Questions to Ask Before You Go Abroad
Planning an international trip is exciting. It is also where a little research can save you from stress, unexpected fees or even serious problems once you land. The goal is not to overthink every detail, but to ask the right questions early so you can travel confidently and focus on enjoying the experience.
Below is a practical, organized checklist of questions and reminders to research while planning a trip abroad. Think of it as your pre-trip due diligence, especially helpful for solo travelers or anyone traveling to a new country for the first time.
Airline and Airport Questions
Before you ever think about packing, confirm the basics with your airline.
- Does my airline allow charging devices with a power bank during the flight? Some airlines restrict in-flight power bank use.
- What are the carry-on and checked luggage size and weight limits for each airline on my itinerary?
- Do I save money by pre-paying for checked luggage?
- What are the liquid size allowances for carry-on bags? Some European airports have increased limits from 100ml to 200ml, but not all airports have adopted this yet.
- How early does the airline recommend arriving at the airport for international departures?
- Have I double-checked my seat assignments on all flights?
- If I have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, is it still valid and not expired?
Passport, Visa, and Entry Requirements
These are non-negotiables and should be checked well before booking.
- Does my destination require a visa?
- Does my passport expire at least six months after my return date, or whatever buffer the country requires?
- Do I need proof of onward travel or a return ticket to enter the country?
- Are there any transit visa requirements for layover countries?
Medications and Health Planning
Medication rules vary widely by country, even for common prescriptions.
- Does my destination ban or restrict certain medications such as Sudafed, Accutane or ADHD medications?
- Do I have enough prescription medication for my entire trip plus a few extra days?
- Are my medications clearly labeled in their original packaging?
- Do I need a doctor’s note for any prescriptions?
- Have I created allergy cards in the local language for any food allergies?
- Do I need any vaccines or health documentation?
Language and Communication Prep
Even basic preparation can make daily interactions easier.
- Have I downloaded Google Translate or another translation app for offline use?
- Do I know how to say common phrases such as hello, please, thank you, help and restroom?
- If English is not widely spoken, do I have my hotel or accommodation address written on a card in the local language to show taxi or rideshare drivers?
Safety and Emergency Awareness
Knowing what to do in an emergency brings peace of mind.
- What is the local equivalent of 911?
- What areas are considered safest for visitors?
- Are there neighborhoods I should avoid, especially at night?
- Have I shared my itinerary with someone at home?
- Do I know how to contact my embassy if needed?
Transportation and Getting Around
Local transportation rules can be very different from what you are used to.
- If I am taking trains, what are the luggage size and weight policies?
- Do I need to reserve train seats in advance?
- Is public transportation easy to navigate or should I plan for taxis or rideshares?
- Are Uber or similar services available and safe?
Water, Food, and Daily Logistics
Small details matter more than people realize.
- Is the tap water safe to drink or should I plan on bottled water?
- Are there local customs around tipping?
- What is the weather like during my travel dates and how does that affect packing?
- Are there any major holidays or events that could impact transportation or crowds?
Final Pre-Departure Checks
Before you leave home, do one last sweep.
- Have I saved digital and paper copies of my passport and travel documents?
- Are my credit cards set up for international use?
- Do I know my daily spending limits and foreign transaction fees?
- Have I downloaded airline, hotel, and transportation apps?
Why This Matters
Travel abroad does not need to be complicated, but it does reward preparation. Asking these questions ahead of time helps you avoid common travel pitfalls and gives you confidence once you arrive. The more prepared you are, the more freedom you have to explore, relax and enjoy the journey. Just go!
