01. Passport and Visa

Check your passport first. Most countries require it to be valid for at least six months from your travel date, and you need enough blank pages for stamps. If it is close to expiry, renew it before doing anything else.

Know which visa you need. Requirements differ by country, and the rules can change, so always check the latest information for your destination.

• E-Visa: Applied for online, and usually approved by email. Many popular destinations offer this route.
• Stamp Visa: Needed for countries that require a physical stamp on your passport, often with a submission at a visa centre or embassy.
• Visa on arrival or visa-free entry: Available for some destinations, but usually with conditions on stay length and documents.

Tip: Apply well in advance, because processing times vary and peak season can slow things down. Also read the fine print on stay duration, single or multiple entry and any fees.

02. Forex and Money Planning

Running short of money abroad is stressful, and carrying too much cash is risky. A mix works best.

• Forex card: A prepaid travel card is safer than cash and helps you avoid carrying large amounts. Load it in the local currency or a widely accepted one.
• Some cash: Keep a small amount of local currency for taxis, tips and small shops that do not take cards.
• Debit or credit card: Check with your bank that it is enabled for international use, and ask about transaction fees.
• Rules and limits: Foreign exchange is subject to Indian regulations and tax rules, so confirm the current limits with your bank or authorised dealer before you exchange money.

Tip: Notify your bank about your travel dates so your card is not blocked for unusual activity, and keep backup payment options in a separate bag.

03. Travel Insurance

Many travellers skip insurance to save money, and then regret it when something goes wrong. A good policy usually covers:

• Medical emergencies and hospital costs abroad, which can be very expensive.
• Trip cancellation or interruption due to illness or unforeseen events.
• Lost or delayed baggage.
• Lost passport assistance and personal liability.

Important: If you are travelling to Europe, note that Schengen visas require insurance with a minimum medical cover, so check the current requirement. Read what the policy excludes, especially for pre-existing conditions and adventure activities like scuba diving or skydiving.

04. Documents to Carry

Keep originals in your hand luggage and store digital copies in your email or cloud storage. Also carry printed copies as backup.

• Passport and visa approval
• Flight tickets and boarding passes
• Hotel booking confirmations
• Travel insurance policy and emergency contact number
• Forex card and bank cards
• Passport-size photographs
• Proof of funds or employment documents, if the visa requires them
• Vaccination certificates, if your destination asks for them
• Local address and contact details of your stay

05. A Few Extra Things Worth Doing

• Save emergency numbers: Note the local emergency number and the address of the Indian embassy or consulate at your destination.
• Sort out connectivity: Check international roaming rates, or buy a local SIM or eSIM.
• Check baggage and customs rules: Airlines and countries have limits on weight, liquids, medicines and items you can carry.
• Pack medicines with prescriptions: Carry them in original packaging.