7 Common Mistakes Travelers Make When Booking International Trips on Their Own

Meredith Peters
Jul 15
4 min read

Updated: Sep 12

Planning your first (or first in a while) international vacation? While it can be exciting to DIY your dream getaway, it also opens the door to critical missteps that can cost you time, money, or even your entire trip. As a professional travel advisor, I see these same international travel mistakes made time and time again. Here's what to avoid, and how working with me as your travel advisor can help you skip the stress and enjoy a seamless international travel experience.

1. Not Checking Passport Expiration Dates

Passport expiration requirements vary by country, and many travelers don't realize they may be denied boarding if their passports don't meet that destination's specific requirements. This isn't always top of mind for travelers who haven't flown internationally previously or in a while. Airlines can (and will) deny boarding if your passport doesn't meet destination requirements. Some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your return date.

How I help my clients: I require all my clients to send me a photo of their passports so I can verify expiration dates before we finalize any bookings. If their passport doesn't have at least six months of validity from their return date, we pause planning until renewal is underway. This simple step has saved countless clients from last-minute panic and expensive rebooking fees.

2. Not Checking Country Entry Requirements

From visas to vaccinations to new digital entry registrations (like the ETA in the UK), entry requirements vary widely and can change quickly. Many travelers assume a plane ticket is all they need, only to discover they're missing key documents at the airport, leading to denied boarding and ruined vacation plans.

How I help my clients: I stay up-to-date on destination entry requirements and ensure every client has exactly what they need to enter and exit their destination smoothly. I create personalized task lists for each trip, so my clients don’t have to worry about missing crucial documentation.

3. Booking Connections That Are Too Tight

Just because an airline sells you a 30-minute connection doesn't mean you should buy it. Tight connections leave no room for flight delays, long customs lines, or airport confusion, especially when navigating unfamiliar international airports.

My professional approach: I never book a flight with less than a two-hour layover and plan for even more time at busier airports. This buffer ensures you'll make your connections stress-free, even if your first flight is delayed.

4. Not Notifying Banks or Checking Foreign Transaction Fees

It’s easy to forget to let your bank know you’ll be traveling abroad or to check if your credit cards charge currency conversion fees. A declined card or unexpected fees can really sour a trip and leave you scrambling for payment options in a foreign country.

My expert advice: I provide clients with a comprehensive pre-travel checklist that includes banking notifications and asking your credit card companies about currency conversion fees. Choose a travel-friendly credit card and always bring a backup, just in case. Also, keep in mind that while American Express and Discover are commonly accepted in the U.S., they're not as widely accepted abroad. Visa and Mastercard are typically the safest bet. And don't rely solely on a debit card, many hotels and resorts require a credit card hold at check-in. Using a debit card can tie up your travel funds unexpectedly.

5. Skipping Travel Insurance

Some travelers think travel insurance is unnecessary or may not even consider purchasing a policy. But when flights are canceled, luggage is lost, or a medical emergency strikes abroad, the lack of coverage can become a costly mistake that turns a dream vacation into a financial nightmare.

I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance: I provide my clients with travel insurance options so they can choose the right level of coverage for their trip type, destination, and personal needs. Peace of mind is priceless.

6. Winging Airport Transfers

Many DIY travelers assume they'll "figure it out when they get there," but after a long flight, figuring out transfer logistics is the last thing you’ll want to do. Even worse, there may be people posing as official taxi drivers. Long taxi lines are common, and these individuals often offer to "help" you skip the line, only to charge far more than the official fare.

My solution: I always arrange private airport transfers so my clients can start and end their vacation smoothly and comfortably, without stress and confusion. Your driver will be waiting with a sign, and you'll arrive at your hotel refreshed and ready to enjoy your trip.

7. Trying to Do Too Much

Packing five cities into seven days might seem like a smart way to "see everything," but it usually leads to travel burnout and vacation stress. Constant packing, checking in and out, and hopping between destinations makes it hard to actually enjoy the destination, and you'll return home feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation.

My approach to smart itinerary planning: I help clients prioritize what matters most and build itineraries that balance exploration with time to relax and truly experience each destination. Quality over quantity always leads to more memorable and enjoyable trips.

Let Me Help You Avoid These Costly International Travel Mistakes

DIY travel can work for some, but working with a professional travel advisor can make all the difference if you're short on time, energy, or confidence about the international travel details or looking for a curated and immersive experience. I help my clients navigate the complex rules, handle the logistics, and avoid the surprises, so they can focus on what really matters: enjoying their trip. As your travel advisor, I provide: