Embarking on an international trip is an exciting, educational, and rewarding experience. To ensure your journey is smooth and successful, proper preparation is key. This checklist covers all the essential steps to help you stay organized and ready. Use it to track your progress as you prepare for an unforgettable adventure!

<aside> <img src="/icons/warning_red.svg" alt="/icons/warning_red.svg" width="40px" /> Look for the 🔗 symbol. These are active links you can click on.

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Essential Preparations

• [x] Upload Passport Info 🔗
  • [x] Submit your passport details to the EF Tours site 🔗.
  • [x] Complete the Google Form to provide the group leader with a color photocopy of your passport 🔗.
• [x] Complete Required Forms on or before February 28
  • [x] Health Profile 🔗
  • [x] All-in-one Costa Rica Form 🔗
  • [x] Traveler Info & Roommate Preferences Form 🔗
  • [x] Upload copies of primary insurance card 🔗
• [x] Submit Cash/Venmo for Tips on or before March 14 🔗
• [x] Submit Cash/Venmo for roundtrip Airport Transfer via Werner Coach on or before March 14 🔗
• [x] Purchase Travel Insurance on or before March 14 **🔗** Email the Confirmation of Benefits PDF for the policy to Mr. Saddler on or before March 25. **🔗** This applies only to those who did not purchase Global Travel Protection through EF Tours at the time of enrollment.
• [ ] Authorization for Medication Administration (if prescribed OTC or prescription meds) needs to be completed at the earliest convenience 🔗
• [ ] Enroll to get Academic Credit for the Costa Rica Trip by March 30 🔗
• [ ] Review Packing List to budget for anything needed to purchase before departure 🔗
• [ ] Review Procedures, Expectations, and Travel Tips 🔗
• [ ] Budget for daily spending on tour approx. $15-50/day 🔗
• [ ] Download essential travel apps to your phone. Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a must. 🔗
• [ ] Plan to bring a debit or credit card for ATM withdrawals, purchases during the tour, and emergencies. Consider signing up with Till Financial or Greenlight for a secure and convenient option. Another option is for your parents to add you as an authorized user on their existing credit card, providing you with a card in your name.
• [ ] Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) 1-2 weeks before departure. 🔗 This ensures you are registered with the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica.
• [ ] Alert bank 1-2 weeks before departure of your travel to Costa Rica.
• [ ] Withdraw $100-$150 in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20) 1 week before departure to bring with you on tour.
  • [ ] Consider bringing more cash to do the optional activities: (1) Night Hike, (2) Chocolate Tour, (3) Surprise Activity!. Each cost $25 in cash.