Hilton Grand Vacations Members can access incredible destinations worldwide, including Mexico, Canada, Japan, the Caribbean, Italy, Portugal and Bali. While traveling abroad may be daunting, a little preparation can help you avoid stress and save time and money.

Here are 14 tips to help you plan your first international vacation and spend more time exploring.

 

Research Ahead Of Time

1. Know Before You Go

Learn a few key things about your destination before you land through reputable sources such as travel.state.gov.

• What language do locals speak? You don’t need to be fluent in a new language, but learning to greet and thank someone goes a long way. After greeting someone in their language, then ask if they speak your language.
• What are some basic rules of etiquette? Knowing “please” and “thank you” in a foreign language is just one aspect of etiquette. Understanding cultural norms and dress codes helps you be a more conscientious traveler.
• What currency should you use? Pull out cash ahead of time in case of emergencies. While you can exchange currency at the airport, you may get a better rate at your local bank or from an in-country ATM.
• What’s the best way to get around? Culture shock can set in quickly if you’re struggling to get from the airport to your hotel. Determine whether it’s easiest to get around via train, taxi or on foot.
• What will the weather be like at your destination? The weather can impact your packing list and itinerary, so it’s important to know what to expect so you’re fully prepared.

2. Plan Your Itinerary (And Back-Up Activities)

With this information, you can start planning how you’ll spend your vacation — whether its relaxing on the beach, exploring a new city or entertaining the entire family.  

And, because life rarely goes as planned, prepare a list of back-up activities.

Raeanne V., a Member since 2019, discovered this on a trip to Bali. “It rained nine out of the 10 days we were there. So, prepare some back-up activities if the weather doesn’t cooperate,” she said. She passed the time when it rained by playing padel (an indoor racquet-based sport like squash) and exploring the local food scene.

3. Find Your Flight

Booking affordable flights can be tricky when it comes to international destinations. Another tip from Raeanne is to consider alternatives. “First, look at prices from nearby airports,” she said. “I live in New Jersey, where four airports are within a 90-minute drive. Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly out of Newark, but other times Philadelphia is the way to go. And check one-way flights from one airport and return flights to another. My parents once saved $300 by flying out of LaGuardia Airport but back into JFK.”

 

Or explore other transportation options, such as a train through Europe or a Baltic Sea cruise.

4. Book Your Top Reservations Before You Go

Another Member, Eric Z., offered his planning checklist: “Book your must-do activities before you arrive. Some of the more popular activities fill up weeks in advance.” That way you’re not scrambling to book museum visits, historical tours and outdoor adventures.

These reservations should include restaurants. Eric also recommends using Open Table to book, change or cancel reservations for free.

Before Take-Off

5. Check Your Documents

Give yourself plenty of time to get your passport before your flight. Processing could take up to a few months. If you already have a passport, make sure it’s up-to-date. If your expiration date is less than 12 months away, double-check the requirements for your destination, including whether you need to apply for a visa in advance.

And don’t wait for panic to set in at the airport. Make sure you are ready with your passport, visa and any other paperwork — plus copies of your documents — you need to show upon arrival

6. Take Care Of Mail And Bills

Put your mail on hold or ask a neighbor or friend to pick it up periodically. This will reduce the risk of someone stealing important mail and keep your home more secure. Potential burglars may notice you aren’t home if your mailbox is overflowing.

Unfortunately, just because you’re leaving for vacation doesn’t mean your regular bills are. Pay your bills ahead of time or set up automatic payments so you aren’t stuck with late fees.

7. Pack Smart

It may be tempting to bring as much luggage as possible, but savvy travelers advise sticking with a carry-on suitcase and a personal item, like a purse or messenger bag. Traveling from place to place and navigating a new country is more manageable with less luggage. Plus, select Hilton Grand Vacations properties have on-site laundry, which can help you downsize how many outfits you pack.

 

8. Dress Accordingly, On And Off The Plane

Because you're sticking with a carry-on, save space by wearing your bulkier clothing or layering pieces on the plane. Todd H. also recommends wearing compression socks for long flights to keep blood moving and prevent swollen ankles.

Once you’ve landed, consider the weather and cultural practices. Bring sunscreen and loose clothing for sunny weather, or layer up in cooler destinations. If you’re visiting religious sites like Angkor Wat in Cambodia or Saint Mark’s Basilica in Italy, wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.

9. Prep Your Phone

In addition to bringing chargers and outlet adapters, talk to your cell phone provider to make sure you have (or can add on) an international roaming plan. Scan or take pictures of your documents as a back up. Then download helpful travel apps, such as Google Translate, ride shares and checklists, and ensure they work offline.

Check out nine expert tips for taking better vacation photos using just your phone.

Be Financially Savvy

10. Double-Check Your Credit Card

One of the easiest ways to save money on international vacations is to get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, such as the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card.

Regardless of your credit card, call your banks and credit card companies before you depart to notify them of your travel plans. Many banks and cards will automatically freeze if there’s a transaction in another country, so avoid the hassle before you go.

11. Plan For Cash Or Card

While more and more places accept payment via card or smartphone, many spots are still cash only. Withdrawing local currency at ATMs often offers better exchange rates, but research relevant withdrawal fees ahead of time.

 

Once You’ve Landed

12. Minimize Jet Lag

Don’t let jet lag slow down your vacation plans. Try adjusting to your destination’s hours as soon as you can. Adapting your bedtime by a few hours can make a world of difference. If you’re struggling to fall asleep, try eating smaller meals, hydrating and avoiding alcohol, caffeine and exercise late in the day. Or if your destination has pushed your bedtime back, stay awake as long as possible and get outside and explore.

13. Fly Through Customs

If traveling to or from the United States, Global Entry is the best way to avoid long lines through U.S. Customs. See if you’re eligible for a Global Entry Card before your trip, especially if you plan on traveling to several countries.

14. Stay With Hilton Grand Vacations

With spacious Suites, resort-like amenities and a portfolio that spans the world, Hilton Grand Vacations offers international travelers just what they need.

"Hilton Grand Vacations meets us where we are. Sometimes we like to stay at a resort. Sometimes we prefer a local hotel. Sometimes an RCI® timeshare. With HGV, anything and everything is on the table."

Read “How To Plan A Perfect Vacation, According To The Experts” for more travel tips.