About 76% of Americans surveyed by Pew Research Center said they have traveled outside of the United States at least once; 50% have visited one to four countries, while 26% have been to five or more. Nearly one-fourth of respondents (23%) have never traveled internationally.1
If you're planning a foreign vacation, here are some suggestions to help keep your trip on track.
Obtain required documents. A passport (or in some cases a passport card) is required to enter and return from all foreign countries, including Canada and Mexico. Your passport should have at least six months of validity beyond the dates of your trip. It can take several months to obtain or renew a passport, so procrastinating on this task could put you in a serious bind and/or force you to pay costly rush fees. U.S. citizens can travel to many foreign countries without obtaining a visa, but be sure to follow the rules for all countries on your itinerary. Some countries require travelers to complete an electronic pre-screening process prior to entry.
Alert your bank and credit card company. Financial institutions monitor international transactions, so it's wise to inform them that you will be traveling and ask about applicable fees. Carry at least two cards: a debit card that will allow you to withdraw money from foreign ATMs and a chip-enhanced credit card with a PIN set up before you leave. Although the credit card may only require a signature in the United States, it might require a PIN overseas.
Pay like a local. Know the exchange rate to convert dollars to local currency, and vice versa. Foreign bank ATMs may offer better exchange rates than a currency exchange, but be aware of fees wherever you exchange money. Merchants, restaurants, and hotels might accept payment or quote prices in U.S. dollars, but you will typically get a better price if you pay in the local currency, whether using cash or a credit card.
Consider your health needs and coverage. Some countries may recommend, or in some cases require, vaccinations for diseases that are rare in the United States (such as typhoid, yellow fever, and polio). To help protect your health and your finances, you should be aware of the public health situation in any country you visit and determine whether your medical insurance will cover you overseas. If not, consider purchasing a short-term travel policy. Bring enough prescription medicine, plus extras, in original labeled containers in your carry-on luggage. A note from your doctor listing medications may be helpful.
For in-depth information on foreign travel, including passports and visas, visit travel.state.gov. For health guidelines and country-specific public health information, see cdc.gov/travel.
1) Pew Research Center, December 6, 2023 (percentages rounded to the nearest whole number)
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Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions. © 2026 Broadridge Financial Services, Inc.
Hugh Lau is a Registered Representative with and Securities and Advisory Servces offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.
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