Preparing to Go Abroad

Pre-Departure Preparation

Before you depart, review Wright State's study abroad policy and attend a pre-departure meeting with your Ambassador Program leader or study abroad advisor. If you're participating in Third Party or Exchange programs, take a copy of your proposed course sheet with you on your abroad program as a reference in case course adjustments are needed while abroad.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Money:
✈ Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid potential holds on your account.
✈ Obtain local currency (equivalent to $50–$100 USD) from a bank or AAA for emergency cash upon arrival (Optional).
✈ Use ATMs to withdraw local currency on arrival; cash may be the preferred payment method in some places, be sure to read about the norms at your destination.
✈ Bring a backup credit or debit card in case of emergencies (e.g., pickpocketing, lost bag).
✈ Prepare a budget and familiarize yourself with the local currency conversion.

Documents:
✈ Make copies of your passport, travel itinerary, and local contact information. Leave one set at home and bring another with you.
✈ Bring copies of your SOS insurance card.
✈ Have a list of local emergency resources, including the local equivalent of 911, Wright State police department's number, and your in-country emergency contact.

Packing:
✈ Pack lightly! You’ll be responsible for carrying your bags during travel. Ensure you can carry all your belongings on your own.
✈ Check airline baggage limits, including international and any domestic flights; extra baggage fees can be costly.
✈ Avoid placing valuables in checked baggage (especially prescription medications).
✈ Pack practical, washable clothes that don’t require dry cleaning, and consider dark colors to hide dirt.
✈ Leave irreplaceable items (e.g., sentimental jewelry) at home.

Upon Arrival

✈ Immigration: Before getting your luggage, pass through immigration and show your required documentation (e.g., passport, visa).
✈ Luggage: After immigration, retrieve your luggage from baggage claim.
✈ Customs: Once you have your luggage, proceed through customs, where your bags may be searched by officers.
✈ Communication: Contact someone to let them know you've arrived safely.

Top Ten Tips for Travelers

1.  Ensure you have a signed, valid passport and visa (if required). Fill in the emergency information page of your passport before you go.
2.  Review the Consular Information Sheets and any relevant Public Announcements or Travel Warnings for the countries you plan to visit.
3.  Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page, and visas with family or friends at home for emergency contact purposes.
4.  Be sure to have your insurance documentation with you, and you are informed of how to access help if needed. 
5.  Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries you’re visiting. Remember, you are subject to the laws of the country you’re in.
6.  Never leave luggage unattended in public areas and never accept packages from strangers.
7.  Avoid using illicit drugs, drinking excessively, and associating with people who do.
8.  Avoid becoming a target for theft by not wearing conspicuous clothing or expensive jewelry and by not carrying excessive cash or unnecessary credit cards.
9.  Exchange money and purchase art or antiques only through authorized agents to avoid violating local laws.
10.  Steer clear of demonstrations and other situations that may become unruly or where anti-American sentiments may be expressed.

Other Important Details

✈ Leave photocopies of important documents (e.g., passport, credit cards, driver's license, student ID, traveler check numbers) with someone you trust in the U.S.
✈ Consider giving someone you trust Power of Attorney to handle your finances (e.g., tax returns, bills, money transfers) while you’re abroad.
✈ Ensure your emergency contact has access to your passport, credit cards, and medical insurance information for easy replacement if lost or stolen.