Travel Notes:
Time
- Know the time difference between the U.S. and the places you will be.
- Current times anywhere in the world are available on the internet.
- Time zone converter: http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/converter.html
International Flights: TSA Information
- Familiarize yourself with the information available from the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) related to airline travel and international flights. Visit: http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information.
- Passenger information from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): http://www.faa.gov/passengers/index.cfm
Before you leave
- CHECK YOUR NAME! Airlines require that the name on an airline ticket match the traveler’s passport exactly
- Ensure you have a valid passport (with blank pages) that will be valid 6 months after your return
- Make sure you have the necessary visa(s)
- Make sure you know about cell phones/communication overseas
- Familiarize yourself with the laws and customs of your destination(s)
- Notify your debit and/or credit card companies that you will be using your cards overseas (where and the period of time).
- Make sure you know how many bags you are allowed & their size/weight limit (for each leg of the flight), so you don’t get surprised by last-minute fees.
- See TSA https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/travel-checklist for guidelines and information about prohibited items and the 3-1-1 liquid rule for carry-ons
- Bring the contact information for the travel insurance with you
- Have extra money for things like airport departure taxes that aren’t included in your ticket.
- Make sure all electronic devices are charged to comply with enhanced security measures at certain airports overseas. Passengers should also be prepared for enhanced screening of their person, luggage, and electronics.
- Check your tickets & re-confirm your flights to be sure your itinerary hasn’t changed. Some airlines require advance check-in for both the outbound & return flights.
- Contact your travel provider for assistance with a flight cancellation, forced overnight or other issue (for study/travel courses, follow your instructor’s lead)
- Make sure the airline has your contact info so you will receive communications if there’s a change in the schedule.
- Allow extra time for unplanned events, such as secondary inspection.
Power of Attorney
If you are involved in or anticipate legal matters that will be difficult to manage from overseas, consider assigning power of attorney to a trusted person at home.
International Student Identity Card (ISIC) and International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC)
Although we do not issue ISIC for insurance, we recognize its benefits in certain countries. Participants considering ISIC cards as a cultural option can apply online individually: http://www.myisic.com/. If you would like to apply for an ISIC/ITIC card for yourself, you may call the ID Card Division at STA travel at 800-781-4040. Please contact Mayumi Nakamura for further instructions.
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