Travel Safety Guide
Stay Safe Abroad
Being prepared reduces your risk of becoming a crime victim while traveling. Here's what you need to know before you go.
Content adapted from the U.S. Department of State STEP program and travel safety guidance.
Personal Safety
Staying Alert & Prepared
Always remain alert and aware of your surroundings. Planning ahead and trusting your instincts dramatically reduces your risk.
Leave Valuables Behind
Don't wear expensive jewelry or carry items that mark you as a target. The less you flash, the less you attract unwanted attention.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong, it probably is. Plan ahead and have a mental safety strategy before you enter unfamiliar situations.
Stay Connected
Keep your phone charged and carry a portable battery. Download offline map apps so you can navigate without internet access.
Share Your Itinerary
Tell someone at home your travel plans — hotel names, locations, embassy or consulate info, and emergency contacts.
Use a GPS Tracker
Enable a 'find my phone' tracker on all your devices and share your real-time location with someone you trust back home.
Know the Nearest Help
Before you arrive, find out where the nearest police stations and hospitals are located. Save local emergency numbers on your phone.
Take a Self-Defense Class
Even a single session can teach you how to break free from a grab or create enough distance to run. Carry a personal alarm or whistle.
Keep Plans Offline
Don't share detailed travel plans on social media until you return home. Broadcasting your absence makes your home a target.
Transportation
Navigating Transport Risks
Safety on public transport varies widely. Informal taxis and minibuses can be risky — especially if you're traveling alone. Always research safe options in advance.
Book Airport Transfers Ahead
Arrange airport transportation in advance with a trusted company before you arrive at your destination.
Use App-Based Rideshares
Rideshare apps track your route and driver. Share your ride details with someone at home before you get in.
Research Before You Ride
Verify that taxis or rideshare drivers are properly licensed. Avoid informal taxis or minibuses, especially when traveling alone.
Never Hitchhike
Accepting rides from strangers, even in rural areas, carries serious risk. Stick to licensed transportation.
Avoid Crowded Transport
Pickpockets thrive on crowded buses and trains. When possible, choose less crowded options or upgrade to first class.
Accommodations
Safe Places to Stay
Your hotel or rental is your base of operations. Choosing wisely and following basic security practices keeps you safer.
Research Hotels Thoroughly
Read reviews specifically for safety concerns and have backup options ready. Your accommodation is your safe zone — choose it carefully.
Lock Up Every Time
Lock your room door and windows even when you're inside. Use the deadbolt, chain lock, and any security latch provided.
Don't Tell Strangers Where You're Staying
Be vague about your hotel or room number with new acquaintances. Discretion protects you from targeted theft.
Secure Your Documents
Keep your passport, IDs, and backup copies in your room's safe or a secure location. Carry only what you need for the day.
Book Before You Arrive
Arriving in a new city without reservations makes you vulnerable. Book your first few nights before you depart.
Drink Safety
Protecting Your Drinks
Criminals sometimes drug drinks to assault or rob travelers. Drugs like Rohypnol, ketamine, and scopolamine can make you pass out or become defenseless. Always keep your drink in sight.
Keep Your Drink in Sight
Never leave your drink unattended. Cover it with your hand whenever you're not actively drinking from it.
Never Accept Drinks from Strangers
Politely decline drinks from people you don't know well. If you want a drink, order and collect it yourself at the bar.
Know the Symptoms
Rohypnol, ketamine, and scopolamine can cause dizziness, confusion, or loss of consciousness. If you feel unusually impaired, get help immediately.
Only Meet Strangers in Public
If you're meeting someone new — a date, a tour guide, a business contact — always do it in a crowded, public place.
If You Feel Sick, Act Fast
Tell a trusted friend right away and call local emergency services or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.
Local Context
Respect Customs & Know the Law
Other countries operate under different rules. Understanding local expectations and legal boundaries before you arrive keeps you out of trouble.
Dress for the Culture
Tight clothing, sleeveless shirts, and shorts may not be appropriate everywhere. Pack clothing that helps you blend in and show respect for local traditions.
Know Local Laws
Some countries prohibit certain medications, drugs, alcohol, birth control, religious items, or books. What you have at home may be illegal abroad.
Watch What You Say
Some countries have strict rules about speech and protests. Talking or posting about sensitive topics online can result in fines or arrest.
Check Import Restrictions
Review customs and import restrictions for your destination. The U.S. embassy can advise on what items may be restricted.
Travel Advisory
Level 3 & 4 Countries
These destinations currently carry a U.S. Department of State Level 3: Reconsider Travel or Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory. Review the full advisory before making any travel plans.
Stay Informed
Access Safety & Security Info
Security Reports from OSAC
The Overseas Security Advisory Council publishes Country Security Reports sorted by region and topic.
Browse OSAC Country Security Reports →Human Rights Reports
The State Department publishes annual Human Rights Reports for many countries covering civil liberties, law enforcement, and human rights conditions.
View Human Rights Reports →STEP: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
Enroll for free to receive safety updates, security alerts, and embassy messages tailored to your trip. Enrollment also helps the embassy contact you or your emergency contact in a crisis.
Enroll in STEP free at step.state.gov →U.S. Embassy Alerts
U.S. embassies and consulates send messages to registered citizens about protests, crime spikes, natural disasters, and security risks in your destination.
Find your nearest U.S. embassy →Reference
Understanding Travel Advisories
Exercise Normal Precautions
Normal precautions. Exercise awareness.
Exercise Increased Caution
Be aware of heightened risks. Stay alert.
Reconsider Travel
Serious risks. Reassess need to travel.
Do Not Travel
Extreme risks. Do not travel.
Source: U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory Program · Safety While Abroad
Content adapted from U.S. Department of State — Safety & Security and the STEP program.