This may be your first time traveling abroad, find or maybe you just need a reminder.
Security and Health
This should be your number one priory on your list. Double check and make sure that you have all the proper vaccinations. Go to: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list for a comprehensive list. Re-new all essential prescriptions and pack then in your original container inside your carry-on. This way if your checked baggage gets lost you have your medication. I am often asked if my clients can use a pill container. While the airline tends to look the other way, the official rule with most airlines is to carry them in the original packaging. Also, ask your medical insurance provider if your policy applies overseas for emergencies. Travel professionals always suggest supplemental travel insurance for added extra coverage. We love Travelex! https://www.travelex.com/ USE CODE 42-0003 They are worldwide and conveniently have offices inside airports throughout the world.
Passports
While there are travel opportunities that do not require a passport, we strongly suggest always traveling with a passport. A good example is a Caribbean cruise for a USA citizen only requires a birth certificate. But if you incur an emergency that requires a flight home from anywhere outside the US, you will not be able to board a plane to get back to the states.
Register with Your Embassy
This is called STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) You will receive the latest travel updates and information.
When you sign up, you will automatically receive the most current information we compile about the country where you will be traveling or living. You will also receive updates, including Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts (where appropriate). You only need to sign up once, and then you can add and delete trips from your account based on your current travel plans!
They also assist U.S. citizens in other emergencies, such as in natural disasters. For example, after the earthquake in Haiti, we evacuated over 16,700 U.S. citizens and family members. During the civil unrest in Lebanon in 2006 we assisted nearly 15,000 U.S. citizens and family members, and in 2004 we helped thousands more during the tsunami.
The travel and contact information you enter into our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program will make it easier for consular officers in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world to contact you and your loved ones during an emergency —including situations where your family or friends in the U.S. are having problems trying to contact you with important news.
We hope this information will help you on your journey. If we can help, just let us know! More travel tips and ideas coming soon!