Travel Mistakes You Might Be Making Without Even Realizing It

7. Not Checking Your Passport’s Expiry & Visa Rules in Advance

Many travelers assume that if their passport is valid, they’re good to go. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Many countries require at least six months’ validity beyond your departure date. That means if your passport expires in four months, you could be denied entry at the airport—even if you have a return ticket before it expires. Similarly, visa requirements vary widely, and some destinations require applications weeks or months in advance. Waiting until the last minute can leave you scrambling, rebooking flights, or even canceling your trip entirely.Avoid this mistake by checking your passport and visa requirements well in advance. If your passport is close to the six-month mark, renew it before you book your trip to avoid last-minute stress. Research visa policies for your destination, as some places allow visa-free entry, while others require pre-approval, paperwork, or even in-person interviews. Taking a few minutes to check these details months before your trip can save you from a major travel headache later.