially from travel-related mishaps like flight delays, cancellations, missed connections, delayed or lost baggage, travel insurance ensures that you get necessary medical care while traveling abroad. Travel insurance is one of the most practical things you can buy to put your mind at ease. 

Pack Carefully & Plan Ahead

Memorable international trips begin with careful planning. This will be especially true this year, as the travel infrastructure strains to meet the sudden surge in demand. Pack methodically. Start with the essentials- the travel documents, IDs and prescriptions, First Aid Kit, COVID-19 safety accessories like hand sanitizer and extra masks- and from there consider packing clothing for every kind of weather you can expect. Give yourself more time than you usually would for tasks like document updating, pre-boarding, driving to the airport, getting to your terminal. 

With careful planning and the right mindset, your international trips can be both stress-free and amazing, which brings us to the most important travel tip of all: Have a wonderful time!