Frequently Asked Questions

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Missionary Travel.info, a division of National Travel Systems, coordinates directly with the IMB daily. This seamless coordination guarantees that all parties are communicating properly to effectively reduce the chance of error and delay in today’s complicated international travel environment. Our mission is to provide you the best possible service at the lowest cost through our expansive broker/dealer network.

Through our years of service with the IMB and thousands of mission projects, we have listed some of the most frequently asked questions for your review.

What information do you need from me in order to request a fare and itinerary for my project?

What do you mean when you ask for my full legal name?

Your airline ticket MUST match your passport. You will NOT be able to board your flight if there is any discrepancy in your name. Please verify your passport information before placing your travel request with NTS. back to top

How will you send me this itinerary?

NTS will email a complete itinerary to you that will have a flight schedule that matches the needs of your project. You will be given a ticket cost and a ticket purchase deadline. Be sure to check this itinerary very closely. If you have any questions, be sure to notify your NTS agent. back to top

How much time do I have before my ticket has to be purchased?

Generally, you have 7 days to purchase your airline ticket once it has been confirmed. Some exceptions may apply. You should have a ticketing deadline printed on your original itinerary/fare quote. back to top

What happens if I miss my ticketing deadline?

If you miss the deadline, your itinerary will auto-cancel. Your itinerary will have to be rebooked and repriced. The price quoted to you is not valid if you miss your ticketing deadline. The itinerary process will be restarted once you are prepared to purchase your ticket. back to top

How do I pay for my airline ticket?

You can purchase your ticket with a personal check or a major credit card. If you pay with a personal check, you will need to overnight your payment to NTS prior to the ticketing deadline. Be sure to use a courier such as FedEx or UPS to insure tracking and proper delivery of your check. For this delivery, please use our street address (National Travel Systems, 6502 Slide Road, Suite # 406, Lubbock TX 79424) DO NOT USE REGULAR U. S. MAIL! If you pay with a credit card, you will need to call or email NTS with your credit card number, expiration date, name as printed on the card, and the billing address of the card. NOTE: Some airlines assess a 4% surcharge for credit card payments. If you are unsure about the credit card cost, please ask your NTS agent for clarification. back to top

Do I need approval if my travel dates are not the same as the project dates?

Yes. If you have permission from either the IMB office or your field supervisor to alter your dates, NTS must be notified. Otherwise, your flights will be confirmed to fit your project needs. back to top

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Do I need a passport?

Yes. U.S. citizens require a passport to exit/enter the U.S. It is the traveler’s responsibility to carry the correct identification during their travels abroad. A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that serves as the ultimate form of proof of a person’s citizenship. U.S. Passports are issued by the U.S. Passport Agency. Check with your local post office for access to their passport agents. If you do not have a passport, apply for it as soon as possible. If you can, try to apply at least 3 months before you plan to depart. If you have a passport, be sure that it is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Please check IMB’s web site for more details at: http://thetask.org/students/Apply/passport.htm
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Do I need an entry visa?

NTS will determine if a visa is required for your project. A packet will be provided listing complete instructions for your visa. You will have an application form to complete. Be prepared to provide additional passport photos, verification of funds, and travel itinerary. If you have any questions regarding this process, please consult your NTS agent. NOTE: Last-minute visas are usually very expensive. Allow plenty of time to obtain this visa. Please check IMB’s web site for more details at: http://thetask.org/students/Approved/visas.htm
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Do I need any vaccinations?

Your NTS agent will let you know if a specific vaccination is required. For further requirements, please check with the IMB office. Additional vaccinations may be required. Please check IMB’s web site for more details at: http://thetask.org/students/Approved/immunizations.htm
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Do I need insurance?

Comprehensive, international medical and travel insurance is required by the IMB office for all participants in all mission projects. Please check IMB’s web site for more details at: http://thetask.org/students/Approved/insurance.htm
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How will the IMB office know that I have purchased my airline ticket?

As soon as you have purchased your airline ticket from NTS, your complete itinerary is forwarded to the IMB staff. From there, it is sent to your field supervisor. back to top

How much luggage can I check-in and carry-on?

Baggage restrictions will vary according to airline and destination. Generally, you are allowed to check-in two pieces of baggage, each piece not exceeding 70lbs or 62” in circumference. However, all carriers, including international carriers can change the restrictions without notice. In some cases, weight restrictions for international carriers may be substantially less. Carry-on luggage is usually restricted to one item that can fit into the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Ask your NTS agent for the requirements that fit your itinerary. back to top

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When do I receive my airline ticket?

A document packet will be sent to you via FedEx, containing your airline ticket, a spare itinerary to leave at home, luggage tags, and a travel bag. YOU WILL NEED TO PROVIDE A PHYSICAL STREET ADDRESS FOR THE OVERNIGHT DELIVERY OF YOUR DOCUMENTS. If NTS processed an entry visa for you, your passport (with visa imprinted inside) will be included in this packet. back to top

Is there anyone else that has been assigned to my project?

Please let NTS know that you are interested in traveling with other students assigned to your project. We will do our very best to link you with other students. Select gateway cities are used for international travel. At the very least, you should be able to meet fellow students at this gateway city. back to top

How do I reconfirm my flights before I leave?

Due to security changes, you will need to call the airline to reconfirm your flights. Be prepared to provide your confirmation number and a local phone contact in case of an emergency. Generally, flights need to be reconfirmed at least 72 hours prior to your departure. If you have any problem with this process, please contact NTS. back to top

What happens if I lose my airline ticket?

If you have been issued an E-ticket, check-in does not require a paper document. Retain your confirmation number for a speedy check-in. If you have been issued a paper ticket and have lost it, you will need to purchase a new ticket for your return home. You will need to complete a Lost Ticket Application with the airline. Upon your return, you will be given a refund for the value of the new ticket less a service charge (approximately $100USD). This refund process will take several weeks. LOSING A PAPER TICKET IS JUST LIKE LOSING CASH! It is very difficult and tedious to get your money back! Be sure to keep your ticket in a safe and secure place. back to top

What is the difference between a paper ticket and an E-ticket?

The majority of the airlines are issuing E-tickets. Your ticket is purchased electronically and identified with a confirmation number. The Passenger Receipt that you will be given by NTS is for your reference only and is not a negotiable coupon. For some, the procedure for E-tickets has not been set up; therefore, paper tickets are issued. You will need to present this paper ticket to the airline before boarding each flight. Please keep your ticket in a safe place and OUT of the sun. Your paper ticket is heat sensitive and will turn completely black if left in a hot place! If you have a choice, an E-ticket is always the best option! back to top

In case of an emergency, who do I call?

If you have any flight delays, please notify either NTS or the IMB office. You should have the contact information for your field supervisor before you depart. Let someone know that you are running into difficulties. Remember, your best option is to ask your airline for their instructions. Deviations and flight changes are controlled by your airline. If you have any questions about this, please consult NTS before you depart. back to top