Comprehensive Internship Abroad Checklist: What To Do Before You Go

Getting ready for your healthcare internship abroad is exciting. Bbut let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming. From booking your flights to packing the right scrubs, there’s a lot to juggle before you land in Kenya or Tanzania.

Whether you're joining a pre-med internship in Mombasa, a nursing program in Arusha, or a public health placement in a rural clinic, this checklist breaks down everything you need to do at 30, 14, and 7 days before departure.

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✅ 30 Days Before Departure: Finalize and Confirm

This is your prep-and-confirm stage. Focus on documents, health requirements, and logistics.

#1. Get All Documentation in Order

• Ensure your passport is valid (at least 6 months past your travel dates).
• Apply for your Kenya eVisa or Tanzania visa (eTA or consulate, depending on your nationality).
• Print and save Go Elective confirmation documents, including your placement itinerary, housing details, and emergency contact list.

#2. Complete Required Vaccinations

• Confirm required vaccines like Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Tetanus.
• Discuss malaria prophylaxis with your travel health clinic.
• Get a copy of your International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card)—especially if traveling to Kenya.

#3. Book Flights and Travel Insurance

• Purchase your roundtrip flights and send arrival details to the Go Elective team.
• Buy comprehensive travel medical insurance that includes emergency evacuation.
• If applicable, register with your embassy or government’s travel portal (e.g., STEP for U.S. citizens).

#4. Notify Your Bank

• Let your bank know about international travel to avoid card blocks.
• Consider getting a travel-friendly debit card with low foreign transaction fees.

#5. Start Ordering Supplies

• Order scrubs, comfortable closed shoes, hand sanitizer, and a stethoscope if you don’t already have one.
• Check Go Elective’s packing guide for internship essentials.

✅ 14 Days Before Departure: Prepare, Print, and Pack Light

This is the double-check phase. You’re now two weeks out, so it’s time to finalize your setup and get your gear ready.

#1. Finalize Your Packing List

• Scrubs (at least 3 pairs), long pants, conservative tops, and weather-appropriate casual clothes
• Clinical shoes (easy to clean), light jacket or hoodie, flip-flops for showers
• Power adapter (Kenya and Tanzania use UK-style plugs)
• Reusable water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen

#2. Print Key Documents

• Print out visa/eTA, flight confirmation, passport copy, and internship placement letter
• Make photocopies of your passport and store them separately
• Save digital backups on your phone and email

#3. Prepare Your Phone

• Unlock your phone for local SIM card usage
• Or activate international roaming or eSIM for your provider

#4. Connect with Past or Current Interns

• Join Go Elective’s WhatsApp Group. student Alumni network or ask to speak to a recent intern
• Browse the Go Elective Blog for packing tips and clinical stories

#5. Brush Up on Clinical Basics

• Consider a free online course like Vital Signs from Coursera or review anatomy via OpenStax
• Practice how to introduce yourself professionally in a hospital setting

✅ 7 Days Before Departure: Final Checks and Rest

You’re almost there. This is your calm and confirm week. Time to breathe, prep your carry-on, and double-check details.

#1. Pack Your Carry-On Wisely

• Passport, visa printout, Yellow Fever certificate
• Flight itinerary and internship placement documents
• Personal medications and a copy of prescriptions
• A change of clothes and basic toiletries (in case of baggage delay)
• Phone, charger, power bank, and one good book or offline Netflix series

#2. Get Local Currency

• Exchange a small amount (~$100–$150) in Kenyan Shillings or Tanzanian Shillings to cover your first few days
• Bring a Visa or Mastercard debit card for ATM withdrawals

#3. Rest and Mentally Prepare

• Take time to relax, especially if you’ve been juggling exams or work
• Remind yourself: you’re about to start an experience that will change your clinical perspective forever
• Set expectations: Go Elective internships are immersive and eye-opening—not always easy, but always meaningful

Bonus: Downloadable Packing Checklist

Want a printable version of the essentials? Download or request for the Go Elective Packing Checklist via hello@goelective.com 

Final Thoughts: Preparation = Peace of Mind

A smooth arrival sets the tone for your entire internship abroad. By pacing your prep over 30, 14, and 7 days, you’ll stay ahead of the curve—and have more mental space to learn, connect, and explore.

If you’re still in the planning stage? Apply or inquire here.

Article Details

Categories

Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives, Travel Tips, Dental Internships, Nursing Internships,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Jun 28, 2025