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 doctor 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 forms with you.

• Get a letter from your doctor 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 doctor 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. Visit the CDC website for a complete list of what to include. 

• Discuss with your doctor how you will take medication as you cross time zones.

• Pack epinephrine (EpiPen) if you have severe allergies

• Check with the American Embassy or Consulate to inquire about the types of medications allowed into the country you are visiting.