- American citizens are granted a visa exemption for tourist trips to Türkiye, allowing them to stay for up to 90 days within every 180 days.
- Adequate funds for personal expenses during the trip: Kindly consider budgeting wisely for your trip and ensuring you have sufficient spending money. We strongly discourage the use of Travelers Checks and carrying large amounts of cash. If you choose to bring cash, it would be beneficial to have U.S. Dollars in small denomination bills ($5, $10, or $20). For adults, we recommend using your American Bank Card/ATM Card to withdraw Turkish Liras from ATMs, as banks provide the current and best exchange rates through this method.
IMPORTANT: If you plan to use your Bank Card/ATM Card or Credit Card in Türkiye, it is crucial to inform your bank of your travel plans. This proactive step ensures that you will not encounter any issues and are not left without access to money while in Türkiye. Additionally, please be aware that major Credit Cards are widely accepted in most places in Türkiye, and they should be considered as a viable option, especially in emergencies. - Valid Passport: Ensure that you possess a current and valid passport, with an expiration date well beyond the duration of your planned stay in Türkiye. Check the passport for any potential damage or wear and tear, and confirm that all personal information matches the details of your travel itinerary. Additionally, be aware of any specific entry requirements or visa conditions that may apply to your nationality when visiting Türkiye, and make certain that your passport meets these criteria to avoid any travel complications.
- Medicine and Toiletries: When it comes to medicines and toiletries, we kindly suggest bringing both over-the-counter and prescription medications, along with essential toiletry items such as a toothbrush and personal soap. Please note that only liquid hand soap is provided, which may not be sufficient for showering, so bringing your preferred toiletries is advisable.
Considering that the items you regularly use may not be readily available in Türkiye or could be challenging to purchase, it's prudent to pack these essentials in advance. Moreover, for your convenience during travel, liquids of 3 ounces or less may be carried in hand luggage. For larger liquid items, we recommend wrapping them in leak-proof plastic and placing them in check-in luggage. - Appliance and Attire Recommendations for a Comfortable Stay: We would like to inform you that hairdryers are provided in the rooms at Space Camp. However, should you prefer to bring your personal hairdryer or any other electrical appliances, we recommend selecting those that are dual voltage and acquiring a suitable plug adapter. The voltage in Türkiye is 220, which differs from that in the United States, and neglecting this distinction may result in damage to your appliances.
Furthermore, we encourage you to pack essential items such as a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, sunhat, and beach/pool shoes. Campers are scheduled to participate in pool activities during the camp, and according to the program, there is a possibility of spending a day in a coastal village and at the beach after the camp. - Sleepwear and Comfortable Footwear: Please ensure to pack adequate sleepwear for a restful night's sleep during your stay at Space Camp. Additionally, consider bringing slippers for added comfort within your accommodation.
For shared bathroom facilities, we recommend including flip-flops or shower shoes in your luggage. These items will prove beneficial when using communal shower areas, providing both hygiene and protection for your feet. - Light Sweater or Jacket: We recommend including a light sweater or jacket in your luggage to ensure comfort during cooler evenings and within air-conditioned buildings. Despite the warm temperatures in the summer in Izmir, evenings are known for their mildness. If there is a breeze outside, it can occasionally become quite chilly even if you are dressed in shorts and a T-shirt.
- Camera and Spare Battery: Don't forget to pack your camera along with an extra battery. You'll have numerous opportunities to capture memorable moments during your time at Space Camp, and having an additional battery ensures that you won't miss any photo-worthy experiences. Mobile phones can also be used for photo and video purposes.
- City attire for campers and adults (Izmir and Istanbul): Embrace a mix of comfortable clothing options to suit various urban activities, including shorts, trousers, and T-shirts. Specifically, when exploring sites such as Ephesus and other destinations, consider wearing shorts and tank tops to accommodate warmer temperatures. Given that these excursions typically involve a considerable amount of walking, we advise selecting comfortable footwear, such as sturdy and supportive shoes, to ensure ease of movement throughout the day.
- Laundry Considerations: Please be advised that Space Camp does not have on-site laundry facilities. To ensure a hassle-free experience, we recommend campers pack a sufficient supply of clothing to last the entire duration of the trip.
For adults, a convenient option is available: you may leave your clothes with the camps security on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for transportation to a local laundry service. Please note that any expenses incurred for this service will be at your discretion. - Bedding and Linens: Space Camp Türkiye takes care of your bedding needs. Pillowcases, pillows, bed sheets, blankets, and towels will be provided during your stay.
- Special Occasion Outfits for Adults at the 4th of July Celebration (Date - To Be Determined): As part of our program, we encourage adults to bring stylish attire for the special July 4th celebration. You will be notified when the exact date becomes clear.
Preparing For Space Camp Türkiye
E-Pal Week at Space Camp Türkiye
Comprehensive Recommendations for Campers Essentials at Space Camp: In preparation for campers upcoming Space Camp adventure, we want to share some recommendations to ensure they have everything needed for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Padlock for Lockers: Please have campers bring with them a small combination padlock to secure their belongings in lockers, adding an extra layer of safety.
- Camp Attire: Ensure campers bring sports shoes, reminding them they can only use flip-flops for pool activities. T-shirts, along with comfortable, shorts or pants, are recommended. For safety in simulator activities, we advise against skirts or loose clothing.
- Encourage campers to prepare 16-20 small, inexpensive gifts for the end-of-camp gift exchange.
- Special Events Night Items: Check with campers and ensure they pack any specific items needed for "Special Events" Night to fully participate in planned activities.
- PSSP Science Fair Items: If the camper is partaking in the PSSP Science Fair, ensure they bring the necessary materials, projects, or documentation for showcasing their scientific endeavors.
- Electronic Devices Guidelines: While portable music players, hand-held computer games, and other electronic devices are permitted for trips, kindly remind campers that their use is not allowed during camp activities. These items should be securely stored in lockers. Additionally, charging stations are available in the dormitories, allowing campers to charge their cell phones securely while locked.
- Attire for Special Occasions: Discuss with campers whether they would like to wear something special for events such as BBQs and dancing, and make sure they pack accordingly.