10 Travel Safety Tips Smart Travelers Follow Before Leaving the U.S.
Traveling Soon? Don’t Leave the Country Without Doing These 10 Things
International travel is exciting. Planning the destination, packing your bags, and counting down the days until departure are all part of the fun.
But many travelers make one major mistake before leaving the country. They don’t prepare for the unexpected.
Lost passports, delayed flights, medical emergencies, and travel disruptions happen more often than people realize. The difference between a stressful situation and a manageable one usually comes down to preparation.
After helping travelers plan trips around the world, I’ve seen firsthand that the smartest travelers always plan for safety before they leave home.
Here are 10 travel safety tips every international traveler should know.
1. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Before traveling internationally, U.S. citizens should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. Department of State.
This free program allows the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to contact you in case of:
• natural disasters
• political unrest
• safety alerts
• family emergencies
It also allows the embassy to locate you quickly if needed.
You can enroll at:
https://step.state.gov
2. Keep Digital Copies of Important Documents
Always store digital copies of important travel documents in a secure location.
This includes:
• passport
• travel insurance
• flight confirmations
• hotel reservations
• driver’s license
Email a copy to yourself or store them in a secure cloud folder so they can be accessed if your documents are lost or stolen.
3. Bring Extra Prescription Medication
If you take prescription medication, bring more than you think you'll need.
Travel delays happen. Flights get canceled. Weather disruptions can unexpectedly extend your trip.
Always pack medication in your carry-on bag and bring extra in case your return home is delayed.
4. Carry Emergency Funds
Even the best travel plans can change.
Smart travelers always carry access to emergency funds through:
• credit cards
• debit cards
• emergency cash
This is especially important if you need to quickly book a hotel, transportation, or meals during unexpected travel disruptions.
5. Know Where the U.S. Embassy Is Located
Before arriving in a new country, research the location of the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Embassies can assist travelers with:
• lost passports
• legal emergencies
• evacuation support
• emergency travel documentation
Knowing where it is before you need it can save valuable time during an emergency.
6. Purchase Travel Insurance
Travel insurance protects your financial investment in your trip.
Policies can cover:
• trip cancellations
• medical emergencies
• evacuation coverage
• lost baggage
• travel delays
Without travel insurance, travelers may have to cover these costs out of pocket.
7. Share Your Travel Itinerary with Someone You Trust
Before leaving, share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.
Include:
• flight details
• hotel information
• destination contact information
• copies of important documents
If something unexpected happens, someone back home will know where you are and how to reach you.
8. Monitor Travel Advisories
Before your trip, review travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State.
Travel advisories provide important updates about safety conditions in destinations around the world.
You can monitor updates at:
https://travel.state.gov
9. Pack Smart and Secure Your Belongings
Avoid carrying valuables in easy-to-access bags or backpacks.
Consider using:
• anti-theft bags
• money belts
• luggage locks
Keeping your belongings secure can prevent common travel issues like pickpocketing.
10. Work With a Travel Advisor
One of the biggest mistakes many travelers make today is planning everything alone.
A vacation is a financial investment, and protecting that investment requires more than simply booking flights and hotels online.
A travel advisor helps travelers:
• plan smarter
• prepare for potential disruptions
• choose the right travel insurance
• navigate unexpected issues while abroad
Having someone experienced in your corner can make all the difference if something unexpected happens.
Download the Travel Safety Handbook
If you're planning an international trip, preparation is one of the most important steps you can take.
I created a Travel Safety Handbook that walks travelers through important safety steps to take before leaving the country.
Inside the guide, you'll find helpful information about:
• travel safety preparation before leaving the country
• important resources for U.S. travelers abroad
• how to stay informed during travel disruptions
• emergency contact information travelers should know
• smart safety practices experienced travelers follow
This guide was created to help travelers plan smarter and travel with confidence.
Download the Travel Safety Handbook here:
Final Thoughts
Travel should be exciting, memorable, and enriching — not stressful.
With the right preparation, travelers can enjoy their trips knowing they’ve taken the steps necessary to stay safe and protect their investment.
Safe travels and happy exploring.
— Destination & Travel Junkies
