1. Visa or Mastercard
People commonly ask if credit cards are taken overseas. The short answer is yes. In fact, I typically only use credit overseas, but one of the most common mistakes I have seen is people taking an American Express or Discover card overseas and expecting to use it. Currently, most vendors only take Visa and Mastercard. Though Amex and Discover may entice one with great deals like no interest for 12 months or no foreign transaction fees, it is unlikely you will be able to use that card overseas.
2. No Interest Credit Cards
If you are like me, it is common to splurge on vacation and though I do not recommend going ballistic with your credit card, an option where you do not have to pay interest on the credit card debt for a certain period of time (typically 12 months) allows one to save up money to pay off that trip without paying interest fees (which can accumulate quickly) on their credit cards.
3. No Foreign Transaction Fees (Credit Card)
Another credit card tip is finding a card with no foreign transaction fees. This is common with travel and airline cards. Foreign transaction fees are typically about 3% of the charge, so they can also add up quickly. If you plan to use credit often on a trip, having a no foreign transaction fees, a no interest card, and a Visa or MC is a must.
4. Credit Union (Debit)
Most large banks charge for ATM withdrawals that are not their own branch. When traveling abroad, you may find yourself taking out cash a lot and again, more fees accumulating. There are some banks that refund a certain amount of these withdrawal charges as well as some credit unions that refund all of these charges (don’t charge at all). Be sure to familiarize yourself with your local credit union and bank fees.
5. VPN
When traveling abroad you will often find yourself using public or shared private wifi. Having a VPN to protect your data is key. This is especially important if you are working remotely or have to access private information.
6. Vaccinations (No, not Covid)
An underrated aspect of traveling is knowing what vaccinations each country requires. If you are American and plan on traveling to Europe, this is essentially not an issue (other than Covid). But if you are an American traveling to Latin America, Africa, or Asia, please make sure to check that country’s vaccination requirements and keep in mind it often takes time to book a vaccination appointment for less popular vaccines and it also can take a few weeks for that vaccine to become fully effective.
7. SIM Card or Carrier Plan
If you are an American, most carriers cover Canada, Mexico, and U.S. territories but outside of this, phone bills can rack up expensive international charges. Look into what makes the most sense for you based on how long you are traveling and what plans your carrier provides. It may make sense to get a SIM card, a daily or monthly pass from your carrier, OR just utilize Wifi and no roaming!
8. Google Translate
Speaking of using Wifi, you can download languages on Google Translate and utilize the translate feature when offline. This (amongst other apps) have made traveling so much easier as if you cannot understand someone there is a voice or written translator option.
9. Google Maps
Downloading the map of the region(s) you are staying in can do wonders for getting around without wifi.
10. WhatsApp
Most countries in Latin America and Europe use WhatsApp to communicate. This is crucial for connecting with the people you meet as well as tour guides and appointments you may make (pedicure, hair, etc…)