When you think of our vast world, there are so many destinations to visit and sights to see that you could spend countless hours trying to take it all in. Of course, while everyone may love exploring these international destinations, many cringe at the idea of organizing and planning this type of trip. Traveling internationally can be daunting, and having an international travel checklist can make all the difference. And that’s why more and more people are turning to private jets.
Essential International Travel Checklist
Personalized comfort + luxurious surroundings + worldwide travel? Traveling by private jet is the only way that makes sense. As you get excited to pack your bags, use this international travel checklist for a private jet vacation you will never forget.
Book Your Private Jet
Booking your private jet charter is easy. Working with a world-class concierge team can give you the personalized attention you need when making reservations – especially if you are traveling to a new destination.
Private jets can reach private airports rather than major commercial airports. This can be more convenient for you in reaching your specific destination. Share your travel information with the charter team, such as where you intend to stay (so they can determine the closest airport) and how many passengers you will take with you. Ask about empty-leg flights if you want to save even more time and money. Getting into all the specifics can help to elevate your travel experience by customizing it to meet your needs.
The ideal time for making any special requests is when booking your flight. This allows time for everything to come together so that it is perfect on your day of travel. See, private jet charter companies love to help you have an incredible flight. So, if you prefer to make the trip as comfortable as possible, ask for a private charter in advance. This could include a special snack or drink, a catered meal, maybe a special surprise for someone you are traveling with, etc.
Gather Your Travel Documents
When traveling abroad, you will want to have a few critical pieces of documentation to ensure that you arrive and return safely. Begin preparing this well in advance of your flight so that you have time to obtain what you don’t have. These documents include the following:
- Travel itinerary
- Passport
- Driver’s license with REAL ID
- Health insurance cards
- Proof of medical prescriptions
- Emergency contact information
- Bank contact information
As you are putting this together, leave a copy of your travel itinerary and passport with someone in the U.S. that you can reach out to if something happens. Make copies of this information and keep it in a different place than the original. That way, should it get lost or stolen on your travels, you have proof of who you are.
Sort Out Your Money
Remember that traveling abroad means having a currency exchange, so look at the current exchange rate and prepare yourself accordingly. As for credit cards, most major brands like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are used worldwide. Discover is available in some places, too.
You should contact your banks and credit card companies before you travel and let them know your travel dates and where you will visit. That way, you can avoid any fraudulent flags on your account and the inability to make a purchase. No matter where you are traveling, it is always recommended that you carry some cash on you – just in case.
International Travel Checklist: Pack Appropriately
As you begin packing your bags for your trip, be sure to research your destination so that you know what to expect. It is always a good idea to throw in a nice outfit. Throw in weather-appropriate comfortable shoes and clothing that will allow you to explore easily.
- Pack up your electronics and chargers, ensuring you have outlet converters if necessary.
- Grab your medications and vitamins – and put together a small first aid kit.
- Put together your toiletries. When flying private, you do not need to worry about sticking to the TSA’s allowed 3.4 ounces of liquid.
What you always want to do is over-pack. Carrying your luggage to your hotel, in and out of various modes of transportation, can be exhausting – even more so if you have a lot of unnecessary extras.
The more you know about your destination – and what you intend to do while there – the easier it will be to pack your bags with everything you need. So take the time to do your due diligence.
Plan to Arrive On Time
Just because you are flying a private jet and you don’t have to meet the standard of arriving three hours before your flight, you still don’t want to come at the last minute. Arriving for your flight about 30 minutes in advance will give you enough time to meet the flight crew, get your baggage onboard, and do any last-minute checks while still taking off on time.
International flights can be long, and the last thing you want is the entire experience to feel rushed.
Immigration and Customs
While traveling on a private jet vacation has many conveniences, remember that it does not override immigration/customs laws. Whether flying personally or not, you will still have to go through this. The good news is that you don’t have to stand in long lines for extended periods, just waiting to get through it. The process is much more efficient, smooth, and hassle-free.
International Travel Checklist With Sun Air Jets
Traveling internationally can help you create some lifelong memories. And when you choose to fly via a private jet with Sun Air Jets, you make the trip much sweeter. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, don’t skimp on the details. Let Sun Air Jets’ exceptional FBO service show you how private travel is meant to be done.