Links & Resources | Abroad Reach

Helpful Travel Links

US Passports: A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in most cases. Most countries require at least one, but often two or more blank visa pages in your passport for international travel (e.g., Africa requires up to 6 blank pages). It's best to check the specific requirements of your destination country before traveling, as they can vary widely. Here are several resources related to passports:

Real ID: Two year "phased enforcement" starting May 7, 2025, you'll need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another approved form of identification to board domestic flights in the U.S.
- Department of Homeland Security - Real ID
- What to Know About REAL ID
- TSA REAL ID Information

Global Entry: Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.
- Trusted Traveler Program: Global Entry

TSA Pre-Check: When approved to travel with TSA PreCheck®, low-risk travelers will have a smoother experience at U.S. airport security checkpoints.
- Transportation Security Administration: TSA Pre-Check

Clear: Speed through U.S. airport security with our annual Membership by getting access to 100+ CLEAR Lanes—simply by verifying you are you. CLEAR makes everyday experiences better— from sports games to rideshare apps.
- Clear

Mobile Passport Control (MPC): For shorter wait times in U.S. Customs, you can use this free, easy-to-use app and is available at most major U.S. airports.
- MPC

VISA Requirements: Does your destination require a VISA? Learn about Visa requirements and more at:
- Travel.State.Gov - Type your destination(s) in the search bar and press enter.
- Sherpa- A fee-based service provider to assist with document submission, but also provides basic guidance on travel requirements for free.

UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization): Effective January 8, 2025, travelers from many countries, including the U.S., need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before visiting the UK. An ETA gives you permission to travel to (or transition through) the UK.
- UK Government ETA page
- Applications can be done online, but you can also apply via the UK government app.

European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) a.k.a. “Visa Waiver”.. Starting sometime 2026, travelers from the USA and many other countries will need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before visiting Europe. ETIAS is not a visa, it is an electronic travel authorization, also known as a visa waiver.
- Click on this link to see the LIST OF ETIAS ELIGIBLE COUNTRIES
Entry/Exit Systems (EES) - The EES will register visa-free and visa-required travelers entering Europe for a short stay. No action will be required from travelers before they start their trip, as registration will be done at the external border of any of the 29 European (Schengen) countries using the system. The EES system is currently not in operation.
It is due to start in October 2025. The European Union will confirm the starting date of the EES several months prior to its launch
- European Union information page for the Entry/Exit System (EES).
- ETIAS is a separate system for visa-exempt travelers and is not the same as the EES.

If you're traveling into/through Canada, some travelers must complete the Canada eTA at least 72 hours prior to departure. Currently does NOT apply to US citizens, but please use the link below to verify current requirements based on your travel dates.
- Canada eTA
If you have a felony on your record (past or present), and are planning to visit or transition through Canada, please be advised:
- Any U.S Citizen or permanent resident that has a felony conviction on their criminal record may be deemed inadmissible to Canada even if they’re merely going to Canada to visit. There are several resources to better understand Canada’s stance on allowing persons with felony records into their country (see links below).
  - Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) Applications - Canadian TRP
  - Criminal Rehabilitation - criminal rehabilitation in Canada

Travel Documents: Bring your passport, driver's license, and any other required or useful documents (entry visa, vaccination record, student ID and so on). Bring any necessary health or travel insurance contact info. Scans or photocopies of key documents like airline reservations, car rentals and hotel info are good to have on hand.
- Passport: Must be valid at least 6 months beyond return date.

Travel Insurance: It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and any unexpected travel events.

Pack Essentials: Make sure to pack enough medications for your planned duration and a buffer in case you are delayed. Remember your glasses, contacts, toiletries, chargers, batteries, phones, earplugs, hand sanitizers, face masks, laundry supplies, baggies, etc.

Money Matters: Make sure your credit cards work internationally (preferably with no foreign transaction fees) and be sure to carry some cash in the local currency. Order foreign currency/spending money from your local bank for incidentals (tips, cabs, street snack, gifts, etc.). Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any credit card issues.

Adapters & Converters: You’ll need to pack both a converter and [one or more] adapters as Europe’s voltage/current is different (the need to convert) and the shape of the plugs are different (the need to adapt). For any non “dual-voltage” appliances, you’ll need a converter to switch between 220 and 110 volts (or risk damaging equipment). You’ll need an adapter to plug your device into the European outlet. Amazon Converters & Adapters.

Book Popular Attractions in Advance: For popular tourist sites, book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines and ensure entry.

Equip Yourself With Translation Resources: While it is useful to learn some phrases in the local language, be prepared for language barriers in non-English-speaking countries. Have a translation app like Google translate or a pocket dictionary on hand to help with communication.

Use Travel Apps: Apps like Google Maps, Citymapper, and local transport apps can help you navigate cities efficiently.

Donia Davis ACC
Agency Owner & Luxury Travel Consultant

CLIA Luxury Cruise Specialist

River Cruise Specialist

European Travel Specialist

Sandals Resorts Certified Specialist

License FL-ST17873 CA-2063964-50