Europe is as rewarding as travel gets — and 2026 brings a new border process worth understanding before you fly. Here's what to know about documents, the EU's Entry/Exit System, and handling money abroad.
Check your passport's validity
Most U.S. citizens travel overseas on a U.S. passport, and many European countries require it to be valid for at least six months beyond your trip dates.
Check the expiration now and renew early if it's close — processing takes time.
The EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES)
The EU has rolled out the Entry/Exit System (EES), a biometric border process recorded when you arrive in a participating European country. Have your travel documents and passport ready to be shown and verified.
Because the system is new, you may see longer lines at arrival airports at first — please be patient. Once you've been through the EES process, the goal is a faster crossing on future trips. Always confirm current requirements before you travel, as rollout details can change.
Arrive early
For international departures, arrive at least three hours before your flight to allow for security and check-in lines.
Handle money the smart way
Understand the exchange rate before you go. Favor major credit cards over cash, but confirm they're accepted at your destination — not everywhere takes Discover or AMEX.
Get a small amount of local currency from your bank before leaving the U.S., enough for tipping and small purchases on arrival.
Copy your documents and pack meds wisely
Make two photocopies of all travel documents. Leave one with someone at home and carry the other separately from the originals.
Pack enough medication for the whole trip plus extra, learn the generic names of your prescriptions, and ask your physician for a letter — some countries restrict bringing medications in without documentation.
Europe 2026 checklist
- ✓Passport valid 6+ months beyond your return
- ✓Documents ready for the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
- ✓Arrive 3+ hours early for international flights
- ✓Exchange rate checked; major cards + some local cash
- ✓Two copies of documents; meds with generic names + a doctor's note
Let Anna handle the details
Your personal travel concierge keeps track of all of this for you — documents, timing, and every detail from start to finish.
Book a Free Consultation