- Pre-fill your prescriptions
Pre-fill your prescriptions, they may not be available at your destination. Take extra in case your trip is extended. In some countries counterfeit medications can be a problem. Carry medications in their original packaging and pack in your carry-on luggage.
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- Don't swim in rivers, lakes, ponds and streams
Well-chlorinated pools and salt water are usually considered safe.
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- Take a basic first aid kit
Include medications for pain relief, such as ibuprofen and Tylenol, topical preparations for minor skin wounds and infections, and medications for allergic reactions (Benadryl). Consider presumptive treatment (Imodium and an antibiotic) for traveler's diarrhea. Discuss the appropriate antibiotics for your destination with a travel health specialist.
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- Motor vehicle accidents
Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of medical problems among tourists. Avoid riding motorcycles or wear a helmet and don't drink and drive. Wear a seatbelt and only travel during daylight hours.
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- Purchase travel insurance
Purchase travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation. Most medical insurance plans aren't accepted when you travel internationally.
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- Passport
Sign your passport, and fill in emergency information: Update and sign your valid passport, and a visa, if required. Don't forget to also fill in the emergency information page of your passport.
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- Qipit
Qipit itinerary, passport and other important documents: Make sure you are protected in case of theft, loss or other emergency by making easy to access digital backup copies of important documents. Qipit (www.qipit.com), a free service, turns any camera phone into a mobile scanner so you can convert important documents (travelers checks, driver's license, passport or itinerary), into enhanced easy-to-read digital copies that can be saved online, emailed or faxed right from your phone to anywhere in the world.
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- Insurance
Review your insurance coverage: Confirm with your medical insurance provider that your policy applies overseas and if it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. If your coverage does not cover you abroad, consider supplemental insurance.
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- Local Laws
Familiarize yourself with local conditions and laws: While visiting a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. The State Department website at http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html has useful safety and other information about the countries you will visit.
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- Don't Be a Target
Don't make yourself a target: To avoid being a target of crime, do not wear flashy clothing or jewelry. Further, do not carry excessive amounts of cash. Lastly, do not leave your luggage in public areas and do not accept packages from strangers.
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