Traveling can be tricky, especially when you’re traveling internationally. Some things are more important than others and if not done can prevent you from getting on your flight. We’ve included these super-very-important to-dos below:

GET A PASSPORT BOOK

A book, not a card, there’s a difference. Passport cards cannot be used for international travel by air. Cards are only good for entering the US at land-border crossings or sea ports from select countries.

CHECK YOUR PASSPORT EXPIRATION DATE

Especially if you’ve had your passport for what feels like forever, double check your expiration date. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the date you enter a foreign country.

CHECK IN ON TIME

On time means at least one hour before your flight. Better yet get there early. Don’t forget to give yourself time to procrastinate at home, drive to the airport, park, take the bus, go to the bathroom and stand in line.

Pretty soon we’ll have a frequently asked questions post to help answer any other lingering questions you might have. Is there anything you do before traveling to get prepared?