Preparing to Travel

Visit the U.S. Department of State’s Country Information page for visa info, entry requirements, travel advisories, embassy and consulate locations, vaccination recommendations, and more. Consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time alerts and help U.S. embassies contact you in case of an emergency.

Check the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory system for up-to-date safety information on your destination country. Travel advisories can change at any time, so stay updated. For more information on the meaning of advisory levels, please visit the U.S. Department of State website.

Visit the CDC’s website for health guidance, including recommended vaccines and preventative measures. Reviewing your country’s page will help you understand the health risks and how to manage them. 

For questions about health and safety, check our Health and Safety page and contact your Global Learning Advisor.

If you identify as LGBTQI+, it’s important to understand the legal and cultural environment of your destination. The U.S. Department of State provides LGBTQI+ Travel Information, and sites like Equaldex and Destination Pride can help you assess safety and acceptance levels by country.

Studying abroad means encountering new risks, including different healthcare standards, infrastructure, transportation, and public safety. Risks may also come from climate, disease, crime, or local political and cultural environments. You are responsible for assessing your own risk tolerance, staying informed through official sources like the U.S. State Department and CDC, and thoroughly researching your destination.

Wait to purchase your plane ticket until your program is officially confirmed.

For UCSC programs, students usually book their own airfare to and from the program location. Airport pickup is often not provided, but may vary by program. You will receive detailed instructions from your program administrator about arrival times, locations, and transportation options.

When considering when to arrive at your destination, keep in mind you will need approximately two hours to deplane, collect luggage, clear customs and immigration, and navigate through the airport to ground transportation. Next, determine the time it will take you to travel from the airport to your housing accommodations.

• Identify your departure and arrival airports and your preferred travel dates and times, considering factors like crossing the International Date Line or long layovers.
  • Check if your flight arrives on time for your program start.
  • Is it cheaper to travel on certain days or times??
  • If you arrive early or stay late, is it worth it to get a hotel for those days?
  • Consider baggage allowances and restrictions.
  • Watch out for low fares, which may be significantly longer than other flights or have multiple (2+) layovers.
• The simplest way to book a flight is directly with the airline, though you can also use search engines. Booking directly with the airline simplifies making changes to your travel plans, including missed and canceled flights. Double-check your flight details before booking to ensure they align with your program schedule.
• Do not book a flight with a layover that is shorter than 45 minutes, or an international layover shorter than 1.5 hours. Even if you are able to make the plane switch on time, if you check a bag, it likely won’t.
• You should plan to arrive at your departure airport at least 2-3 hours in advance of your flight departing. Make sure that your transportation to the airport will be able to get you there on time, especially if you have an early morning flight.
• We strongly recommend round-trip tickets that are changeable and refundable in case your plans change.
• If you arrive early or leave late, you are responsible for any extra lodging and personal expenses during that time.

You are responsible for obtaining all necessary entry documents before traveling. Note that you may still be responsible for Study Abroad/Away fees even if denied entry to your destination.

All students traveling abroad must have a valid passport. A passport is a government-issued document that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder for the purpose of international travel. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned return to the U.S. Check the expiration date and apply early for renewal if necessary. For more information on getting a passport, please visit the U.S. State Department.

If applying for a new passport or a renewal, apply early. It can be difficult to get appointments, and processing times can also be delayed. Once you apply for your passport, you can check the status on the State Department website linked above.

Most study abroad programs require a student visa, which may involve an application process, fees, and specific documentation (like a program acceptance letter or proof of housing).

U.S. citizens can also find up-to-date entry and exit information for all countries on the U.S. State Department website.
If you plan to travel to other countries before, during, or after your program, be sure to research visa requirements for those destinations as well—some countries require proof of visas in advance, even for short visits.

For programs in the U.S., a valid ID is required to travel by domestic flight. A valid ID includes a driver’s license or other state photo identity card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, a U.S. passport book, or a passport card.

Note: Starting May 7, 2025, the US Department of Homeland Security requires a Real ID to board domestic flights. California residents: learn more.

If you are a nonimmigrant visa holder or permanent resident, consult with the UC Immigrant Legal Services Center before traveling for legal advice and detailed immigration guidance.

We recommend packing light and bringing only one carry-on and one medium checked bag (if needed). You should be able to carry your luggage unassisted. Airlines have varying policies on baggage and whether it is included in the cost of your ticket or for an additional fee.

• Research the climate, average weather, and temperatures for your travel destination(s) so you know what kind of clothing and shoes to pack.
• Consider the length of time you are traveling and your access to laundry services. If laundry is readily available, you can think about packing less and washing more often.
• Pack essential items in your carry-on: extra clothing for a day, important toiletries and medications, an empty water bottle, electronics, valuables, and travel documents. Your essentials will be with you at all times, and in case your checked luggage is delayed, you will have what you need to get you through a few days.
• Make photocopies or digital backups of your passport, visa, and vaccination records. Store them separately from the originals.
• Notify your bank or credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid blocks due to international transactions.
• Bring an adequate supply of any prescription medications and know the regulations for carrying them into your host country.

Luggage that you carry onto the plane and store in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Your ticket and airline website will provide size and weight restrictions for a carry-on. On smaller planes or when a plane is full, airline agents may gate-check carry-on luggage to put underneath the plane at no cost, but your carry-on will not be accessible during the flight.

Baggage that goes underneath the plane and is inaccessible during the flight. You check this baggage with an airline agent upon check-in at the airport. Your ticket and airline website will provide size and weight restrictions for checked baggage.

Area of the airport in the arrival terminal where passengers collect their checked baggage, typically at their final destination airport.

Pass received from airline upon check-in (may be in electronic or paper ticket form) for your flight that includes your seat assignment and often has your departure gate listed. Departure gates can change, so be sure to verify your departure gate once at the airport.

Term used to describe the time between two or more flights when a traveler transitions from one plane to the next in the airport terminal. Layovers vary in time, but will be listed at the time of ticket purchase and are part of your itinerary. It is recommended to have at least one hour for a layover, especially for international flights.

Term used to describe a flight that flies directly from your home airport to your final destination. There are no layovers on a direct flight. Also called a nonstop flight.

Refers to a screening checkpoint you go through before entering the departure gates of an airport. The purpose of security is to prevent prohibited items and security threats on planes.

Refers to the people traveling between countries. Immigration is oftentimes referred to as passport control or border control, which are checkpoints you will pass through and present your passport and any additional travel documents upon arrival.

Refers to the items travelers carry with them. Countries have restrictions on certain items that can enter/exit a country with a traveler. Certain types of food are a common example. Often, the embassy of your destination country will provide a list of restrictions. Customs and Immigration are often done together as checkpoints that you will pass through in the airport.

You can typically check in for your flight 24 hours in advance through the airline’s app or website. For international flights, you may need to check in at the departures desk at the airport, or you may be able to check in online, but will still need document verification at the airport by an airline agent. Follow directions as prompted by your airline. Upon check-in, you will receive access to your boarding pass, which is your ticket to getting on the plane.

Consult your airline’s website or your departure airport website for advice on arrival times prior to flight departures. The general rule of thumb is two hours prior to a domestic flight and three hours prior to an international flight. While this may seem like a generous amount of time, depending on your destination and the airport, operations and travel congestion may impact the time needed prior to departure.

Using the airline app can be a convenient way to travel. If you plan to go paperless, be sure that you always have access to your phone to be able to show your ticket/boarding pass. Consider a paper boarding pass as a backup if you’re unsure if you’ll have phone access.

Following check-in instructions with your airline, it’s likely you’ll be dropping off at least one bag to check at the departures desk for your airline. If you have not yet checked in or need document verification, an agent will do so during this time, print a boarding pass, and verify your departure gate. Airline agents and signs will direct you to the actions you need to take. In most cases, your checked baggage is checked all the way to your final destination. If you have a layover at another airport, your checked baggage will automatically move to your next plane. If there are any exceptions, your airline should let you know.

All travelers at the airport will go through security and screening before arriving at their departure gate. In the US, this is commonly referred to as TSA, which stands for Transportation Security Administration, the government organization that oversees the security and screening at all US airports. Follow the signs at the airport for security. There will likely be a line. At the front of the line, a TSA officer will check your ID and boarding pass.

Your carry-on luggage will be screened, and you may be asked to remove bulky clothing layers and shoes. You will go through a security scanner – either a full body or metal detector. TSA officials will direct you as you move through the process. If further screening is needed of your luggage or yourself, follow directions from TSA officials.

It is recommended to review the information on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website to understand how the security and screening process works. The TSA website provides information on what can be packed in your luggage and, if so, where it should be placed, in your carry-on or checked baggage. There are restrictions on liquids that can be carried onto the plane; liquids larger than the allotted 3.4 ounces or 100 ml must go in checked baggage.

Consult the TSA website for details on the liquids rule (3-1-1), security screening, and what you can/cannot bring on international and domestic flights. Note that these rules apply for U.S. airports and that other countries may have different security and screening measures.

Once you are through security, you’ll head to your departure gate. In the airport terminal, you’ll have access to bathrooms, drinking water (bring an empty reusable water bottle), and typically food.

If you have time before your flight, be sure to pay attention to the time so you are at the gate when boarding begins. Many airports will have large screens displaying flight information throughout the terminal area. There, you can check to see if any information about your flight has changed, which may include delays, gate changes, or boarding information. Never leave your luggage unattended, especially if traveling alone, as unattended items may be removed for security reasons.

When it comes time to board your flight, follow the announcements of the gate agent, who will provide directions on the boarding process, typically done in groups, which are often assigned on your boarding pass.

Following check-in instructions with your airline, it’s likely you’ll be dropping off at least one bag to check at the departures desk for your airline. If you have not yet checked in or need document verification, an agent will do so during this time, print a boarding pass, and verify your departure gate. Airline agents and signs will direct you to the actions you need to take. In most cases, your checked baggage is checked all the way to your final destination. If you have a layover at another airport, your checked baggage will automatically move to your next plane. If there are any exceptions, your airline should let you know.

When you make your first landing outside the U.S., you will likely go through some form of border or passport control. This varies by country and airport. You are typically given a customs declaration form prior to landing. They basically want to know your purpose for being there and what you are bringing in with you to screen for anything that is prohibited. At the border or passport control, they will ask to see your passport and visa (if one was needed) and may ask your reason for entry or proof of departing flight or documentation for the program, so be sure to have those accessible.

If you have arrived at your final destination, it is time to pick up your checked baggage. Some airports have a customs screening after baggage claim before you exit to the arrival terminal. Follow airport signs for baggage collection and exit.

Be sure to read about the customs laws for the countries you plan to visit. Many countries have strict rules about what can be brought in, especially regarding food, plants, and medications. The U.S. Department of State provides information regarding customs and import restrictions, and recommends reviewing the foreign embassy website for your destination country to learn more about what may be prohibited.

Bring important items with you in a carry-on bag so you’ll be set for a few days should your luggage be delayed. Delays can range from a few hours to multiple days. Be prepared, as this takes the stress out of needing to immediately replace items.

You may want to consider the purchase of a luggage tracking device (Apple AirTag or others sold online) that will show the location of your bag in case it is delayed or lost.

When luggage is delayed, you will need to file a claim at the airport, an office often in the baggage claim area, so they know where and how to reach you once your luggage is located. Keep your program’s contact information handy in case the airline needs to deliver your luggage later. Your on-site staff support can assist you upon program arrival with directing you on how to obtain any other items for immediate needs until your luggage arrives.

If you miss your flight or experience a travel delay or flight change, it is important to share your new arrival information with your program faculty, the UCSC Global Learning, and your loved ones, so we don’t worry about you and will know when to expect you on site. You will need to work with your airline for assistance to get on another flight to reach your destination.

Make sure you have options for using your cell phone service and data while traveling, or a plan for reliable communication. If your program plans to use a messaging app service (WhatsApp, Line, WeChat, Google) to communicate your arrival at the airport, set this up before you leave and ensure you have important numbers saved. Clear communication upon arrival is crucial to ensure a smooth transition. If you are delayed, lost, or have any issues at the airport, it is important that you communicate this right away.

STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program): All U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll and install the STEP app for security updates and alerts.

WorldCue (for UC-registered travelers): Once you register through UC Away, you will receive access to WorldCue, an app providing real-time safety alerts and check-in features for use during travel disruptions.

Before leaving the airport, make sure you have all your belongings. Whether you are being met at the airport by staff or faculty in your program at a prearranged meeting spot, or you need to get to your housing on your own, have a plan before you arrive.

If your program has arranged airport pickup for you, you will be provided with information on where, when, and who you will meet at the airport. Connect with others in your program who will also be arriving at the airport on the same day or around the same time.

It may be helpful to decide how you will reach out to others in your program before you leave by creating a WhatsApp, Line, or other online communication platform.
If you are delayed, contact the staff or faculty who have arranged the pickup. If you cannot find the meeting location, consider the following:

• Reach out to the group if you have a group chat and ask for help
• Go to the information booth in the airport and ask for help. The staff at these booths usually speaks English.
• Call or message the staff or faculty you are meeting and let them know you are unable to find the location.
• Stay calm—airports can be confusing, but staff are there to help, and you won’t be left behind.

If you are expected to arrive at your housing or meeting place outside of the airport on your own, refer to the provided arrival instructions. It is a good practice to research transportation from the airport to your housing and plan for your arrival. That way, you have the directions you need and access to tickets or currency necessary if taking a taxi or public transportation.

Many major international airports are located outside of the city center and may require taking transportation to get to your housing or meeting location.

Public transportation from the airport can vary from buses to metro trains, some of which are designed for shuttling passengers to and from the airport quickly. If you are unsure, ask questions to ensure you are getting on the correct bus or train and will arrive in the exact location you need to go. If you need help, look for the information booth, and show them the address of where you need to go written in the local language.

Private transportation may also be a good option to get from the airport to your housing. Research the options available in the location you are traveling to. Keep in mind that not all countries and locations have Uber. Some may rely on taxis or local rideshare companies. If taking a rideshare or taxi, take precautions. Take a taxi from the official taxi area only (should be marked by a sign), ride with another person from your program if possible, and make sure you know where you are going, how long it should take, and about how much it should cost. Your best precaution is preparation.

If you are planning to arrive early or travel before your program officially begins, be sure you communicate this to the program coordinator, faculty for your program and your loved ones. If there is airport pickup or arranged transportation to your housing, let them know whether you still plan to use this or not. If you will arrive at your housing on your own, follow the above advice, and ask the staff or faculty for your program if there is anything you need to know for your arrival.

There may be different restrictions for entering the country, going through customs and immigration upon arrival. If you are arriving on a student visa, other type of visa or advanced parole, check on any restrictions for when or where you should arrive. Certain countries have restrictions on travel to other countries ahead of entering their borders. Check in with the program coordinator (or staff) if you plan to travel ahead of your planned program to ensure that you will not face any challenges for entry.

• Travel with others. This helps you coordinate upon arrival, potentially share some of the costs of transport, and there is confidence in numbers.
• Communication is key! If there are any hiccups to your arrival, no matter how small, tell the group and most importantly, let your staff or faculty know.
• Research and plan your transportation from the airport to housing/meeting place, especially if it requires you take private or public transportation.

Airline travel can be exhausting, especially when compounded with a multiple-hour time difference. You will likely feel less than refreshed when you arrive in your program location.

• Set your phone time and/or watch to the time zone of your destination as soon as you board the plane. Start thinking in terms of the new local time as soon as possible.
• When permitted by the crew, try to stand up, stretch, and move around at regular intervals.
• Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages during the flight. Drink plenty of water.
• Upon arrival, try to stay awake until a normal bedtime (in the local time) in order to make the quickest possible adjustment.
• Try to get outside for fresh air upon arrival, if you have the opportunity.

While traveling, be mindful of your environmental, cultural, and social impact. Respect for your host community fosters meaningful connections.

As UCSC’s Principles of Community extend beyond campus, being a responsible traveler helps foster and reinforce UCSC’ relationships with the host community.

• Value being culturally conscious.
• Value being environmentally responsible.
• Interact with mutual respect among communities you enter.
• Adapt to the place, rather than demanding a place adapt to you.

As social media and photo sharing are prevalent, it is important to recognize the power that photos can have. Inform yourself about the ethics of travel photography, taking into consideration how your photos may represent and affect the host community. Ask for permission before taking a photo, and be mindful of the power dynamics at play when capturing someone’s image.

• Pack smart – depending on how long you were away, you may want to purchase a second bag to check at the airport. Check your departing airline’s baggage policies to avoid surprise fees.
• Customs and immigration – the U.S and other countries you may return to will also have limitations on what you can bring back. Check the U.S. customs requirements.
• Staying connected – If you met people, made friends or new colleagues, you may want to stay connected. Make a plan to stay in touch however possible.
• Adjusting takes time – Know that you may have an adjustment period both physically and mentally. Prepare for the return home by taking self-care measures, eat well, stay hydrated, and ease back into your regular routine.
• Arrange for pick up – even though you are likely to be familiar with transportation back home, there is nothing like being picked up by friends or family after time spent away.