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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