Travel Tips
For travel advice to specific destinations (including information on safety and security, crime, and medical facilities), refer to the US Department of State's Consular Information Sheet for the country of your choice.
Listed below are some travel tips for UROP students traveling to most overseas destinations.
General Safety
- Do not travel with valuable items, whether their value is sentimental or expensive.
- Wear a money belt, or find some other way to be discreet about your money.
- Never travel alone, especially at night.
- Carry identification at all times.
- Travelers are often approached for money in many areas. Think carefully about how you plan to respond in those situations.
Medical/Health
- Basic first-aid needs may not be readily available, so bring a first-aid kit with you which may include aspirin, imodium or Pepto Bismol tablets.
- If you take daily medication, pack twice as much as you need and pack it in separate suitcases in case one of them is lost.
- It is best to drink only bottled water whenever possible.
- Have a medical contact at MIT who knows you are traveling.
Clothing
- Not only will you be representing MIT, but the United States as well. Appropriate dress is suggested.
- If you plan to travel with people who are already familiar with your destination, ask them to advise you on the types of clothing to bring. Your hosts may also be able to advise you.
- Wear comfortable footwear.
Miscellaneous
- A long distance phone card may be useful, as cellular service is not available in all areas, and can be quite expensive if traveling internationally.
- Remember to pack power converter/adapter plugs when you travel internationally.
- If you are staying with a host family, it is courteous to bring them a small gift.
