Health and Safety Abroad — Explained For — Study Abroad Students

Before You Leave

• Pack The Essentials — Make sure to bring any medications, important documents, and your computer with you on the plane. It is smart to keep these on the person so you have them at the ready if needed. Packing a lock can be helpful for securing your belongings in a given situation. Leave unnecessary valuables at home.
• Make Friends — Get to know the people you will be traveling with, individuals in your program, or those who will be living in your destination area. Reach out and ask any questions you have as you prepare for your trip.
• Passport & Visa — Be sure your passport is valid during your travel days, and make a few copies of both your passport and visa.
• Medical Insurance — Your insurance plan should begin the day you depart for your trip, and make sure you have the insurance ID card or proof with you. Learn more about Travel Insurance Benefits to decide which plan is best for you if insurance is not provided by your school or program.
• Money — Decide whether you are going to use your credit card, local currency, traveler’s checks, etc. It will help to do some research to see if cash or card will work best in the area. Check if there are any ATM fees or exchange rate fees on your credit card. You should also call your bank to let them know of your travel plans so that they do not freeze your card.
• Cell Phone — You may want to call your phone provider to see if your cell phone plan will work overseas, and what the additional cost may be. You may need to get a new SIM card. Be sure you have a communication plan in place for your arrival.

The Flight

• Checking In — You may have the option to check-in to your flight online prior to arriving at the airport to save time. You may also check-in once you arrive. Make sure to have your passport and visa handy, as you will need to present them. You can take any checked bags to the drop-off location before going through security.
• Security check — Take your laptop and phone out when going through security. You may need to remove your shoes. Any liquids and gels (must be 3.4 ounces or less) traveling with you often need to be in a quart-size transparent bag. To avoid setting off the metal detector, remove all metal (including belts, jewelry, accessories, etc.). For a complete list of what you can bring, check out TSA’s website .
• Get comfy — Depending on the length of your flight and airline, food and drinks may be included, or you can bring snacks yourself. You may want to also bring headphones, a travel pillow, and a blanket. Some flights offer these items.

Once You Arrive

You will need to go through local customs. Make sure you have filled out any immigration forms beforehand, have your passport handy, and bring any educational documents in case they are requested.

Getting Adjusted

You may feel jet lag upon your arrival, and this can last a few days. Get plenty of sleep before you travel, drink plenty of water before and during your flight, and eat light meals on the flight.