TRAVEL

What travel documents do I need to bring?

Travel documents recommended for all travel are: a government issued photo ID and/or a passport that has an expiration date at least 6 months after your return date. If travelling internationally a passport is required. Also, prior to departure, please check your that your flight itinerary provided lists the First and Last names that appear on your government issued ID or passport (middle name is not required).

When traveling, what steps should I take to help reduce my chances of getting sick?

(a) clean your hands often. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, after touching surfaces frequently touched by others, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, and before touching your face or eating. If soap and water are not available, bring and use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub your hands together until they feel dry. (b) Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. (c) Avoid close contact with others. Keep 6 feet of physical distance from others. (d) Wear a cloth face covering in public. (e) Cover coughs and sneezes. (f) Pick up food at drive-throughs, curbside restaurant service, or stores. (g) Make sure you are up to date with your routine vaccinations, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and the seasonal flu vaccine.

What can I expect when departing other countries?

Some countries are conducting exit screening for all passengers leaving their country. Before being permitted to board a departing flight, you may have your temperature taken and be asked questions about your travel history and health.

What should I pack?

Since this is a general census of program questions, some destination attire will vary. Some of the essential items you will need will be: government issued photo ID or passport, general toiletries, day clothing, and nice clothing for group evening events. Most hotels/resorts provide: shampoo, conditioner, and an in room hair-dyer.

What communication facilities will be available?

Communication facilities are always improving globally. Many hotels and public places have Wi-Fi so it’s usually possible to keep in touch with home every couple of days, if you so desire. In remote places (think Mali, Serengeti or the Sahara) or on treks or homestays, you will not be able to communicate as readily. Your leader will usually give you the heads up before you leave a place so you can send a quick email or two. Phone cards are easy to get your hands on; just make sure your phone is unlocked before you travel. Or in many countries, the cheapest way to make a phone call is at an internet cafe.

Will my mobile work?

We can never guarantee your phone will work as desired, as many of our destinations are out of the way and you may have limited coverage. Chat to your phone provider before you leave about global roaming and the costs involved, and get their advice on the coverage you’ll receive in the places you’re travelling in. Alternatively, you can usually pick up a local sim card on the cheap (just make sure you phone is unlocked!).

AIRPORT

How much does it cost to check a bag?

Checked baggage fees will vary by airline. Most airlines starting rate for checked baggage (50 lbs>) is $35-$50, but weight does affect these charges. To see all fees that may apply, please visit your airlines website for more information.

How early should I arrive to the airport prior to my flights departure?

You are encouraged to contact your airline as times may vary depending on the airport and date of travel. In general, please allow time for parking/shuttle transportation, airline check-in, obtaining a boarding pass and going through the security screening process, which includes screening of your carry-on bag.

What is the 3-1-1 liquid rule?

Each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols. Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquid rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion.

What is the policy on powders? Are they allowed?

Starting June 30, 2018, if you are traveling from an international last-point-of-departure to the U.S., powder-based substances in carry-on baggage greater than 350mL or 12 oz. may require additional screening at the central checkpoint. Powder-like substances over 12 oz. or 350mL in carry-on that cannot be resolved at the central checkpoint will not be allowed onto the cabin of the aircraft and will be disposed of. For your convenience, place powders in your checked bag.

I forgot my identification; can I still proceed through security screening?

In the event you arrive at the airport without proper ID, because it is lost or at home, you may still be allowed to fly. By providing additional information, TSA has other ways to confirm your identity, like using publicly available databases, so you can reach your flight. If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.

What are the size restrictions for carry-on bags?

Size dimensions of carry-on baggage allowed in the cabin of the aircraft vary by airline. Visit your airline website to ensure what can fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

What can I do to prevent an alarm?

To reduce the likelihood of an alarm that results in pat-down screening, remember to remove all items from your pockets before you go through screening. You should avoid wearing clothes, shoes and jewelry with a high metal content.

EVENT & FUNCTION

What do I wear to the group events?

Attire will be listed in the agenda you receive in your pre-trip package prior to the trip, as well as, in the Agenda field in the Meeting Maven application. Please note a dress code may apply for some hotel or resort restaurants. Please be aware and take note of these.

HOSPITALITY DESK

What if I have a question during the trip?

If you have a question during the trip that cannot be answered on this list, you can either Message Maven through this application. Also, there will be a hospitality desk available with your travel staff for any additional questions you may have. Times and locations will vary depending on the destination.