Europe Travel Tips

• If you are leaving the country you MUST have a valid Passport
• Verify your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel plans
• Confirm on Travel.State.gov what is required to enter your destination
• If bringing minor children with you, be sure to find what is required to travel with them
• Sign up for STEP alerts in your destination
• Ask your doctor if they recommend any vaccinations for you. This can be personal based on your health & is more common in less advanced destination
• Make 2 copies of your passports & credit cards, keep one with you-in a secure separate place from your passport and one at home with someone you can contact. 
• Only use "TSA Approved" locks on your checked baggage. TSA have a master key for these, all other locks may be cut off and could result in your damaged luggage
• Weigh your luggage! Overage fees with airlines are ridiculous! I travel with a luggage scale to ensure I am not overweight for the flight home (even after shopping!)  They are compact and easy to travel with like this one

• Not sure if you can bring it? Find out from the TSA Here
• Remember to follow the 3-1-1 rules for carrying liquids, gels, pastes & aerosols on the plane. (items in you purse or pocket count towards this total allowance!)
• Bring a change of clothes in your carry on in case your checked bag is delayed or for an easy swap from jeans to shorts (or visa versa) when you arrive but cannot check in to your room
• If you are trying to travel carry on only and need to bring toiletries ... did you know you can get shampoo and conditioner as a bar?!? I like the idea of a sampler set - smaller bars for shorter trips, however if you are changing hotels you will want to bring spare ziploc bags for these.

• Not sure if you can bring it? Find out from the TSA Here
• Larger liquid, gel, paste & aerosol items can be brought in checked baggage
• Put a piece of plastic on your toiletries under the cap to reduce leaks. 
• Or I have seen these cool things, but I have not yet tried them.
• To be extra safe put liquids IN a plastic bag and close tight
• Bring large zip locks or travel laundry bags to keep dirty clothing separate from clean clothes
• Bring a power strip like this one to charge all your things in one place (but don't forget to include a adapter and / or converter if needed!!
• Bag Identification! Be sure you have a sturdy bag tag with your contact info
• ALSO not a bad idea to tag your bag with your destination info and dates for the first several nights of your travel. (you can use a second tag, or even good masking tape that can be removed after arrival)
• If traveling with a companion, split your clothes between two bags, 1/2 of each persons clothes in each bag. This way of 1 bag is lost you each have some clothes!

• Always bring good walking shoes! (Twisted ankles make travel no fun!)
• Plan in layers, outer layers can be worn more often without washing
• Check out the average weather for your destination on weather.com 
• Europeans tend to dress nicer / more in style. If you do the same you blend in more. Jean shorts are not common.
• Arms, shoulders and knees MUST be covered in most churches.
• Photograph the contents of your checked bag before leaving home.
• Realize wearing clothing with sports logos easily identify you as an American tourist. Embrace the concept of just "blending in" when traveling abroad.

• Contact your carrier to find out your costs for: (1) Calls, (2) Texts, (3) Roaming data
• Inquire if there is a temporary plan that could increase your access and/or reduce your cost
• If you are staying for a while inquire about E sim international calling plans
  

So confusing it has it's own page: Click Here

• Never travel without understanding how to work the panoramic photo feature on your smart phone! (PS you can turn your phone to use it vertically to capture tall sights like the Eiffel tower)
• iPhone users consider taking a class to learn from Apple: Calendar of events here

• What's App is widely used, download it ahead of time and create your account.
• Before leaving download a Google Map of the cities you are exploring, then it works without wifi!
• Also down load Google Translate & the language(s) you will need
• Check the website of your hotel, tour company or any other travel service you have booked to see if they have an app.

• Find out your ATM card's "foreign exchange rate" and "foreign transaction fees"
• Find out your Credit card's "foreign exchange rate" and "foreign transaction fees"
• Bring 1 major credit card for purchases. 
• Also bring a back up major credit card in case your first card is lost, damaged or stolen
• It is advisable to NOT use your debit card while traveling, major credit cards offer more protection if your card is stolen.
• Call the bank & credit cards to report your travel plans & confirm they work in your destination
• Save these cards contact numbers in a safe place in case you need to call to report a lost card (a good idea to store them in your phone, but also written down separate from your purse or wallet in case they are stolen.
• When making a purchase, if the teller asks if you want the charge in local currency or converted to USD, choose the local currency, it is usually cheaper via your bank. (This is typically the best overall rate for most people)

1. If you like to have cash in hand, try to purchase foreign currency from your bank before travel. (Allow a couple weeks, sometimes it takes time.)
2. Verify you have a card that will work in an ATM in your destination. When withdrawing money choose to have your bank do the exchange (not the European bank/ATM), it is usually cheaper via your bank. (This is typically the best overall rate for most people)
3. If all else fails visit a Currency exchange booth in a town or airport (these are often the worst exchange rates though)

• Don't lose your car keys! (or forget that safe place you put them)
• If you will need a shuttle back to your car when you come home, store the pick up phone number in your phone or write it down so you don't lose it (or forget - vacation brain is a real thing!)
• Take a picture of where you parked, if in a large lot. Be sure you have an identifying marker in the pic, like lane number or reference to a large & unique wall or object
• Never use public WiFi without activating a VPN. 

• Plan plenty of time, check in and security lines can be long.  You can check current TSA wait times here. (Be careful though, wait times can change quickly!)
• You may check in electronically 24 hours before most flights, or up to 3 or 4 hours in advance at the counter.  
• If you have checked baggage, you will have to visit the front counter, even if you already checked in, to turn in your baggage.
• Always be checked in and to your gate no less than 2 hours prior to your International flight. Its OK to grab a bite or wander once you have confirmed your take off time and location.
• Boarding can start as early as 1 hour before takeoff... I have seen it even earlier!
• If you check in with less than a 2 hour notice on international flights you MAY be denied boarding as a security risk. (this could be at your own cost to re-book on another flight)

• You can bring on food and drinks as long as:
  1) It was allowed through security (following 3-1-1 rules)
  2) You purchased it in the airport AFTER security
  3) It is not a raw meat or plant
  4) You can have processed foods (beef jerky, trail mix)
  5) You can bring fresh fruit, however you may be required to consume it or throw it away before arriving in a foreign destination
• Only Credit Cards are accepted as payment for food & drinks in flight.
• Stay Hydrated - drink plenty of water (its free on most flights, you can also carry on water that was purchased in the airport AFTER security.
• Move your legs & feet. Try to walk around or at least to leg exercises to prevent blood clots
• Wear a scarf or bring a small blanket if you get cool (blankets are not always offered)
• If your flight is over night, pack a toothbrush, small tooth paste, comb & wet wipes in your carry on to freshen up after your nap (maybe even some freshen up make up if you wish)
  

• If you make large purchases, save receipts and allow time before flight back to US, you may be able to claim the tax refund at the airport office.
• How much alcohol can you bring home? Check that and more on the Customs Duty Information Here

• Private drivers can be per-arranged for ease, however they are a higher cost than taxis
• Always confirm if your fare is metered or negotiate your cost prior to getting in a taxi
• Uber is in many countries world wide, check for your destination HERE  Apple Store  or  Google Play
• Another common international option is the BOLT app, check for your destination HERE. Apple Store or Google Play
• It is not uncommon for local strikes and protests to block roadways, if timing is important plan extra time (like to the airport)
• If your destination has a subway or Underground, research if day or weekly passes would be helpful for you. (how far are the sights you want to see and how far is your hotel)

• Always research “Rules of the Road in (your destination)” before you go!
• Verify what side of the road they drive on (Ireland and the UK drive on the left!)
• Find out if an International Driving Permit is needed (if so locate your local AAA office here).
• If you are 25 or younger, or 65 or older, there may be additional restrictions or fees
• Most cars in Europe are manual transmission. You can pay extra for automatic
• Just take the insurance! Yes it is expensive, but you are responsible for 100% of the cost of that car... imagine an accident (that was not your fault) and now you owe them $30,000!
• Car Insurance from the rental company is many times a higher quality and faster acting than any policy from credit cards. 
• If your rental car is electric or hybrid, make sure you get appropriate chargers and ask for a demonstration at pick up. EU charging is a little different than US. 

• Many times you don’t need to be at your train station until 20mins prior, however if this is new to you, plan plenty of time to get comfortable with the process the first time. 
• Look for your train number on the posted screens. It may not show until right before it’s supposed to depart
• Boarding is 10-15mins prior to departure & there are very little to no security check points. (unlike an airport)
• Trains leave on time 99% of the time, with no concern if all passengers have boarded (it will leave you if you are late)
• Be sure you find your car number before you get on, this is easier then dragging all your baggage through multiple cars
• Your large luggage is your responsibility. There are storage shelves near the car entrances.

• Forget your USB Charging Block?  Try the back of the TV for a USB port
• Is a Key Card needed near the door for the lights & air conditioner to go on? You can use any card or a folder piece of paper.
• Open the Iron board if you need a desk or more space to hold your things.
• Bring your home Fire stick or Roku to watch your shows before bed. 
• Troubles with stairs? Research if your hotel has an elevator, not all do
• Many hotels have a small "city tax" or other fee that is collected at check in
• Bring washcloths if you need them (you can even buy disposable ones here), many hotels do not have washcloths.
• Many hotels have standard toiletries in your bathroom, but if you have a particular need for a quality product, you should bring it.  (I always bring good hair conditioner) 

• Leave your valuables locked in your safe when out of your room
• Be aware in many countries, hotels require to see (and sometimes keep) your passport 
• Always lock your main door & patio doors or windows at night, especially if you are on the 1st floor. (Even the best hotels can have the worst guests or intruders)

• Don't expect things to be like home, You are in another FASCINATING place, enjoy the culture!
• Always smile and speak in a friendly manner. (not rude or panicked, even if you feel that way.) 
• Try to learn a few basic phrases in the local language. Locals will appreciate your effort. 
• Always ask if someone speaks English before blurting out questions.
• Before traveling, research “Words and Gestures NOT to use in (country)”
• Public toilets often require a little change! Have coins handy 
• Bring a little pack of tissues, you would be surprised how often there is no TP
• Read signs, some places you CANNOT flush TP, but place in a garbage next to you.
• If you panic about bathroom access, download  the "Flush Toilet Finder & Map" App (google store click here)
• When you purchase items at a bar or restaurant often you can use their bathroom for free
• Also if you are a paying customer, ask if they have free WiFi for customers
• Keep your money separated, small bills easiest to access, larger bills more hidden. You never want to pull out large stacks of cash in front of people. 

• Bring a collapsible bag (some stores you have to pay if you want a bag for your purchase)
• Businesses, like grocery stores, may have limited or no hours on Sundays (especially in smaller towns or villages)
• ATM's and purchases - If you are given a choice, have the purchase or withdraw be in the local currency (not USD). Then your bank will convert when they receive the transaction & post it to your account. That is most often your better rate. (confirm your banks exchange rate before you travel). 
• Negotiate prices with street vendors

• Always keep money & valuables in front pockets (not back pockets or leg pockets), these are the hardest for pick-pockets to get.
• Use a small cross body bag and Always keep it in front of you as well as backpacks. Especially on trains and in crowded areas. Consider RFID protection from electronic readers like this bag.
• Keep your passport on you or in a locked safe in your hotel room
• Try to use ATM's attached to a bank. Not in a busy or touristy location, like a tobacco shop or kiosk 
• Avoid wearing a lot or expensive jewelry, you don't want to get the attention of a thief 

• A good travel insurance, with 24/7 assistance is always a helpful resource through difficult situations such as you fell and broke your leg, your appendix decided to explode, your passport is stolen, your rental car has a flat tire, the hotel you booked is over sold and they cant give you a room, your tooth was just knocked out on an ATV ride, someone you love has died back home, and so much more. 
• Most foreign doctors and hospitals do NOT take "insurance", you are responsible for all charges at time of service. Some places will require a large deposit to be sure you can pay your bill before they help you. This is normal.  Be sure you have access to a large available credit card or other instant funds to cover emergencies.  
• Sometimes with an extreme emergency that is taking a longer time, with a good travel insurance, you may be able to submit a claim and get approval quickly, then they may be able to assist with bills during travel. 
• A good travel insurance will offer medical assistance and advice (as well as translation if needed) for major emergencies while abroad
• Never purchase a travel insurance policy that provides less than $500,000 in emergency evacuation coverage. 
• No matter where you booked your travel, you may contact Travel with Mandy to purchase her recommended Travel Insurance Plan.

• Be sure you have all phone numbers and apps for EACH service you have booked. Contacting the vendor directly is your most efficient way to get help. While your travel consultant or insurance company may be able to give advice, most vendors only allow changes to be made with them directly during travel.  Calling me means I will have to then call them, then possibly call you back & then call them back - hoping the available option has not changed. Speaking directly will give you the fastest resolution to your troubles. (airlines, tour operators, hotels, and so on). 
• Always keep me aware of what has happened, if I can offer advice I will. I can also verify the rest of your plans are still in place and keep watch for any possible refunds you are owed

• Give your Travel Consultant, Cruise line, Airline, Tour operator the name and contact information of your trusted person back home.
• Make copies of passports, credit cards and medical prescriptions. Carry a copy with you in a safe place (away from the originals) and leave a copy with your person at home.