Travel and Contact Planning
Travel planning
Research travel costs and help book flights. Learn regulations regarding the type and size of luggage that can be carried; then help your son or daughter pack lightly. Be aware of any restrictions the tickets you purchase may have (such as a change policy). A money belt can help keep valuables safe during the trip.
Contact planning
Make sure you have a telephone number where you can reach your student and know the times of day when he or she is most likely to be there. Minimize the cost of staying in touch by establishing methods in advance. Contact your phone service provider to arrange for a calling card, research internet phone options, or learn the most inexpensive way to call collect or wirelessly from the destination country. You maybe able to select an international plan that has reduced calling rates to that particular country to minimize costs of calling from home. Given the cost of telephoning, it might be better to set up a regular schedule for e-mailing or instant messaging instead.