Trip Planning Checklist

• Home
• Resources
• Trip Planning Checklist

Trip Planning Checklist

Watch our new video and follow these essential steps to promote a healthy and safe trip abroad. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Northwestern’s Office of Global Safety and Security.

Before You Travel

• Research Your Destination:

  • Review the U.S. Department of State (DOS) Traveler's website for travel safety resources and country-specific Travel Advisories.
  • Find additional Security Information Resources.
• Special Considerations:
  • Review information for LGBTQI+ Travelers, Race and Ethnicity, and Women Travelers prepared by the U.S. DOS.
• Enroll in STEP:
  • Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates on breaking safety and security news from the U.S. DOS.
• Check Your Passport:
  • Verify that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
  • Take pictures of your passport and important documents for backup.
• Financial and Digital Security:
  • Clean out your wallet and record credit and debit card numbers.
  • Follow NUIT’s recommendations to Stay Secure During Travel.
  • Consider using a password manager to store sensitive information.
• International Students:
  • Visit the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) Travel page
  • Secure your travel signature and necessary documents to re-enter the U.S. and avoid detention by Customs and Border Patrol.
• Health Precautions:
  • Check the CDC Travelers’ Health website for potential health risks.
  • Visit your doctor for necessary vaccinations and pack an adequate supply of prescription medication.

• Health Insurance:
  • For Northwestern-affiliated trips, most students and employees are covered by GeoBlue's blanket plan for international travel.
  • Check eligibility and learn how to activate coverage at GeoBlue for Students or GeoBlue for Employees.
  • Review the GeoBlue Student or Employee Member Guide for comprehensive information about your plan.

  • If you have a chronic health condition, schedule a confidential talk with a GeoBlue nurse before traveling. To get started, watch this 3-minute video and complete the questionnaire in the GeoBlue Pre-departure flyer.

  • Download the GeoBlue mobile app and save your destination’s emergency contact equivalent of 911.
• Travel Registry:
  • At least 2 weeks before travel, register your trip in the Northwestern International Travel Registry (ITR); follow the instructions for solo or group travel.
• High-risk Destinations:
  • If traveling to a high risk or remote destination, be prepared for emergencies with a comprehensive first aid kit, dual communication plans, and backup power sources.
  • Disclose planned travel to certain high-risk destinations to determine whether or not political, security and natural disaster Evacuation (PEND) services will be covered in the case of a serious, non-medical emergency.

While Abroad

• Health Appointments:
  • For routine healthcare, you have three options:
    1. Use the GeoBlue mobile app to schedule an appointment with a network provider.
    2. Visit a local, non-network doctor or therapist.
    3. Use GeoBlue’s remote care options.
• Emergency Procedures:
  • In a medical emergency abroad, go directly to the nearest hospital. Once there, you or a companion should contact GeoBlue and notify your on-site contact, trip leader, or the NUPD 24/7 at (847) 491-3456. 
• Safety Precautions:
  • Stay vigilant against pickpockets, especially at transit points.
  • If you become the victim of a crime, seek safety, report the incident and cancel lost or stolen cards.
  • If your passport is lost or stolen, contact your citizenship’s nearest consulate or embassy. US citizens can refer to Lost or Stolen Passports Abroad.

• Support for Harassment or Sexual Misconduct Abroad:
  
  • Read comprehensive Information and Options for Survivors of Sexual Misconduct Abroad to understand your rights and options.
  • Seek confidential support through Northwestern CARE or RAINN.

After Your Trip

• Healthcare Claims:
  • Submit any healthcare claims to GeoBlue and continue necessary preventative medications.
• Health Monitoring:
  • Inform your doctor about your travel history if you feel unwell.