Best Practices for Traveler Safety

Research Your Destination

The customs and norms of other countries may be quite different from those in the United States. Visit our Country Information page to learn more about each country. Get information on visa requirements, security and safety conditions, crime, medical and health considerations, local law, areas to avoid and more. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Programme (STEP) for information on health and safety conditions in your destination. STEP allows you to be contacted by the U.S. Embassy and/or Consulate in case of an emergency.

Be aware of local customs and norms.

Some countries have rules or norms that are different from those of the United States. In some countries, shorts, sleeveless tops, and tight-fitting clothing are not allowed. You should pack essential items to help you blend into the local culture. View our Country Information page for more information about your destination.

Freedom of Speech

Some countries, like the United States, have laws that protect free speech, peaceful assembly and protest. Other countries have more restrictive laws. In certain countries, posting or talking about sensitive topics on social media or in public can result in fines or arrests. Check out the State Department Human Rights Reports for country-specific information.

Prohibited items

Check our Customs and Import Restrictions Page to see what items you may or may not be able to import into your destination country. These restrictions can include over-the-counter medications, drugs and alcohol, religious materials, literature, contraceptives, and other items. Some items that are allowed in the United States may not be permitted in different countries.

Public Transport

The safety of public transport varies widely from one country to another. In some places, minibuses and informal taxis are dangerous. This can be especially dangerous for solo travellers. Reliable sources such as tourism officials or local authorities can provide you with information on what is and isn’t safe.

Here are some tips on transport:

• Before you arrive, arrange transportation to and from airports with a licensed company.
• Don’t hitchhike.
• Before you travel, research taxi companies and other ride-sharing services. Verify that they are licensed, reputable and have a good reputation.
• Use an app that tracks your journey. It’s not like hailing a cab on the street. Some companies allow riders to send their ride records in real time to another mobile phone. This record can be used to identify a vehicle or driver at a later date.
• Avoid crowded train cars and buses. Pickpocketing is easier on public transportation.

Travel Accommodations

Check out our Lodging Safety Page and take the following steps:

• Read reviews and look for any safety concerns. Also, you should have backup accommodation.
• Before you travel, book your accommodations. When you arrive in an unfamiliar country, your vulnerability is higher.
• Do not tell anyone where you are staying.
• Safeguard your room keys, IDs and other personal items.
• When inside, lock windows and doors.
• Use a portable door jammer or door wedge at night.

Be aware of risks

• Avoid wearing or carrying anything expensive to prevent theft.
• Use your best judgment to avoid unsafe situations. Prepare a plan for dealing with dangerous situations in advance. Consider taking a self-defence course and bringing your own personal safety alarms or whistles.
• In the event of an emergency, locate nearby emergency services such as hospitals and police stations.
• Do not share any detailed information about your trip on social media before you return.
• In case of an emergency, make sure that your phone or other devices are equipped with a GPS tracker, such as “find my phone.” Also, consider sharing your location with someone you trust back home.
• You can download map applications that use GPS instead of data for local maps and routes. Keep your mobile device charged.
• Tell someone you trust about your plans to travel. Include your destination, where you will stay, and any destinations that are far away from your accommodation. Also, include an emergency contact.

Beware of Your Drink

Criminals can target U.S. residents to drug them, commit sexual assaults, or steal their money. The drugs are usually added to the victim’s drink without the victim’s knowledge. The victim usually does not know that the drink was drugged. Substances like Rohypnol and ketamine can render a person defenceless and unconscious. Cover your drink with your hand and always keep an eye on it.

• Avoid meeting strangers in isolated places, like hotel rooms or residences, as these are the most likely places to be a victim of crime.
• Don’t accept alcohol from strangers.
• Be mindful of the amount you consume. Be aware of any strange physical symptoms that may not be related to intoxication.
• You should immediately contact emergency services if you feel unwell or strange. Call the local police or the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You can get help and resources at the nearest hospital or medical facility if you have been assaulted. For information about medical assistance and help in your country, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Other Useful Inks

• Traveller’s Checklist
• Safe Travel offers travel safety information and tips for travellers in over 350 destinations.

If you are concerned about safety, contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy, or the American Citizens Services Unit.

Disclaimer

The U.S. Department of State manages this site. The links and listings of private companies on this page, which are external to the U.S. Department of State, are for your convenience only and should not be taken as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the U.S. Government of the entity or its views, products or services they provide, or accuracy of information. The order of names is not important, and the Department can remove listings or links at any time.