How to Plan a Y2K-Safe Trip Abroad

Fortunately, the Y2K crisis never materialized. We have left these historic Y2K eHows on the site to help us all remember the fear and anticipation that led up to that event.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Visit the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs Web site to learn about any possible Y2K disruptions in the country you will be visiting and the steps taken to combat such disruptions.

2. Ask your insurance companies whether your policies cover Y2K-related problems, including health and accident coverage abroad.

3. Contact your travel agent, airlines, cruise line, hotels and/or tour operators. Ask about emergency plans in the event of Y2K-related delays or cancellations.

4. Request written confirmation of all reservations.

5. Plan for possible disruptions and long waits, such as flight delays. Give yourself plenty of time to get to and from home, especially if you plan to take connecting flights during your trip.

6. Carry important items and documents such as medication, passports, and emergency telephone numbers and contacts (for both your destination and home) in carry-on bags.

7. Stay abreast of the Y2K problem while abroad by contacting the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. As an additional measure, you can register with the U.S. embassy or consulate by telephone, by fax or in person.

8. If you experience a Y2K emergency during your travels on or after January 1, 2000, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, or call the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Overseas Citizens Services at [phone].

Tips & Warnings

• Expect limited flights on and around January 1; several airlines have said that they will not fly into countries with potentially noncompliant airports.
• Consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance.
• U.S. embassies and consulates abroad do not have facilities to supply U.S. citizens with equipment and supplies such as food, water, medicine or shelter in the event of Y2K-related disruptions in foreign countries. And although the Department of State is preparing its embassies and consulates to continue its operations through the beginning of the new year, this ability may be affected by local Y2K disruptions.