Planning an international trip can feel both exciting and overwhelming. From passports and visas to health, safety, money matters and much more, there are many details you have to plan for before ever leaving the country. U.S. Passport Service Guide prepared a list of more than 100 essentiial resources for American citizens who travel abroad.
Here you'll find trusted links to official government sites, travel services, safety programs, money tools, and practical apps that can make your journey easier, safer and more enjoyable. Whether you're preparing for your first overseas vacation or you're a frequent traveler, these resources will help you travel with confidence and peace of mind.
Documents & Entry Requirements
Passport Information
Get step-by-step guidance on applying for, renewing, or correcting your U.S. passport. From fees and forms to photos and courier services, these resources help you handle passport tasks with confidence.
Recommended: Passport Help - up-to-date guides on getting a new passport, renewal, correction, name change and more.
- Rush My Passport - Need your passport fast? Use trusted expediters to save time and avoid stress.
- Passport Couriers - Directory of passport expediting companies registered with the U.S. Department of State.
- Passport Applications - Fillable forms for new passport, renewal, name change, and other services.
- Passport Fees 2025 - List of mandatory and optional fees for all the different passport services.
- Passport Photos - Requirements and tips to ensure you take a photos that doesn't get rejected.
Visa & Other Travel Documents
Understand the entry rules and visa requirements for your destination. These resources make it simple to find, apply for, and prepare all the documents you need for smooth border crossings.
Speed up border crossings and security checks with special traveler programs. These services are ideal for frequent travelers looking to save time while keeping their travel documents safe and organized.
Recommended: iVisa - Simplifies visa applications online and provides entry requirement information for nearly every country.
- Entry Requirements - List of countries around the worlds and what each requires for American citizens to enter.
- Travel Documents - information about essential and useful documents for international travelers.
- Travel Visas - different types of visas and visa requirements by destination.
- Minor Travel Consent Form - document signed by parent(s) or legal guardians which allows a minor alone or with another adult.
- Countries Where a Visa Is Required for Entry - List of countries that require a United States citizen to have a visa in order to enter.
- Trusted Traveler Programs
Special programs offering alternative documents for frequent travelers to Canada and Mexico and on cruises. - Travel Wallets - Recommended travel wallets for carrying and protecting your passport, credit cards, currency and other important travel documents.
- Notary Live - Fully-secure, online notarization platform with an "Excellent" rating from TrustPilot.
Government & Border Resources
Stay informed on customs, border policies, and re-entry procedures. These official resources keep you updated on what to expect when traveling to or from the U.S.
Recommended: U.S. Customs and Border Protection - info on re-entry, Global Entry, and border policies.
- TSA - Official airport security rules, travel preparation tips, and TSA PreCheck program details.
- Global Entry - Speeds up U.S. customs clearance for pre-approved travelers and includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
Destination Guides
Discover everything you need to know before you go. These guides offer expert advice, cultural insights, and entry requirements to help you plan meaningful, well-prepared travel experiences.
Recommended: U.S. Territoris Travel Guide - get to know the U.S. territories and what you need to visit them.
- Lonely Planet - trusted guides and destination insights.
- Fodor's Travel - Expert destination guides, tips, and itineraries for worldwide travel planning.
- Rick Steves' Europe - Practical advice and itineraries focused on European destinations.
- National Geographic Travel - Inspiring photography and global travel stories alongside guides.
- Frommer's - Detailed travel guides, destination reviews, and money-saving travel tips.
- Travel + Leisure - Lifestyle-focused destination articles and international travel trends.
- Condé Nast Traveler - Curated lists, destination inspiration, and luxury travel recommendations.
Foreign Entry Requirement
Foreign entry requirements vary from country to country. Following is a list and descriptions of the most common entry requirements for U.S. citizens traveling abroad for tourism or business.
Recommended: Foreign Entry Requirements - List of most commonly used documents required and entry requirements by country.
International Driving
If you plan to drive abroad, these resources show you how to get an international permit and book reliable rentals. Drive with confidence anywhere in the world.
Recommended: International Driving Guide - all you need to know about getting a permit to drive in other countries that require this document.
- International Drivers Association - Offers digital and printed international driving permits valid in multiple countries.
- Avis - Trusted global car rental company with vehicles available in over 160 countries.
- Hertz - Major international rental provider offering cars, vans, and luxury options worldwide.
Booking & Financial Preparation
Travel Planning & Booking
Find the best deals and plan every detail of your trip with reliable platforms for booking flights, hotels, and unique stays. These tools make comparing options easy, so you can save money and travel stress-free.
Recommended: Trip.com - More than 1.2 million hotels in 200 countries and regions and over 2 million individual flight routes that connect more than 5,000 cities around the globe..
- Booking.com - Compare thousands of hotels and accommodations worldwide, many with free cancellation options
- Google Flights - powerful and simple for finding flights.
- Airbnb - Reserve short-term rentals, apartments, and unique stays hosted by locals across 220+ countries.
Flights & Airline Deals
Stretch your travel budget further with resources that help you track airfare deals, maximize points, and find mistake fares. Flying for less means more money for your adventures.
Recommended: The Points Guy - best for maximizing miles, points, and travel deals.
- Momondo - Global flight search engine comparing airlines and agencies to find the cheapest available fares.
- Scott's Cheap Flights - Alerts you to error fares and discounted international flight deals from U.S. airports.
- Secret Flying - Tracks mistake fares, flash sales, and discounted airfare deals worldwide.
- FlightAware - Real-time flight tracking, delay updates, and live air traffic data for travelers.
- Travel for Free - Discover different ways you can get transportation, lodging, food and more for free.
Travel Banking & Finance
Choose travel-friendly cards and financial tools that offer perks like fee-free withdrawals, rewards, and strong protections. Smart banking makes traveling abroad simpler and safer.
Recommended: Charles Schwab - debit card refunds all foreign ATM fees worldwide.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve - Premium travel credit card offering airport lounge access and strong travel protections.
- American Express - Popular travel credit cards with extensive global acceptance and perks.
- Capital One Venture - Rewards credit card with no foreign transaction fees and flexible redemption options.
- NerdWallet Travel Cards - Independent comparisons of U.S. credit cards for travel rewards and perks.
- Visa Global ATM Locator - Find international ATMs that accept Visa cards, ensuring secure cash withdrawals abroad.
Currency & Money Exchange
Avoid costly fees and poor exchange rates by using trusted money tools. These resources help you convert, send, and spend money abroad with ease and transparency.
Recommended: Wise - transparent, low-cost money transfers and multi-currency accounts.
- XE Currency Converter - Accurate real-time exchange rates and easy international money transfers.
- OANDA Currency Converter - Reliable currency conversion and historical exchange rate data for travelers.
- Revolut - International banking app with no-fee currency exchange and travel-friendly debit card.
- OFX - Secure, low-cost international money transfers for individuals and businesses.
Travel Insurance
Protect your trip and your wallet with travel insurance. Whether it's a medical emergency, lost luggage, or a last-minute cancellation, these providers give you peace of mind wherever you go.
Recommended: Visitors Coverage - Protect your trip with trusted, affordable coverage for medical emergencies, cancellations, and more.
- Travel Guard - With over 20 years of industry experience, Travel Guard is America's leading travel insurance plan provider.
- Travelex - Insurance for every type of trip, emergency situations and problems with luggage.
- SafetyWing - Low-cost medical and travel insurance designed specifically for nomads and long-term travelers.
Safety, Health & Emergency Prep
Travel Safety & Health
Stay healthy and safe on your journey with trusted alerts, medical guidance, and emergency support. These resources help you prepare and protect yourself while abroad.
Recommended: Travel Safety - Discover how to keep safe during international trips.
- STEP Program - register with U.S. embassies for safety alerts and emergency contact.
- CDC - Traveler's Health - Health advisories, vaccination recommendations, and travel medical information by country.
- Travel Warnings - The latest alerts to help you prepare for a safe and secure trip abroad.
- WHO - International Travel and Health - Global health alerts and medical advice for international travelers.
- International SOS - Medical and security services for expatriates, travelers, and corporations.
- Medjet - Medical evacuation and transport coverage in case of serious illness or injury abroad.
- Global Rescue - Emergency medical, evacuation, and crisis response for international travelers.
Legal & Emergency Information
Be prepared for the unexpected with access to embassies, international aid, and emergency contacts. These resources are vital if you need urgent help abroad.
Recommended: U.S. Embassy Listings - official directory of embassies and consulates abroad.
- IAMAT - International medical assistance organization providing health resources and doctor referrals.
- Red Cross International Services - Global humanitarian support, disaster relief, and family reunification services.
- Interpol - International law enforcement cooperation for lost documents, emergencies, and global security.
On-the-Ground Transportation & Connectivity
Local Transportation
Easily navigate your destination with reliable tools for booking cars, taxis, trains, or bikes. These services help you get around smoothly and on time.
Recommended: QEEQ - mega car rental search engine.
- Uber - Popular global ridesharing app available in major cities worldwide.
- Lyft - U.S.-based rideshare company operating in select international destinations.
- BikesBooking.com>/a> - An online booking service for motorcycles, scooters, quads, and bicycles all over the world.
- Trainline - Book train and bus tickets across Europe with mobile ticket delivery.
- KiwiTaxi - an online booking platform of individual transfer servicies and private car tours.
- Citymapper - Public transit navigation app providing real-time routes, maps, and schedules in global cities.
Communication & Internet
Stay connected from anywhere with international mobile plans, eSIMs, and messaging apps. These tools make it easy to talk, text, and share with loved ones back home.
Recommended: Airalo eSIMs & Phone Plans - Stay connected abroad with affordable eSIM data plans-no physical SIM card required.
- Google Fi - Flexible mobile service with international roaming and affordable data plans abroad.
- Yolla - Internet calling and video chat platform widely used for cheap international calls.
- WhatsApp - Free global messaging, voice, and video calling app, essential for keeping in touch overseas.
- Zoom - Reliable video conferencing platform used worldwide for personal and business communication.
- T-Mobile International Plans - Mobile carrier with international roaming and affordable global data plans.
- GigSky - Global mobile data provider offering prepaid eSIMs for short-term international travelers.
Airport Services
Turn layovers into a pleasure with access to airport lounges and insider tips for long waits. These resources keep you comfortable and relaxed on travel days.
Recommended: Priority Pass - global membership offering access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide.
- Sleeping in Airports - Community-driven reviews and tips for long layovers and overnight stays in airports.
Packing & Gear
Travel Lugagge & Accessories
Travel smarter with quality luggage and accessories designed for convenience, security, and style. From backpacks to packing cubes, these essentials help you stay organized on the move.
Recommended: Radical Storage - provides travellers with luggage storage solutions so they can enjoy their holiday to the fullest. Operates in over 70 countries and 500 cities with more than 5000 storage points. Each piece of luggage is covered up to 3000 ?/$/£.
Amazon Best Sellers
Browse these Amazon Best Sellers to find the most popular and highly rated travel gear chosen by fellow travelers. From luggage sets and backpacks to passport wallets and travel accessories, these essentials can help make your journey more organized, comfortable, and stress-free.
Travel Apps & Tools
Streamline your travel experience with smart apps that help you plan, organize, navigate, translate, and pack. They make every stage of your journey more effortless.
Recommended: Google Maps - essential navigation tool with driving, walking, and transit directions worldwide.
- TripIt - Travel organizer app that builds master itineraries from your flight and hotel reservations.
- Hopper - Predicts flight and hotel prices to help you book at the best time.
- Roadtrippers - Road trip planning tool that maps routes and suggests interesting stops along the way.
- PackPoint - Smart packing list app that customizes lists based on trip details and weather.
- Maps.me - Offline maps app, great for navigating without internet in foreign destinations.
- Google Translate - Translates text, voice, and even images in real-time between 100+ languages.
- AirHelp - Helps travelers claim compensation for delayed, canceled, or overbooked flights.
Enhancing the Experience
Dining & Restaurant Recommendations
Discover unforgettable meals with top-rated restaurant guides and reservation tools. Explore local flavors and world-class dining wherever your travels take you.
Recommended: Michelin Guide - curated dining reviews and star ratings for restaurants worldwide.
- Yelp - Restaurant and business review platform with millions of user-submitted ratings and photos.
- OpenTable - Reserve tables at restaurants in the U.S. and internationally with instant booking confirmation.
- Zomato - Global dining discovery platform with menus, reviews, and delivery options in major cities.
- EatWith - Book local dining experiences hosted by chefs and residents for cultural immersion.
Adventure & Tours
Enhance your trip with unforgettable tours and activities. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, these platforms connect you with the best local guides.
Recommended: Tours & Local Experiences - Discover unforgettable experiences with top-rated local tours and activities in every destination.
- Viator - Marketplace for guided tours, day trips, and activities across thousands of destinations.
- Intrepid Travel - Small group adventure tours emphasizing cultural immersion and responsible travel.
- G Adventures - Offers global small-group adventures with a focus on sustainability and local experiences.
- Tours by Locals - Connects travelers with vetted local guides for customized private tours worldwide.
- GetYourGuide - book tours, attractions, and local activities with instant confirmation.
Travel Blogs & Communities
Get inspired by real traveler stories, tips, and advice from seasoned explorers. These blogs and communities offer insights and support for every kind of traveler.
Recommended: USPSG Blog - informative passport and international travel news from U.S. Passport Service Guide.
- Nomadic Matt - top blog for budget travel tips, guides, and money-saving advice.
- The Blonde Abroad - Female-focused travel blog with packing guides, itineraries, and inspiration.
- Expert Vagabond - Adventure travel blog covering photography, outdoor expeditions, and destinations worldwide.
- Travel Noire - Celebrates Black travelers and provides culturally-rich travel stories and advice.
- Couchsurfing - Community platform to stay with locals or meet people abroad for free cultural exchange.
Language & Culture
Learn about your destination's language, customs, and etiquette before you go. These resources make it easier to connect with locals and show respect for their culture.
Recommended: Rocket Languages Award-Winning Courses - Learn a new language fast with immersive, self-paced online courses loved by travelers. 60 Day Money Back Guarantee
- CIA World Factbook - Comprehensive country profiles including demographics, politics, and international relations.
- Culture Crossing - country-specific etiquette, customs, and cultural tips for travelers.
Volunteer & Work Abroad
Make your travels meaningful by volunteering or working abroad. These programs let you immerse yourself in local cultures while giving back or gaining experience.
Recommended: Workaway - connects travelers with hosts worldwide offering cultural exchange and volunteering opportunities.
- WWOOF - Volunteer on organic farms around the world in exchange for food and accommodation.
- GoAbroad - Comprehensive directory of volunteer, study, and internship programs worldwide.
- Volunteer World - Online platform for finding volunteer projects with transparent pricing and reviews.
- HelpX - Work-exchange opportunities with farms, hostels, and families in exchange for room and board.
Lifestyle & Long-Term Travel
Digital Nomad & Long-Term Travel
For those traveling long-term or working remotely, these platforms offer guidance on visas, finances, and community. Live, work, and travel the world with confidence.
Recommended: Nomad List - community and data platform ranking cities for remote workers and digital nomads.
- Remote Year - Programs for professionals to live and work remotely in different countries each month.
- Digital Nomad Visa Guide - Database of countries offering visas and residency permits for remote workers.
- Borderless - Financial and residency tools for location-independent entrepreneurs and digital nomads.