INTERNATIONAL
BY GENE SUTCH
Planning for a trip abroad? Planning ahead and knowing what to expect as you travel internationally can make your international
journey fun, rewarding, and an exceptionally enjoyable as you experience different cultures and meet new people. You can get the
most out of your international journey with these helpful travel tips:
PLANNING YOUR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
• Download the DC Airports App for travel information at your
fingertips and to enhance your travel experience
• Apply for Trusted Traveler programs to help speed up the time to go
through TSA and Customs cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs
• Make sure your passport is up to date
• Bring a charger adapter that will work in the countries you
plan to visit
• Activate your phone’s global capabilities
• Check the currency and exchange rates in the countries you plan
to visit and always have some local cash
• Make sure your credit card will work in the country you’re visiting
and call your bank or credit card provider to advise them of your
travel plans
• Pack your medicine in a way that is easy to access in your
personal or carry on bag
• Research events going on while you’re there and buy tickets in
advance for places you know you want to see
• The night before your trip, download or print your boarding pass
• Learn everyday phrases in the language of the country you plan
to visit. It’s also a good idea to use a language translator app on
your smartphone
• Map out your trip with things that you plan to do each day and
check local transportation options (bus, train, ride share. etc…)
Have fun and enjoy experiencing different cultures and meeting
new people while taking lots of pictures so you can share and look
back on the great times that you had on your journey
FLYWASHINGTON.COM 16 AUTUMN 2019
STARTING YOUR JOURNEY
• Be sure to securely pack your passport in your personal bag for
easy access
• Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure
• Determine how you will get to the airport
Drive/Ride | Uber/Lyft/Taxi | Metro/Bus
• Learn how to navigate the airport
Know the terminal and gate for your flight
Check into food and retail options at the airport
WHILE ON THE PLANE
• Pack a small personal bag with the following:
Light snacks
Headphones if you want to listen to music or watch a movie
It’s a good idea to bring a neck pillow for a comfortable nap
IF YOU HAVE A CONNECTING FLIGHT
• Check airport signs or airline website for your connecting flight
terminal and gate location
• Check airport website in advance to find your way around the airport
ARRIVING AT YOUR DESTINATION
• Check local transportation options (bus, train, ride share. etc…) and
determine how you will get to your hotel
• Check into your hotel and be ready for the trip of a lifetime