Planning an international trip can be exciting, but also overwhelming. From booking flights to sorting out documents, there’s a lot to think about. A well-planned trip helps avoid last-minute hassle and also saves money. Whether you’re travelling for fun, study or work, a few simple tips can make a big difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials to help you plan the perfect international trip—step by step.
Key tips for planning an international trip
To ensure a perfect trip, here are some effective tips that you can abide by:
1. Know the season
While most travellers watch out for airfares and hotel accommodation costs, they tend to give the ‘season’ a miss. However, note that travelling in peak seasons can increase your expenses manifold.
2. Check prices of flight tickets on airlines’ websites
Thanks to the availability of travel aggregators, you can compare ticket prices of several flights and avail the cheapest one. However, it’s advisable to check out the prices on websites of individual airlines too.
3. Look for serviced apartments
While hotels are usually the first choice for travellers, serviced apartments can be a better and cheaper alternative.
4. Use public transportation
Using public transportation during your trip serves twin benefits – it saves money and is safe.
5. Plan ahead
Each international tourist destination offers a host of things to indulge in. Planning in advance can save you from last-minute hassles.
6. Gather necessary visa-related information
A visa is your ticket to a foreign land. Gather all the essential information regarding it beforehand. Today, all the relevant information is available on the embassy website of the country you are visiting.
7. Carry plastic money
It is advisable to carry plastic money over cash, simply because of the convenience factor. Consider a debit/credit card that neither charges a currency conversion fee nor international ATM -withdrawal fees.
8. Avail travel insurance
Travel insurance is an absolute necessity while travelling overseas. It offers a financial cushion in case of contingencies such as loss of baggage, essential documents, missed or delayed flights, medical emergencies and much more.
Things to do before travelling abroad
Here are a few things to do before you start:
1. Understand the local culture and laws
Every country has different rules and customs. Learn about the local etiquette, dos and don’ts and basic laws. This helps you avoid accidental offenses.
2. Check entry and health requirements
Some countries require forms to be filled online before arrival. Others need proof of vaccinations or COVID tests. Check these in advance on official travel or embassy websites.
3. Create a travel folder (digital and physical)
Keep your travel plans, hotel bookings, emergency contacts and ID copies organised in one place. Save them on your phone and carry a printed copy as well.
4. Know emergency numbers
Save the local emergency numbers—like police, ambulance and your country’s embassy. It’s good to be prepared, even if you never use them.
5. Adjust to time zones in advance
Try shifting your sleep schedule a few days before flying. It helps reduce jet lag, especially if there’s a big time difference.
6. Check luggage rules for airlines and countries
Some airlines or countries restrict what you can carry—like certain foods, medicines or electronics. Avoid issues at customs by double-checking baggage rules.
Essential documents to carry during travel
When you're travelling abroad, carrying the right documents is just as important as packing your clothes. Missing even one essential paper can cause delays or issues at immigration. Here's a list of documents you should always keep handy:
Passport
The most important document for international travel. Make sure it’s valid for at least six months from your travel date.
Visa
Carry a printed and digital copy of your visa, if required for your destination.
Flight tickets
Keep both printed and digital copies of your flight booking and boarding passes.
Hotel booking confirmations
Print out your accommodation details. These may be required at immigration.
Travel insurance policy
Carry a copy of your insurance document that includes policy number and emergency contact details.
Government-issued ID
Carry an extra form of identification like a driving licence or Aadhaar card for domestic identification.
Emergency contact list
Write down key contacts like family, local embassy, travel agent and insurance provider.
Credit/debit cards and currency exchange proof
Carry your international cards, and if you’ve exchanged cash, keep the receipt. It can be helpful during currency declarations.
Itinerary and activity bookings
Have a printed or digital copy of your planned activities, tours and transport bookings.
Copies of all important documents
Carry both digital backups (on cloud or email) and photocopies in case anything gets lost.
Importance of travel insurance for your international trip
Travelling abroad comes with uncertainties—flight delays, medical emergencies or lost baggage. That’s why having travel insurance is essential.
Buying travel insurance online is quick and ensures you're protected from unexpected expenses. If you’re going on a one-time vacation, a single trip insurance policy is a cost-effective option. It covers things like hospital bills, trip cancellations and stolen belongings.
Conclusion
Planning ahead is the key to a smooth and stress-free international trip. From carrying the right documents to buying travel insurance online, every small step adds to a safer and more enjoyable journey. Whether it's your first trip or one of many, smart preparation makes all the difference.
FAQs
1. What is the ideal time to start planning an international trip?
Start 3-6 months in advance for better deals and enough time for visa and bookings.
2. What should I do if my passport gets lost or stolen abroad?
Report it to local police and contact your embassy.
3. What’s the difference between multi-trip and single trip insurance?
Single trip insurance covers one journey. Multi-trip is for frequent travel in a year.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.