Travel Requirements, Made Simple

From passports and REAL ID to visas and entry rules, this guide helps you understand what you need before you go—so nothing stands between you and your trip.

a hat with a cell phone and a hat
a hat with a cell phone and a hat

International travel can feel overwhelming—not because it’s complicated, but because no one explains it clearly.

This page is designed to give you calm, straightforward guidance on the most common travel requirements, what applies to your trip, and when to take action—without jargon, stress, or last-minute surprises.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Your Passport

For most international travel, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date and contain at least two blank pages.

If your passport is expiring soon, damaged, or missing pages, it’s best to renew early—even if your trip is months away.

  • First-time passports

  • Renewals

  • Expedited processing

  • Lost or damaged passports

  • Child passports

Not sure what applies to your trip?
Book a quick call, and I’ll walk you through it.

REAL ID

Beginning May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers will need a REAL ID–compliant license (or another accepted form of ID, such as a passport) to board domestic flights.

If you’re unsure whether your ID qualifies, now is the time to check—DMV appointments and processing times can vary.

Want to confirm your status?
Check the official TSA REAL ID guidelines.

Visas & Entry Rules

Some destinations require visas, electronic travel authorizations, or proof of onward travel—even for short stays.

  • Your passport country

  • Your destination

  • Length of stay

  • Purpose of travel

This is where many travelers feel confused—and where professional guidance makes a real difference.

Requirements can depend on:

Not sure what applies to your destination?
Book a quick call, and I’ll confirm what you need based on your dates.

Global Entry, TSA PreCheck & More

These programs can significantly reduce airport stress and wait times.

  • TSA PreCheck – Faster U.S. security screening

  • Global Entry — Expedited U.S. re-entry + TSA PreCheck

  • Mobile Passport — App-based expedited entry

Processing times can take months, so early planning matters.

Not sure which program fits your travel style?
Book a quick call, and I’ll recommend the best option for your itinerary.

Health, Vaccines & Local Rules

Some destinations require or recommend certain vaccines, health forms, or proof of coverage.

  • Customs restrictions (what you can bring in)

  • Entry forms or digital arrival cards

  • Health declarations (if required)

  • Tourist taxes (paid at check-in or arrival)

  • Proof of onward travel or accommodations (occasionally requested)

These details matter—and they’re easy to miss without guidance.

Local rules can include:

Want to verify requirements for your destination?
Check the official CDC Travelers’ Health guidance.

Not sure what applies to your trip?
Book a quick call and I’ll confirm what you need based on your destination and dates.

Why This Matters for Your Trip

Most travel issues don’t happen at the resort—they happen at the airport.

My role is to prevent those moments by confirming your requirements early—so you travel with clarity, not last-minute surprises.

  • Passport validity + blank pages

  • REAL ID & accepted ID options

  • Entry forms, visas & local rules

  • Trusted traveler programs (PreCheck / Global Entry)

  • Health guidance & destination-specific requirements

Want help navigating all of this?

If you’d like personalized guidance based on your destination, timeline, and travel style, I’m here to help.

No pressure—just clarity.