western travel policy

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Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative

What is the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)?

WHTI is the joint Department of State (DOS) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) plan to implement a key 9/11 Commission recommendation and the statutory mandates of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (IRTPA). IRTPA, in part, required the DHS and DOS to develop and implement a plan to require all travelers, U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike, to present a passport or other acceptable document that denotes identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

What is the goal of requiring secure documents?

The goal is to strengthen border security while facilitating entry into the United States for U.S. citizens and legitimate international travelers, making the process more efficient and convenient.

What types of documents are accepted for entry into the United States via air?

• U.S. citizens can present a valid: U.S. Passport; Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST); U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business. Note that children are also required to present their own passport when traveling by air. (note: The Indian/tribal card can NOT be used for air travel).
• Requirements for lawful permanent residents of the United States are not changed by the implementation of WHTI. Lawful permanent residents must continue to present a valid Permanent Resident Card. A passport is not required.

What types of documents are accepted for entry into the United States via land and sea?

• U.S. citizens can present a valid: U.S. Passport; Passport Card; Enhanced Driver’s License; Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST); U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) Enhanced Tribal Card.
• U.S. and Canadian citizen children under the age of 16 (or under 19, if traveling with a school, religious group, or other youth group) need only present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, photocopy, or certified copy.
• WHTI does not affect U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, who are still required to present their permanent resident card (Form I-551) or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.
• Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver’s License, or Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST).
• Bermudian citizens are required to present a valid passport.
• Mexican citizens, including children, are required to present a passport with visa, or a Border Crossing Card.
• U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port) are able to enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. Please be aware that you may still be required to present a passport to enter the countries your cruise ship is visiting. Check with your cruise line to ensure you have the appropriate documents.

What is an enhanced driver’s license?

State-issued enhanced drivers licenses (EDLs) provide proof of identity and U.S. citizenship, are issued in a secure process, and include technology that makes travel easier. They provide travelers with a low-cost, convenient alternative for entering the United States from Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean through a land or sea port of entry, in addition to serving as a permit to drive.

The Department has been working with states to enhance their driver’s licenses and identification documents to comply with travel rules under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), effective June 1, 2009.

How do I get a passport?

United States citizens can visit the State Department’s travel website or call the U.S. National Passport Information Center at (877) 4USA-PPT; TDD/TTY: (888) 874-7793.

What if I don’t have the required documents when I travel to or return to the United States?

Travelers without WHTI-compliant documents are likely to be delayed at the border as CBP officers work to verify identity and citizenship.

Travel Policies

Western michigan university travel policies.

Air Travel - Revised February 22, 2024

Ground Travel -  Revised February 22, 2024

Lodging -  Revised August 30, 2023

Meals -  Revised August 30, 2023

Miscellaneous -  Revised August 30, 2023

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• Study Abroad & Global Learning

Student International Travel Policy

WKU and the office of Global Learning and International Affairs (GLIA) understand that students and families are concerned about health, safety and security for global learning experiences. To support WKU's international travelers, GLIA monitors the U.S. Department of State , U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), international education professional organizations, other nation's travel policies, and other reliable sources to inform our decision-making.  The health and safety of WKU students is of the utmost importance to all of us at WKU, and GLIA makes every effort to mitigate, to the greatest extent possible, the risks our students may face during their time abroad. Study abroad represents an exceptional learning opportunity and we are committed to getting WKU students abroad, but safety must come first. 

WKU Student International Travel Policy

Travel Policy FAQs

WKU has a Student International Travel Policy (Policy Number 0.1130) that you can access   here .   This policy applies to any student traveling under the auspices of the university   through the use of   funds, group affiliation (e.g., through “affiliated” or “associated” student organizations, service learning, or adventure travel), or to fulfill academic requirements, or for experiential learning experiences. These experiences include, but are not limited to study, service learning, research, internship, student teaching, practicum or capstone project, or experiential learning. All classes of students fall under this policy, including but not limited   to:   non-degree, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral. This policy does not apply to international travel for solely personal purposes such as vacation or non-university work-related activity that has no affiliation with the university.

WKU’s travel policy for students is primarily based on the   U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories .   

• Travel to locations with USDOS Travel Advisory Level 1- “Exercise Normal Precautions,” or Level 2 - “Exercise Increased Caution,” is unrestricted   so long as all pre-departure and in-country requirements are followed. 
• Travel to locations with a USDOS Travel Advisory Level 3- “Reconsider Travel,” i s restricted . Students must file an   appeal   through the International Travel Risk Management Committee . The appeal is reviewed by the committee who then makes a recommendation to the   Provost . The   Provost   makes the final determination. Appeal approval is not guaranteed. Contact our office for more information on the appeal process.
• As of 2/24/2022, an addendum has been approved for the WKU Student International Travel Policy to allow students to appeal to travel to locations with a USDOS Level 4 Travel Advisory if the Level 4 Advisory is for COVID-19 (i.e. "Do not travel to [Insert location] due to COVID-19," or "Do not travel to [insert location] due to COVID-19-related restrictions).

Additionally, per the   International Travel Registration   policy (Policy Number 1.1020), all university travelers are required   to register their international travel with Global Learning & International Affairs . Students participating   on   a credit-bearing opportunity must complete a WKU study abroad application and students participating on a non-credit experience must complete the   WKU   Student   International   Travel Registry .

Per the U.S. Department of State (USDOS): The U.S. Department of State issues a Travel Advisory for each country in the world. Travel Advisories follow a consistent format and use plain language to help U.S. citizens find and use important security information. Travel Advisories apply up to four standard levels of advice, describe the risks, and provide clear actions U.S. citizens should take to help ensure their safety.   

Levels of advice may vary for specific locations or areas within a country.   

To see a complete list of Travel Advisories for every country in the world, see travel.state.gov/traveladvisories.   

The four standard levels of Advisories are as follows:  

Level 1- Exercise Normal Precautions:  This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel. Conditions in other countries may differ from those in the United States and may change at any time.  

Level 2- Exercise Increased Caution: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory.   

Level 3- Reconsider Travel:  Avoid travel due to serious risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory.  

Level 4- Do Not Travel:  This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks. During an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance. The Department of State advises that U.S. citizens not travel to the country or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory.  

If you are not a U.S. citizen, in addition the USDOS Travel Advisories, you should review the equivalent of your home country's travel advisory system and its recommendations for the locations you are considering going to.

As of 2/24/2022, an addendum has been approved for the WKU Student International Travel Policy to allow students to appeal to travel to locations with a USDOS Level 4 Travel Advisory if the Level 4 Advisory is for COVID-19 (i.e. "Do not travel to [Insert location] due to COVID-19," or "Do not travel to [insert location] due to COVID-19-related restrictions). Appeal to locations with a Level 4 Travel Advisory for any other reason will not be considered. 

In most cases, yes, especially as it pertains to participating on study abroad programs and other university-related international travel. The policy does have one exemption which reads as follows, "An international student who holds a U.S. student visa and who is returning to their home country for a university-sponsored experience where the home location has a USDOS Level 3 or 4 advisory, need not file a travel appeal. GLIA may require proof of citizenship/permanent residency prior to departure. Such students are still required to complete the standard pre-departure requirements."

Non-U.S. citizens should review both the U.S. Department of State location-specific information and information provided by their home country's government on their intended location. Information on the U.S. Department of State & U.S. Embassy pages will typically only address items such as entry requirements for U.S. citizens. You will need to research entry requirements and visa-related items as it pertains to the passport you are travelling under. 

It is important that you are monitoring the  Travel Advisory for your intended location(s) during the application process, before departure, and while on-site. If a location increases to a Level 3, “Reconsider Travel,” or to a Level 4, "Do Not Travel" for COVID19 prior to departure then you will need to submit an appeal. If a location increases to a Level 4, “Do Not Travel” for any reason other than COVID-19 prior to departure then approval to travel will not be granted.  

Any approval to travel is provisional, meaning that it can be rescinded at any time if warranted by the safety and/or health situation of the location or by the student’s failure to complete required pre-departure and on-site processes.   

If while you are abroad your location increases to a Level 3 or Level 4, the International Travel Risk Management Committee will review student travel currently in progress and make recommendations to the Provost who will determine if such activity may continue.  

During the pandemic, Travel Advisory Levels have been changing frequently. This should be taken into consideration when making any financial commitments related to your travel.

It is crucial to have a back-up plan for completing your course-work (i.e. registering for courses at WKU for the term you plan to be away) and having a back-up plan for housing in the case that you are not able to travel. 

All WKU students participating   on   a credit-bearing international opportunity must submit a   WKU study abroad application . If you are planning to participate   on   a non-credit opportunity , you must complete the   WKU Student International Travel Registry .  

Yes! For the foreseeable future, all students wanting to participate on an international program will need to meet with a staff advisor once they have chosen a program and are ready to submit their WKU application. Having an advising meeting is one of the requirements to have your application accepted.  Exceptions to this policy are WKU Faculty-Led programs.

If you are in the beginning stages of planning your experience, we recommend that you first meet with one of our Global Learning Ambassador for a peer advising session.

Find out more about advising and scheduling a meeting  here . 

Each program has its own policies related to refunds and withdrawals. Check with your program provider and/or host institution to learn about their policies. Researching and knowing program cancellation/withdrawal policies is the student’s responsibility. Students are financially obligated to pay any withdrawal penalties and/or non-refundable program fees charged to them, including if approval to travel by WKU is not given or rescinded.  

If you are participating in a WKU Faculty-Led Program, check your program’s Participation Contract. You can find this within the program’s application.   

In addition to the comprehensive international medical and security insurance that is required for all WKU students travelling abroad on University-supported/related activities (provided by WKU or program provider), it is highly recommend for students to purchase additional travel cancellation/interruption insurance, including  Cancel For Any Reason  (CFAR) insurance.

WKU strongly recommends that you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least two weeks prior to the start of your program in order to help mitigate the risk of travelling during a global pandemic. 

However, you must meet the requirements of your program provider, host institution, and/or intended program location(s). Keep in mind that many countries and program providers are requiring booster shots to be considered fully vaccinated.

You should consult with your program provider to check their policies regarding vaccine requirements. Additionally, the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Embassies, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and host country governmental websites are excellent resources for finding more information on vaccine requirements for entry into individual countries.  

Travel Appeal FAQs:

Depending upon your intended location, you may need to complete a  Student Appeal to Travel to Restricted Locations  per the  WKU Student International Travel Policy .   

 Students must file an appeal through the International Travel Risk Management Committee for locations with a USDOS Level 3 "Reconsider Travel" Advisory and for locations with a USDOS Level 4 "Do Not Travel" COVID-19 Advisory (appeals will not be considered for locations with a Level 4 Advisory for any reason other than COVID-19). The appeal is reviewed by the committee who then makes a recommendation to the Provost. The Provost makes the final determination. Appeal approval is not guaranteed.  

Appeals are due 60 days prior to the student's travel departure date and will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Further information about the appeal process and deadlines will be provided within the WKU study abroad application and/or student travel registry materials, as well as receiving communication from Global Learning & International Affairs.

*Students participating on a WKU Faculty-Led Program do not submit individual appeals. WKU program leaders will submit an appeal on behalf of the program. If the appeal is approved, participating students should expect additional application materials. 

Yes, if your travel is university-supported or university-related (e.g.  athletic competitions, capstone projects, experiential learning opportunities, internships, performances, practicums, research, service-learning, university organized sponsored spring breaks, etc.) then your travel falls under the WKU Student International Travel Policy, which includes submitting an appeal when necessary. 

The deadline for appeal submission is 60 days prior to your travel departure date. Appeals will be reviewed on a rolling basis by the International Risk Management Committee. 

It is important to consider the appeal deadline with regards to the withdrawal and cancellation policies of your intended travel. You will be responsible for any financial withdrawal penalities if your appeal is not approved.

Your appeal is submitted electronically. You can access the appeal form HERE . 

Your submitted appeal will be reviewed by members of the Interntional Travel & Risk Management Committee, which is composed of WKU staff, faculty, and students from across campus. The Committee is chaired by the Associate Provost for Global Learning & International Affairs. 

In addition to reviewing your appeal responses, the Committee also reviews the current health & safety situation of your intended location(s). 

After reviewing your appeal and intended locations, the Committee makes a decision on whether or not to recommend your travel. That recommendation is given to the Provost & Vice Present of Academic Affairs. Provost Fischer reviews the appeals and locations, and then makes a final travel decision.

No. Approval of an appeal to travel is not guaranteed. Appeals are carefully reviewed by the International Travel Risk Management Committee. Based upon the information you include in your appeal the ITRMC makes a recommendation to the Provost. The Provost reads each appeal, considers each individual’s circumstances and the ITRMC’s recommendation to make a final determination.   

Considerations for approval include, but are not limited to, the current situation on-site, the compelling justification for the academic program/experience to be in the high-risk location; relevance and meaningfulness of the academic goals; detailed description of the risks associated with travel to the location, foreseeable health or safety concerns and their mitigation measures; traveler’s experience; and the level of support on-site.  

We are committed to getting WKU students abroad, but safety comes first and, especially during a global pandemic, it's important that students show through the appeal process that they have really researched their travel and can demonstrate a good understanding of the current situation and implications of travelling during this time.

Yes! We have developed a rubric for you to use as a guide while completing the appeal questions. You can access that HERE . 

Appeal submissions should be taken seriously. They are reviewed by the International Travel Risk Management Committee (ITRMC) which makes a recommendation to the Provost, who also reviews the appeals and makes the final decision. The ITRMC is made up of staff, faculty, emergency management personnel, and a student representative.   

It is important to show the committee and the Provost that you have researched your travel and can demonstrate a good understanding of the current situation in your program’s location(s) and the implication of travelling to a location under a Level 3 Travel Advisory or a Level 4 Advisory for COVID-19. Overwhelm  the committee with information:

• If you are not a U.S. citizen, in addition to the resources above, include information and any related advisories issued by your home country for your intended location(s).
• Utilize your resources- speak with your program provider and/or host institution to find out more information about the situation on-site.
• Include any pre-departure guides and information provided to you by your provider/host institution with your appeal.
• Carefully read and fully respond to all questions  in the appeal . Be specific.   
• Provide detailed answers that address all risks articulated in the Department of State and CDC advisories. Do not only address COVID  risk factors .  
• Provide local support resources, phone numbers, addresses, websites that you or WKU can refer to for support and assistance.
• Carefully read  all  WKU application materials and emails received from our office for information on the appeal process & deadlines.
• Seek advice from one of our staff advisors on completing and reviewing your appeal prior to the deadline.
• Participate in an appeal Q&A or workshop session offered by WKU Global.

Keep in mind that approval of your appeal is not guaranteed. You should research and be aware of any withdrawal/cancellation penalties associated with any aspect of your intended travel and avoid making non-refundable payments.

COVID-19 FAQs:

WKU Global Learning & International Affairs is committed to getting WKU students abroad, but safety comes first. Nothing about travel during a pandemic is predictable and it can pose unanticipated challenges and costs. G lobal learning experiences during the pandemic will be different from what you might have imagined and so it is important for you to manage your expectations of the experience. Patience and flexibility are key. The guide bel ow includes examples of potential impacts to your planned global learning experience as it could related to academics, finances, health & wellness, travel, and housing, but it is not exhaustive.  

It is crucial to have a back-up plan for your coursework and housing should you not be able to travel on your program. 

Travel During a Pandemic Guide

Yes, planning for study abroad in a future term is possible right now, but you should be prepared to navigate processes that can be complex and require greater flexibility. It is important to plan ahead and research, research, research. Per the  WKU Student International Travel Policy,  WKU students are able to travel to locations  with a U .S Department of State Travel Advisory  Level 1- “Exercise Normal Precautions,” or Level 2 - “Exercise Increased Caution.”  

Travel to locations with a USDOS Travel Advisory Level 3- “Reconsider Travel,” is restricted. Students must submit an appeal to travel to the International Travel Risk Management Committee to have their travel to Level 3 locations considered. Appeal approval is not guaranteed.  

Travel to locations with a USDOS Travel Advisory Level 4- “Do Not Travel,” is prohibited. You can submit a WKU study abroad application for a future program in a location that is currently a Level 4, but your travel will not be approved until the Advisory level changes.   

• An addendum has been approved for the WKU Student International Travel Policy to allow students to appeal to travel to locations with a USDOS Level 4 Travel Advisory if the Level 4 Advisory is for COVID-19 (i.e. "Do not travel to [Insert location] due to COVID-19," or "Do not travel to [insert location] due to COVID-19-related restrictions). Appeal to locations with a Level 4 Travel Advisory for any other reason will not be considered. 

During the pandemic, Travel Advisory Levels have been changing frequently. 

We recommend students look into having a back-up program location and always having a back-up for coursework and housing should you not be able to travel at all. 

Some of the links on this page may require additional software to view.

Travel Policies

• PRO-U2105.01A Requesting Exception to Official Travel Advisories.pdf (194.75 KB)
• PRO-U5348.10A Requesting Travel Authorization for Employees (128.74 KB)
• PRO-U5348.10B Reporting & Reconciling Travel Expenses & Advances (151.33 KB)
• PRO-U5348.10C Reporting and Reconciling Travel Expenses Due to Changes or Cancellations (168.95 KB)
• STN-U5348.10A Approving Travel for University Business (166.19 KB)
• STN-U5348.10B Managing Student Travel Standards (201.27 KB)
• STN-U5348.10C Paying for Non-Employee Travel (143.12 KB)
• STN-U5348.10D Providing and Reconciling Travel Advances (186.22 KB)
• STN-U5348.10E Paying for Immunizations and Medical Expenses (172.42 KB)
• STN-U5348.10F Using Peer to Peer Rental Property (186.89 KB)

Safety tips for international travel

You’ve planned your trip down to the very last detail – but sometimes when you’re on vacation, the unexpected happens. Protect yourself from travel mishaps by following these tips from Carol DiOrio, vice president of travel for AAA Western and Central New York.

Keep a copy of all your major documents

Before your trip, scan your documents (passport, visa, travel insurance, driver’s license) and email them to yourself. “This way, you’ll always have them with you – even if they get lost or stolen,” DiOrio said.

Put your money in multiple places

“Split it up among all the people you’re with, so you don’t lose everything if your wallet gets lost,” DiOrio said. The AAA Travel Store offers a variety of bags and RFID-blocking wallets, which protect the information stored electronically on your credit cards and passport.

Take care of yourself

While it’s impossible to plan for an illness, you might need to get vaccinated and immunized before you go abroad. You should also travel with an ample supply of medications so you don’t have to scramble for a pharmacy in an unfamiliar place. When in doubt, ask your AAA Travel agent for specific recommendations related to your chosen destination.

Purchase travel insurance

DiOrio said travel insurance is always a smart choice, especially for international travelers. It can cover emergency medical expenses, lost or damaged baggage, and expenses related to last-minute cancellations.

Make your trip one to remember. Travel safe and travel smart with expert planning from the pros at AAA Travel. 

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• Travel Products

14 Western-inspired Travel Clothes That Actually Go With Everything in Your Suitcase — From $15

Keep reading for our favorite cowboy boots, hats, denim, and more.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

Western wear, cowboy aesthetic, country couture — whatever you'd like to call it — has taken the fashion world by storm, but it's not just a mere passing trend. As a New York City-based travel writer , it's hard to go a block without seeing studded belts and vintage washed jeans , and the trend has spread far beyond Manhattan; I've even spotted it on recent trips up and down the East Coast. Though its resurgence in pop culture features new spins on the traditional fashion genre, Western wear obviously has roots dating back centuries, but there's something about the classic look that will forever exude cool. With celebrities like Beyoncé and Bella Hadid showcasing the best of the Americana lifestyle, this latest resurgence is beckoning everyone (including myself) to give their travel clothes a refresh. 

Beyond looking sharp, the Western wear trend embraces easy-wearing, high-quality basics inspired by country living, making it a must-have for your travel wardrobe. It prioritizes timeless pieces like maxi denim skirts and cowboy boots that can be worn and reworn in a plethora of ways to maximize your travel outfit possibilities. These pieces are typically denim-, cotton-, leather, and suede-heavy, making them the ideal transitional garments that can be worn throughout spring (and some of our favorite finds can even be rocked in the summer). 

Don’t know where to start transforming your wardrobe to embrace a Western aesthetic? I’ve curated a selection of pieces that I’m absolutely loving this season that will look great anywhere, be it a serene getaway in Wyoming , an exciting rodeo, or even to a "Cowboy Carter" listening party.  

Tecovas The Annie Cowgirl Boots

Cowgirl and cowboy boots are undoubtedly one of the most prominent items emerging from the Americana fashion movement, and if you’re looking to embrace this shoe trend, then you should do so with the best: a pair of Tecovas . The Austin-based brand prioritizes authentic craftsmanship to make its top-quality, already-worn-in-comfy boots that are made to last. I’m utterly obsessed with this Annie style, the brand’s best-selling cowgirl boot, and am eager to add them to my collection because I know that they’ll be my comfortable go-to pair of boots that’ll last me years to come. Plus, they'll look equally wonderful with a pair of jeans as they would with a flowy dress. 

If you’re looking for a more affordable option to achieve the same look, consider shopping the Soda Reno Women's Cowboy Boots that boast a $50 price tag at Amazon.  

Madewell The Santiago Western Ankle Boots

Not quite ready for full-on cowboy boots? Or, maybe you're headed somewhere warm. Either way, if you want to dip your toes into the style, these Madewell ankle booties are the perfect way to start. Beyond their alluring 82 percent discount (thanks to an on-site double deal — just use the code SPRING30 to unlock an extra 30 percent off at checkout), they’re absolutely adorable. Country styles embrace shiny hardware and durable materials like suede, as seen on these boots, which’ll elevate any look that you have planned. And, because they’re crafted with elastic and a low block heel, they go on-and-off seamlessly and will be easy to walk in. Hurry, they're selling out. 

J.Crew Maxi Denim Skirt

Maxi denim skirts, and denim in general, are totally country-approved thanks to their utility style that is a bit more polished and put together than a mini skirt. I’m all in for embracing more maxi denim skirts into my wardrobe. They can be styled with T-shirts, blouses, vests, and more, making them a welcomed, versatile staple in your suitcase. In fact, denim skirts are among the first garments that I look for when preparing for a trip, because of the way that they can seamlessly elevate any look. If you want to test the waters on this trend, do so with this stunning, on-sale skirt from J.Crew while it’s 46 percent off. 

Wrangler Women’s Cowboy Cut Jeans 

Wrangler is among the original cowboy couture brands, selling high-quality denim that parallels the rise of country since the 1940s. Needless to say, you can’t go wrong with anything from the cowboy fashion pioneer to adapt your wardrobe to Western style, but I recommend starting with these Cowboy Cut jeans. They effortlessly blend classic aesthetics with contemporary details for unmatched comfort. Crafted with 98 percent denim and 2 percent spandex, these jeans exude vintage charm with the modern ingenuity of a comfortable pair of travel pants. And at just $50, they’re the perfect garment to wear on your spring adventures. 

Amour Vert Violette Organic Cotton Eyelet Dress

Amour Vert 

Flowy, flirty dresses add a feminine touch to an otherwise rather masculine trend. And this prairie-style dress not only embodies the essence of country living, but it also serves as the ideal white sundress for the vibrant seasons of spring and summer. Crafted with 100 percent cotton, adorned with delicate details, and featuring a fashion-forward corseted bust, this dress is a timeless and breathtaking addition to your wardrobe. And to complete the look, I recommend pairing with a pair of cowboy boots — duh! 

Sézane Women’s Amerie Shirt

This Western-style embroidered chambray snap shirt is an incredibly versatile choice that radiates versatility. With its long-sleeve design, this shirt offers year-round comfort while shielding you from the elements (without causing overheating). It’s also a stunning option to add to your collection of Americana-inspired garments, inviting endless styling options, whether paired with a denim skirt, jeans, or classic boots. 

Unfortunately, this stunning top is about to sell out. If you have your heart set on the look, check out the newly dropped Grosy Women's Embroidered Plain Tunic Shirt for $40 at Amazon.  

Free People Wilder Embellished Sling Bag

Free People 

Conchos are the focal points of any Western look. Instead of wearing the classic disc around your waist, you can sport it on your travel bag. Here, the historically rich accessory decorates the belt bag's strap to add that cowboy flair to any outfit. It also offers the spacious, hands-free functionality of a great belt bag; wear it as a crossbody, off the shoulder, or as a belt bag, and will confidently safeguard all of your items as you explore new destinations this year.  

Wrangler Western Shoulder Bag

For a larger option, this adjustable shoulder bag is winning over shoppers for boasting the " perfect size " and a " sturdy feel that feels well-made ." That also happens to be the ethos of Western fashion, prioritizing items that both look and feel good — just check out that stunning embroidery! And starting at just $52 and available in an impressive 50 different colors and prints, the Montana-styled bag is just waiting to be added to your cart. 

Mavi Venus Denim Vest

Denim is widely recognized as a premium and long-lasting fabric, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities and country living. Western wear is known for its practicality, and as such, many denim styles are adorned with functional pockets and comfortable cuts that are perfect for all-day wear. Take this stunning denim vest from Mavi, which features front pockets and a straight fit that can be styled in various ways (and will look great in each of them). Whether you choose to store your lip balm in one of the frockets (front pockets) or utilize them for your ID and cards, you will never regret adding this versatile top to your collection.

Quince Women’s Suede Trucker Jacket

It would be wrong to share a list of high-quality Western wear to add to your travel wardrobe without including a buttery soft suede jacket, and this one from Quince is just what your transitional wardrobe needs right now. It’s warm enough to wear as the temperatures continue to dip and rise, but remains lightweight and soft for hot days ahead. And since the trademark of this style is practicality, you can bet that this jacket is equipped with a few functional pockets to hold onto some of your small belongings. 

Livingston Straw Cowboy Hat

Saddle up travelers! To bring your entire Western ensemble together, you need a cowboy hat. This iconic accessory not only exudes a relaxed and cool vibe, but it also serves a practical purpose. Originally designed to protect cowboys from the scorching sun while working outdoors, these hats have now become a versatile (and useful) fashion statement. This utility also lends them as the perfect accessory to shield your face from the sun at the beach, festivals, and beyond. 

This lightweight hat can also travel like a dream with the help of a convenient hat clip . Plus, it gives your outfit more style points than any old baseball cap or sun visor would. 

Steve Madden Women’s Recent Gladiator Sandals

Modern takes on Western wear draw inspiration from classic country accessories like the studded (and classic) concho belt — which are on full display in these Steve Madden sandals. I personally love a strappy gladiator for travel, as I find that they have more support and grip compared to other styles on the market. This pair caught my eye for its stunning look that I know would be a standout at any festival or vacation that I have planned this season.  

Superdown Robyn Strappy Back Top

Plenty of these styles possess a classic and timeless appeal due to their simple yet classy look. However, the recent revival of this style has inspired retailers to think outside of the box and explore incorporating Americana prints, like cowhide, to give a fresh twist to this country craze. For instance, try out this stylish cow print top from Superdown, which will surely make a statement at any music festival or evening event that you have on the schedule. 

Werforu Leather Belt

A true Western-inspired outfit is never truly complete without a concho belt. This $15 one from Amazon is embellished with beautifully etched hardware that’ll effortlessly pull together any look, while remaining understated enough to not cause too much attention. Style it with a pair of vintage wash jeans or wear it with a dress to give yourself some extra waist-cinching magic. 

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• Travel Resources

Travel Forms

Agency approval forms.

Agencies require completion of the appropriate form prior to purchase. Do not submit hand-written forms.

Direct Travel Authorization Form  

Flite II Authorization Form 

Statements of Travel Expense (2024, 2023) To Reimburse Visitors to CWRU

Statement of Travel Expense (January, 2024) ; personal vehicle mileage @67 cents/mile)

Statement of Travel Expense (January, 2023) ; personal vehicle mileage @65.5 cents/mile

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Best Western Vega Hotel & Convention Center

How do i get to the hotel from vnukovo airport.

By taxi The drive from Vnukovo Airport to the Best Western Vega Hotel takes 50-90 minutes, depending on traffic. Official airport taxis should cost around $60, or you can order a transfer with a driver to meet your flight here .

By train Aeroexpress trains run from Vnukovo Airport Station to Kiev Railway Station in central Moscow. Trains run on the hour from 6am to 12am daily, the journey takes 35-40 minutes, and adult single tickets cost roughly $11. Child tickets, family tickets and first-class tickets are also available. From Kievskaya Metro Station, it is a direct journey eight stops east on the dark-blue line to Partizanskaya Metro Station, which is around 100 m from the Best Western Vega Hotel.

By bus From the stop across the car park at Terminal D (domestic flights) at Vnukovo, bus services run to Yugo-Zapadnaya Metro Station on the outskirts of Moscow. Regular buses (611 and 611c) run from 5.30am to 12.50am daily every 10-15 minutes and take under 25 minutes to reach the metro. Tickets cost $3-4. There are also faster and slightly more expensive marshrutka minibus shuttles (611b and 45) running from 7am to 11pm. From Yugo Zapadnaya, at the end of the red line, travel north nine stops to Okhotny Ryad. Change to the dark-blue line, and continue east five stops to Partizanskaya Metro Station, which is less than five minutes' walk from the Best Western Vega Hotel.

Resources - Travel

University travel & covid-19.

Western follows current  CDC Travel Guidelines .

Quick Links

Concur resources, quick sheets.

• Terminology Quick Sheet
• Getting Started with Concur
• Using the Concur Mobile App
• Adding a Delegate
• Approver Quick Sheet
• Create a TA Request
• Create a Blanket TA Mileage Request
• Create an Expense Report
• Create a Mileage or Stand-Alone Expense Report
• Delegate Basics
• How to Split Fund (Allocations)
• Previewer Role
• Set Alternate Approval Flow
• How to Add Meals Per Diem

Concur Training

• Concur Travel System Hands-On and Overview courses
• Concur Request End User Resources  
• Concur Expense End User Resources

More Travel Resources

Helpful links.

• Western's Travel Policies
• Office of Financial Management Travel Resources
• Travel Advisories
• State Department Registration (STEP)
• Optional WWU Travel Registry
• WA State Department of Transportation
• State Basic Driver Safety Program

eSign Forms

• Traveler: New Profile and Acknowledgment Form
• Traveler Update Supervisory Approver Form
• Travel Approver Delegate Set-Up
• Traveler Add Data Entry Delegate
• Travel Authorization Form for Students
• T ravel Authorization Form for Non-Employees
• Affidavit of Lost Receipt
• Food & Beverage Approval Form

Contact Information

Travel services desk.

[email protected]

360-650-3341

Sally Parsons, Travel Manager

[email protected]

360-650-6640