Travel Preparation

As student health and safety is a priority, UFIC encourages all students to thoroughly review their host country’s health and safety concerns. We also strongly recommend all students meet with their physician or other medical professional to create plans for maintaining their physical, mental, and emotional health while abroad as well as obtaining any recommended/required travel immunizations. The following steps will help you prepare for your time abroad.

  • Review the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories for your intended destination. While UFIC staff regularly monitors this information, students should be familiar with the risks associated with travel and review all pertinent travel information, such as visa, vaccination, and passport requirements to enter their host country. Country specific information can be found here.
  • U.S. citizens and nationals should register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service that sends alerts by the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in an emergency, whether it’s a natural disaster, civil or political unrest, or a family emergency.
  • Review the CDC’s Traveler’s Health webpage for your intended destination to learn more about any health-related risks, recommended vaccinations, water safety, common local diseases and more.
  • Visit your primary physician or a local travel clinic to discuss preventative care, continuous care, and recommended vaccinations at least 8 weeks prior to departure. Please know that many travel clinics do not accept insurance, so be sure to inquire about consultation and vaccination fees before scheduling an appointment! You should also check with your insurance provider if any travel vaccinations will be covered under your policy. For your convenience, below are examples of local travel clinics you may wish to utilize:
  • Certain medications are considered illegal in other countries. Research your host country’s laws regarding any prescription or over-the-counter medications you intend to bring.. To assist with your research, visit the website of your host country’s Embassy or Consulate as well as the International Narcotics Control Board, which provides regulatory information for various countries worldwide.
  • Follow the news for your host country and remain informed of current events as they may indicate new public safety or health concerns.

Remember that while preparation is key, it is equally important to continuously monitor these resources and seek assistance when needed!