TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS

Preparation is the key to having a safe, pleasurable trip when traveling internationally. By following a few simple guidelines, most travelers can avoid serious difficulties. We’ve listed below some important safe-travel principles which can benefit everyone from the most-seasoned traveler to those venturing out for the first time.

Before You Go
Research your destination – being informed is the first step in making sure your travels will be as safe as possible.

• Once you’ve chosen where you are going, begin thinking about what you want to do. Finding out as much as possible beforehand about your destination and excursions will provide peace-of-mind and allow you to more thoroughly enjoy your visit.
• Understand the unique customs and regulations of your destination. The Travel Resources of OfficialTravelDocuments.com provides a link to the U.S. government’s travel site for travel warnings, U.S. embassy contact information, and up-to-date information about travel requirements and tips.
• If you are traveling internationally, make sure you know what documents will be needed to enter and exit the country you will be visiting (for a list of requirements by country, click here).
• If you are creating your own itinerary rather than using the services of a travel agent, be sure to use trusted sites and resources to research hotels in safe areas. Read customer reviews and consider the surrounding area when deciding on your hotel.

Organize your packing – whether traveling for business or pleasure, packing your suitcase in an organized manner will make your trip much smoother.

• First, decide what you absolutely must take with you. Remember for most trips, less is more!
• Find out beforehand if your hotel will provide hair dryers, irons, etc. to save space in your suitcase.
• Respect local customs and learn about appropriate attire for the different places you plan to visit.
• Create a list of everything you packed and keep it, along with your travel itinerary, in a secure place. If your luggage gets lost or stolen, it will make the process much easier to have a list at-hand of your suitcase contents.
• Attach your name and contact information on and inside every piece of luggage.
• Make two copies of your travel itinerary, passport, traveler’s check serial numbers, airline tickets, credit cards and driver’s license. Give one copy to a family member/close friend at home, and keep the other copy with you in a secure place.
• Do not bring valuables, unneeded credit cards, Social Security Card or other unnecessary items that you may routinely carry.
• Avoid clothes with shallow pockets and fanny pouches, which are easy targets for pick-pockets.

At the Airport
Safety in the airport is always a key consideration, whether traveling abroad or domestically.

• Keep your bags with you at all times and secure your airline tickets, wallet and other personal items in a secure area.
• To keep customs inspections simple, have any medications you may carry in their original bottles and bring copies of your prescriptions.
• Do not carry anyone else’s bags or personal items, and report any unattended packages or luggage to airport security personnel.

Enjoying your Trip Safely

• Do not carry large amounts of cash; instead, be sure to bring travelers’ checks and only countersign in front of the person who will be cashing them. If you need to exchange currency, only deal with authorized agents.
• When you have checked in to your hotel, be sure to get a copy of the hotel stationary with the address and hotel contact information. This is very helpful if you get lost or need to contact the hotel at any time. Know where the hotel exits are in case of emergencies. When in your room, always lock your door and keep your personal items in the hotel safe (if applicable).
• Always be aware of your surroundings. If you are using public transportation, have your personal items in a secure place and beware of pick-pockets. If you are using taxis, only use clearly marked taxis and do not use unmarked cars. If you happen to get lost, only ask directions from individuals in authority such as local police or designated information assistance providers.
• Staying healthy is very important while you are on your trip. Review the U.S. Consular Information Sheet to see what vaccinations you will need or if there are any health issues in the places you will be traveling.
• While you cannot avoid jet lag, you can minimize it by leaving for your trip well-rested and napping on the plane. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
• Eating nutritiously, not drinking unsafe or questionable water, and bringing a traveler’s first aid kit with band-aids, cold medication, pain relievers, and soap can contribute to having a safe, healthy trip.