Travel Tips: Pre-Flight Preps for International Trips

Flying out for an international adventure is an exciting experience that promises breathtaking landscapes, cultural exploration, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a first-time or a seasoned traveler, the key to a successful trip begins with an organized prep work before flight. 

Having a pre-flight checklist ensures that you have everything in order before you go, leaving no room for any last-minute hiccups. Make sure you save and bookmark this page to make your next international trip an absolute breeze!

Travel documents 

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• Get the essentials ready before you even think about packing

• Passport. Make sure it’s valid for at least six months. 

• Visa. If needed, get approval on the right visa category at least three (3 months) in advance of your intended travel date. Check the entry requirements of your destination and whether or not there are options for visas on demand.

• Vaccination Card. Certain countries require certain vaccinations before they allow entry. Make sure you bring proof with you.

• Other valid IDs. This includes your driver’s license, National ID, etc. 

Money matters

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• Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid credit/debit card issues
  Let your bank know of the country you’ll be visiting and how long you’ll be staying there. This ensures they don’t flag your international purchases as an unexpected activity and assume they’re suspicious. 

If you’ll be using your credit card abroad, consider bringing a card that’s designed for traveling like PNB’s The Travel Club Platinum Mastercard. It’s packed with travel perks that will make your trip much more enjoyable. 

• Convert some local currency in advance
  It’s always best to bring some cash in a foreign country, even if you plan to use your cards. You may want to buy at an establishment that doesn’t accept other modes of payment or encounter a technical issue while you’re there—you just never know when you’ll need it. Research about currency exchange fees and keep in mind practical money tips to make the most of your next trip. 

Destination essentials

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• Book your accommodation, transportation, and tours in advance
  Planning ahead allows you to take advantage of early booking discounts and promotional rates from travel apps such as Klook and KKday. Prior to your flight, confirm reservations, check-in times, and claim dates. Knowing where you’ll stay, how you’ll go around, and the activities you want to do allow you to better plan your itinerary and enjoy a hassle-free trip.

PRO TIP: Keep your eyes peeled for promo codes from your favorite travel influencers to score additional discounts!

• Research about your destination

Educating yourself about local customs can lead to more authentic and enriching cultural experiences during your trip. Similarly, learning a few local words or phrases shows respect for the people and their way of life. 

• Download necessary apps in advance

Your research work should include which apps might be helpful for you during your trip. Different countries use apps differently so it’s important to keep yourself informed. Some apps you may download include: 

• Wanderlog - allows you to easily build an itinerary 

• Uber / Lyft / Grab - allows you to book and pay for rides for easy transportation

• XE Currency - gives you live exchange rate updates and lets you easily convert currencies

• Spitwise - tracks your expenses and splits your shared bills if you’re traveling with a group

• Duolingo - teaches you basic foreign phrases before your trip
  
  

Travel safety

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• Share your itinerary with an emergency contact

In case of any emergency, accident, or natural disaster, having a contact who knows your whereabouts and travel plans can be a lifeline. 

• Secure a travel insurance
  Travel insurance is not an optional add-on, especially for the biggest trips of your life. Having a convenient and reliable travel insurance like SafeTrip will protect you and your loved ones against medical emergencies, flight delays, or baggage mishaps. This way, you enjoy every moment of your trip without worrying about anything else.

• Download offline maps
  Offline maps from Google Maps allow you to navigate and find your way around without an active internet connection, ensuring you won't get lost in an unfamiliar place.

Packing essentials

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• Get The Travel Club’s Ultimate Travel Checklist  
  Having a packing checklist on hand ensures you have everything you need, minimizes the risk of forgetting items (and overpacking), and allows for a smoother, more organized travel experience. Bring a carry-on bag that will keep your in-flight essentials such as charger, pillow, and change of comfy clothes easily accessible. 

Shop for travel bags here. 

Final home checks

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• Settle bills in advance
  Double check whether any of your bills are due while you’re away. Pay for them in advance so you won’t miss any and experience unforeseen penalties.
  
  

• Keep your home secure
  
  

• Ask a friend or a family member to look after your pets (if you have any) 

• Turn off lights and unplug appliances and water source before leaving 

• Clear out the refrigerator for any food near expiry

• Lock all doors and windows

• Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor in case of any emergency

To get more travel inspiration and practical tips, follow @thetravelclubph on Facebook and Instagram. And you can also share your worthwhile and enriching journeys with us by tagging us on your posts!