For international travel, including trips to Canada and Mexico, U.S. citizens need a valid passport. Check the expiration date on your passport, as it should be valid for several months after you plan to return to the U.S. Additionally, you must have a visa before entering some countries like Nepal. While you are planning the trip, check the U.S. Department of State's website for timely travelers' information, including any travel warnings regarding specific countries.
Do not leave home without photo identification. You will need it to get a seat on an airplane, train or cruise ship. For international travel, your passport is your photo ID. A driver's license is sufficient for domestic travel.
Before you go, verify that your health insurance covers you away from home. If it does not, secure traveler's health insurance. If you plan to rent a car, ask your insurance agent if your coverage extends to rental cars. Take along any documentation, cards or vouchers to verify your coverage.
In addition to passports and identification, take any documentation about plane, train, rental car and hotel reservations. Even these reservations are paperless, bring the confirmation numbers and the customer service phone numbers.
Cell phones, laptop computers, digital cameras and MP3 players all have one thing in common--they need electricity to recharge. Countries outside of North America have different electrical plugs, so take appropriate adaptors. Also, some cell phone service does not extend beyond the U.S., so if having the ability to call is important to you, check with your provider for alternatives.
If you are traveling with children, take games to keep them occupied and pillows to facilitate naps. Adults also need distractions. Consider paperback books that you can leave behind when you finish them. If you knit or crochet, a small project will help pass the time, but check the regulations regarding hooks, needles and scissors if you want to carry them on a plane.
Be sure to pack enough medication to last the whole trip. If you are traveling with infants, take enough baby food, diapers and formula to last a few days. Make sure that you conform to the regulations regarding liquids in carry-on bags if you are flying and leave the prescription labels on the medicine in case it is questioned by inspectors.
Check the weather forecast for your destination, and pack accordingly. For rainy climates, take a lightweight, water-resistant jacket that packs easily. In the winter, lightweight thermal underwear takes up much less room in a suitcase than bulky sweaters. For sightseeing, pack a pair of comfortable, broken-in shoes.
