There are many things to consider when traveling overseas.  Please see your professor for specific information about the location you will be traveling.  On this page you will find general information to prepare you for your trip.

 

  • Passports and Visas

    Please see the passport and visa section of this website.

  • Cell Phones

    The cell phone landscape is constantly changing.  It is recommended that students contact their carrier for short term international plans to the destination.  Additionally, inexpensive cell phones may be available for purchase in the host country.  Finally, students may rely on voice over IP (VoIP), although these will not work when not on Wi-Fi.  Note that any expenses the student incurs for cell phone service is not covered by Limestone.

  • Money and Credit Cards

Students are encouraged to take additional funds and credit/debit cards for any individual expenses.  Travelers checks are no longer widely used and not recommended.  You should be sure to notify your credit card company that you are traveling overseas as they may need to activate your card for international use.  If possible, you should purchase some local currency of your host country in advance so you have it available when you arrive.  Foreign currency is available/can be ordered from most major banks in the US.

Packing

When it comes to packing, there is a saying “pack your bag, take half of it out, and then pack half of that”.  It is essential that you pack appropriately for the weather at your destination, but you should also pack as light as possible as you will be managing your luggage by yourself in unfamiliar airports and train stations when you are tired and possibly jet lagged.  Also remember that many international hotels don't have elevators, so you may need to carry your bag up multiple flights of stairs.

Things to bring:
 
  • Durable weather appropriate clothing that can easily be cared for/laundered
  • Clothing that is appropriate for the local customs (note that some religious sites may not allow shorts or sleeveless tops).
  • Comfortable shoes – you will be doing a lot of walking
  • Rain coat or umbrella
  • Sneakers in case you want to use a gym of fitness center
  • A small first aid kit including some bandages, alcohol wipes, sunscreen, and Tylenol (or similar)
  • A journal for keeping notes on your trip (see syllabus for specific assignments)

 

In your carry-on luggage, you should have:
  • Passport
  • Plane tickets and any other necessary travel documents
  • A copy of your passport
  • Emergency Card (see your professor)
  • Prescribed medication
  • Eyeglasses/contacts/sun glasses
  • A change of clothes in case your bags are lost
  • A copy of your credit/debit card
  • Laptop computer (optional)
  • Phone and phone charger (optional).
Leave at home:
  • Anything of sentimental value or that you would regret losing
  • Your social security card, extra credit cards, store cards that you won’t use
  • Anything that could be considered a weapon