Have a valid passport and required visas prior to travel. Documentation of immunizations will also be required as international travel insists that all vaccines are up-to-date. Non-U.S. citizens must carry an alien registration card (green card) for re-entry into the country if they plan to return.
If the traveler is under the age of 18 and traveling alone, he or she must provide airline personnel with a notarized travel permission letter. If the traveler is taking a dog overseas, he or she must bring proof of a rabies vaccination. In case of an emergency, it may be wise to purchase medical insurance for the duration of the trip.
International travelers should seek out U.S. Customs to receive export papers on computers, electronics, and cameras to make clearance through U.S. Customs easier on return. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the easiest way to get through security check points is to de-clutter carry-on luggage.
Liquid items exceeding 3 oz. that are not secured in a plastic, clear bag will be prohibited. The following items are prohibited in carry-on luggage: sharp objects, sporting goods, guns, firearms, tools, martial arts and self-defense items, explosives, flammables, and disabling chemicals. The Federal Aviation Administration requires all carry-on bags not to exceed 45 linear inches. One carry-on bag is allowed per passenger, plus one personal bag such as a laptop or purse. Do not leave a bag unattended at anytime.
Checked luggage is baggage that a traveler checks in at the ticket counter or curbside. Do not lock checked baggage unless using a TSA accepted and recognized lock. Refrain from packing film as screening equipment may damage it. Rather than over-packing a suitcase, use multiple suitcases. Check with airlines to determine maximum weight limitations.
Place identification tags on all luggage in case luggage is lost or misplaced. All luggage is subject to 100 percent screening and may be opened if deemed necessary. This being said, take into consideration what is placed in checked luggage as airline personnel may need to open the suitcase to inspect it. And finally, wait to wrap gifts for friends and family overseas. Items may need to be opened if airline personnel deem them suspicious.
