International Travel Abroad Checklist

Checklists

We recognize there are many steps to planning a trip. We have developed a detailed checklist to help simplify the process.

General

Download the International SOS Assistance App on your smartphone
Make sure you have a valid passport. Your passport should not expire less than 180 days prior to your return to the U.S.
Determine if you will need an entry visa for any of the countries you plan to visit.
Photocopy passport, visa(s), insurance card, credit card(s), tickets and other personal documents, and give copies to someone you trust at home. Keep a copy for yourself, separate from the originals.
Scan important documents and email them to yourself.
Carry an extra photo ID, if available.
Share your itinerary with your office, family and/or friends.
Educate yourself about local culture and customs
Ask your bank and credit card providers whether your cards will work at your destination. Inquire about fees and partner banks.

Health

You have received all necessary vaccinations.
You have packed prescription medications to last your entire trip as well as extra dosages for any travel delays.
All of your medications are legal in the country/countries where you are traveling.

Be sure you know the location of the nearest hospital or medical facility in the country/countries where you are traveling. International SOS (ISOS) can provide information on clinics and hospitals at your location(s).
Make sure you understand how your health insurance coverage works abroad. If you are a student, review Florida Tech’s Study Abroad Student Handbook information.
Make sure you take your ISOS card with you.
For additional information, please review the State Department’s Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) health advice and checklist for travel.

Safety and Security

Download the International SOS Assistance App on your
Review current travel advisories provided by the U.S. Department of State, ISOS, and Centers for Disease Control Covid-19 Travel Health Notices.
Request your ISOS card.
Obtain and carry the phone number(s) and address(es) of the U.S. embassy and consular offices for the country(ies) you will visit. Non-U.S. citizens should carry the corresponding information for the country that issued their passport.
While abroad, lock your cash, cards, and/or identity documents in a secure safe that only you have access to.
Be aware of common travel scams.

Mobile devices and technology

Check whether you can add international calls to your cell phone service.
If your cell phone works abroad, download the International ISOS app.
Learn the international access codes for calls to and from the U.S.
Learn the local 911 equivalent number for emergencies.
Program important numbers into your phone before departure and keep a printed list handy.

While you are traveling

Monitor travel advisories and real time safety alerts from the ISOS app.
Be aware of your surroundings and any neighborhoods or areas known to be unsafe.

Travel documents

United States Passport website
Visa information
Refer to “Learn about destination” for further information about entrance visa requirements for the country(ies) you will visit.
Travel Abroad Checklist (PDF)
Counterintelligence Tips - Safe Travels (PDF)