There are many things that you need to think about and prepare prior to leaving on this trip.
What do I need gather before I go?
Passport
Luggage
Backpack (carry on)
First-aid / Medicine kit
AT&T Phone cards
Check Card or Credit Card - We strongly suggest VISA.
Laundry Kit - Travel laundry line, laundry bag, and detergent
Sandals / Flip flops
Home dinner and Hospitality Gifts
Check out the list in your Explore Guide for more information and a complete packing list.
Luggage
Your suitcase should have a handle, wheels, maneuver easily, and stand up right. Each participant is limited to one large suitcase, weighing no more than 44 pounds and measuring no more than 54 inches (height + length + depth) and one carry-on bag weighing no more than 11 pounds and measuring no more than 39 inches. (A school-sized backpack is best, as many overseas airlines do NOT allow standard U.S. carry-ons such as wheeled cases.)
You must be able to care your own luggage, so keep it light and save room for souvenirs!
Packing
Use the packing list from your Explore Guide.
Check the packing list of clothing and other items you need to take with you in your suitcase and your carry-on bag.
Keep an extra luggage tag in your suitcase.
Don't take anything that can't be replaced.
Label all of your items.
Don't pack your jacket in you suitcase. You might need it on your flight.
Keep an extra copy of your ID, itineraryt, and hotel list in your suitcase
Pack only clothes that you know you will wear. Be sure that all are comfortable and travel well.
The best way to conserve space is to either roll your clothes (instead of folding) or use a space conserving travel bag.
Things that might leak or spill need to be sealed in a zip-lock bag.
Put all items in plastic bags in case screeners have to open your suitcase.
Take liquid detergent (such as Woolite), Shout wipes, and a travel clothesline so you can wash your clothes in your hotel bathroom.
Take several sizes of zipper baggies.
Pack valuables, medications, gifts, journal, one change of clothes, and things that can't be replaced easily in your carry-on bag. Keep it with you at all times if possible.
Money
Do not take a purse or carry a wallet in your back pocket. You'll be begging for someone to pick your pockets. Use a money belt or a travel wallet that hangs around your neck under your clothes.
Keep all money, health form, emergency information, and a copy of your passport in your money pouch.
Develop a budget with your parents.
Record your budget and what you spend in your journal.
Don't forget money for postcards and postage too.
Never leave your money/credit cards unattended (even in your own room).
Parents, make a copy (front and back) of your student's gift cards / check cards / credit cards to be sure to have all of the information before traveling
You need cash or a way to get cash (credit card or check card).
Keep at least $20 in US dollars on you for food at the airport on the way there and on the way home
Investigate the VISABUXX card. It can be used like a credit card. The card must be in the delegate's name or he/she will have problems using it.
Make sure to check with your bank, credit card company, etc. about daily and weekly spending limits. You don't want to be stuck overseas without any cash.
Medication
Keep all medication in its original bottle/packaging.
You must have a first aid kit for yourself that includes bandages, pain medication, allergy medication, stomach ache medication, anti-motion sickness medicaiton, hand sanitizer, and bug repellent.
Delegates that might not have allergies here, could possibly have troubles in another country.