According to the U.S. Travel Association, 9 in every 10 Americas plan to travel in the next six months.
However, it takes a lot to prepare for a trip, whether it is international or domestic.
For domestic travel, particularly for cross-country road trips, pack a physical map in case access to a GPS is lost, as well as a first-aid kit, extra hydration, and an emergency tool kit.
For general travel, paperwork is the most time-consuming part of any major trip. For first-time international travelers, obtaining a passport is crucial.
Typically, a passport requires three major documents: a DS-11 Form, a proof of citizenship, and proof of identity. Additionally, a 2×2 inch, color photograph and enough funds to cover application costs along with state taxes and other fees.
When filling out the application, check the option to receive both a U.S. Passport Book and a U.S. Passport Card.
The book can be stored in a secure place, such as a safe in the hotel or in the main luggage carrier, and the card can be kept within reach for identification purposes.
While a passport card is not valid for international travel by air, it is valid for travel in bordering countries like Canada and Mexico.
Photocopies should also be taken of the passport, with one copy left in the U.S. and one taken on the trip. If the original is damaged, lost or stolen, a renewal process through a local America Consulate or Embassy will be easier.
To stay healthy and promote the safety of others, be sure to research all vaccination requirements before even booking a flight to another country.
While COVID-19 restrictions are at the forefront of health concerns across the globe, other vaccination requirements, like Yellow Fever, are common.
Use resources like the Center for Disease Control to look up the destination and the possible immunizations required for entry.
“Students need to make sure to keep up to date with the regulations of their host country,” Kaitlyn Emerson, Coordinator of Student Advising said. “[this] is something UWYO Abroad always tries to do but we manage programs in over 83 countries so students need to take some responsibility.”
Research also reveals what language apps you should download, such as Google Translate or SayHi, which has a focus on regional dialects and current events travelers should be aware of.
Emerson said that students who plan to travel abroad outside of UW programs should also invest in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
“Basically, you register with the department of state, give them an itinerary, and in case there is an emergency while you are abroad, the nearest Embassy knows that you are there and they can try to help you in any way they can,” Emerson said.
Other tips for traveling internationally include fashion adjustments, such as wearing jackets with inside pockets to avoid theft, avoid tennis shoes that automatically label an individual as a tourist, and a study of local etiquette, such as standing to the right on an escalator to let faster traffic pass.
However, travel alone can be daunting so plan trips with organizations like EducationFirst Tours, Under30Experiences, and, of course, UW Education Abroad.
Emerson said that some Summer 2022 study abroad programs may see application deadline extensions, depending on the faculty advisor, and that students should keep an eye out for last-minute travel opportunities.
Exploration, however, is not limited to international travel. The Global Engagement Office here at UW also provides students with domestic travel and student opportunities.
“We are a very diverse country geographically and population-wise,” Emerson said. “NSE is a great way to get that exchange experience while also using it as a means to explore different cities.”
The National Student Exchange (NSE) is a coalition of over 200 universities in 48 states, including Hawaii and Alaska, the U.S. territories, and Canada, where students can get an exchange experience through cheaper means.
“We have multiple payment options for NSE,” Emerson said. “One is that students pay UW tuition prices for attendance at a different school, and two, students can pay the in-state rate for the tuition of that university they have decided to explore.”
