US citizens are required when visiting to have a valid US passport when traveling internationally. In addition, the passport expiration date must be valid for at least 6 months past your return date to the USA.

Check with your travel advisor if you need a visa for the country you are visiting and start the application process if you do. Contact your travel advisor for recommendations for companies who can assist with processing or expediting your application.

Make photo copies (color preferred) of your passport photo page and the front and back of all credit cards you will be traveling with. If lost or stolen, this will make the task of reporting the loss much easier.

Determine which credit cards you will be traveling with and phone the companies prior to departure. Inquire about foreign transaction fees and advise them of the countries you will be visiting and on which dates.

Before traveling internationally, sign up for international voice and data plans on your cell phone to lower your roaming charges.If you will have access WiFi, consider downloading an application like Skype or WhatsAppon your phone or tablet for affordable calls to and from home.

Get the latest on travel alerts and advisories from the U.S. Department of State. Enroll in STEPand subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information.

Find out all you need to know about required and recommended immunizations for the places you plan to visit at the Center for Disease Control.