International travel, when done thoughtfully broadens the mind and creates unforgettable moments. But even the simplest journeys require thoughtful preparation to be enjoyable. 

Whether you’re off on a quick weekend getaway or embarking on an international adventure, here’s a quick guide to traveling well—blending preparation, style, and consideration.

Before you leave home

Check if your passport meets the six-month validity rule required by many countries.

Do you need a visa or not? 

A US citizen can travel to over 180 countries without a visa, but the rules are constantly changing. The United Kingdom now requires US citizens to apply online for travel authorization and be approved before arrival in the country. 

If in doubt, call the foreign consulate before you go. 

If you have stopovers, transit rules matter.

Flight delays happen and if you get stuck in a transit country for more than 24 hours, are you allowed to enter the country or will sleeping at the airport be your only option? You need to know before you leave home. 

Some countries require certain vaccinations, so it helps to get your shots at your local pharmacy before you leave.

For US nationals consider enrolling in the US Smart Traveller Program (STEP). In case of an emergency, it is helpful to know where you are and how to evacuate you. 

Pack the Essentials for Comfort

• Shoes Matter: Depending on the airport, walking from the Security point to your gate could be as long as 20 minutes. Stick to versatile footwear that’s suitable for those long walks within the airport. Ideally your shoes should also pair well with formal clothing if you must go straight to a meeting on arrival. A stylish comfortable pair of shoes can be a game-changer. The last thing you want is to have your mind so fixed on your aching feet that you forget your passport at the airport coffee shop or bathroom. 

• Flight delays happen so prepare for those. All the more reason you need a comfortable pair of shoes. Carrying your cabin luggage while perched on 6-inch stiletto shoes is not practical.

• For women who wear shoe sizes 11 and 12 and want both style and comfort check out our Peony Walker.

• For those extended flights or train rides, consider layering your outfits. Planes are often chilly, so a cozy scarf or cardigan goes a long way. Choose pieces in colors that can easily mix and match, making it easy to create multiple outfits from a handful of select items. This will help you to travel light.

Carryon essentials

• When packing your carryon bag, consider how you want to spend your time in flight. 

• Also consider the weather at your final destination. Going from a sub-zero Washington DC weather to 90 F in Dubai, will mean that you pack a light linen or cotton dress to change into just before arrival. 

• Masks never go out of fashion so if you want to avoid spending 3-4 days recovering from a flu, consider wearing a mask on board and washing your hands often. 

Stay sensitive to local culture and situation

Tourism brings economic opportunities to many destinations, but it can also strain resources, disrupt local cultures, or contribute to overtourism. 

In many popular tropical destinations, the price of your glass of Margarita may just be the same as the local daily wage. 

It is also important to respect local cultures. If you are traveling to a Muslim country, dress modestly and avoid wearing clothes which are too revealing. 

A bit of serendipity helps

Once you set out on a journey, you are literally dependent on multiple parties to make your journey go smoothly. Think about it. Your airline service, hotels, airport or train service all run complex and detailed operations involving many people, processes and technology. We take it for granted when everything works to plan but sometimes delays or cancellations can happen for multiple reasons. 

 So if the unexpected happens, take a deep breath and stay calm. 

Where will your next adventure take you? Make sure you travel well, every step of the way.