This summer, I'm going on my first international trip without my parents. Actually, this is my first international trip—period. As the date approaches, I get more and more excited, but I'm also a little anxious. Am I prepared? Do I know everything that I need to?

I never realized the stress of planning a vacation before, and I appreciate my parents much, much more for going through this routine every time they took my family on a vacation. I have learned a lot on my journey to planning this vacation, and I'm going to share that with you today!

1. Know where you're going, and the dates you want to go.

This first step is as simple as that. You just have to decide between six continents (Antarctica does not sound like a great spot) and 195 countries. Then there are all the different historical and remarkable places in those countries. Deciding can be harder than you think! Knowing the dates is extremely important to planning hotels and flights or considering the weather in certain locations.

2. Research where you want to go.

This is what takes up the most time. You need to research the country, hotels, attractions, and flights to find out where you want to stay and what you want to do. Information about hotels and attractions can be found on websites such as TripAdvisor. Read reviews! This lets you see other people's experience and further advice from someone who has been there. You don't want to end up in a shady area.

3. Double check hotel and flights.

You need to make sure that hotel rooms are available on the dates that you want to travel. You also need to check the time on the flights so you know when you arrive and when you have to leave. Also, check how far your hotel is from the attractions you want to visit and the airport. This allows you to estimate when you should leave to reach where you want to go in time!

4. Double check all the pricing and add it together.

If you're traveling with more than one person, you can usually split the cost a little so the price isn't such a horrifying amount. Sometimes hotels allow you to pay using monthly payment plans. As soon as you know the price for everything, start saving.

5. Book everything early.

Tickets and hotel rooms usually become more expensive the longer you wait to book. This is an easy way to save a couple hundred dollars! Booking early also gives you plenty of time to get time off work.

6. Check methods of transportation.

How are you going to get to those attractions? Bus and taxi services often take tourists to various locations, but consider the cost of each. If you're going far, you might want to consider renting a car while you're there.

7. Check your cell phone coverage.

Often international calls and texts will cost extra. Some cell phone companies allow you discounted rates if you buy a short term plan. Check the hotel's policy on long distance calls as well. Or make it a real vacation and throw your phone in your bag.

8. Save money for extra things, such as shopping and spontaneity.

Also, have extra money in case of any emergency that could occur, such as you losing your luggage.

9. If you're going somewhere close to the equator, start tanning.

The sun near the equator is a lot stronger than it is in the middle of the United States. Tanning will help prevent those lobster red sun burns.

10. Start trying to learn the language if you're going to foreign speaking countries.

Locals are usually much nicer to those who attempt to converse using their language. You don't have to be good! Just know the important questions, like where is the bathroom?

11. Make sure you have appropriate clothes to pack.

Pack according to the weather conditions. Several restaurants in other countries have a dress code as well, so make sure you bring at least one pair of nice clothing.

12. When you're packing, make sure everything is up to standards of TSA.

There is a 3-1-1 liquid rule, meaning you are allowed one quart sized back of liquids that are no more than three ounces each. Anything that does not fit this rule will be thrown away. Check TSA Travel Tips for more information.

13. Double check everything!

It's even helpful to make a check list and go through it several times. You don't want to show up forgetting anything important or not having enough money. Being prepared is the most important thing before you fly off, and it allows you to kick your feet back during the vacation you've planned for.