SMART TRAVEL

Class is in session! Welcome to Smart Travel 101!
From left-sided driving, to packing tips, here's everything you need to know to make the grade. go from here!

Research Your Destination
Packing
Insurance
Your Hotel
Local Laws
Driving Abroad
Drinking and Drugs
For Women Travelers
For GBLT Travelers
Travlers With Disabilities

	[Back To Top]

RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATION

Research: it's not just for your term papers anymore. Before you go, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country you're visiting. And we're a good place to start. We've been there, done that, and have a few t-shirts to show for it.
go from here…

The Department of State has a wide range of research resources available for your use.

Travel Warnings are issued when the State Department recommends that Americans avoid a certain country.

The State Department issues Travel Alerts to disseminate information quickly about terrorist threats and other relatively short-term conditions that pose significant risks or disruptions to Americans.

The State Department also provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, any areas of instability, and the location of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in that country.

Overseas Citizens Services (OCS) can be reached at 1-888-407-4747 to answer general inquiries on safety and security overseas. Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, can obtain information and assistance from OCS during these hours by calling 1-202-501-4444.

Additional Research Resources:

Go to the main State Department Web Site

Travel Health Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Travel Health Information from the Food and Drug Administration

Travel Health Information from the World Health Organization

Foreign Consular Offices in the U.S.

Transportation Security Administration Site for Travelers

Crisis Information From the Department of Homeland Security

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Federal Aviation Administration Country Air Safety Information

Sanctions Information From the Department of Treasury

The Overseas Security Advisory Council

Document Authentication

U.S. Customs

Information about Bringing Food, Plant, and Animal Products into the U.S.

	[Back To Top]

PACKING

Khaki cargos or jean shorts? Your tortoise shell glasses or contacts? Travelers' checks or credit cards? Whoa, Nelly! So many things to consider, so little time. Here are some essential packing tips from the obvious, to the not-so-obvious. go from here!

Before you start daydreaming about all the great outfits you're going to pack for your trip, here are some things you should actually leave behind:

• Anything you would kick yourself for losing; that expensive watch, the Tiffany's locket your dad bought you for your birthday, unnecessary credit cards, wads of cash, your Social Security card, and any other valuables.

• Copies of your travel documents. Leave a copy of your passport identification page, airline tickets, driver's license, the credit cards you're taking, serial numbers of your travelers' checks, insurance information, as well as the addresses and phone numbers of the places you'll be. Having copies of these documents at home will allow your family or friends to contact you or help you in case of an emergency. (Carry additional copies of these documents with you on your trip, separate from the originals.)

• Anything that would be considered a weapon. Even a pocketknife can result in a serious weapons charge while on foreign soil – even if the knife is found during a search or arrest for an unrelated offense.

• Toiletries and amenities that may already be available at your hotel. We know you only use your favorite brand of Vanilla Chai scented lotion, shower gel, and shampoo, but if you are only traveling for a short time, find out if your hotel will provide in-room amenities like a hair dryer, towels, an iron, soap, shampoo, etc. You’ll have less to carry around, plus room for any presents that you bring home!

• Handbags and fanny packs. (Yes, there are still people who wear fanny packs.) Wearing a big purse or a fanny pack is like wearing a neon sign that says, "Rob me!" Your passport, cash and credit cards are most secure when locked in a hotel safe. When you have to carry them on you, inside pockets and a sturdy shoulder bag with the strap worn across your chest are somewhat safer. Another safe place to keep valuables is in a pouch or money belt worn under your clothing.

Now that we’ve talked about what you shouldn't bring overseas, here's what you should bring:

• Many other countries use 220-volt electricity while U.S. appliances use 110-volt electricity. If you plan on bringing electric gadgets like a hairdryer, electric razor, or even a laptop, keep in mind that you will need to purchase a "converter" or a "transformer" to be able to use your appliances. Plug prongs can also be different abroad, so you may need a “plug adapter” as well.

• Pack an extra outfit in your carry-on just in case your luggage is lost, or if you are separated from your travel gear.

• Do you have a prescription for a medication you literally cannot live without? Make sure to bring a back-up supply in case you are delayed during your trip. Keep it on you when you travel in case you and your luggage get separated. All prescriptions should be clearly marked in their original containers. In fact, you should contact the embassy of the country you are visiting to get a list of drugs that are considered illegal narcotics – just to make sure your medication is not included. Get a letter from your doctor listing your medications and explaining why you need them. Also, carry instructions for treating any allergies or other unique medical conditions you might have.

• Pack appropriate clothes. Find out what the weather conditions are for your destination, and pack accordingly. We wouldn’t want you in your hat, scarf and gloves at the height of your destination's summer season. Remember that just because it's one season here, doesn't mean it's the same elsewhere. Also, know the local dress code, especially for holy places. Whether it's a mosque in Dubai, a cathedral in the Vatican City, or a temple in Tel-Aviv, you may want to avoid bare shoulders and shorts, and you may be required to cover your hair.

• Don't forget the little things. It may be a good idea to bring a small first-aid kit, sunscreen, and a mild pain reliever. You never know when these things may come in handy.

• Make sure your luggage is labeled with your name, address and telephone numbers inside and outside of each piece of luggage. Use covered luggage tags to avoid becoming a target, and if possible, lock your luggage. Check the Transportation Security Agency
homepage for guidelines regarding locked luggage and other current airline travel regulations.

• If you decide to take a pet abroad, you should check with the embassies of your destination regarding specific requirements that must be met before a pet may enter the country. Many countries have strict health, quarantine, agriculture, wildlife, and customs requirements and prohibitions. A listing of foreign embassies and consulates in the U.S. is available for your reference.

• Bring an international calling card to make phone calls. It is a convenient and inexpensive way of keeping in touch. You can even purchase one before you depart and then call your loved ones to let them know that you arrived safely!

View our official checklists here.

	[Back To Top]

INSURANCE

When traveling far from home, protect yourself and your stuff.
Go smart… go from here.

You've packed your MP3 player, new clothes, and even extra socks, but believe it or not, those aren't the most important things that should be on your list. Did you pack INSURANCE?

Health Insurance
Visiting the doctor's office while you're abroad is probably not in your plans, but what if you get sick? Or hurt? Did you know that a medical evacuation back to the U.S. could cost $50,000 or more if you aren't insured?

Find out if you are covered for a medical emergency overseas BEFORE you leave. Many foreign doctors and hospitals do not accept American insurance policies, and may require full cash payment in advance of your treatment. Your existing medical insurance company may require you to call back to an office in the U.S. for advance approval of any treatments or expenditures. Your policy may also set a dollar limit above which you'll have to pay. Read the fine print. You might need to purchase additional coverage.

Before You Leave:
1. Check your current health insurance policy. Are you covered under your parents' policy or through your school? Does it protect you outside of the U.S.?
2. If your plan does not cover you fully overseas, purchase a short-term international insurance policy. Many travel agents and private companies offer plans that will cover health care expenses overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

Travel Insurance
You've been looking forward to your time abroad for a long time. Imagine the exciting cultures! And all the new people! Now, imagine your horror when you learn your trip has been canceled due to severe weather. Or, what if your new set of luggage—with all your clothes—gets lost along the way? A number of unexpected things could put a damper on your travels.

Safeguard your trip and your belongings with travel insurance! This kind of policy can provide protection if:
• You get sick
• You are involved in a car accident
• Severe weather or a natural disaster causes travel cancellations

Other provisions of travel insurance usually include lost baggage coverage, missed flight connections and cancellation charges imposed by airlines. You have invested a lot of time and money into this once-in-a-lifetime experience—don't leave anything to chance!

Several private organizations will provide medical information and insurance for overseas travelers. Most charge a fee for this service. The list of service providers is FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY and in no way constitutes an endorsement, expressed or implied, by the Department of State.

In addition, for basic insurance to cover sickness, accident and other emergencies while traveling outside the United States students and teachers can purchase international student or teacher identity cards. There are additional benefits to having a student card, including discounts on admissions, transportation, and accommodations. You can find more information about student identity cards online.

	[Back To Top]

YOUR HOTEL

Hotels, hostels, and homestays, oh my! Choices abound when deciding what type of accommodation to choose! Regardless of where you decide to stay, one thing is for sure—you want to be safe. go from here.

There are many types of accommodations you can choose from, but every country, city, neighborhood, and lodging establishment is different.

Hotels are what many American students are accustomed to, but abroad, hotels may look quite different. Beds may be smaller, bathrooms may be shared, and amenities like a pool or a gym, may be non-existent. Hotels are usually the most expensive accommodation option.

Pensions and Bed and Breakfasts are usually small, family-run hotels. They usually offer similar accommodations to American B&Bs. Prices and quality may vary greatly.

If you are traveling as a part of a study abroad program at a foreign university, it may be a good idea to live on campus or in official university housing. Being in an environment with your fellow students may ease the transition of adjusting to a new country, and the costs may already be covered in the program fees.

A homestay is just what it sounds like: it’s a stay in someone’s home. There are many agencies available that screen potential hosts and homestay candidates. This option is great for students who want to live in more of a family environment.

However, you must be comfortable with the idea of staying in someone else’s home and immersed in the culture of that family.

A hostel is a low-cost, dormitory-style accommodation. Most living spaces, including bathrooms, are shared, and they tend to be very student-centric.

Campgrounds typically are half the cost of what a hostel would cost, but you must be willing to “rough it.” Often there are showers, kitchens, and laundry facilities available, but you’ll have to carry extra gear and deal with local weather conditions.

Hotel Safety Tips
• Keep your hotel door locked at all times. Meet visitors in the lobby.

• Do not leave money and other valuables in your hotel room while you are out. Use the hotel safe.

• If you are out late at night, let someone know when you expect to return.

• If you are alone, do not get on an elevator if there is a suspicious-looking person inside.

• Read the fire safety instructions in your hotel room. Know how to report a fire, and be sure you know where the nearest fire exits and alternate exits are located. (Count the doors between your room and the nearest exit; this could be a lifesaver if you have to crawl through a smoke-filled corridor.)

• Know the identity of any visitors before opening the door of your hotel room. Don't invite strangers to your hotel room, or to remote locations.

	[Back To Top]

LOCAL LAWS

Look, we don’t mean to nag. But if there was ever anything worth nagging you about, it would be this: Obey the local laws of the country you’re visiting. An arrest or accident during a trip abroad can result in a difficult legal—and expensive—situation. Your U.S. citizenship does not make you exempt from full prosecution under another country's criminal justice system, and the U.S. government cannot bail you out. Many countries impose harsh penalties for violations that would be considered minor in the United States, and unlike the U.S., you may be considered guilty until proven innocent. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, so be informed. Go from here.

Keep track of the credit limits on your credit cards. Not only does this make good financial sense, but also good legal sense. Americans have been arrested for innocently exceeding their credit limit abroad. Ask your credit card company how to report the loss of your card from abroad. Keep in mind, 1-800 numbers do not work from abroad, but your company should have a number that you can call while you are overseas.

Take plenty of pictures, but only if you know it’s okay. In many countries you can be detained for photographing security-related institutions, such as police and military installations, government buildings, border areas and transportation facilities. If you are in doubt, ask permission before taking photographs.

Make smart purchases. Americans have been arrested for purchasing souvenirs that were, or looked like, antiques and which local customs authorities believed were national treasures. This is especially true in Turkey, Egypt, and Mexico. Familiarize yourself with any local regulations of antiques. In countries with strict control of antiques, document your purchases as reproductions if that is the case.

Make sure your prescription medication is not considered an illegal narcotic. If you are going abroad with a preexisting medical condition, you should carry a letter from your doctor describing your condition and medications, including the generic names of prescribed drugs. Any medications carried overseas should be in their original containers and clearly labeled. Check with the foreign country's embassy here in the U.S. to make sure your medications are not considered illegal narcotics. Find the foreign embassy’s website.

Don't accept packages from anyone. Some Americans think it's a good idea to take advantage of an offer for an all-expense paid vacation abroad in exchange for carrying a small package in their luggage. However, if you are caught, ignorance is no excuse. If the package contains illegal drugs or substances, the fact that you didn't know will not reduce the charges. You could miss your flight, your exams, or several years of your life during a stay behind bars.

Don't import, purchase, use, or have drugs in your possession. Drug charges can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment without bail for up to a year before a case is even tried. A conviction carries several more years of imprisonment in a foreign jail. In some countries it doesn't matter if you're underage either; you can still be charged as an adult. Mommy!

Do not carry weapons. Even a pocketknife can result in a serious weapons charge while on foreign soil - even if the knife is found during a search or arrest for an unrelated offense. Visitors driving across the border to Mexico should ensure that their vehicles contain no firearms, ammunition, or weapons – Americans have been imprisoned after one single bullet was found rolling around in the trunk.

Avoid participating in demonstrations and other political activities. Here in the U.S. we enjoy many liberties. However, political activities in other countries can result in detention and/or deportation by officials. Even demonstrations that are intended to be peaceful can sometimes turn violent, and you don't want to be caught in the middle. You can "stick it to the man," but on your own soil.

If you find yourself in a legal jam, contact the closest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance. Keep in mind, U.S. Consular employees cannot arrange for local officials to release detained American citizens.

	[Back To Top]

DRIVING ABROAD

If you choose to drive abroad, this is one time you want to make sure you stay “on the beaten path." It is estimated that more than 200 U.S. citizens die each year because of road accidents abroad. We’re not trying to scare you (well, maybe we are), but it is important to be aware of the rules of the road in the country you’re visiting. Go from here.

First thing’s first. If you choose to drive while abroad, make sure you obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you go. Many countries don’t recognize U.S. driver's licenses, but IDPs are honored in more than 150 countries outside the U.S. An IDP is not intended to replace a valid U.S. State license and should only be used as a supplement to a valid license. By the way, IDPs are not valid in your home country and you must be 18 to get one.

Before departure, you can obtain an IDP at a local office of one of the two automobile associations authorized by the U.S. Department of State: the American Automobile Association and the American Automobile Touring Alliance. Here’s how to contact these organizations:

AAA (American Automobile Association)

National Automobile Club
1-800-622-2136 or 1-800-294-7000

Once you have your International Driving Permit, you’re going to need insurance. Car rental companies worldwide usually provide auto insurance, but in some countries, the required coverage is minimal. When renting a car overseas, it is highly recommended that you consider purchasing insurance coverage that is at least equivalent to that which you carry at home.

Generally, your U.S. auto insurance does not cover you abroad. However, your policy may apply when you drive to countries neighboring the United States. Check with your insurer to see if your policy covers you in Canada, Mexico, or countries south of Mexico. Even if your policy is valid in one of these countries, it may not meet that country's minimum requirements.

Here are some quick tips to make your driving experience abroad, an easy ride:

•Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you go abroad.

•Carry both your IDP, and your State driver's license, with you at all times, and know the country's rules before you get behind the wheel. Information may be available from the foreign embassy in the United States, foreign government tourism offices, or from a car rental company in the foreign country.

•Always "buckle up." Some countries have penalties for people who violate this law.

•Many countries require you to honk your horn before going around a sharp corner or to flash your lights before passing.

•Before you start your journey, find out who has the right of way in a traffic circle.

•If you rent a car, make sure you have liability insurance. If you do not, this could lead to financial disaster.

•If the drivers in the country you are visiting drive on the opposite side of the road than in the U.S., it may be prudent to practice driving in a less populated area before attempting to drive in heavy traffic.

•Always know the route you will be traveling. Have a copy of a good road map, and chart your course before beginning.

•Do not pick up hitchhikers or strangers, and when entering existing your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.

•Never drive under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants. Doing so can have severe criminal penalties in other countries.

	[Back To Top]

DRINKING AND DRUGS

Let's be serious about this. When traveling overseas, it's important to obey the laws and regulations of the country you're visiting, especially those pertaining to drug and alcohol use. Every year, many American students are arrested abroad on drug charges or because of their behavior under the influence. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, so be informed. go from here.

Avoid underage and excessive alcohol consumption. Many arrests, accidents, rape, and other violent crimes have occurred because of alcohol abuse. While abroad, driving under the influence and drinking on the street or on public transportation may be considered criminal activities by local authorities, as they would be in many places in the United States.

Don't accept packages from anyone. Some Americans think it's a good idea to take advantage of an offer for an all-expense paid vacation abroad in exchange for carrying a small package in their luggage. If you are caught, ignorance is no excuse. If the package contains illegal drugs or substances, the fact that you didn't know will not reduce the charges. You could miss your flight, your exams, or several years of your life during a stay behind bars.

Don't import, purchase, use, or have drugs in your possession. Drug charges can carry severe consequences, including imprisonment without bail for up to a year before a case is tried, physical abuse, and sentences ranging from fines and jail time, to years of hard labor. Some crimes even carry the penalty of death. Contraband or paraphernalia associated with illegal drug use can also get you in trouble.

	[Back To Top]

FOR WOMEN TRAVELERS

Everyone traveling abroad should research safety and local customs, but young women should be especially attentive. Stay safe. go from here.

If you are a young woman in a foreign country, even dressing in a burlap sack and sensible shoes may not protect you against the unwelcome advances of strangers. Always try to stay with a group when exploring locally and avoid walking alone at night. In addition, don't feel the need to be overly polite if you are bothered by someone. While it may seem rude to be unfriendly to a stranger, creating boundaries to protect yourself is important. Use facial expressions, body language and a firm voice to fend off any unwanted attention.

Traveling through foreign lands gives you a unique opportunity to observe a rich tapestry of cultures and customs – which may include very different ideas about gender roles. Some countries have more conservative views about what constitutes appropriate female behavior. Remember, you're a visitor. Do some research on social mores before you go, and respect the customs of the nation. You may not agree with all of the cultural practices you learn about, but you should abide by them while in that country.

In some countries, wearing the wrong clothes can get you arrested or lead to a dangerous situation. What you think is casual may actually be considered provocative or unacceptable in other cultures. Know before you go, and pack accordingly. On arrival, note what local women are wearing and try to follow their lead. Stay away from anything too revealing or tight. Don't wear excessive makeup, and keep jewelry to a minimum to avoid attracting attention. Any fashion statement you DO make should show consideration for the country you are visiting.

	[Back To Top]

FOR GLBT TRAVELERS

Attitudes and tolerance toward gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered (GLBT) persons vary from country to country, just as they vary among U.S. cities and states. Some countries offer many legal protections to those who are GLBT, while other countries criminalize homosexual behavior. Most GLBT travelers encounter no problems when overseas, but it helps to prepare before you go from here.

Research, research, research…

Research your destination before you go. Educate yourself about the social culture, the laws, and support resources. This will help you protect yourself.
Take the time to learn about the:

Laws of your destination
Norms and social culture of your destination
GLBT organizations, hotels, and support resources
General attitudes toward GLBT persons

Homosexual activity remains illegal in about 70 countries in the world. Penalties in these countries vary from a minimum penalty to long-term imprisonment or even a death sentence. Violence against GLBT travelers also remains a concern in some countries, as detailed in the State Department’s 2007 Human Rights Reports. Remember, civil and human rights are only as protected as the local laws allow.

Travel Tips

If you experience difficulties, don’t be afraid to contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Seriously, there are consular officers available 24/7 at every embassy who provide emergency assistance to Americans. It’s what we do. We won’t pass judgment on you, and we will protect your privacy.

Thoroughly investigate the country you’re traveling to. GLBT travel guides provide country by country advice. It’s also worth checking for local gay newspapers or websites to obtain more information. After all, no one understands the local attitudes better than those who live there.

Use discretion. As an American, you may already stand out. Outside gay neighborhoods or resorts, public displays of affection may draw even more attention.

Check for GLBT or “gay friendly” hotels and lodging. Some hotels won’t accept bookings from same sex couples – others actively seek GLBT bookings.

Be alert and try to avoid potentially unsafe environments. The general openness of GLBT settings can sometimes be taken advantage of by criminals. Look out for yourself and your friends, especially late at night.

	[Back To Top]

TRAVELERS WITH DISABILITIES

Traveling through foreign lands gives you a unique opportunity to observe a rich tapestry of cultures and customs – this is true for those living with or without a disability. Living with a disability in no way prevents you from experiencing international travel.
With plenty of vigilance, your trip abroad can not only be safe, but it can also be accessible.
go from here.

Before You Go

First things first. Check with you doctor to make sure that it is okay for you to travel.
Research study abroad programs to find one that will accommodate any special needs you may have. Your study abroad office can direct you to many programs that set aside extra funds to make reasonable accommodations such as: personal care assistants, foreign sign language interpreters, oxygen providers, etc.
Thoroughly research your location(s) and its accessibility—wheel chair ramps can be narrower, hotel bathrooms may not have safety bars, and crossing lights may not have a sound indicator. Accessibility laws vary from country to country, so it’s better to be prepared for what you may encounter before you go.
Before you book your flights, contact the airline early to confirm that your medical equipment (ventilator, wheelchair, etc.) meets the airline’s regulations; and obtain copies of the airline’s policies on the rights of passengers with disabilities. Ask plenty of questions such as, “Will I be required to purchase a second seat for my medical equipment” or “is the airplane bathroom wheelchair accessible?”
Obtain a letter from your doctor on letterhead, explaining your need for any medical devices and medications. If possible, have this letter translated into the language used in the locations you will be visiting.
Do you require oxygen service? Currently, passengers are not allowed to bring their own oxygen canisters aboard to use during flights; and legally, airlines are not required to provide oxygen service. Find out in advance about your airline’s procedures for allowing oxygen suppliers to meet you at the arrival gate.
Make sure you have more than adequate medical insurance to be prepared for the unexpected. Are you covered under your parents' policy or through your school? Now is a good time to find out if your current coverage covers you overseas. Consider obtaining supplemental insurance to fill in any gaps your current provider misses. And be sure to read the fine print about pre-existing conditions. See a list of companies that offer overseas medical coverage and other services.
If you’re planning to travel to another country with your service animal, start the necessary documentation early. The amount of paperwork involved in bringing an animal into some countries can take from as little as a few weeks up to the course of a year! Be sure to contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting to find out the requirements of the country you will be visiting. (Some countries even require the implantation of an identifying microchip!) Ask your doctor to write a letter explaining your need for the animal, and get the health and rabies certificates from the animal’s veterinarian documenting that the animal is up-to-date on all shots. Know how to obtain medical care, if needed, for your animal abroad.
If you already use the services of a personal assistant, chances are, you’ll want similar services abroad. Make arrangements with your study abroad program to arrange for the services of an assistant or to find out how your current assistant can be accommodated. Apart from program tuition, funds need to be set aside for your assistant’s transportation, lodging, and day-to-day expenses.
Since many other countries use 220-volt electricity while U.S. appliances use 110-volt electricity, you may need to purchase a "converter" or a "transformer" to be able to use your medical devices or equipment. Check with your manufacturer to find out what will work best for your devices.
Find out from your study abroad program officials who to contact in case of a medical emergency, and create a list of the names and numbers of nearby medical facilities.
Join disability organizations and support groups located at your destination to create a support system to help you with the transition of living in another country. The Mobility International website is a good place to start!
Learn how to say and/or write simple phrases in the language spoken at your destination explaining your disability, and how to ask for or reject help. (“Thank you. I do not need help.” “I am blind. Can you help me cross the street?”)
Bring an extra quantity of any medications with you and pack it in your carry-on, just in case your checked luggage gets lost. Just remember to keep it in its original container and clearly labeled. And while you’re at it, check with the local embassy to make sure that your medication is acceptable to carry into the country. Visit www.tsa.gov for current medication screening procedures.
If you use a ventilator, try to carry a spare ventilator with you abroad. Having some simple tools and a few replacement parts on hand doesn’t hurt either.

En Route

Whether you require a wheel-chair or a sight-guide, you can request assistance at your airline’s check-in to help you maneuver through the airport and to make your travel experience easier.
Know your rights when going through airport security screening both here and abroad. For example, the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) limit of one carry-on bag and one personal bag does not apply to medical supplies and assistive devices. Visit the current TSA policies as it relates to disabilities.
If you are required to undergo a personal search and you need privacy, you can request for the screening to be conducted in a private area of the security checkpoint. Feel free to request a disposable paper drape for additional privacy or if you want the Security Officer to change their gloves.
It’s a good idea to carry a Pacemaker Identification Card (ID) when going through airport security. Do NOT walk through the metal detector or be hand-wanded. Show the Security Officer your pacemaker ID ahead of time, and request a pat-down inspection.
Normally, oxygen sources are temporarily disconnected during security screening. If you are not medically cleared to be disconnected or if you have concerns, ask the Security Officer for an alternate inspection process so you can remain connected.
Allow at least 90 minutes between connecting flights to make sure you have enough time to transfer between gates.
If you use a ventilator, know your ventilator settings in case the dials get knocked around while you’re traveling. Check those settings regularly while traveling and try not to be separated from your ventilator during your travels.
If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask airline or airport personnel. Be assertive and specific!

While You’re There

Each day, carefully pack everything you’ll need to take along while you’re away from your lodging for the day. Be sure to bring back-up supplies in case of emergencies.
On a periodic basis, reach out to your support group of friends, family, faculty, officials, and locals to help ease any culture shock or homesickness you may experience.
If you take medication or use other supplies, keep up with your schedule, and take inventory often to make sure you’re not running low. A vacation or study abroad is a great opportunity to try new things, but this is not the time to experiment with not taking your medications or mixing alcohol with medicine.
Take it easy. Resist the urge to try to fill every waking minute with activities. Every day presents an opportunity for a new adventure. You’ll have plenty!
Above all else, be safe. There are predators everywhere that try to take advantage of foreigners—there are others who particularly, may try to take advantage of your disability. Ask for help when you need it; but be careful when accepting assistance from strangers. Whether you simply shake your head with a stern look on your face, or unapologetically say “no,” be firm when declining unwelcome “help” from strangers. Always practice basic safety rules like not flashing excessive cash or valuables, and traveling in groups; and always be aware of your surroundings. If something doesn’t feel right or look right, you have the right to leave the situation immediately!