Travel tips for US students abroad

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

This free service is offered by US Government for US citizens who are traveling or living abroad. You can enter your upcoming trip abroad which can be helpful for US department of state to help in case of an emergency.

Travel Documents before leaving the USA

Before you are leave the States, be sure you have the correct paper work completed. You may need a current passport and the visa depending on the country you are visiting. These are important proofs of identity which you should carry with you at all times and carefully protect.

In case of an emergency abroad

Imagine yourself trapped in an emergency situation while abroad and looking for help. When you travel, unexpected situations are common. Most insurance policies offer some concierge services to help the traveler while abroad. One safety step is to have contact details to the nearest US embassy office since that can also provide assistance in an emergency.

Travel with insurance coverage

Visiting a doctor or hospital may not be in your plan while visiting abroad. However what happens in case you are forced to take medical assistance in case of an emergency situation? A proper student travel insurance coverage plan will be useful to pay medical bills, avoid financial loss, and even make sure get access to the care you may need.

Packing

You may wonder as to what clothing to carry and which pair of shoes you should wear while traveling abroad. Try to avoid carrying too many valuables unnecessarily. Make sure that you have copies of your travel documents and that they are kept at different places in your luggage. It is advisable that you avoid carrying too many credit cards or bundles of cash. Travelers checks will be useful while abroad. It is a good idea to keep track of the serial numbers of the checks.

Destination research

One of the most important tasks before leaving on your trip is to do some research on your destination. The destination you are visiting may not have the same laws or regulations you are used to in the States. Be aware of dress codes (formal or not) in your destination and be careful of any drugs (even prescription or over-the-counter ones) you might want to take with you. Never accept bags from strangers in airports, particularly in other countries, nor agree to carry something (even if it seems harmless) for someone else. If you don't want to stand out, leave your baseball caps and clothes with lettering/logos at home. Women should be sure short pants, short skirts, tank tops, etc. are acceptable where they are traveling. Most other cultures dress more formally and modestly than what we are used to State-side.