Here are some quick tips to make your travel easier and safer:
* Register so the State Department can better assist you in an emergency: Register your travel plans with the State Department. This will help them contact you if there is a family emergency in the U.S., or if there is a crisis where you are traveling. In accordance with the Privacy Act, information on your welfare and whereabouts will not be released to others without your express authorization.
* Sign passport, and fill in the emergency information: Make sure you have a signed, valid passport, and a visa, if required, and fill in the emergency information page of your passport.
* Leave copies of itinerary and passport data page: Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page and visas with family or friends, so you can be contacted in case of an emergency. Keep an extra color copy of your passport and visa and stick it in your wallet. Secure your passport in the hotel safe and carry the copy wherever you go.
* Check your overseas medical insurance coverage: Ask your medical insurance company if your policy applies overseas, and if it covers emergency expenses such as...