Last-minute reminders from traveling teachers
After all the planning and preparation, and months of waiting, we are actually ready for departure!
A number of our teacher group leaders have contributed the following suggestions to attend to as you prepare for your trip:
1. Pack Light! Double check your packing list, and remember your checked bag cannot exceed 62 inches (length+height+width), and cannot weigh more than 50 pounds. Carry-on bag measurements are limited to 22 inches X 14 inches X 9 inches at the largest. This is in addition to either a purse OR a backpack. Packing guidelines:
Ladies: One pair of long pants to wear on the plane, one dress and/or skirt, 2 pairs of shorts or capris, and 5 or more tops to mix and match. Bring something to cover your shoulders during church or cathedral visits when applicable.
Gents: One pair of long pants to wear on the plane, another pair of long pants; 2 or 3 pairs of shorts, and various shirts.
Try not to pack a different outfit for each day. It is much too much to lug that around. This is no time for modesty! Prepare to wear the same outfit, or combination more than once.
2. Restrictions: Keep in mind the restrictions for liquids, gels or aerosols in your carry-on must be no larger than 3.4 ounces, and all must fit in one clear Ziploc bag that you can easily remove for security clearance. Limit jewelry, belts, scarves, shoes that need tying, underwire garments and anything else that contains metal or will slow you down through security checkpoints.Take a moment to review the TSA's 3-1-1 Packing Tips: https://www.tsa.gov/videos/travel-tips-3-1-1-liquids-rule
3. Your mental checklist: "Passport, money, cell phone, bank card, backpack!" Always remind yourself of this mantra before departing any location (airport, plane, restaurant, hotel room, seat in a theater, bus, etc.) Have your passport easily accessible for check-in and security when arriving at the airport. But also have a planned place to immediately store your passport -- such as in your money belt, or under your clothing. Having a neck wallet or money belt is a good idea. Leave nothing unattended, EVER. Remember you are responsible for yourself and your belongings while on this trip.
4. Make four copies of your passport:
1 to give to your group leader
1 goes in your carry-on bag
1 for the outer, zippered portion of your checked bag
1 remains at home with your parent or other family member in case of loss or theft
Important: Your actual passport stays with you at all times, no matter what!
5. Listen to, and take note of, the meeting times and places.
6. Never leave the group or go anywhere unaccompanied.
7. Always wear your money belt and keep your passport and extra money in the money belt.
8. Put a change of clothes in your backpack or carry-on, in case your luggage gets lost or delayed.
9. Pack non-perishable snacks for the plane and for late nights or early mornings in the hotel room.
10. Notify your bank, if you haven't already, that you will be using your debit or credit card(s) overseas. Otherwise, your bank may see the activity as fraud and your card will not work in the places we are visiting. Keep in mind that there may be a maximum daily withdrawal limit, and of course fees for ATM use will be higher for overseas withdrawals in most cases.
Bon voyage!