Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
important to go. Also, do not ask directions from people on the street. Try
to find a police officer or someone in a position of authority. Not only
will asking for directions tell a potential criminal that you have no idea
where you are, but you will have told a complete stranger where you will
be going. Don't do that. Buy a map or a global positioning system, or find
a cop, cabbie, or someone else more likely to assist you.
Exhibit 5.1 provides a sample checklist that you can use to assist you
in making safe travel decisions. Some of the recommendations have already
been discussed; others are explained in greater detail later in this topic.
Use this form as a guide to help you make the right decisions and take the
appropriate precautions. Our checklist is mainly concerned with safety,
security, and health. Remember, for additional tips to make your trip more
enjoyable, consult the State Department website or one of the travel com-
panies' websites. Use the checklist below along with the traveler's aware-
ness form discussed on page 24.
Exhibit 5.1
Security Pretravel Checklist
Documents
▫
Check
passport validation
(at least 6 months remaining validity).
▫
Arrange
visas
for entry into countries to be visited, including those that you
will transit.
▫
Pack an extra set of
passport photos
along with a photocopy of your pass-
port information page to make replacement of your passport easier in the
event it is lost or stolen.
▫
Carry a current U.S.
driver's license
with your photo on it. Make sure it will
not expire during your trip.
▫
Leave a
copy of your itinerary
with family or friends at home in case they
need to contact you in an emergency. Arrange to check in with them at reg-
ular intervals.
▫
Make two
photocopies
of your passport
identification page, airline tickets,
and driver's license
that you plan to bring with you. Leave one photocopy
of these data with family or friends at home; pack the other in a place sep-
arate from where you carry your valuables.
▫
Make a list of addresses and emergency telephone numbers for U.S.
embassies and local consulates.
▫
Make a list with your blood type, allergies, medical conditions, medications
you are taking, and other special medical requirements.
