Travel Smart: Key Preparations for Your International Journey
- Amawi Arminta
- Feb 15
- 8 min read
Updated: Feb 17
Here's Your Essential Guide to Preparing for International Travel
Traveling internationally offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures, connect with diverse people, and rejuvenate your spirit, mind, and body. At Ora Healing XP (OXP), we believe that thorough preparation is key to making the most of your journey and ultimately, your transformation into your highest vibrational self.
Table of Contents:
Here’s an essential checklist of 25 actions tailored for our passionately adventurous community on their wellness journey to ensure a smooth and fulfilling travel XP (pronounced "experience") through international preparation.
International Travel Preparation
Things to Do 3 - 8 Weeks Before Your Flight:
#1 Research Your Destination
What better way to get excited about your trip that watching YouTube videos of the scenery, food, and sights to see! While you’re at it, you should also familiarize yourself with the culture, customs, and local laws of your destination as knowledge is power, and it can help to enhance your experience as well as help you avoid misunderstandings and expectations.
#2 Start a Travel Journal
Your journey starts now, way beyond the flight on the plane. Kick off your adventure by journaling your thoughts and expectations. Keeping a daily written or digital (written, audio, or video) journal is priceless for many reasons such as documenting your transformation from where you are currently and what you’d like or expect out of your trip.
EX: What do you want to see that you haven’t seen before? How do you think it will change your mind, your speech, and maybe your daily habits? What’s one thing that you commit to making this trip a life-changing experience? Are all great questions to ask yourself BEFORE even packing up your bag.
#4 Check Passport Validity
This is an important step as you need to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Some countries require this for entry, so it’s highly recommended to check the specific regulations for your destination. However, if you make sure you’re up to date, you won’t have a problem with any country you go to. The quickest way to get your passport updated is by going into a government building directly. Especially if you need your passport expedited to skip shipping delays and mishaps.
#5 Obtain Necessary Visas
Do you need a visa? Only you can know for sure. Verify whether you need a visa to enter your destination country by going to the country’s government issued site. If required, apply well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Speak to your travel host if this is a necessity for you so they can make the proper provisions.
#6 Practice Basic Local Phrases
This is another fun way to get ready for your trip! YouTube has plenty of videos to help you learn some introductory words and phrases in almost any language. Learning a few key phrases in the local language can enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture. Listen to some music, watch some TV shows, or find a local newspaper to read to get more immersed into the day to day of the area you’ll be traveling to.
#7 Purchase Travel Insurance With Ticket
Investing in travel insurance can protect you against unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost belongings, allowing you to travel with peace of mind. If you’re traveling with OXP, you never have to worry about doing this yourself. We provide premium coverage on all retreats domestic and abroad.
#8 Declutter Your Home
Time is of the essence, so try spending just 20 minutes each day in a room of your choice for a week, ending the week with an hour or two of dedicated time and next thing you know, you've found documents you've been looking for and other precious items you were sure to have lost. Take this time out of your day to declutter and clean your home while saying positive affirmations and statements of gratitude to bring positivity not only into your home, but into your international journey. Coming home to a tidy environment will help you unwind and feel rejuvenated after your travels.
#9 Check Health Recommendations
Firstly, it's always good to go on a fast before you travel, to reset the body, wind down on extra spending, and focus less on excess eating and more on our transformation that we are looking to achieve after traveling. We will do plenty of spending and eating joyously while abroad. Check your vitals daily, write them in your journal, and if applicable, consult your healthcare provider regarding any vaccinations or medications you may need for your destination. Make sure to pack any necessary prescriptions, herbal supplements and topicals. If your medication contains THC or CBD, please refer to the government website of the place you're traveling to or your travel host if it's legal to carry along.
#10 Set Up Automatic Bill Payments
If you have recurring bills, set them up for automatic payments while you’re away to avoid late fees or service interruptions.
Things to Do 1-2 Weeks Before Your Flight:
#1 Plan for Jet Lag
This doesn't sound like much now, but it's better to plan ahead for the effects of jet lag. Consider strategies to manage it such as adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before departure, staying hydrated before and during your flight, eating live and light light foods before and after flights.
#2 Digital Detox
In today’s fast-paced world, it's easy to get lost in your devices. Consider taking a short break from digital distractions before your trip. This mental reset helps you focus on your travel goals, embrace the present moment, and fully engage with your surroundings.
#3 Download Offline Maps
Before you travel, download maps of your destination for offline access. This can be incredibly useful if you don’t have mobile data or Wi-Fi.
#4 Check Your Phone Plan
Stay connected while abroad! Reach out to your mobile service provider to discuss international coverage options. Consider a travel SIM card or an international plan, so you can share your adventures with friends and family back home.
#5 Pack Smart
Pack Smart! There, we said it twice. We've found the best way to do this is to make a packing list on your phone or notebook paper of all of the things you'd like to bring with you. On that same sheet, write the cities you'll be going to, relevant activities like a formal dinner, hiking, or swimming, and the temperature. Try your best to pack versatile and layer-able clothing and essential items like adapters and toiletries. Remember, light is right!
#6 Make Copies of Important Documents
Another important one! Take out your phone and your important documents like your passport, travel itinerary, major credit cards, home address via mailed letter, other important documents, etc and upload them to a place you can access simply with wifi. If it's in a place like Google Photos or iCloud, make sure you can access it even if you don't have a way to 2-factor authenticate it with your phone. Also store copies in your phone. Thank us later.
#7 Organize Your Emergency Contacts
Prepare a list of important contacts, including local emergency services, your country’s embassy, and any local friends or acquaintances. Star them in your contacts and share with your travel host and members of the contact list itself.
#8 Prepare for Currency Exchange
Research the currency used in your destination and consider exchanging some money before you leave. Familiarize yourself with the local currency to make transactions smoother. If you're traveling with OXP you don't have to worry about this action! We've got you covered here.
#9 Inform a Trusted Neighbor or Friend
Slightly different than #7, this action is more about letting someone who has eyes on your property know that you'll be out of town. This is especially important if you're leaving for a long period of time (5-10+ days). This trusted individual can watch your car, make sure your mail doesn't get rained on, feed your dog, or simply let you know if anything eventful is happening in you all's neighborhood while you're gone, etc.
#10 Pause incoming packages, mail, and subscriptions
Do you have a gym membership? Monthly grocery items that come to your house? There's a plethora of subscription types out there, and many of them can be paused. Take time out this far ahead to pause them in advance to avoid being overcharged.
Things to Do 24 Hours Before Your Flight:
#1 Contact Your Credit Card Providers
Before you embark on your adventure, inform your credit card companies about your travel dates and destinations. This proactive step ensures your cards remain active, allowing you to enjoy hassle-free transactions as you explore new locales.
#2 Notify Your Bank
In addition to credit card providers, inform your bank about your travel plans to ensure access to funds and avoid any account freezes.
#3 Complete Laundry
Don’t leave your house or clothing in a manner that will stress you upon your return. The best way to do this is to not only ensure you have clean clothes ready to pack, but also wash your sheets, towels, heck your shower curtain if you need to! What will make you feel the “ahhh I’m back at home” along with the “oooo it’s so nice in here!” at the same time. So once you return, you still have time to fully savor your travel experience and ease into life in your home town.
#4 Empty the Fridge and Clean Your Dishes
Same principle as #3 above applies here. Dispose of perishable items to avoid unpleasant surprises when you return. A clean kitchen makes for a fresh start back home!
#5 Unplug Heavy Electronics
This one is as easy to think of as it is to forget. Disconnect appliances like heaters and computers to save energy and minimize fire hazards. This precaution helps keep your home safe while you explore the world.
Special Preparations for OXP Travelers
When traveling with OXP, take a few extra steps to enhance your experience:
Share your excitement and questions in the community chat: Get to know the people you’ll be traveling with as well as have a place to share your transformation and experiences.
Schedule Your Follow-Up Call with OXP & MIFK: During this meeting we'll get to know you and your goals more as well as ask for the information below.
Fill Out Your Medical and Diet Form: Tailoring your travel experience to your needs is important to us. This form helps us provide the best support during your journey and would be best if it’s done after you purchase your ticket and before our follow-up call.
Share Your Travel Information: Ensure we have your travel details and emergency contact information for a smooth experience.
Make Your Last Payment: Complete your final payment at least a week before departure (March 27th, 2025). Follow this link for payment plans and discount pricing.
Upcoming Travel Opportunities with OXP
If you're new to OXP, there's no better way to get the full XP than by joining us on one of our highly sought after transformative retreats that immerse you in vibrant cultures and healing practices!
Here’s what’s coming up:
Morocco: Revitalize & Reset March 2025
Puerto Rico: Mystical Moonlight Retreat May 2025
Morocco: African Cup Adventures December 2025
Experience the beauty of indigenous cultures, savor exquisite cuisine, and indulge in rejuvenating spa amenities. Become apart of our international community by signing up for our newsletter to stay updated on new retreats and exclusive offers in a city near you!
Embrace the Journey
At OXP, we believe that travel is not just about the destination, but the journey itself. By preparing thoughtfully, you can focus on creating unforgettable memories. Learn more about OXP via this link.
Safe travels!
Until Next Time,
Peace
~ OXP
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