— Preparing for Your Program —
Getting ready to see the world with GEEO
Here is everything you need to prepare for a teacher travel program abroad.
Travel prep made simple
Heading abroad takes a little planning — passports, visas, insurance, and a few smart decisions about staying connected and carrying money. We have guided more than 5,000 educators through this exact process.
This page walks through what to take care of and when, with links to the trusted resources and partners we recommend. Skim it now, then come back as your trip approaches.
— The Essentials —
Documents, health, and insurance
The non-negotiables: take care of these things early and the rest of your preparation is easy.
Check your passport
You need a valid passport for every GEEO program. Many countries require at least six months of validity beyond your travel dates, and you may need several blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Scan your photo ID page, keep a digital copy, and pack a printed copy separately in case yours goes missing.
Verify visa requirements
Some destinations require a visa before you arrive. Requirements depend on your destination and your citizenship, and rules can change.
Every program webpage includes visa guidance in its Details section, and we email specific instructions roughly three months before departure. Always confirm against official sources like embassies and the State Department’s country information pages.
Get travel insurance
Travel medical insurance is mandatory for every GEEO traveler. Your policy must cover emergency medical care, evacuation, and repatriation totaling at least $200,000 USD.
We recommend the affordable International Volunteer Card (IVC), and we strongly suggest considering trip cancellation coverage to protect what you have invested.
Plan immunizations
GEEO cannot provide medical advice, so check what is recommended for your destination and talk with your doctor or a travel clinic well before you go.
Pharmacy clinics like CVS and Walgreens, or a dedicated travel clinic such as Passport Health, can administer most travel vaccines.
— On the Ground —
Staying connected, making purchases, and getting around
A handful of practical decisions that make travel smoother once you land.
Stay connected abroad
You have three options for getting online: an international plan from your home carrier, an eSIM you install before you leave, or a local SIM card you buy after arrival.
An eSIM is the easiest for most travelers — no swapping physical cards, and it is ready the moment you land. Many GEEO travelers use Airalo.
GEEO10.Money and cards
You do not need local currency before you arrive — withdraw it from an ATM or exchange USD once you land. We recommend carrying $200 to $300 USD in emergency cash, though this varies by trip.
Most banks no longer require a travel notice, but it is worth confirming your card will work abroad and that your contact details are current to avoid fraud holds.
Travel safely
U.S. citizens can enroll in the State Department’s free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for an added layer of security and emergency communication while abroad.
Pack smart
GEEO travelers must be able to handle their own luggage, so we’re big advocates for packing light. Each program webpage includes a packing list in its Details section, so you know exactly what to bring for your climate and activities.
For luggage and travel gear we trust, see our recommendations.
— Make the Most of It —
Go deeper before you go
Knowing more about your destination can turn a great trip into an unforgettable experience – and help you bring it home to your classroom.
Pre-book extra services
Many programs offer optional add-ons such as airport transfers, extra hotel nights, and activities.
You can find the services available for your trip on the program’s webpage under the “Extra Services and Costs” section.
Learn about your destination
Knowing a some things about your destination before you travel deepens everything you experience on the ground. Our recommended reading lists and Pinterest boards are a great place to start.
Plan a Classroom Action Plan
GEEO’s mission is helping teachers bring the world into their classrooms. Our travelers who are active educators plan how they will share the experience with students — and our database is full of examples to spark ideas.
Offset your impact
For every day you travel with us, a tree is planted in your name through the Trees for Days initiative. Learn more about how we work to travel responsibly.
— Common Questions —
Preparation FAQs
Do I need a visa for a GEEO program?
Is travel insurance required for GEEO trips?
How far in advance should I start preparing?
How do I stay connected to the internet abroad?
Do I need to bring local currency?
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