Travel Abroad Checklist - Dont forget anything. Dont Overpack - Abroaderview.org

PR Log (Press Release) – Nov 19, 2008 – Travel Checklist

We’ve put together this travel checklist to help you plan for your trip abroad and stay safe whilst you are there.  

Before you go:

   * Check our travel advice pages for the country you are visiting.
   * Find out where the nearest embassy will be – check their website to find out what services they offer and their opening times.
   * Don’t travel without insurance – make sure it covers you for any activities you are likely to undertake such as extreme or water sports.
   * Check with your doctor as soon as possible to find out if you need any vaccinations before you travel.
   * Make sure you’ve got correct visas for the country you are visiting and that your passport is valid.
   * For certain countries your passport must be valid for 6 months after the date you travel.
   * Take photocopies of your passport and other important documents and keep these separate from the originals when you travel and/or store them online using a secure data storage site..
   * Make sure you fill in the emergency contact details in your passport. This will make it much easier for us to contact someone if necessary.
   * Tell a friend or relative where you are going and for how long for - give them some idea of your itinerary if possible and an emergency contact number.
   * Take enough money for your trip and some back-up funds in a mix of cash and travelers cheque -  make a note of the cheques’ numbers before you go.
   * Invest in a good travel guide to help you plan your trip.
   * Driving abroad? Make sure your license is current and valid. Make sure you are aware of the driving laws in the country you are visiting.

When you are away:

   * Think about what you are doing at all times and trust your instincts - don’t take risks that you wouldn’t at home!
   * Don’t openly display valuables such as mobile phones or digital cameras and consider using a padlock on suitcases or backpacks.
   * Find out about local customs and dress, behave accordingly and obey local laws -there may be serious penalties for breaking a law that might seem trivial at home.
   * Be careful when taking photographs, videos or using binoculars. Such activities may be misunderstood, especially near military installations.
   * Consider taking your mobile with you or renting one whilst you’re away.  Store useful numbers such as the local police and the nearest embassy or consulate.
   * Check with your service provider to make sure your phone works abroad.
   * Check whether it’s safe to drink local tap water- if not, stick to bottled water and avoid salads, non-peeling fruit and ice in drinks.
   * Use your judgment when buying and eating food you’ve not prepared yourself.
   * Respect the environment – don’t buy wildlife souvenirs, conserve resources like water and don’t drop litter.


1001 Dell Lane Suite B, Wyncote, PA 19095, USA Volunteer Abroad Project
Tel: 1-215-780-1845 / Toll Free: 1-866-423-3258 / Fax: 1-215-887-0915
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