Trip Planning Checklist

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

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)
Traveling during the pandemic requires careful planning and flexibility; review the COVID-19 Traveler Checklist before traveling

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

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

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

All students on university-related travel abroad must register their trip in the Northwestern International Travel Registry; one exception: undergraduate study abroad students do not need to complete the 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

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

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”

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

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

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.