Being prepared will significantly reduce the stress surrounding your move to another country. You need to make a list and carry with you in your phone or on piece of paper with your passport and keep it close during your travels. Here are some small but helpful tips to help you stay organized avoid unnecessary hassles.

1.) Check and double check your flight departure, arrival times and connections. Remember the airline ticket will list the arrival time according to the country you are going.  Understanding your itinerary will let you prepare accordingly for layovers and how much time you can expect to be in the air.

2.) If there is a time difference set your watch or phone to the time of the country. This way you once you are there and needing to sort out public transit schedules, business hours etc you will not be trying to convert the time difference as you go.

3.) Have the address handy of the location you need to go once you have arrived. This is essential.  A neighbourhood or general directions will not cut it.

4.) Go with the local currency in your wallet and avoid the hassle of finding an ATM and paying fees in foreign currencies.

5.) Research the tipping customs of the country. This help will avoid awkward moments especially if you are traveling by taxi, grabbing a quick bite to eat at a restaurant, dealing with hotel staff etc.

6.) Once you arrive at your accommodations, ask for a local convenient store to buy some small essentials and snacks. Having something nutritious to eat the first morning you wake up in a new place is settling. You may want to bring food on the plane- but please research the customs and border control.

7.) Contact your family to let them know you arrived safely. It is easy to get caught up when you first arrive in a new place, but remember your family needs to know that you are settled and OK!