Travel Tips for Student Org Members

Be cautious and proactive. Principal members should create a travel roster, emergency contact sheet, and travel plan before traveling, and take a copy of these documents along on the trip.

• AAA Guide to Trouble-Free Travel (PDF)

The University generally recommends against all international travel by student organizations due to the myriad of risks travelers face in foreign countries. Student organizations are discouraged from traveling to foreign countries due to the wide variety of risks involved with foreign travel, and the extensive planning efforts required by the student organization’s members to manage those risks. Security risks and health care services vary widely from one country to another, so thorough research on those topics is especially important.

International travelers are advised to research U.S. State Department Travel Advisories and abide by all recommended alerts and warnings, and procure travel insurance with medical coverage that covers their chosen destination because most USA health plans are not valid in foreign countries.

• Travelers' Checklist: U.S. Department of State

• Travel Warnings & Alerts: U.S. Department of State

• Travelers' Health: Center for Disease Control & Prevention

Review the California Department of Motor Vehicles DMV Handbook for a summary of the laws and regulations outlined in the California Vehicle Code (CVC).

Be aware that you are taking a risk riding in any vehicle, and that you are doing so at your own risk and responsibility.

Be safe passengers and do not distract the driver in any way.

Wear your seat belt at all times.

• Cell phone with charger
• Pencil and notebook
• Vehicle operating manual
• Emergency service information
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Flares, warning triangles, or reflectors
• Coolant and fire extinguisher
• Ice scraper, snow brush, and snow shovel, if climate demands
• First-aid kit

See the complete list of AAA-recommended items (PDF).

Check the weather before you leave and allow additional time to reach your destination, or postpone your trip until weather improves.

Review AAA's wet weather driving tips and winter driving tips.

Be sure you and your passengers wear seat belts at all time.

What to do when your vehicle breaks down:

• Note your vehicle's location
• Assess your vehicle's operating problem
• Pull off the road
• Alert other motorists
• Communicate your situation

See the complete AAA brochure: What To Do When Your Vehicle Breaks Down (PDF).