Traveler's Checklist

Before you travel, the following checklist will help you to prepare for a safe and healthy trip.

• Schedule an appointment with your physician well in advance of your trip.
• Have necessary immunizations for your destination.
• Check insurance coverage for travel abroad.
• Have your insurance information cards and claim form with you.
• Obtain a letter from your physician regarding your health history, medications, allergies, and immunization records.
• Have an emergency release form.
• Complete the inside page of your passport with important identification and emergency contact information.
• Have an ample supply of medication in original, labeled containers. Do not use pill cases or other unlabeled containers.
• Carry along extra prescriptions, as well as a letter from your physician explaining your need for the drug, as some countries have strict laws regarding narcotics.
• Carry along the generic names of your medications as pharmaceutical companies overseas may use different names from those in the United States.
• If you wear eyeglasses, take an extra pair with you.
• As an extra precaution, pack extra eyeglasses and medication in carry-on luggage in case checked baggage is lost.
• Consider wearing a "medical alert" bracelet if you have allergies or reactions to medications, insect bites, certain foods, or other unique medical problems.
• Pack a travelers' first-aid kit for on-the-road emergencies.
• Discuss with your physician how you will take medication as you cross time zones.

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Online Resources of Travel Medicine