Please remember that delegates will have to carry their luggage, and load and unload the bus.
Make sure that the suitcase is manageable and within the weight limits.
Recommended – suitcases with wheels,
Recommended: 25"- 27" with wheels
54” (L x W x H)
40- 42 lb
Backpack/carry-on - must fit under the seat.
39”
11 lb
In addition, you may carry a purse or camera case.Pack Light! - Leave space for souvenirs!
Should I lock my luggage?
In some cases, the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) will have to open your baggage as part of the screening process. If your bag is unlocked, then TSA will simply open the bag and screen the bag. However, if the bag is locked and TSA needs to open your bag, then locks may have to be broken. Therefore, TSA suggests that you either keep your bag unlocked or purchase TSA-approved locks, which can be unlocked by the screeners instead of being broken.
Locks are recommended for protecting belongings left in the room during excursions.
What to pack
Electronics/Communication
Cell phones- Many do not work in Europe and /or are very expensive per call. Check with your server. One alternative is to rent an international cell phone for the duration of the trip. (cell phones are optional).For information on international cell phone rental services, go to blog and click on "Communicating while traveling",or go to page 25 of the Student Protocol.* Laptops – NOT RECOMMENDED See page 26 of Student Protocol*
I-pods – YES
Camera – please bring rechargeable batteries and extra memory cards. Delegates will take from 300 to 500 pictures!
Voltage adapters – Important to charge your electronics. Bring one and an electric strip (depending on number of items you plan to charge) For more information. go to "Packing Light" Student Protocol, page 19.
Valuables – Please leave them at home!
Money Matters
Airport – Bring $20.00 cash for airport.
Foreign currency – Order currency prior to departure. You will avoid higher fees and save time. Exchange fees really add up. For more information., go to page 28 of the Student Protocol*
Credit/Debit Card - YES - Minimizes cash needs. - Debit card - Parents can monitor available funds and reload as necessary. Be sure delegate knows the PIN number for debit card and has it written down in a safe place. PIN number must be numeric, not alphabetic.
ATMs – Dispense cash in foreign currency. Check fees with your bank, may be high. Be sure delegate knows PIN number and has it written down in a safe place.
**If using a credit card or debit card, inform bank/credit card company of countries and date of travel to prevent them from invalidating card. May be done online.** Traveler’s Checks – NOT RECOMMENDED
Health
Glasses and contact lenses – bring spare pairWater Bottle – bring one and drink as much water as you can to avoid dehydration.
Prescription Medicine - Make sure leaders know about it. Go to page 13 of the Student Protocol*
Over the counter medicine – Please bring pain relievers, anti-nausea, anti diarrhea and allergy medicines, sea-sickness medicine.
Food Allergies – Inform leaders. Be sure it is noted on the Health Form.
Medical Insurance Card – Delegates should carry a copy of their medical insurance card.
**Please inform leaders of any change in delegate’s health and/or medications prior to travel.**
Travel
Passports – Leaders carry delegates passports at all times. Delegates carry a copy of their passport at all times. Passports will be collected at the Bon Voyage PartyVisiting family and friends overseas – You will need to fill out a Land Deviation Form, one month before departure -Please email leader for more information.
Pack Light
Suitcase - one, maximum of 44 pounds when packed. Best size – 25”-26”. Wheels are strongly recommended. (Students must carry their lugagge at all times). Student Protocol*, page 17.Carry-on - medium-size backpack – must fit under a bus seat. Be sure contents conform to current regulations: 3-1-1 rule. Check regulations at www.tsa.gov
Laundry – Bring laundry detergent. Practice doing laundry in your bathtub.
Shoes – Broken-in shoes = happy feet. No flip-flops during the day. (OK for hotel/pool)
Formal Attire – not needed. No tie, dress shirt, dress shoes. Nice top/polo/shirt will suffice.
Flight Travel Day – Non-denim slacks, capris- stone or khaki colored, (no shorts), People to People polo shirt, closed-toe, comfortable shoes.
Packing list
Go to Student protocol for "Packing light" and "Packing List" , page 19-22
* Student Ambassador Protocol - Can be accessed through OnBoard, or by clicking on the link in the blog, under “Links and Downloads”
