Don't Get Rejected at Check-In

The airport is the worst place to find out that you have insufficient documentation for travel. As an airline customer service agent I saw many passengers who were not allowed to travel because they did not do the appropriate preparation for their trip. If you are flying internationally then you will need a passport for sure, and there are often other documents required for entry into many different countries depending on where you are from. If you don't provide the necessary documents for your trip when you check in, the airline will turn you away.

Before you book your airline tickets you should do the necessary research to determine what you will need to travel internationally. Getting the documentation you need to cross borders can take a long time, so don't leave it until the last minute.

You should start preparing for a trip by getting a passport if you don't already have one. If you have a passport, make sure it has at least one year of validity remaining on it. If your passport expires in less than 12 months, then start the application process for a renewal. Passport issuing authorities can take a long time to get you your new passport book after application. Make sure you give yourself a large buffer zone to get your new passport.

Once you get a passport you will need to research what else you need to do to travel where you want to go. Some countries require a Visa for entry. You may be required to apply for Electronic Travel Authorization, (ETA) or get specific vaccinations. There are countries that require you to have a return ticket to prove that you will be leaving the country you are visiting, and some countries require you to show proof of adequate funds to cover your expenses during your visit.

If you have not thought about these things, it's time to do some research on your destination and get what you need before you travel.

DO NOT listen to your friends or family when it comes to needing a visa unless they are certified travel experts. You should confirm all information via your airline AND through a country's immigration website. Both of these resources will have all of the information that you need to adequately prepare for your trip.

Can you imagine being turned away from your dream trip when the airline won't let you check in? That would be heartbreaking! Don't get left out of your vacation, make sure you have everything you need before you are ready to go.