Everybody makes mistakes on their first international trip. Uncle made all of these, so you don't have to.
Documents
- Passport validity too short. Rules differ: the UAE requires six months, the Schengen area requires three months beyond departure plus a passport issued within the last 10 years, and South Africa requires 30 days plus two blank pages. Read the six-month rule explained.
- Ignoring transit rules. Connecting through another country can require a transit visa, in some cases even if you never leave the airport.
- Name mismatch. Your ticket name should match your passport exactly.
- No copies. Save photos of your passport, visa, insurance and bookings offline.
- Using a lookalike visa website. Unofficial sites charge several times the official fee for ETAs and e-visas. Use government domains only. See visa types explained.
Money
- One card only. If it's blocked, you're stuck. Carry a backup on a different network.
- Not enabling international use. Test your card before you go.
- Paying in your home currency. Decline dynamic currency conversion. In the EU, the markup must be shown on screen, so read it before you tap.
- Changing all your money at the airport. NerdWallet reports airport premiums of around 14% over reference rates. Here's why.
Connectivity & logistics
- Landing with no data plan. Install an eSIM or know where to buy a SIM.
- Late-night arrival with no plan. Pre-book the first night and know how you'll get there.
- Wrong plug. Check plug types and voltage. South Africa's Type M catches out many "universal" adapters.
- Power bank in the checked bag. Spare lithium batteries must go in your carry-on (FAA).
Health & timing
- Booking a big meeting the morning after a long-haul flight east. The CDC says the body adjusts about 1 hour per day after flying east. See how to beat jet lag.
Protection
- Skipping travel insurance, or buying a policy without reading the exclusions. Some countries now require it: Georgia has required at least GEL 30,000 of medical cover for all visitors since 1 January 2026, and Schengen visa applicants need travel medical insurance.