Summer vacation travel is filled with anticipation and excitement.

But unexpected accidents or illness have a way of ruining even the most perfectly planned timeline and agenda.

Don’t get caught without a plan.

The folks at TRICARE are here to help and have created the following checklist to ensure medical support is there and available when you need it.

Update Your Personal Information

Make sure your and your family’s medical information is current in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).

You need to register in DEERS to access TRICARE.

Login to MilConnect at https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect/ or call 1-(800) 538-9552 (TTY/TDD: 1-866-363-2883).

It’s also important to get your prescriptions filled or refilled.

Pack prescription medications in your carry-on luggage.

Please visit https://www.express-scripts.com/TRICARE/pharmacy/findpharmacy.shtml to find a network pharmacy where you’re traveling – just in case.

Pack a List of Phone Numbers

For the TRICARE Nurse Advice Line 1-800-TRICARE, Option 1.

View the list of TRICARE toll-free numbers at https://www.tricare.mil/ContactUs/CallUs.

Download the TRICARE Contact Information Wallet Card at https://www.tricare.mil/-/media/Files/TRICARE/Publications/Misc/Contact_Card.ashx

Check with Your Dental Plan

If using one of TRICARE’s dental plans, see what you need to do in case you need dental care when traveling:

• TRICARE Active Duty Dental Program: https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/Dental/ADDental/Traveling
• TRICARE Dental Program: https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/Dental/TDP/Traveling
• TRICARE Retiree Dental Program: https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/Dental/TRDP/Traveling

For more information go to: www.tricare.mil.