Whether you’re planning a family vacation out of the country or need to travel internationally for business, we at Town & County Travel, Pittsford, NY’s premier travel agency, say there are some things you should know before you board your plane. Traveling even short distances can be stressful, so for seamless international travel, prepare early for your long trip ahead.

To make your international travel plans go off without a hitch, follow these seven preparation tips:

• Notify Your Bank: It’s always a good idea to notify your bank if you’re planning to use your debit or credit cards while out of the country. Many banks block foreign transactions for your security, so notify your financial institution in advance of your travel plans to ensure you have access to your money.
• Get A Passport: If you don’t already have one, getting a passport is a must before traveling internationally, and the process can be lengthy — so get your passport squared away early. Processing times can take up to a couple months, and you won’t want to pay rush processing fees just because you overlooked this detail. If you currently have a passport, make sure it is valid for six months after your travel date.
• Determine If You Need Vaccinations: If you’re traveling to a third-world country or to one that is experiencing health outbreaks, you may need a series of vaccines. Always talk with your doctor about your international travel plans, or check the CDC’s health page.

• Check Your Phone Plan: Not all cell phones work internationally, and if they do, you could be in for some hefty fees without the correct plan. Call your cell phone provider to ask about international calling, texting, and data features, and add any additional coverage you might need for the dates you’ll be gone.
• Pay Your Bills: Paying your bills before you head out of town is a smart idea, especially if you plan to be gone for a while. To avoid being delinquent on your payments, you may also want to consider setting up automatic withdrawals.
• Hold Your Mail: If you’re going to be traveling internationally for more than a week, it’s a good idea to put your mail on hold. Identity theft is a serious concern, and an over-stuffed mailbox could be a jackpot for burglars.
• Pack Smart: Do your best to pack only what you need during your travels, as you won’t want to haul tons of heavy luggage throughout the airport. Only take the necessities, and consider buying things like shampoo once you arrive at your destination to free up space in your suitcase.

For more helpful international travel tips, call Pittsford’s Town & County Travel today at (585) 381-2850. To see a complete list of our services, we invite you to also browse our website.