✈ What Happens if You Lose Your Passport Abroad, Big Airline Merger Won’t Devalue Miles & More News From TPG ✈

September 18, 2024

International travel tips

by Katie Genter, Lead writer

I spend a lot of time traveling outside the U.S., so my passport is one of my most important possessions. Although I’ve never lost my passport, a close call last December taught me what to do if you lose your passport while traveling internationally.

In short, you’ll need to work with a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your current country if you lose your passport. Unfortunately, this may take some time as these locations may not be open on weekends or holidays and may require an appointment.

Keeping your passport safe is just one of many international travel tips I can give. When preparing to travel, think about how you will handle phone calls and internet access. For example, you can use some apps to make phone calls for free while abroad, but you’ll still need internet access to do so. You could rely on Wi-Fi, but I prefer to use Google Fi and eSIMs to stay connected while abroad (including in Cairo, pictured above).

For purchases, you’ll want to use a credit card without foreign transaction fees, but you’ll also usually want to get some local currency for merchants that don’t accept credit cards. Also, make sure you are choosing the local currency on the credit card terminal to avoid extra fees.

You can order money ahead of time from some banks or exchange your currency after you land, but I prefer simply withdrawing money from an ATM at my destination. Luckily, I have a debit card that reimburses me for fees the ATM operator charges.

Here are a few related stories to read ahead of your next international trip:

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Photo Credit: KATIE GENTER/THE POINTS GUY.

Today’s top stories

Alaska-Hawaiian merger will protect frequent flyer miles as part of major DOT agreement

The Department of Transportation took a major step toward approving the merger, effectively allowing the two airlines to close the deal.

Hilton adds another 100-plus hotels thanks to Small Luxury Hotels of the World partnership

Another 102 SLH properties are now available for booking through Hilton’s direct reservations channels.

Southwest makes it easier to change your Companion Pass online

Southwest Airlines lets you change your companion up to three times per calendar year, and the process just got significantly easier.

United to open its second grab-and-go Club Fly and largest-ever lounge in Houston

United Airlines is building on its popular grab-and-go lounge concept by introducing its second United Club Fly.

Cruise single supplements: Here’s why you’ll pay double to cruise alone

If you planned and budgeted for a cruise but suddenly found out it would cost you double what you expected, would you still go?

The latest

1.	Giant new Norwegian Cruise Line ship will sail from Miami

2.	Southwest wouldn’t really start charging for bags — right?

3.	Some of our favorite ways to use Delta SkyMiles

4.	Marriott Bonvoy fall promo: Get 20% off weekend bookings if you move fast

5.	Breeze to launch 4 new routes from Washington Dulles, but delay 2 from New Orleans

6.	These are North America’s best airports, according to J.D. Power’s 2024 rankings

7.	Hawaiian Airlines-Alaska Airlines merger: Miles will transfer at 1:1 ratio, plus more loyalty program details revealed

8.	SAS returns to Seattle, bolsters ties to Delta after switch to SkyTeam

9.	These 8 solo cruise cabins are great for travelers sailing alone

10.	TPG’s favorite hotels in Latin America

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