√ Learn about visa requirements, local laws, customs, and medical care in the countries you are visiting.

√ Be aware of any Travel Warnings or Travel Alerts for your destination country, which describe risks to you and may affect your travel plans.

√ Find out about health precautions.

√ Prepare to handle money overseas. Before you go, notify your bank and credit card company of your travel, and check exchange rates.

√ Apply early for a passport, or renew your old one. It should be valid for at least six months after you return home, and needs to have two or more blank pages.

√ You may need to get a visa before you travel to a destination.

√ Get a letter from your doctor for medications you are bringing.

√ If you are traveling alone with children, foreign border officials may require custody documents or written consent from the other parent.

√ Make two photocopies of all your travel documents in case of emergency.