Top 10 Travel Tips

Tips for Safe Travel

1. Make sure you have a valid passport and visas, if required. In case of an emergency, it is a good idea for a relative in the U.S. to have passport also.
2. Check if there is a travel advisory for the area you plan to visit. Stay aware of events in the country you are visiting.
3. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries to which you are traveling. Remember while in a country, you are subject to its laws.
4. Make two photocopies of your passport identification page. This will facilitate replacement if your passport is lost or stolen. Leave one copy at home. Carry the other with you in a separate place from your passport.
5. Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home so you can be contacted in case of emergency.
6. Notify by phone or register in person with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate upon arrival.
7. Don't leave luggage unattended in public areas. Don't accept packages from strangers.
8. Don't be a target. Avoid conspicuous clothing and expensive jewelry and don't carry excessive amounts of money or unnecessary credit cards.
9. In order to avoid violating local laws, deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money or purchase souvenirs.
10. If you get into trouble, contact the U.S. Consulate.

You can listen to travel advisories 24/7 by calling 1-202-647-5225.

You can find the travel advisories at the 13 regional U.S. passport agencies.