As a Nigerian, if you’re planning to travel outside the nation, whether for work or holiday, there’s few things you should sort out before leaving.
Most people focus on flights and hotels, but some small things can really stress you out when you arrive.
1. Passport, visa and travel documents
Sounds obvious but check your passport validity and visa requirements early. Some countries require at least 6 months validity on your passport.
Also keep digital copies of your passport, hotel booking, return ticket and travel insurance. Dont depend on having internet to access everything.
2. Mobile data or eSIM
You need internet as soon as you land, especially for maps, transport and bank verification. I prefer eSIMs since you can set them up before travelling without changing your SIM.
I use Uquid’s eSIM for the global coverage and plan options, but always compare prices and check phone compatibility.
3. More than one payment method
Please dont travel with just one bank card. Even if your card works fine in Nigeria, international transactions can get declined sometimes.
I think its safer to have a backup Visa card and some local cash. Also check your bank’s foreign transaction fees and daily spending limits before leaving.
4. Travel insurance and emergency contacts
A lot of people skip insurance to save money, but medical bills abroad can be very expensive.
Check what the policy actually covers, especially medical emergencies, lost luggage and trip cancellations. Save your embassy contact and hotel address too.
5. Download important things offline
Google Maps offline, flight details, hotel address, booking confirmations and transport routes. These things can save you alot of stress when your internet suddenly stops working.
Also check how to get from the airport to your hotel before landing. Airport taxis aren’t always the cheapest option.
These are few things I’d recommend sorting out before any international trip. Better to prepare early than start figuring everything out in a foreign country.