Trip Planning Checklist

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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:

  •  Learn about your destination by reviewing the U.S. Department of State (DOS) Travel Advisories and local requirements. 
  • 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 Preparation:
  • Check the CDC Travelers’ Health website for potential health risks.
  • Visit your doctor for necessary vaccinations and pack an adequate supply of prescription medication.
  • 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.
•  Health Insurance:
  • For Northwestern-affiliated trips, most students and employees are covered by GeoBlue's blanket plan for international travel.
  • GeoBlue is currently in the process of rebranding to Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions (BCBS Global Solutions) over the next year. This change only affects the name, but the coverage and services provided remain the same.
  • 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.
  • Download the GeoBlue app for medical resources and emergency numbers. See the registration guide if you need help.

• 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

• Routine Healthcare Options:
  • Use the GeoBlue mobile app to schedule an appointment with a network provider.
  • Visit a local, non-network doctor or therapist.
  • 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:
  • Watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like train stations and airports; theft of backpacks, phones, and wallets is the most common crime reported by student travelers.
  • 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:
  • Review support for survivors abroad to understand your rights and available resources. 
  • Access confidential support through CSAW advocates 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.