18 Tips for International Travel Preparedness
1. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (“STEP”). This free service registers your trip with the nearest Embassy or Consulate so they can contact you in an emergency and assist family and friends in doing the same. You are also emailed real-time security information, updates, and travel alerts.
2. Purchase a comprehensive travel insurance plan with emergency medical insurance.
3. Make sure your passport and all other supporting documents are valid for your travel dates.
4. Bring copies of important documents (ex. Passport, Itinerary, Driver’s License & Insurance). Make at least 2 sets of copies, place them in Ziploc bags, and place them in different locations than your original documents. It is also a good idea to send copies to your emergency contact that is not traveling with you and your travel agent.
5. Carry all vital contact information on your person to include: resort information (ex. name, address & phone number and/or grab a business card when you check in), Travel Agent business card, and Embassy Information.
6. Leave all irrelevant cards at home. Travel with at least one credit card in case of an emergency, ATM card, Driver’s License, Passport, and Insurance Card. Notify all card companies/banks of your trip dates and locations so your cards will not be declined for suspicious activity when used by yourself.
7. If money in another currency is needed for your trip, the quickest and easiest option is to do so at your local bank. The airport can also exchange currency as well.
8. Make a basic emergency plan in case you get separated from your travel partner(s). For example, meeting at your hotel within an hour so one of you is not combing the streets while the other is sitting in the lobby.
9. Organize your cash and money for quick access. Avoid revealing large sums of cash. Keep small sums of cash close at hand for tips so your wallet is not exposed. Do not carry all cash on your person while on vacation.
10. Contact your cellphone carrier and ask about international services with your plan and potential associated fees. Make sure your cellular data is turned off if you do not have coverage abroad.
11. Bring all prescription medications, glasses and/or contacts, as needed. Be sure to have enough for your length of travel, plus an additional 2 weeks, in the event of an emergency.
12. Only bring the electronic devices that you may need on your vacation. Avoid entering passwords and sensitive information on electronic devices or on public computers at the resort.
13. Depending on your destination, you may need to bring a combination travel power converter/adapter.
14. Do not forget about securing your home prior to vacation. Set alarms and alert the security company of your travel dates. Use timer and motion lights. Confirm that all windows and doors are locked. Unplug major electronics and appliances in your home.
15. Alert trustworthy neighbors of your travel dates. Have your mail placed on hold or have a trustworthy neighbor get your mail daily.
16. Leave all valuables at home. Try not to wear jewelry or anything that would draw attention to yourself.
17. Secure all valuables that you do take on vacation. If the safe in your room does not seem secure, secure your valuables in your suitcase with a secure lock.
18. Be aware of your surroundings and travel smart.