Americans Are On Board for River Cruising and International Travel 

Traveling Internationally?  What to Know Before You Go

June 18, 2018 – AAA Travel experts are seeing a dramatic increase in the number of local travelers going on European River Cruises and traveling internationally.  

“River cruising offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the heart of multiple destinations in comfort and luxury,” said Rhonda Keller, AAA Travel manager. “It also provides an intimate view into the culture and history of some of the world’s top destinations. Millennials tend to place great value on experiential travel opportunities and are looking to river cruising as an increasingly viable option for their future vacations.”

Whether you’re planning a river cruise or an international travel destination, your adventure is best planned ahead of time, and not just when it comes to booking flights and packing.

To save you some prep time, we’ve compiled this checklist for your next long-distance journey:

• Arrive Early – up to 2 hours in advance for domestic or 3 hours for international at busy airports like MSP, DTW and ORD
• Be prepared – wear light clothing and shoes that slip off easy.  Make sure to adhere to guidelines for liquids, gel, aerosols and creams as well as electronics and batteries.
• Apply for a trusted traveler program like TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry https: https://bit.ly/2taiP8a
• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date
• Take a picture of your passport, visa and credit cards in case they are lost or stolen
• Download the Mobile Passport app if you do not have Global Entry for ease of returning back to the US after international travel https://mobilepassport.us/
• Enroll in STEP before international travel https://step.state.gov/
• International Driving Permit – Many countries do not recognize a U.S. driver's license, but most accept an International Driving Permit (IDP). AAA can help you obtain your International Driving Permit. You may also need supplemental auto insurance. Read more about driving and road safety abroad before you go.

Pack the essentials: 

While the contents of your checked bag will largely depend on the climate you’re visiting, you’ll want most of your trip’s essentials on hand in your carry-on.  But for any trip abroad, be sure not to forget the following for your carry-on:

• Passport and visa
• Medications
• Insurance and ID cards
• Cash, debit and credit cards – foreign currency can be ordered at your local AAA store
• Pen for customs cards
• Portable charger
• Earplugs, eye mask, natural sleep aid
• Electrical converters/adapters specific to your destination
• Headphones
• Anti-bacterial wipes
• Camera/memory card

Tip: Take a photo of your packed suitcase in case it gets lost.  That way, airline employees will then know what to look for, and you’ll know what was inside in case you don’t get it back.

Travel deals are changing weekly so AAA recommends consulting with a travel agent to explore the various options and special offers that are available. Often you can receive additional savings and enjoy added amenities by booking through your travel agent.  For more information call 866.241.5730 or visit aaa.com/travel.