Europe and Canada are the most popular international destinations, per AAA’s data. London tops the list, with a nearly 350% increase over last year. Rome, Paris, Dublin, and Barcelona are other European hot spots. Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary are the most popular Canadian destinations.
Going abroad is like nothing else. Personally, I just renewed my passport for a long overdue trip to see family in the United Kingdom,” Twidale added. “There’s excitement this year for international travel but also a lot of questions about everything from passports to travel insurance.”
10 Ways to Prepare for International Travel
1. GIVE YOUR PASSPORT PRIORITY You can’t travel internationally without a passport. If you don’t have one, apply ASAP! The U.S. Passports are issued by the Department of State, and routine service typically takes 8 to 11 weeks. However, longer wait times, ranging from 10 to 13 weeks, are being caused by application backlogs caused by the pandemic and an increase in travel demand. There are delays of approximately seven to nine weeks for even some expedited services. If you already have a passport, check the expiration date. After your departure date from the United States, some nations require passports to be valid for six months. Your destination might also require a travel visa. To give you peace of mind, work with a travel advisor who can ensure you’re not missing any steps. AAA members get exclusive rates on expediting services for U.S. passports and global travel visas with RushMyPassport.
2. Do you not know where to go? START HERE
It can be hard to decide where to go abroad. Trip Canvas, AAA’s free online travel tool for dreaming, planning, and booking trips, is one way to get inspired by browsing trending destinations or curated trips. Or turn to AAA travel advisors in person, online, or by phone to brainstorm ideas and create itineraries.
3. FOLLOW THE LEADER
First-time travelers – or people who haven’t been abroad in years – greatly benefit from guided tours, where an expert is the one leading the way. Guided tours are a great way to explore the world without the stress of planning daily itineraries. According to AAA Member Choice Vacations, the most popular tours for new travelers are London & Paris, British Landscapes, and Ireland.
4. BEEN THERE, DONE THAT? TRY THIS
For travelers who’ve already checked Europe off their list and are craving something different, trips focused on adventure and local culture are rising in popularity. Club Adventures by AAA, which focuses on small group tours, says Antarctica, Costa Rica, Iceland, Peru, Morocco, and Vietnam are destinations in high demand. According to them, more and more tourists are traveling abroad in search of connection and authenticity. “Today’s travelers are reshaping what it means to connect with a destination. They are seeking authenticity and understanding, they long to see the world through a local lens,” said Allison Villasenor, Club Adventures Managing Director.
5. UNPACK ONCE, SEE THE WORLD
Travelers wanting to experience multiple destinations without staying at multiple hotels are booking cruises. This year, cruising is in high demand. AAA booking data shows cruises departing from international destinations are up 30% compared to 2022. Cruises sailing in Nothern Europe, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean are among the most popular. European river cruises and ships sailing in the Persian Gulf and Southeast Asia are also high on the list.
6. RENTING A CAR? YOU’LL NEED THIS
Many countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally. A valid form of identification with your name, picture, and driver information is an IDP. Even if a country doesn’t require an IDP, your rental car company might. An IDP must be issued in the same country as the driver’s license of the traveler and may not be issued more than six months before the desired effective date. AAA is one of only two private entities in the U.S. authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue an IDP.
7. PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT
When traveling internationally, having travel insurance is especially important. Protecting your trip is highly recommended in case of trip delay, expenses incurred from missed flights, lost luggage, or medical expenses due to illness or injury. Reaching out to a reputable travel advisor, such as a AAA Travel Agent, is the most effective method for determining the kind of insurance coverage you require. That person will help you choose the right plan to gain a clear understanding as to which policy (your personal health coverage or your travel insurance company’s coverage) is primary or secondary. It is essential to be aware of the policy’s coverage limits and exclusions. 8. WAYS TO SAVE
One of the best ways to save money on international travel is to be flexible with your dates. Traveling during the off-season can mean better deals and fewer crowds. For example, going to Europe in October or February can save you money on airfare and lodging. Another way to spend less is flying on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Due to the fact that many airlines charge weekend surcharges, midweek flights typically cost less. When booking a hotel, try to avoid properties in the city center, which tend to be pricier. Additionally, inquire about the hotel’s internet, parking, and resort fees—all of which add up! 9. ENROLL IN STEP
Get the most recent travel warnings and in-depth information about countries around the world by downloading the State Department’s Smart Traveler app. While you’re on the app or on the State Department website, enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to notify the State Department of your trip, so they can alert you of any unrest or advisories at your destination.
10. TAKE IT FROM THE PROS
AAA Diamonds Inspectors know a thing or two about travel. They log thousands of miles every year, inspecting hotels and restaurants, verifying the 4Cs of AAA Diamonds: Cleanliness, Comfort, Cuisine, and Consistency. Here are some pro tips from AAA Inspectors on international travel.
“Notify your credit card company of your trip and check foreign transaction fees. Use ATMs instead of exchange houses and always choose local currency if given the choice with credit card transactions.”
“Take a photo or make a copy of your passport and keep that with you. Secure your physical passport in the hotel safe while you’re sightseeing.”
“If traveling with a significant other or close friend, split your clothes into two bags, so if one suitcase is delayed or lost, you both have clothing. If traveling alone, put a few clothing items in your carry-on.”
“Put a large paper with your name, address, and contact information inside the front pocket of your checked suitcase in case your luggage tag is removed or falls off. This will give you a better chance of having your bag returned to you.”