Travel
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Best Tips for International Air Travel?

Gregory Hanson
Gregory Hanson

Careful planning and a little bit of research can make international air travel faster, safer, and more convenient. The most important step in preparing for international travel is getting all of the necessary documentation and information in order. Researching the specific layout and policies of all the airports and airlines involved in a trip can speed the travel process. International air travel is often grueling, and it can be helpful to take specific steps to ensure a comfortable and healthy flight.

All international air travel requires documentation. Passports are almost always needed, and a visa requirement is not uncommon for travelers to countries with which their home nations have difficult relations. Making sure that these vital documents are in order and that backup copies are stored safely both in luggage and with someone else is crucial.

Travelers will need a valid passport when traveling on international flights.
Travelers will need a valid passport when traveling on international flights.

Travelers will often need to have or produce other documentation. Many nations require customs declarations for citizens and non-citizens alike. Supporting documents such as receipts are needed for expensive items and should be obtained and saved. Nations may require travelers to provide other specific pieces of information in response to current events, and this should be researched before embarking on international air travel. In some cases, these requirements can be unexpected, such as a Russian requirement that a visitor present medical proof of a negative HIV status.

Traveling across time zones can confuse a person's circadian rhythms.
Traveling across time zones can confuse a person's circadian rhythms.

Unusual baggage items often require supporting documentation as well. Prescription medications commonly require a copy of a doctor’s order. Artwork or similar unusual items may need special documentation from the country of origin and may also need to be declared.

It is a good idea to study the security requirements of each airport that will be part of an itinerary. This information is usually available on the Internet. A little bit of research can minimize the amount of time spent in screening and will ensure that no personal effects are confiscated.

Wide-body commercial jet aircraft like the Boeing 747 have made international travel much easier than it was just a few decades ago.
Wide-body commercial jet aircraft like the Boeing 747 have made international travel much easier than it was just a few decades ago.

Travelers can minimize one of the major difficulties of international air travel by researching the layout and policies of the airports and aircraft before a flight. Knowing the path through an unfamiliar airport can mean the difference between making and missing a crucial connection. Similarly, taking the time to read through an airline’s policies can save both time and money.

Knowing the security requirements of each airport can help expedite the screening process.
Knowing the security requirements of each airport can help expedite the screening process.

International air travel exacts a toll on the body, but careful planning can minimize both discomfort and jet lag. If possible, arrange flights to allow a reasonable amount of sleep on the aircraft, as this can help to reset the body’s rhythm to a new time zone. Comfortable travel clothes and shoes make air travel more pleasant, and many travelers bring along neck pillows in order to sleep more comfortably. Headphones or ear plugs can aid in screening out cabin noise.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Travelers will need a valid passport when traveling on international flights.
      By: Popova Olga
      Travelers will need a valid passport when traveling on international flights.
    • Traveling across time zones can confuse a person's circadian rhythms.
      By: Ruslan Olinchuk
      Traveling across time zones can confuse a person's circadian rhythms.
    • Wide-body commercial jet aircraft like the Boeing 747 have made international travel much easier than it was just a few decades ago.
      By: hallucion_7
      Wide-body commercial jet aircraft like the Boeing 747 have made international travel much easier than it was just a few decades ago.
    • Knowing the security requirements of each airport can help expedite the screening process.
      By: James Steidl
      Knowing the security requirements of each airport can help expedite the screening process.
    • Before flying overseas, travelers should research the layout of the airports at which they'll be landing to make getting to connecting flights easier.
      By: Shutterbas
      Before flying overseas, travelers should research the layout of the airports at which they'll be landing to make getting to connecting flights easier.
    • Many travelers within Europe rely on regional and national airlines that sometimes offer inexpensive fares.
      By: HappyAlex
      Many travelers within Europe rely on regional and national airlines that sometimes offer inexpensive fares.
    • Luggage insurance is a type of insurance policy travelers purchase to protect against loss of or damage to baggage during transit.
      By: varandah
      Luggage insurance is a type of insurance policy travelers purchase to protect against loss of or damage to baggage during transit.