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Travel Abroad Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport and a visa to travel abroad?
A passport, which is an official, internationally-recognized ID issued by the national government of your home country (the U.S. government if you're a U.S. citizen), is required for travel to nearly all destinations outside the U.S, both for purposes of entry into the foreign country and for readmission back into the U.S. A visa (issued by the embassy of the destination country before you leave the U.S) is required for admission into many countries. For U.S citizens traveling as tourists, the U.S Department of State maintains a handy list of Foreign Entry Requirements, but note that requirements will differ for those who are studying or working abroad, or those who are not U.S. citizens. For more information, see our article on Passports and Visas.
How do I find out how safety and health conditions abroad?
The U.S. Department of State assesses safety and health conditions for every country in the world, and issues a travel advisory for each (officially called a “Consular Information Sheet”). In some cases, the U.S. Department of State advises U.S citizens against travel to a given country by issuing a Travel Warning, but every advisory gives detailed information about potential hazards such as crime, road safety, political instability, and terrorism. For more information, see the U.S Department of State's Travel Advisories.
How can I let people know how to get in touch with me in case of an emergency?
You will of course want to leave copies of your travel abroad itinerary with family members and others who are close to you, and with your program administrators if you're studying or working abroad. Additionally, members of the U-M community should register with the online Travel Registry of the U-M International Travel Oversight Committee (ITOC). U.S citizens may also register online with the U.S Department of State .
Do I need special shots, medications, or to take other health precautions in order to travel abroad?
Depending on where you are traveling (especially for less-developed regions), you might need vaccines against hepatitis A and B, chickenpox, pneumonia, typhoid fever, yellow fever, meningitis, Japanese encephalitis, or rabies. Special medication against malaria is available. You may also need to take precautions about eating and drinking. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control provides official travel health information for worldwide destinations. For local specialist advice from U-M Travel Health Clinics, see Inoculations for Overseas Travel.
Will my health insurance cover me while abroad? If not, how do I get health insurance?
You'll need to check with your health insurance provider to see if you have worldwide coverage. If not, or if you have no health insurance, there are special policies available. See our article on Health Insurance Abroad.
Where can I find the cheapest airfares? Where can I buy a railpass?
The best sources locally is STA Travel, located in the basement of the Michigan Union, 734.769.2555, which has special student-rate airfares. STA also sells railpasses, can make reservations in youth hostels, and offers student tours. For additional sources and tips, see our article on Air Transportation.
I've heard about an International Student ID Card. What's that for?
The ISIC card is the only student ID card that is recognized for special student discounts worldwide. It also entitles you to special student-rate airfares though STA Travel. It can be used to make phone calls. Finally, it even has health insurance (best viewed as a supplement to a comprehensive policy). Similar cards are available for non-students under 26, and for teachers and faculty. Cards may be purchased from the International Center and STA Travel. See our article on International Student ID Cards.
Do I need a rail pass to travel in Europe?
No, although if you decide you want one, you'll need to purchase it in the U.S. Tickets can be purchased for each individual train trip, but there are certain advantages to having a rail pass. First, there is the peace-of-mind of not worrying about buying tickets every time you want to travel. This is especially important in major European train stations, where buying a ticket can be a time consuming and confusing process. Second, depending on how much you travel, rail passes can save you money. Try to tailor your pass to the type of trip you are planning. If you stay in each destination for several days, you can find passes that allow a certain number of days of rail travel within a given time period (usually 1-2 months). If you think you might travel on a train every single day, you can find rail passes for unlimited travel for several weeks or months. Rail passes can save you money, but only if you use them wisely and buy the pass that best suits your trip. For more on railpasses and how to use the trains, see RailEurope.
I am interested in backpacking around to different places for several weeks. How much should I pack?
Not much! You aren't going to need all of the outfits and other amenities that you are used to. Wearing the same one or two outfits while you travel is not only simpler, but no one is going to care. Try to bring multi-purpose outfits that work in different weather conditions. Also, be prepared to sacrifice some of the hygienic comforts of home, like taking a shower every single day or washing your clothes before wearing them a second time. Clothes are definitely something to cut down on, but don't forget travel essentials like sunscreen, toiletries, tour books, and maybe a sleeping bag and tent.
I'd rather not plan my entire trip. Can I just show up in a new city and expect to find a place to sleep?
It is usually possible to find accommodations right when you show up at your destination. However, you might have difficulties in large tourist areas like Rome, Venice, Paris, or Barcelona and should book a few days in advance. Also be aware that when shared between a few people, inexpensive hotel rooms (1 and 2 star) can be much cheaper than youth hostels and have comparable or better facilities. This is especially true in major cities, where one bed in a youth hostel can be up to $50. See our information on youth hostels in Accommodations.
I just arrived in a city and I am completely lost. Where do I go to find maps and other information?
This question emphasizes the need for a good tour book to accompany any trip. A budget-oriented tour book (such as Let's Go, Lonely Planet, etc.) can guide you to tourist information bureaus, alert you to don't-miss sites to see, and help you find low-cost accommodations.
What can I expect to pay each day while traveling on my own? What are the best ways to cut costs?
While traveling you might be shocked by how much you spend everyday. Food and accommodations usually take the heaviest toll on your wallet. The cost of food can be reduced by shopping at grocery stores and not dining in restaurants, which tend to be very expensive in tourist areas. Please see our resources on youth hostels and budget accommodations for information on the cheapest places to stay. Also, there are things like museums, tourist attractions, pubs, and nightclubs, which are all extras that seem small but add up quickly. Certainly some expensive tourist sites can be cut from your itinerary. It is important to remember that you might never get to that famous landmark again and that a $20 admission fee will be well worth it. Don't end up regretting not having done or seen something just because it cost money that you weren't willing to spend. Look for student or youth discounts, which are available at most tourist attractions. For cost estimates and descriptions see our article on Travel Finances.
Should I get a cell phone?
This is completely up to you. Many students find cell phones very convenient, others find them unnecessary. Your American cell phone contract will not work overseas. Most cell phones abroad use pre-paid SIM-chips that can be inserted into any phone. If your American cell phone also uses a SIM-chip and has dual- or tri-band settings, you can bring it along and will only have to purchase a new SIM-chip and the pre-paid minutes for it. Some cellular companies offer discounted contracts to students (O2-Europe for example), which feature very reasonable local and international rates. Generally, cell phones are a convenience while abroad, but they usually require some research to find the best companies. For additional information see our article on Communications Abroad.
I'm ready to travel abroad – what do I need to do now?
See our Departure Checklist for Travel Abroad.
Still have questions?
Contact the Overseas Opportunity Office by calling the U-M International Center or icoverseas@umich.edu

Last reviewed: 11/07