First time flying internationally - what do I actually need to know?

Not dumb questions at all! I travel internationally for work regularly. Here's everything you need: **Documents:** - US passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip) - No visa needed for Portugal (US citizens get 90 days) - Print your flight confirmation and hotel booking just in case **Timing:** - Arrive 3 hours before departure for international flights - JFK can be chaotic - don't cut it close **Phone:** - Check if your carrier has an international plan (T-Mobile includes free international) - Or buy an eSIM before you go (Airalo app is great) - Download offline Google Maps of Lisbon/Porto - WhatsApp is huge in Europe - download it **Money:** - Get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees (Chase Sapphire, Capital One, etc.) - Don't exchange money at the airport - terrible rates - Just use ATMs there for cash, withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees **The flight:** - Wear comfortable clothes and slip-on shoes - Bring an empty water bottle (fill after security) - Download entertainment before (WiFi is expensive or unavailable) - Sleep on the plane if you can - Portugal is 5 hours ahead **At customs:** - Fill out any declaration cards on the plane - Just say "tourism" and how many days - They rarely ask much of American tourists You're going to have an amazing time. Portugal is incredible!