International travel tips for crossing borders without surprises

The international trips that go badly usually go badly at a desk: an airline check-in that won't accept a passport with too little validity, a border that wants proof of onward travel, or a car rental counter that asks for a permit nobody mentioned.

We cover passports and entry requirements, money and cards abroad, phones and data, getting around without a car, and the customs and laws that differ from home. Because entry rules change, every guide points you to the official government source to check before you fly. We never promise what a border officer will decide.

Coming stories will cover how first-time international travelers should start and the advice we'd give beginners. Our first international guides are still in fact-checking; until then, the list below follows international travel writing from Travel Dudes.