Travel Itinerary
Do Not publicize your travel plans. Limit that knowledge to those who need to know. Leave a complete itinerary (including contact numbers, if known) with your office and with family or a friend.
Passport
- At least 6 months remaining validity?
- Make 3 copies of the page containing your photograph:
- Place one in carry-on bag
- Place one in luggage
- Leave one with office or family
Visas
- Current/appropriate visa(s) (tourist/business)
- Visa application information must be accurate. False information may be grounds for incarceration.
Documents
- Take only the credit cards you need.
- Carry only the documents you will need in a wallet or purse.
- Realize all business documents might be subject to search, seizure, or copying.
- Carry a U.S. driver's license with your photo on it.
- Make two copies of the numbers of credit cards and traveler's checks, and telephone numbers to report loss, and air ticket numbers and store in your wallet or briefcase. (These items should be stored in separate locations to preclude loss of all the information.)
Health
- Carry a copy of prescriptions and an ample supply of any prescription medications, in original containers if possible.
- Bring an extra set of eyeglasses or contact lenses. Carrying your prescription with you will expedite the procurement of replacements.
- Carry an international shot record that certifies appropriate inoculations.
- List with your blood type, allergies, medical conditions and special requirements. (Medical alert bracelets are a good idea.)
- If you do not have comprehensive medical coverage, consider enrolling in an international health program. (Hospitals in foreign countries do not take credit cards and most will not honor U.S.-based medical insurance plans.)
- Keep your personal affairs up-to-date. Have an up-to-date will and insurance policy. Leave a power of attorney with a family member or friend should anything happen to you.
- While traveling, eat moderately and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- If possible, before you travel, make an effort to adjust your sleep patterns.
- Sleep as much as possible during the flight.
- Carry air sickness medication with you. Even the best traveler sometimes experiences air sickness.
- Avoid a demanding schedule upon arrival. Give yourself a chance to adjust to your surroundings. Sources of Information
- Talk with people who have visited the country recently.
- Check with the U.S. State Department, Bureau of Consular Affairs for traveling conditions and warnings. Dial (202) 647-5225.
- Use airlines, hotels, and car rental companies that are recommended by your travel agent.
- If renting a car, will you need an international driver's permit for the country you plan to visit?
- Items of value, such as cameras and laptop computers, can be registered with Customs before departing the United States.
- The embassy of the country you plan to visit can provide a list or pamphlet describing customs restrictions or banned materials. (Minimize the possibility of an encounter with the local authorities.)
Luggage
- Hand carry sensitive information.
- Be sure that your luggage is tagged with covered tags.
- Put your name and address inside each piece of luggage and be sure it is secured.
- The locks on your luggage are not secure. For added security, run a strip of nylon filament tape around the suitcase.
- On luggage, use your business address and telephone number.
- Check with the airline and your personal insurance company regarding coverage for lost luggage.
- Use sturdy luggage and do not over pack.
- Do not transport items for other people. Any gifts received from a foreign business contact should be thoroughly inspected before being placed in your luggage. If you are asked by airline personnel if you are carrying gifts or other items, respond affirmatively and allow the item to undergo security inspection.
- Leave all expensive and heirloom jewelry at home.
- Never place your valuables (money or traveler's checks) in your checked luggage.
- Never leave your bags unattended. Be especially alert to luggage thieves who target airline and railway terminals as well as car rental agency counter areas.
- If available, obtain a modest amount of foreign currency before you leave your home country. (Criminals may watch for and target international travelers purchasing large amounts of foreign currency at airport banks and currency exchange windows.)
