TICKETS - PASSPORT - MONEY

These are the most important things you need for your tour abroad.  Below is a brief discussion on each topic and references to web sites for further information.
 
TICKETS.   MOST airline tickets are now electronic, which means their record is kept in the airline's computer system.  Therefore, it is impossible to lose an electronic ticket. Carry with you, your flight itinerary, confirmation number and passenger receipt.  You will receive these from Cultural Tour Consultants with your final documents, or from the airline, should you opt to take a 'land only' package, and purchase your airline ticket independently.
 
Please Note:  Paper tickets, the old-fashioned kind, are still in use!  You may be part of a group that is traveling on an airline that will issue PAPER TICKETS. Some airlines will only issue paper tickets for groups, and in some cases, interline agreements between the carriers require paper ticket issuance.  DO NOT LOSE YOUR PAPER TICKET.  It is a negotiable document, and will be costly to replace.
 
PASSPORT.  Please be sure to apply for your passport as soon as you decide to join your tour.  There are still serious backlogs at the Passport Issuing Agencies. 

A passport application form can be obtained at any U.S. Post Office, or download the form at www.travel.state.gov.

Renewing a Passport
If you already have a passport, it must valid for six months after your return date. To renew your passport your will need your old passport, two new photos and the renewal form, available at the Post Office, or download it from: www.travel.state.gov.

Visas
U.S. Citizens do not need a visa when traveling to most European countries. If your tour group is traveling to a country where a visa is required, you will receive instructions about how to obtain the visa. 

MONEY.

Credit Cards and Debit Cards:

ATM machines are the standard means of obtaining local currency.  You may use your debit card or credit card at ATM machines, but your debit card will be more economical, because of the fees creidt card companies charge. 

You can also purchase prepaid debit cards, which will work in ATM machines and for purchases at shops, restaurants, etc.  See the links below. 

http://usa.visa.com/personal/cards/prepaid/visa_travel_money.html

http://www.mastercard.com/us/personal/en/aboutourcards/gift_prepaid/index.html

Travelers Checks:
Travelers Checks are becoming obsolete, but are still in use. You will pay an exchange fee when cashing them and you will not receive as good a rate as when using ATM cards. Also, some merchants do not accept Travelers Checks.
 
Cash:
You may wish to take a small amount of the local currency with you, in case you arrive at a time when banks and exchanges are not open. Any left over paper money can be exchanged at the airport upon your departure. Contact your bank to learn where foreign currency may be purchased in your area (available at some banks and travel agencies).

BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE.

Cultural Tour Consultants’ baggage allowance is based on the capacity of the luggage compartments and overhead storage areas of the motor coaches used abroad.  Each participant is limited to one medium-size suitcase and one carry on bag.  The carry on bag should be large enough to hold items you might need during the course of a day on your tour, such as a bottle of water, camera, a jacket or sweater, extra pair or shoes, and souvenirs you may purchase.  Do not plan to bring a roller-bag as your carry on; instead bring a back pack, or tote bag.  The overhead storage areas of the motor coaches are not as large as those in airplanes, and the international Airlines’ carry-on weight and size limits are much stricter than for U.S. domestic Travel. 

The airline on which you are traveling will have a page devoted to their specific baggage restrictions. 

According to the web site of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), there are two kinds of travelers in the world: those who packed light and those who wish they had.

See the links below for the latest security guidelines for carry on and checked luggage. Click here for more information.

“The World’s Most Trusted Source of Travel Supplies” since 1989. Here you’ll find many items that you’ll need on tour, all available for purchase in one place. There are adaptors, convertors, travel appliances and money pouches to name a few. You’ll also see a vast array of bags and the newest and lightest luggage. Magellan’s also offers informative articles and travel tips. Follow the link to check out the Magellan’s website.

TELEPHONE.

Call in Europe makes it easy and affordable for travelers to Europe to stay connected and pay the same low rates for cell service as Europeans do. Various plans are offered including phone rental, phone purchase and sim card purchase with no monthly fee and no term commitment. Follow this link to check their website for your specific needs.