International Travel Tips

Top 10 Travel Tips

Tip 1

Always use a virtual private network.Always use a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting ALL devices to a wired or wireless network. Use Express VPN, not a UMB VPN!

Tip 2

Do not take USB drives, which can easily be lost or corrupted.

Do not take USB drives, which can easily be lost or corrupted.

 

 

 

Tip 3

Do not leave personal devices unattended.Do not leave personal devices unattended. Even hotel safes are not secure as hotel personnel have access to the safes.

 

Tip 4

Use a mobile app or the Office 365 portal to reach UMB email and files.Use a mobile app or the Office 365 portal to reach UMB email and files. Do NOT connect directly to any University system. Do NOT remote desktop to your UMB computer.

Tip 5

Use an RFID wallet/purse to protect against electronic pick pocketing.Use an RFID wallet/purse to protect against electronic pickpocketing of credit cards, passports, and driver's licenses.

 

Tip 6

Keep your passport on your person at all times.Keep your passport on your person at all times.

Tip 7

Use an iPad or MacBook Pro, and preferably a loaner.Use an iPad or MacBook Pro, and preferably a loaner. A loaner would prevent malicious software from being installed on your personal computer when in a foreign country. Upon your return, documents created during travel can be saved and all of the data on a loaner device can be erased and wiped back to factory settings. 

Tip 8

Avoid discussing or transmitting sensitive information...Avoid discussing or transmitting sensitive information because it can be intercepted with remote microphones, clandestine recording/listening devices, technical implants, or hacks.

Tip 9

Ensure that ALL devices are password protected.Ensure that ALL devices are password protected. Log off devices when not in use.

 

 

Tip 10

Before you travel, make sure you have the following items: USB device, Express VPN installed and RFID wallet/purse.BEFORE YOU TRAVEL, make sure you have the following items:

  • Sync Stop USB device (adapter for standard USB cord) to ensure data is never stolen during charging
  • Express VPN installed and configured
  • RFID wallet/purse — to store your passport and other important cards/documents

Additional Travel Tips and Information


It is also recommended by Homeland Security for all international travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) https://step.state.gov/step/

What is STEP?

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Benefits of Enrolling in STEP

  • Receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, helping you make informed decisions about your travel plans.
  • Help the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.
  • Help family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.