5 Must-dos for Traveling Safely Abroad

Can't wait to soak up some sun on your next vacation? With all the excitement surrounding your traveling, it is easy not to focus on a few things that are important when traveling overseas. Of course some of this information is relevant whether you are traveling abroad or just a few cities away. Below are the top 5 things you need to do while planning your trip to ensure a fun and safe vacation. Don't miss the links to web sites that may help you at the end!

• The latest information on travel warnings (long-term travel advisories) and travel alerts (short-term travel advisories) about the country you are planning to visit.

• The latest information on the crime rate. Look for suggested measures provided to follow while you are there.

• Helpful information on the quality of the medical facilities. Are there American or Western trained doctors? If so, where are they located? How far is that location from where you are staying?

• Register your presence with the American Embassy. Be sure to provide hotel information and dates.

• Obtain a letter if you have to carry needles for your medications. This letter will ensure that you will be able to go through airport security with needles.

• Make a list of prescriptions that you are carrying along with all of the prescription information just in case the medicine gets lost or forgotten. If you have the dosage strength and drug name then at least you have a chance at getting it upon arrival.

• You will need sunscreen if you are heading to a sunny spot.

• It is nice to bring your favorite brand of cold medicine and aspirin. When you are in a foreign country they will have aspirin and cold medicine but the brand names may be unfamiliar.

• You definitely want to make sure your immune system is strong before a long plane ride. Pick-up some extra vitamin C and/or zinc a few days before travel.

• Make sure your have dry ice to keep medications that need to be kept chilled.

Now that you have taken care of all of your health and safety needs ahead of time, you can just enjoy your vacation!