There are millions of Americans traveling for vacation this summer, and many of them will be going abroad for their vacation. There are a variety of benefits of traveling abroad, but there are also some concerns you should have if you’re planning on leaving your country. Health and safety are always important when you’re traveling, but they’re especially important when you’re going to a new and foreign place. Vacations who are planning on leaving the country need to do certain things to make sure that they stay safe. Don’t run into trouble when you’re traveling abroad this summer, make sure that you follow these four travel safety tips.
Get In STEP
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You never know what can happen when you’re vacationing in a foreign country, and the US government wants its citizens protected in case of any kind of emergency. STEP stands for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service provided by the government to US citizens who are traveling to or living in a foreign country. Visit their website and enter in information about your upcoming trip abroad (address of where you’re staying, contact info, etc.) so that the US Department of State can help you in case of an emergency. They’ll be able to give you information on the closest US embassy or consulate, and also give you travel warnings and alerts.
Get Checked Out
You should always make sure you’re in good health before you travel anywhere, but you should plan to visit your doctor before you travel abroad. They can give you a physical exam, answer any questions you may have about health issues when you travel, and provide vaccinations if they’re needed. Furthermore, be sure to talk to your current insurance company to see whether your policy applies overseas and if it will cover trips to a foreign hospital. If they don’t offer those things, seek out a short term traveler’s insurance policy that can guarantee you’ll get medical help in case something goes wrong.
Pack Supplies
A first aid kit is essential for travel, and very important if you’re traveling abroad. Make sure that you pack extra doses of any kind of medication you take now, along with antibiotics and sterile bandages, wraps, and painkillers and fever reducers like ibuprofen and Tylenol. Some countries outlaw certain drugs that are legal in the United States. If you take prescription medication, see if you can get a note from your doctor in English and in the language of the country you’re visiting that gives justification for you having the medication.
Don’t Wait
Whether you’re going on Patagonia trips with your friends or exploring the streets of Paris, never hesitate to get in contact with a doctor if you start to feel ill. It isn’t uncommon for people to catch the flu or get a few cuts and bruises when they’re traveling. Sometimes something simple like stomach problems from food could lead to dehydration or be signs of a severe case of food poisoning. It’s better to be safe than sorry in these situations, see a doctor if you’re feeling sick.
Sean Carter is a member of an established writing team who have appeared on countless blogs all across the internet. His main topics of interest include technology, travel and business
