International Travel Tips: What I Always Do Before Leaving the Country (and for All-Inclusive Resorts Too!)

International travel is exciting, but a little preparation goes a long way in avoiding stress once you arrive. As a travel advisor, mom of three, someone who has studied abroad and visited almost 20 countries, I’ve learned that the best trips start before you even leave home.

Many of these same tips also apply if you're heading to an all-inclusive resort in Mexico, the Caribbean, or anywhere abroad really. A little prep now means more time enjoying your vacation later. I also have a storefront linked here or on my homepage where I’ve saved all of my favorite travel must-haves from packing essentials to family travel gear and long-haul flight lifesavers so you can easily see what things you may want to grab before your trip.

Here are some of my must-do travel prep steps I start to do a few weeks before I leave that help every trip run a little smoother.

1. Download Helpful Travel & Navigation Tools

Before you leave, download any apps you might need while traveling. Having these ready before you go means you’re not relying on spotty WiFi or data access when you land. One time, I had to stop at a McDonalds in Ireland because I couldn't get my GPS to work. The last customers from the rental place had the GPS in another language and we had already left the airport. It was getting dark and we knew we still had a roughly two hour drive and had to spend valuable time trying to fix the GPS there. That is something I will never forget and I always make sure to check these things ahead of time now.

My go-to's include:

• Translation apps for quick language help.

• Google Maps (and download offline maps of your destination. You can do this right on your phone).

• WhatsApp or similar messaging apps for staying connected, plus I've noticed a lot of tour companies abroad tend to use WhatsApp.

• Travel apps like Flighty or GetYourGuide depending on the trip.

2. Save Your Important Information Offline

Don’t assume you’ll always have service or even decent WiFi as it can be inconsistent in certain areas. I always:

• Screenshot all important reservations (flights, hotels, tours, transfers) and keep everything organized in a dedicated folder on my phone for quick access.

• Save digital copies of passports, IDs, and travel documents

• If you are traveling somewhere you may not have access to keep your electronics charged, make sure to print physical copies too!

3. Take Care of Money & Mail

A few financial things before you leave can prevent headaches abroad:

• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates

• Ask about international fees so you know which cards to use

• Identify ATMs near your hotel or resort before you arrive

• Bring a backup card (just in case)

• Put mail on hold or have someone collect it

• Make sure you have travel insurance that fits your trip

Travel insurance is something I highly recommend for international travel and all-inclusive vacations. It can help protect you in case of unexpected flight delays, cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies while abroad. I always say if you're investing in a big trip, it's worth protecting it so you can travel with peace of mind.

4. Set Up Safety & Sharing Tools

For peace of mind while traveling:

• Turn on location sharing with a trusted family member or friend

• Register your trip with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) for added safety updates and support while abroad

• Make sure someone at home has your itinerary

• Keep emergency contacts easily accessible on your phone

5. Check Your Phone Plan

Before you go, review your cell phone’s international options:

• Confirm international roaming or add a travel plan if needed

• Know what data/text/call coverage you’ll have abroad

• Download any offline essentials in advance in case service is limited

6. Pack Smart + Travel Essentials

A few small items can make a big difference, plus you don't want to forget essential medications:

• Bring copies of prescriptions (especially for international travel) and always pack enough medication for your full trip plus a little extra in your carry-on, not checked luggage

• Purchase a universal travel adapter for your destination(s)

• Bring portable chargers and charging cords for all devices (my best advice with this is to also keep these accessible in a small travel pack inside your carry-on)

What I Always Tell My Clients

What would you add to your own travel prep list?

International travel, and even all-inclusive resort vacations, don’t have to feel overwhelming.

Whether you’re exploring Europe, relaxing at a Caribbean all-inclusive, or heading on a backpacking adventure, preparation is what makes the travel experience feel smooth, safe, and memorable from start to finish. These are the same things I do for my own family and the same steps I walk my clients through before every trip so they can feel confident and prepared.

If you’re someone who travels often, or even just once a year, these small habits can make a big difference in how smooth your trip feels from start to finish. Be sure to follow along on my social media for travel tips, inspiration, and a peek into my adventures along the way. And if the travel bug starts calling your name, I’m always here when you’re ready to plan!