Trip Planning Checklist
Travel Health
International Health Insurance
- Northwestern’s International Health insurance carrier is GeoBlue; learn more about enrollment and coverage at GeoBlue for Students, GeoBlue for Kellogg Programs, or GeoBlue for Employees
- Before travel, download the GeoBlue Mobile app or go to geobluestudents.com to register and view plan information and resources
Country-Specific Health Information
- Research health risks and recommendations for your destination on the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health webpage
- Review immunizations and prophylactic medications and discuss your travel plans with a medical professional; bring along a copy of the CDC’s country-specific information (see prior link)
Managing Health Conditions Abroad
- If you have a current (pre-existing) physical or mental health condition, considering participating in GeoBlue's Pre-departure Program to communicate directly with an experienced healthcare professional before you go abroad to help manage your health and wellbeing abroad
- If you are currently taking a prescription medication, find advice on traveling with medications
Medical Emergencies
- In a medical emergency, go directly to the nearest treating facility
- As soon as possible, contact GeoBlue at (610) 254-8771 and notify your on-site contact, trip leader or the NUPD at (847) 491-3456
Non-Emergency Health Needs Abroad
- Use your GeoBlue app to schedule appointments with a healthcare provider in your travel destination; if you do not use a GeoBlue-networked physician, you will pay out-of-pocket, but can submit receipts for reimbursement
- Alternatively, use Remote Care Services: Global TeleMD or Global Wellness Assist
- It is not uncommon for students to experience emotional distress while abroad, perhaps even for the first time; visit Mental Health Abroad for advice
Travel Safety & Security
International Travel Registry and Security Resources
- All students on university-related travel abroad must register their trip in the Northwestern International Travel Registry;
- AlertTraveler (AT) is a subscription service that provides destination-specific intelligence and safety / security alerts to students and trip leaders who register trips in the travel registry
- The U.S. Department of State Traveler's website provides a variety of travel safety resources, including country-specific Travel Advisories
- Travelers can sign-up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP); STEP is a free service provided by the U.S. DOS to those who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country
- Before traveling, look up the 911 Abroad equivalent for your destination documented by the U.S. Department of State
Sexual Misconduct Abroad
- Read comprehensive Information and Options for Survivors of Sexual Misconduct Abroad; find confidential survivor support through Northwestern CARE or RAINN, where survivors can access confidential help online
Alcohol Safety
- Consider how alcohol is consumed in the local culture -- ask trusted local residents for advice and understand that certain drinking behaviors may identify you as an outsider, making you a target for crime; if you choose to drink while abroad, do so with a trusted “buddy”
Road, Water and Fire Safety
- ASIRT provides information about road conditions to make safe transportation choices
- Swim with care, choose safe beaches, plan for emergencies and do not consume alcohol
- Locate/test fire escapes, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in your residence; purchase a portable smoke detector to take on your trip
International Students Traveling Outside the U.S.
- Secure your travel signature and necessary documents to travel abroad and re-enter the States, otherwise, you may risk facing detention by Customs and Border Patrol; for additional advice, read the International Student & Scholar Services Travel webpage
Crime and Threat Deterrence
- Clean out your wallet, backpack, and/or handbag before you leave; record credit and debit card numbers
- When making housing arrangements, consult these guidelines for evaluating the safety of lodgings abroad
- If you become the victim of a crime, seek safety, assess and report the crime, cancel and replace credit/debit cards, and follow instructions to replace a lost U.S. passport
- Consider whether or not terrorism is a concern for your location and learn how to minimize your exposure and attend large public events
If you would like a PDF version of this checklist, contact Northwestern’s Office of Global Safety and Security at globalsafety@northwestern.edu.