When traveling domestically, passengers must adhere to the baggage guidelines of their specific airline.  Most domestic flights permit carry-on bags only. 

When traveling on an international tour, we always recommend packing light!  Passengers are permitted a maximum of three bags: one checked bag, one carry-on bag, and one personal item.  Checked baggage is limited to one bag per person.  Checked bags must not exceed 50 pounds and 62 inches (length + width + height) or excess charges will be collected by the airline.  Carry-on bags should be soft-sided and small enough to fit in the overhead on the plane and motorcoach parcel rack which is approximately 8 inches high, 18 inches deep, and runs the span of the bus. 

• Packing restrictions may vary depending on the type of tour. Generally, we ask that travelers limit themselves to one checked bag per traveler due to space restrictions on the motorcoach. 
• Most airlines also allow travelers to bring one carry-on and a personal item, which must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. We recommend reaching out to your airline for guidelines on the size, weight, and height of your luggage! 
• For guidelines on safe packing and hazardous materials, see https://www.faa.gov/hazmat/packsafe/. 
• To learn more about packing liquids in your carry-on, visit https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-rule. 
• If you are traveling internationally and would like more information on the U.S. Customs process, please reference https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens. 

You can transport small amounts of liquids, gels, and aerosols (including hairspray, toothpaste, shampoo, lotions, etc.) in your carry-on bag.  All containers must be in 3.4 ounce (100ml) or smaller and placed in a single, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag. Larger containers that are half-full or toothpaste tubes rolled up are not allowed.  Each traveler must remove their quart-sized bag from their carry-on and place it in a bin for x-ray screening when going through security.   

Powders and powder-like substances should not exceed 12 oz (350ml) if packed in your carry-on bag.  Carry-ons with large amounts may be subject to additional security screening or may need to be removed.  Larger amounts of powders can be safely transported in your checked baggage. 

No matter where and when you are traveling, comfortable walking shoes are a must! Most tours allow for casual clothes during all scheduled activities (unless otherwise noted in your final travel documents). We recommend dressing in layers since temperatures often fluctuate throughout the day and bringing an umbrella and jacket to protect against the elements!  

• If your itinerary involves church visits, please wear attire that extends to your knee and covers your shoulders. Many churches (especially those in Europe or the Middle East) have strict guidelines for dress and may not allow entrance to those who do not meet their guidelines! 
• If you are traveling on a performance tour, your director will communicate any dress requirements for your performances. 
• If you tour requires more formal attire, guidelines will be provided in your final document packet.

For more helpful hints, check out our CTS blog for tips on how to pack like a pro! 

Visit sites like www.wunderground.com/tripplanner/index.asp 
or www.holiday-weather.com for annual weather data and weather forecasts. These resources can help you get a sense of how hot, cold, wet, or windy it will be during your travel time! 

• Absolutely! If your tour involves air travel, please pack all essential medications in your carry-on luggage, rather than a checked bag. 
• To ensure a smooth airport experience, we recommend keeping medications (especially prescription meds), vitamins, and supplements in their original containers. 
• For additional information on medications, visit: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures 

CPAP policies may vary depending on the airline, but many carriers allow you to bring a CPAP machine on the aircraft in addition to your carry-on and personal item. Please contact your air carrier before departure to confirm their policy and ensure that no additional measures are required! 

If you plan to use electronic devices abroad, you may need to purchase an adapter and converter. Electrical sockets in other countries may differ both in the shape of the plug and the strength of the voltage.   

An adapter allows you to use an US plug in your destination’s power outlets. A converter modifies the voltage so that it is compatible with your electronic device. You can purchase an adapter and converter online or at a local travel store. 

For more information on voltage and power outlets based on countries, visit www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plug-voltage-by-country and www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets 

• While traveling, it is best to carry three types of currency with you: a credit card (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted internationally), debit or ATM card, and local currency. 
• If you are traveling abroad, you will want to exchange your money before your tour as the US Dollar is not widely accepted abroad (unless you are visiting Israel). We recommend brining the equivalent of $50-$100 USD with you on your trip. While ATM machines are available in Europe, they are not found on every corner.  
• Contact your local bank or currency exchange for assistance with the exchange process. 
• Don’t forget to notify your credit card company before traveling to let them know you’ll be out of the country! This is also a good opportunity to learn about any transaction fees associated with your card. 

When traveling internationally, we recommend bringing three modes of currency with you: a credit card (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted), debit or ATM card, and cash.  

Regarding cash, it is best to use the currency of your destination country. Most international shops and restaurants are not equipped to accept American currency. 

• There are some exceptions to this rule. Businesses in Israel typically welcome American dollars, as do most Canadian establishments.

Passengers must go through Customs upon return to the United States. All luggage is subject to inspection by U.S. Customs officials. You are allowed a duty-free exemption of $800 (U.S.) per person. It is recommended that you keep your sales receipts handy for declaring your purchases upon returning to the U.S. Visit www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/know-before-you-visit with specific questions. 

• Restrooms may be found near tour sites, in restaurants, gas stations, souvenir shops, large department stores, and other places of interest. 
• Many older buildings in Europe (especially historic churches) do not have restrooms. 
• It is not standard for European motorcoaches to have a restroom onboard. Your tour manager will ensure that you have frequent breaks along your journey. 
• In Europe and the Middle East, public restrooms may require a small fee for use. If the restroom has an attendant, it is customary to leave a small tip (eg: .50 euro cents). 
• Restrooms may lack quality toilet paper or may not be as clean as we expect in the United States. We recommend carrying a few Kleenex or small roll of toilet paper, as well as a bottle of hand sanitizer to prepare for any eventuality. 
• In this age of technology, some mobile apps like Flush can assist you in finding toilets nearby. Check out your app store to see what options are available! 

For adult tours and international tours, hotel information will be shared 45 days prior to departure via email. Please visit your hotel website or contact the hotel directly to see what amenities are included. 

For domestic student tours, hotel information is shared with the school prior to departure.  

Each person is ultimately responsible for accommodating their own dietary needs while on tour.   

If traveling internationally, we recommend visiting www.selectwisely.com before departing the USA.  This website allows you to input your dietary restrictions and print off a card listing your allergies in the language of the country you are visiting.  This card can be used to communicate with restaurant staff at meals. 

• Travel is the perfect opportunity to unplug; however, if you need to be in touch with home during your tour, we recommend calling your cell phone provider in advance to inquire into plan options and data packages available.  Not all tours will require securing a special plan. 
• WiFi is available in most hotels. International hotels may charge a nominal fee. 

Unless a minor is traveling with both of their legal guardians, we recommend that travelers complete a Minor Release Form and Emergency Consent Form and keep both on hand while traveling. You can call our office at 866-653-6779 for more information and copies of these forms.