Summer Travel Abroad

Escaping to an overseas retreat this summer? It’s the time of year when people start planning their summer vacation. If you venture abroad for some summer fun, there are health and safety risks you should be aware of. No matter where you go—majestic mountains, secluded beaches, or bustling cities—kick off your travel adventure by getting prepared with our summer vacation tips.

Before You Trip

Check your destination for health concerns. Even if you’re familiar with the place, there may be new and important health risks you should be aware of.
Make an appointment with a travel medicine specialist or your healthcare provider to get important advice, vaccines, and medicine at least one monthbefore you leave.
- CDC recommends all travelers be up to date on routine vaccines, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), varicella (chickenpox), and your seasonal flu vaccine, which you should be able to get from your doctor.
Pack a travel health kit with your prescription and over-the-counter medicines (enough to last your whole trip, plus a little extra), first aid supplies, your health insurance card, and more.
Prepare for the unexpected.

Enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get the latest safety updates and help in an emergency.
Leave copies of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home, in case you lose them during travel.
Find out if your health insurance covers medical care abroad—many plans don’t!
Consider buying additional insurance that covers health care and emergency evacuation, especially if you will be traveling to remote areas.