International Travel Preparedness

When preparing for international travel, it's crucial to do your research and stay on top of important details. Here are some easy-to-follow tips to help ensure a smooth, safe, and well-prepared journey.

1. Research Your Destination

Check safety alerts: Visit the State Department website for travel warnings and alerts.
Health resources: Use the CDC’s Traveler’s Health section to find any vaccination or health recommendations for your destination.
Local advice: Speak with others who have traveled to your destination for personal insights on what to expect.

2. Manage Travel Documents

Passport: Ensure your passport is up to date and valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Make sure you have at least two blank pages.
Visas: Research the visa requirements for your destination early. Requirements can change frequently, so check the consulate’s website for the most up-to-date information.
Copies: Make physical and digital copies of your passport, visa, and itinerary. Leave copies with family or friends, and carry them with you.

3. Stay on Top of Health Needs

Medications: Bring enough prescription medication for your entire trip, stored in their original containers. Keep them in your carry-on.
Travel health: If you need vaccines or medications for your trip, consult with your doctor in advance.
Prescription copies: Bring a copy of your prescriptions, especially if traveling with medications that may be restricted in certain countries.

4. Communication Plan

Phone access: Decide whether you'll use your phone with an international plan or buy a local SIM card. Consider downloading apps like WhatsApp for easier communication via Wi-Fi.
Emergency contacts: Keep the contact information of local emergency services, your embassy, and your accommodation readily available.

5. Money Matters

Credit/debit cards: Inform your bank about your travels to avoid card blocks. Check international fees and ATM availability.
Cash: Bring new, clean US dollars in case you need to exchange currency. Be mindful of exchange rates and avoid distressed bills.

6. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Insurance: Consider travel insurance to cover medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
Copies of important info: Keep printed copies of your travel itinerary, addresses, and contact numbers for where you’re staying.

7. Consider Additional Insurance Coverage

Travel Insurance: This generally covers trip-related issues like lost baggage, cancelled flights, and other inconveniences. However, many travel insurance policies do not automatically include coverage for medical care abroad, so it's important to confirm the specific benefits of your policy. Some plans may offer minimal medical coverage, while others do not, so checking the details is crucial.
Travel Medical Insurance: This covers the cost of medical treatments while you're overseas, filling in gaps that your regular health insurance likely leaves open. Many U.S.-based health insurance plans, for instance, do not cover international care, and even if they do, you may still need to pay upfront for services in foreign countries. Travel medical insurance is designed specifically for addressing medical needs during your trip, so be sure to ask your provider if this is included in your plan or if supplemental coverage is necessary.
Medical Evacuation Insurance: In the event of a severe injury or illness, medical evacuation insurance covers the cost of transferring you to a hospital where you can receive adequate care, which can be vital if you’re in a remote area with limited medical facilities. This type of insurance can be critical, as evacuation costs can soar beyond $100,000, making it a financial lifesaver in extreme situations.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to a safe and enjoyable international adventure! Safe travels!