Register with the American Embassy in your Destination Country
* This makes your presence and whereabouts known, in case it is necessary for a consular officer to contact you in an emergency.
* During a disaster overseas, American consular officers can assist in evacuation were that to become necessary. But they cannot assist you if they do not know where you are.
* For more information on travel abroad from the U.S. Department of State, go to their website at: http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/travel_1744.html
Information Preparation
* Make 3 copies of your passport (and visa, if one is required), ID cards, credit cards, and medical insurance cards. Give one set of copies to your parents/guardians and pack the other two sets in your luggage – in separate compartments, if possible.
* Record important numbers, such as telephone numbers, addresses, traveler’s check serial numbers, and store separately from hard copies.
* Leave a copy of your itinerary, including flight numbers and hotel addresses, with your parents.
* Type up important travel information, such as the U.S. Embassy number and website in the country to which you are traveling, your passport number, etc. Leave one copy with your parents, and pack one in your luggage.
* Purchase a travel belt, which can store your passport, money, and traveler’s checks under your clothes while you travel.
Medical
* See a health care provider well in advance of your departure to obtain a complete physical and to determine that all your immunizations are up to date. There are some conditions, such as measles and mumps, that are still prevalent in some areas of the world.
* You can use the Center for Disease Control’s website to obtain more information on necessary vaccinations:
* If you will be on medication, have a medical or psychological condition or problem that needs special attention or may cause problems while abroad, you should make an appointment to see the NEC Health and Wellness Office and/or Counseling Center or your personal physician. Please schedule this appointment at least six weeks in advance of the semester of the study abroad experience so that appropriate arrangements can be made with the program abroad. Be sure to take copies of your prescriptions with you in case you need to replenish a prescription while away.
* Prepare a medical travel kit that includes an ample supply of your prescribed medications in their original containers; an antidiarrheal medication; alcohol-based hand gel (containing at least 60% alcohol); an antibiotic topical cream or ointment; a thermometer; insect repellent containing at least 30% DEET if you plan to study in or visit a tropical or subtropical area; the name and telephone number of your primary healthcare provider; and a copy of your vaccination record.
* If you take prescription medications, including anti-malarial medication, you should carry an adequate supply for the duration abroad accompanied by a signed and dated statement from the prescribing health care provider. The statement should indicate the health problem and dosage of each medication. NEC cannot deliver medication to students abroad. Also, carry a card, tag, or bracelet that identifies any physical condition that may require emergency care.
* Always carry medication in the ORIGINAL, LABELED container from the pharmacy. NEVER separate pills into pill cases or other containers.
* You should also take an extra pair of glasses or contact lens prescription.
* Notify your trip leader, your RA in the country of destination, and appropriate medical professionals and pharmacists in your country of destination, of any specific medical condition or need you may have. Become familiar with basic first aid and with the healthcare resources, in the visiting country, in case of a healthcare emergency. This is especially important if you will be traveling with a pre-existing health condition or a condition which requires you to take medication regularly.
* Consider purchasing student travel insurance. CLP will have information on inexpensive options for you and your parents.
Pack Professionally
* Make sure all luggage/carry-on bags have complete contact information. This will help you reunite with lost luggage much easier.
* Ensure your bags will pass through security checkpoints by removing all items that are deemed “threatening” or “unsafe.” You may find the Transportation Security Administration’s list of “Permitted and Prohibited Items” at: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm.
* Pack your carry-on with: one change of clothes, permitted toiletries, identification, medication, and valuables (such as camera) and film (can be ruined by luggage x-rays).
* Take as little as possible, but have everything you need! You don’t need to take everything you own.
* Roll clothes instead of folding – this saves room.
* Consider the physical and social climate of the destination country and dress accordingly.
* Do not overstock on toiletries – most things are available in major cities abroad.
* Check with your airline’s website regarding luggage regulations on size, weight, and number of pieces.
* Clothing styles differ all over the world, there is no way to generalize what to bring or not bring. Research clothing styles ahead of time. Above all else, respect the clothing customs of your destination country.
Research, Research, Research…
* Buy a travel book about your destination country.
* Speak with other students on campus who have studied abroad.
* Look on the internet for information on your destination country. * Learn as much as you can!
