Before you go

What to Bring
Be sure to pack 3 pairs of scrubs, comfortable shoes for the OR, and your surgical instruments. If you do not have a complete cataract set, you may want to bring your favorites such as tying forceps, and we will provide you with our basic cataract instrument set. And of course, don’t forget those essential travel documents: airline tickets, passport, money, letters and contact information from SEE International.

For more packing tips, please click here.

A few packing tips: avoid bringing flashy jewelry or valuable items, and less is best (you will not want to cart around the excess weight).

If you would like to bring a small gift for the patients, your host(s), or the medical personnel, you are welcome to do so. Please remember that supplies and equipment take precedence over gifts when packing. The volunteers are responsible for any excess baggage fees.

Luggage
All airlines allow each team member to check two boxes (whether it is personal luggage or medical supplies). Note:  It is best to keep baggage weight under 50lbs.

Any additional baggage is subject to an excess baggage fee of $100-$150. The team member is responsible for the excess baggage fees, not SEE International. We suggest that you pack all personal items for the trip in a carry-on bag (be sure dimensions are in compliance with airline regulations) and reserve your check-in baggage allowance for medical supplies and equipment.
Please Do Not Repack SEE International supply boxes as they have been specifically prepared for customs.

Passport and Visas
You will need a passport for your trip. Please allow sufficient processing time. Your local post office or county clerk office will have more information on obtaining or renewing your passport. Or you may consult the link below.

SEE International will advise you if you need a visa. Your International Clinic Coordinator can direct you to the appropriate resources to obtain your visa, or visit: http://travel.state.gov.

Immunizations
Team members are responsible for immunizations. Please refer to the Center for Disease Control for updated information on inoculations at www.cdc.gov or contact your local infectious disease specialist.

Educate Yourself
The best traveler is a prepared traveler. Enhance your experience by learning about your destination. Good resources to consult are:

• CIA Fact Book (https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/index.html)
• State Department (http://www.state.gov/travel)
• Lonely Planet Guidebooks (http://www.lonleyplanet.com/)
• Country Watch (http://www.countrywatch.com/)

Several weeks before your trip, SEE International will send you a Pre-Clinic Manual. The manual provides helpful hints and contains important letters and phone numbers. Please read the manual before you leave and pack it in your carry-on.

• Pre-Clinic Manual (4MB PDF)

NOTE: If you do not have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed, you may download it for free from Adobe's website.

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