How to Make International Travel Arrangements

Planning a trip abroad is exciting, but you need to begin preparations well in advance to ensure everything goes smoothly. While some people hire a travel agent to take care of their trip planning, you can save money by making your own international travel arrangements. Much of your preparation and the steps you take will depend on your destination, as every country has its own specific rules and regulations in regards to international travel.

Instructions

1

Start a folder (either on your desktop or an actual folder for written information) in which to keep information about your trip all in one place. As you continue to plan, you'll want everything from flight information to hotel confirmations all in one place.

2

Visit the website of the consulate of the country to which you are traveling and read the information for visitors. Write down what specific type of visa you will need to go along with your passport; in most cases this will be a tourist visa, but depending on your situation you may need to apply for a different type of visa.

3

Write down any records or documents your destination requires of tourists. For example, you may need to provide proof of immunizations for diseases such as malaria or tuberculosis in order to enter some countries.

4

Check your passport to be sure the expiration date is after your trip, and give yourself several months to renew if necessary. Register for the appropriate visa at the consulate website you found in Step 2.

5

Write down a general itinerary for your trip. Research your destination and take notes on landmarks and points of interest you wish to visit, taking into consideration what time of year you will be visiting. As the date gets closer, check the weather forecasts to help you decide what type of clothes to pack.

6

Purchase your plane tickets and keep the tickets or confirmation in your folder. Because you are flying internationally, you will likely have at least one layover. Choose flights with ample time during layovers, particularly since you will be dealing with a line in customs.

7

Book your hotel or hostel arrangements at least one month in advance, and save all confirmations in your folder. Depending on your trip, you may be staying at more than one accommodation. In this case, write down check-in and check-out times, so you can figure out what to do with your luggage before checking into a new location. Look into cab fares, hotel or airport shuttle information, or the city's bus system to decide on the best transportation options once at your destination.

8

Print and organize all of your documents, including tickets, confirmation numbers, records, your passport and visa, and at least two valid photo I.D.s in your carry-on bag for easy access when you arrive at the airport.