Safe Travel Tips from the U.S. State Department

• Tweet

• Tweet

The U.S. State Department has recommended the following tips for safe travel. 

What to take with you

• Travel light and keep important items, like medicines and eye glasses, in your carry-on. If the medicine is unusual or contains narcotics, carry a letter from your doctor to indicate the need for the drug.
• A copy of your passport identification page, airline tickets, driver’s license and the credit cards you will take with you in case you are robbed.
• Put your name, address, and telephone number inside and outside each piece of checked luggage and lock it, if possible.
• Your travel insurance documents, noting the travel assistance services number and policy number in case you need to call for help.

See more information on protecting your identity while traveling and what to take with you.

What to leave behind

• Expensive jewelry
• Irreplaceable documents or objects
• Unnecessary credit, bank, or retail cards
• Social security card, library card, and discount cards

Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with a family member or friend who can act as liaison if you are in an emergency.

Leave a copy of your passport identification page, airline tickets, driver’s license and the credit cards you will take with you with a family member or friend who can be contacted if you are robbed.

What to know before you leave

Recognize that local laws and customs are different from those in the U.S. and when you travel in another country, you are subject to the laws of that country, not your own. The U.S. government cannot help you out of legal trouble when you break the laws of foreign countries.

Pay attention to media reports about the country you are visiting so you are aware of recent developments at your destination.

If you want to stay informed of U.S. travel alerts and warnings, consider signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). You will receive notifications and you can designate an emergency contact in the U.S.

More information and safety tips

Additional information about how to stay safe on foreign streets, in your hotel, and on public transportation is also available.

Related topics

• Understanding domestic travel security protocols
• Understanding international travel security protocols
• How the State Department helps in a crisis