How to Plan an International Trip

Planning an overseas adventure can feel both exhilarating and overwhelming. Between passports, bookings, insurance, and deciding what to pack, it’s no wonder many travellers say the hardest part of a holiday is the preparation. The good news is, with a little organisation and foresight, planning an international trip doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you feel confident about your journey.

Step 1: Choose Your Destination and Timing

The first decision is where to go and when. Seasons matter—Europe in winter is very different from summer, and Asia’s monsoon season may change your experience entirely. Consider whether you prefer warm weather, cultural festivals, or quieter off-season travel. Health and mobility needs are worth weighing up too—walking steep cobbled streets might be enchanting to some, but daunting to others.

Step 2: Budget and Finances

Once you’ve settled on a destination, set a realistic budget. Include flights, accommodation, food, insurance, activities, and a buffer for the unexpected. Factor in exchange rates and whether a prepaid travel card, credit card, or cash will suit your plans best. Remember, a carefully planned budget doesn’t limit you—it frees you to enjoy the experience without financial surprises along the way.

Step 3: Documentation and Visas

Check your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date—many countries require this. Research visa requirements early, as some can take weeks or months to process. Depending on your destination, you may also need vaccination certificates or other entry documentation. Having all this in order before you leave saves last-minute panic at the airport.

Step 4: Book Flights and Accommodation

Flights are often the largest single cost, so book early to secure the best routes. Think carefully about connections and layovers. Flying from New Zealand often involves long-haul journeys, so consider breaking the trip with a stopover. Singapore, for example, makes a fantastic mini-destination on the way to Europe, with gardens, hawker centres, and comfortable hotels right at Changi Airport. Accommodation comes in many forms—hotels, serviced apartments, Airbnbs, and even cruises. Cruises deserve special mention, as they combine accommodation, dining, and entertainment in one package. Scenic Cruises, for example, offer smaller ships which can access ports larger liners cannot, offering a more intimate cruising experience. Their “space-ships” are designed for comfort on Europe’s great rivers, sailing right into the heart of major cities, whereas their boutique ocean vessels provide all-inclusive luxury on a slightly larger scale. If you’re flying halfway across the world, it may also be worth extending your stay at either the departure or arrival port of a cruise—it’s a chance to enjoy two holidays in one!

Step 5: Plan Your Itinerary

When sketching out your days, try to balance sightseeing with downtime. Packing your schedule too tightly can leave you exhausted, while leaving things too loose may result in missed opportunities. Research local transport—trains in Europe, domestic flights in Asia, or rental cars where needed. A well-thought-out itinerary means you won’t be standing on a street corner scrolling maps when you’d rather be sipping coffee at a pavement café.

Step 6: Insurance and Health Prep

Travel insurance is a must-have, not a maybe. It covers everything from cancelled flights to hospital visits. Without it, even a minor mishap could become a major financial setback. Take time to check what’s included—medical, cancellation, and lost luggage cover are essentials. Depending on your destination, look into vaccinations or medication supplies as well.

Step 7: Packing and Pre-Trip Logistics

Start with a checklist: documents, medications, chargers, travel cards, and weather-appropriate clothing. Aim to pack light—most people overestimate how much they’ll need. Don’t forget practical extras such as universal power adapters or a neck pillow for long flights. Before you go, let your bank know about your travel dates, arrange phone roaming or a local SIM card for your phone, and scan important documents in case they go missing.

Have you Considered a Travel Agent?

For some travellers, the thrill of planning is part of the adventure. For others, it can feel like a full-time job. This is where a travel agent can make all the difference. An experienced advisor can: handle the complexity of multi-stop flights and connections; recommend accommodation types—whether hotels, Airbnbs, cruises, or unique stays you might not find online; arrange Scenic cruise packages with all the extras included; keep track of visas, insurance, and entry requirements so nothing is overlooked; and provide support if plans change or things go wrong mid-trip. Having a professional in your corner doesn’t just save time—it can add peace of mind and sometimes even save money, thanks to exclusive deals and bundled options.

International travel is one of life’s great pleasures, and the effort you put into planning pays off in smoother, more enjoyable experiences. Whether you’re exploring Europe’s grand capitals, cruising quiet rivers, or discovering a new city on a stopover, thoughtful preparation will set the stage for a memorable trip. If you’d prefer to leave the details to someone else, know that help is available. With the right planning—or the right support—you can focus on what matters most: the adventure itself.

To start dreaming about where you might like to travel, have a browse of package deals on offer  with GrownUps Holidays.