Traveling to another country can be an amazing experience — whether you’re going on vacation, visiting family, or heading overseas for work. But international trips also come with different health risks, unfamiliar medical systems, and unexpected challenges. Preparing ahead of time can help you stay safe, avoid stress, and enjoy the adventure.

Below are key steps to take before you travel abroad from BCBS Global Solutions:

Learn About Your Destination
A little research goes a long way. Before you leave, make sure you understand the basics of the place you’re visiting.

• Check travel advisories. Visit the U.S. State Department website to see safety alerts and recommendations. You can also enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which keeps you updated about emergencies in the country you’re visiting.
• Review vaccine needs. The CDC website lists recommended or required vaccines for each destination. Review the list and schedule vaccination appointments well in advance of your departure date.
• Know where to get medical care. Use your health plan’s provider finder or look at the U.S. Embassy website to locate doctors, clinics, and hospitals near your destination.
• Understand basic safety tips. Research whether tap water in your intended travel area is safe to drink. Review common tourist scams and how to avoid them. Look up and save local emergency numbers in your cell phone contacts list.
• Learn about cultural norms. Every country has unique customs. Knowing what’s expected can help you show respect and avoid misunderstandings.
• Explore traveler resources. Tools like the Global Peace Index and the Equaldex Equality Index can help you understand how welcoming and safe a destination may feel for people of different backgrounds and identities.

Plan for Health Coverage While Abroad
Many U.S. health insurance plans offer little or no coverage outside the country. Before you travel, be sure you understand your options.

• Check your current policy. Know what your domestic plan will or won’t cover during international travel.
• Consider international health insurance. Look for a plan that includes: 
  • Emergency medical evacuation
  • Global telemedicine services
  • Coverage for pre existing conditions
  • Digital tools to help you find doctors, translate languages, or get safety alerts
  • 24/7 assistance

Having the right coverage can make a major difference if you face an unexpected illness or injury abroad.

Prepare for Both Expected and Unexpected Health Needs
A few smart steps can help you stay healthy while traveling.

• Manage your medications. 
• Make sure your prescriptions are legal in the country you’re visiting.
• Pack them in your carry-on along with copies of your prescriptions.
• Bring extra doses in case your return is delayed.
• Ask your doctor how to adjust timing if you’re crossing time zones.

Plan for emergencies. 

• Keep digital photos of important documents.
• Pack a simple first aid kit and backup glasses or contacts.
• Know where nearby pharmacies are located.
• Share your travel plans with someone you trust at home.
• If you have allergies or chronic conditions, keep your medical information accessible and learn key phrases in the local language, in case you need to ask for assistance or support.

Preparing before you travel can help you feel confident and stay safe — so you can focus on enjoying your international journey.