The first trip abroad in 2026 requires a little more attention to detail than before, but it is still just as feasible and wonderful. To ensure you feel confident from the moment of booking until your return home, we have prepared a comprehensive checklist. If you are ready to take the first step, the easiest way is to buy tickets to Tashkent on Kupi.com or tickets to Baku – these are excellent “starter” destinations with clear logistics.

Documents and Bureaucratic Nuances

Before packing your suitcase, sort out your paperwork. This is the most crucial step now.

• Passport: Check the expiration date. For most countries (Turkey, Egypt, UAE, Southeast Asian countries), your passport must be valid for another 6 months from the date of entry. If you have an old 5-year passport, make sure it has enough blank pages for stamps.

• Visa Issue: If you are planning a trip to Europe, start applying for a Schengen visa 2-3 months in advance. To simplify your first trip, choose visa-free countries or those where a visa is issued upon arrival (e.g., Thailand or Vietnam).

• Medical Insurance: In 2026, this is not a formality but a necessity. Choose a policy with coverage of at least $35,000. Make sure it includes assistance for active recreation if you plan, for example, to ride a bike.

Financial Strategy

The main question today is how to pay? Russian cards work perfectly within the country, but abroad they turn into a “pumpkin”.

• Cash: Your main insurance. Take new banknotes with you (dollars issued after 2006 or euros). Remember that in many countries in Asia and the Middle East, new “blue” dollar bills are accepted at a more favorable exchange rate.

• Foreign Bank Cards: If you have a card from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, or Turkey – this is an ideal option. If not, you can get a UnionPay card from some Russian banks, but before your trip, be sure to check in traveler chats whether it works in a specific country.

• Cryptocurrency: In 2026, this is a viable method. Learn how P2P exchangers work to withdraw money to a local card or get cash from a crypto ATM if needed.

Digital Preparation

Your smartphone is your best friend if you “charge” it correctly.

• Connectivity: To avoid exorbitant roaming charges, use an eSIM (if your phone supports it). Apps like Airalo or similar allow you to buy an internet package before departure.

• Offline Services: Download maps in Google Maps or Maps.me. Install an offline translator (especially relevant for Asian countries).

• Taxi: Find out which ride-hailing apps operate in the country (Uber, Careem, Grab, Bolt). Link your card or be prepared to pay in cash.

Packing: Suitcase or Carry-on?

If you're flying for a week, try to fit everything into your carry-on luggage – this will save time at the airport and eliminate the risk of lost baggage.

• Liquids Rule: All liquids (creams, shampoos, perfumes) must be in containers up to 100 ml. In total – no more than 1 liter per person.

• Power bank: Always take an external battery, but remember: it cannot be checked in luggage, only carried in hand luggage.

• First-aid kit: Take your usual medications for headaches, stomach issues, and allergies. If you take specific medications, bring a doctor's prescription with you (preferably in English).

At the Airport and In Flight

• Timing: For international flights, check-in closes 40-60 minutes, and boarding – 20 minutes before departure. Arrive 3 hours in advance.

• Customs: When exporting cash exceeding $10,000 per person, it must be declared.

• Border Control: Don't worry. Simply answer questions clearly about your trip's purpose and duration of stay. It will be helpful to have a printout of your hotel reservation in English.

First Day in a New Country

• Transfer: Look for official taxi stands or follow signs to public transport. Avoid “private drivers” who solicit you at the doors – it's always an overpayment.

• Hotel Check-in: Upon check-in, you will be asked for your passport. Sometimes hotels take a deposit (cash or card), which is returned upon check-out.

The world is much friendlier than it seems from an office window. Your task is to observe basic safety rules, keep an eye on your belongings, and smile more.