Immediately

Check your passport expiration and apply for renewal if needed. Most countries require 6 months of validity on your passport. That means your passport can’t expire within 6 months of your return travel date. In addition, U.S. passports are taking longer than usual to process. You need to allow a minimum of 11 weeks to renew a passport these days.

When Your Tour Has Been Confirmed

Book a flight. Flight prices go up regularly with the price of gas. It’s best to book early and purchase a year of travel insurance that covers all your travels over the next year. We like Allianz insurance.

2-3 months before your trip

Make a doctor’s appointment to get necessary vaccines/medication. Some vaccines like yellow fever (if your One Sheet says you need yellow fever) may require 2-3 months of waiting.

3-4 weeks before your trip

Review the packing list and order any extra gear/clothes you need. Check your One Sheet and apply for tourist visas if needed.

14 days before your trip

Mask up and do whatever you need to do to stay healthy before your flight. You might consider vitamin C and D supplements.

The week of your trip

If your flight requires a negative test before boarding, you’ll book one 1.5 days before your flight.