International Travel: Frequently Asked Questions
Paperwork and planning questions for trips abroad, plus ID rules for flying within the United States. Prices and rules change, so a specialist confirms the details for your dates before you pay.
Questions and answers
What documents do I need for an international flight?
A valid passport is the starting point, and depending on your citizenship you may also need a visa, an electronic travel authorization or an e-visa. Use the destination government's official site. See our international flight checklist.
How long must my passport be valid?
Many countries require your passport to be valid for some time beyond your stay, and some require blank pages. Check your destination's rules before you book.
Do I need a visa?
It depends on your citizenship and your destination. Check the official government site for the country you are visiting, ideally before you pay for a ticket.
Does the name on my ticket need to match my passport?
Yes. The name on your ticket must match your passport exactly, and for U.S. domestic trips it must match your government-issued photo ID.
Do I need paperwork for a connection abroad?
If you change planes in another country, check whether the connecting country needs its own transit paperwork.
Are there health or insurance requirements?
Some destinations ask for specific vaccinations, insurance or proof of onward travel. Check the official travel advisory pages for your country of citizenship and the destination.
Can I travel one-way internationally?
Some countries ask for proof that you will leave, which a one-way ticket may not provide. Check the rules for your destination. See one-way vs round trip.
Do infants and young children need their own ticket on international flights?
Airlines have rules about children under two, who can often travel on an adult's lap on domestic flights but may need a ticket or a separate seat on international trips. Ask about the airline's policy. See flying with family.
What ID do I need to fly within the United States?
Domestic flyers aged 18 and over need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another accepted form of identification, such as a passport, at airport security.
What should I sort out before leaving the country?
Tell your card issuer you are traveling if they ask for it, check roaming charges or buy a local data plan, and keep digital and paper copies of your passport and booking details.