Before you travel abroad, review the recommendations below to help ensure a safe, informed, and well-prepared experience.
Understanding your host country’s culture, laws, risks, and entry requirements is essential for a smooth trip.
Resources:
- Visit the Duke–International SOS Portal to sign up for country alerts and review security, medical, and travel guidance
- Check your host country’s embassy website for visa instructions and passport validity requirements. Follow up with Global Travel for visa and travel documentation support
- Explore Duke Libraries’ International Research resources for country-specific background and cultural context
- Review the U.S. Department of State Country Information for safety and travel advisories
Notify your key service providers ahead of travel to ensure uninterrupted financial and communication access.
Steps:
- Inform your bank and credit card issuers of your travel to prevent fraud holds.
Duke Corporate Card holders should notify Bank of America/Merrill Lynch
- Confirm or set up your credit card PIN for international transactions
- Check with your wireless carrier about roaming fees and global plans
If you use a Duke-paid phone, consult your business manager before travel
Prepare your devices so you can access Duke systems and resources abroad.
Steps:
- Follow the OIT Global IT Checklist to ensure access to Duke email, Duke@Work, VPN, library resources, and networked files.
- Familiarize yourself with Eduroam, available in 100+ countries using your Duke NetID for secure Wi-Fi.
Take proactive steps to support your health and wellness while abroad.
Steps:
- Visit a Travel Clinic for a pre-travel appointment and required vaccinations
- Check medication restrictions for your destination. Some prescriptions, quantities, and even over-the-counter medications may be prohibited. Consult:
- Your healthcare provider
- The embassy of your destination country
- International SOS
- INCB International Travelers guidance for controlled medications
- Pack essential items such as OTC medications, insect repellent, and sunscreen, which may not be readily available abroad
Enter your itinerary and emergency contacts into the Duke Travel Registry to ensure Duke can assist you in an emergency and to maintain compliance with university policy.
Learn what to do in an emergency, illness, injury, or other event before you depart.
Steps:
- Review our guidance on Emergency Response.
- Review services provided by International SOS and CIGNA Medical Benefits Abroad, including medical support, evacuations, and non-medical assistance.
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and your on-site contact or program leader.