FREQUENTLY ASKED TRAVEL QUESTIONS

While it's not always possible to book travel far in advance, we recommend trying--whenever possible--to book your trip at least 2-3 months before your planned departure to secure the best deals and availability.

Our cancellation policy varies depending on the type of booking and the individual supplier. We recommend checking the specific cancellation policy for your booking before confirming your reservation. While some bookings may be eligible for cancellation, travel proposal request service and convenience fees paid to Global Travel Consulting are non-refundable.

Yes, depending on the type of booking, travel discounts are often available for groups of 10 or more people. Contact us for more information and pricing.

While purchasing travel insurance is an individual decision, we do recommend it and work directly with a supplier who offers competitively priced coverage for a variety of circumstances including trip cancellation, medical emergencies, travel delays, lost or delayed luggage, rental cars and more. Learn more here.

All of the latest travel identification requirements are available at TSA.gov.

Please note that beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., it must be REAL ID compliant. If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID (generally indicated by a gold or black star in the top right corner), check with your state department of motor vehicles.

For information about passport requirements, including how to apply or renew and what to do if your passports is lost or stolen, go to USA.gov.

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel outside the U.S., you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. While not all countries require visas for American travelers, many do. Look up your destination using the U.S. State Department's Learn About Your Destination Search Tool. On the country’s information page, you will find entry, exit and visa requirements. You will also find travel advisories and a link to the country’s embassy.

The U.S. State Department offers a variety of information that should be helpful to anyone planning to travel outside of the United States.

Before You Go...While Abroad...and In Case of Emergency.

Before you pack your bags and turn on your email out-of-office message, here are a few tips to maximize your travel experience and safety:

1. Make copies of your ID and passport: Make 2 photocopies of your license and passport in case either is lost or stolen. Take one copy with you and store it separately from your original, and leave another with a friend or relative. The U.S. government also offers the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service for U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad. The program permits enrollment with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate, which can assist travelers in the event of an emergency and provide real-time updates about health, weather, safety and security if required.
2. Streamline your wallet: Lost wallets are the leading cause of identity theft and can certainly ruin a trip. Only carry the credit card(s) you plan to use on your trip and leave your checkbook and the rest of your cards at home. If you decide to bring more than one credit card, consider stashing the extra, along with account information and customer service numbers for the cards you have with you, in a hotel safe or other secure location.
3. Check out guides: Before you book that zip-lining, parasailing or river rafting trip, check online for any customer reviews. Seeing what others have to say about the company and the excursion can help you choose a safe and well-run adventure. Here are some well-reviewed great ideas no matter where you may be headed.
4. Travel like a local: When visiting any location, know your surroundings and plan your mode of transportation and route in advance. Be aware of how the locals talk and dress, and consider whether certain actions will make you stand out as a tourist.
5. Check the weather: Into every life--and vacation--a little rain must fall, so take steps to protect yourself from lightning, hail, thunderstorms and severe weather by monitoring the local weather ahead of your departure and packing the appropriate gear. Also, while you're traveling, keep tabs on the weather at home to make sure your property is protected.
6. Avoid oversharing online: Posting photos or checking in on social media advertises your absence from home. Providing real-time updates of your travels can be tempting and fun, but it may be best to wait until you return safely home before sharing your adventures.