Planning for an international trip is an exhilarating experience in itself. You have a long list of to-dos before you board that awaited flight. However, shortlisting the various places to visit and things to do can be so occupying sometimes that you might miss out on some other essential factors. Here's a list of five things that you should remember while planning your international trip.

• Keep your passport updated and visa ready
  Passports and Visa are the first thing that you should check while planning an international trip. Check the validity of your passport and get it renewed if needed. For most countries, you are required to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date you return from your trip. You should also keep a copy of the information pages of your passport in a separate bag for emergencies.
  Similarly, every country has a different visa approval time and so do not wait until the last hour to apply for your Visa.

• Keep a hold on your finances
  Deciding on your budget and payment method is very crucial while you plan an international trip. It is generally advisable to use a credit card while travelling abroad to avoid the hassle of carrying cash. There are many credit cards that provide attractive offers for overseas usage. You can look for the best credit card for international travel and earn reward points and discounts on them. A travel credit card like Citi PremierMiles, which offers airline miles and free lounge access could be the most beneficial for you.

• Get a travel insurance
  Any adverse situation can spoil the fun of your international trip. While you cannot predict them, a travel insurance plan could help you cope with it. Travel insurance provides you protection against emergencies like flight cancellation and delays, luggage theft, medical emergencies, etc. In case of an emergency, it could prove to be your only means of assistance in a foreign land.
  Moreover, to avoid any medical emergencies, inquire in advance about any travel or weather warnings provided by the country you are travelling to. You can also consider inquiring about the health information and vaccination requirement applicable to that country.

• Know the means of transport
  You are more likely to witness the real essence of a new place when you visit it like a local. While visiting a new country, research about its internal transport means to save your time and money. Find out which means of transport will best suit you, keeping in mind your budget and comfort. Enquire if there is any pass or single payment system through which you can pay for all the modes of transport. If you do not want to travel in public transport, you can also look for cab services that you can hire once you land there.

• Travel like a local
  Blending with the local people will give you enriched memories and a better travel experience. While looking for essentials like accommodation and places to visit, also read about the culture, religion, upcoming festivals and traditions of the country. Try to understand some of their basic public etiquettes and a few salutations in their language(s) that will help you mingle with them easily.
  Though it could be some extra work, gathering some additional insights about the country and planning around them would help you return with a bag full of memories and fun moments. After all, ‘an hour of planning can save you 10 hours of doing’.
  Happy journey!

Quick Links

Make the most of your savings, everyday spend, shopping escapade and travel experience with Citi. View all credit cards and apply for a credit card with Citi to start enjoying the offers today.

• Citi Rewards Credit Card - Earn reward points on all spends. Enjoy the many ways a Citi Rewards Credit Card makes every day more rewarding for you!
• Citi Cash Credit Back Card - Get cash back on all your bill spends. Do what you've always done but do it for less with Citi Cash Back Credit Card. Plus, enjoy savings and evergreen cash back benefits all year long.
• Citi PremierMiles Credit Card Get your passport to complimentary air travel and the freedom to choose from over 100 airlines with this Citi PremierMiles Credit Card. It’s more miles, less hassle! So, where are you going next?
• IndianOil Citi Credit Card - Save on your fuel bills. Get reward points that collect quickly, and convert easily to free fuel. Collect points on all purchases, and 4 times the points on fuel with IndianOil Citi Credit Card
• Citi First Citizen Credit Card – Get instant savings and vouchers for the shopping enthusiast in you with Citi First Citizen Credit Card.
• Citi Prestige Credit Card - Enjoy exclusive luxury experiences in travel and lifestyle on your Citi Prestige Credit Card

Looking for another credit card? You can compare credit cards and choose the one that is ideal for your needs.