Before You Go
STEP Program – Free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate." – STEP Website
Travel.state.gov – Information on international travel. Links to determine if you need a travel visa, and other important information. Also check out the advisory page for travel rankings, entry requirements, safety advice, and more.
Day to Day Preparations
- Electrical adapters: many laptop and other portable electronic devices work on international electrical systems and require only physical adapters to connect to the plugs. Use of some devices may require a voltage converter. See World Electric Power Guide for an introduction to the concepts and the relevant table of systems. Power strips may not function on the international system because of voltage and frequency differences.
- Remember to have some local currency cash on hand, or otherwise travel with a debit card to use at ATMs to get the local currency. Also, notify your usual bank which dates you will be in a different country so they don't flag transactions as fraud.
Medical Preparations
- In many cases it is simplest to bring a sufficient supply of any medications you may need for the duration of your trip. Medications available overseas may differ from those found in the U.S.
- It may be useful to have a formal statement of medical insurance on insurance company letterhead for travels abroad. Keep all records of any out-of-pocket expenditures for possible reimbursement upon return to the United States. Check with your insurance provider to determine foreign coverage.
- Centers for Disease Control Traveler's Health - Information on destinations, outbreaks, travel vaccinations, and links to traveler's medical clinic information.Check whether you need to take any vaccinations before you go.