Safety is of the utmost importance when you are traveling abroad. You are in a strange country with strange customs and strange laws. How do you enjoy yourself while you’re on vacation? Well, I have compiled a list of how to travel safely abroad with the assistance of the U.S. State Department.

1. Be aware of your surroundings.

• Use your best judgment to stay away from unsafe situations. Cruises and other suppliers will often inform you about any unsafe conditions in the area you are visiting. Heed those warnings!
• To prevent theft, avoid carrying or wearing anything expensive.
• Use facial expressions, body language, and a firm voice to fend off unwanted attention. Yell. Being safe is more important than being polite.
• Watch your drink. Physically cover it with your hand if you can. Never drink from a container that you have walked away from. Be aware of how much you are drinking. If you start to feel strange or sick, call the local authorities.

2. Public Transport Safety varies from country to country.

• Arrange transport to and from the airport or cruise terminal with a reputable and licensed company before you arrive.
•  Do NOT hitchhike.
• Research taxis and other ride-sharing companies before you go.
• Consider using app-based transportation companies. These provide a record of your ride which includes vehicle and driver information.
• Try to avoid busy train cars or crowded buses. Public transport offers opportunities for pickpockets and unwanted physical contact.

3. Prepare for Emergencies.

• Leave emergency contact information and a copy of your passport, visas and itinerary with family and/or friends. 
• Carry emergency contact information for your family in the United States with you when you travel.
•  Know the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and provide that information to your family and friends. 
• If there is an emergency situation where you are staying, such as civil unrest, disrupted transportation, or a natural disaster, contact your family and friends as soon as possible. Please see our page on Crisis Abroad for more information.
• A secure way to maintain your emergency contact information is to enroll with our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. 

4. Be Aware of Local Customs and Norms.

• Some countries have rules or norms that differ from the United States. For example, in some countries, tight-fitting clothes, sleeveless shirts, and shorts are not acceptable. Pack essential items that will help you blend in with the local culture.
•  The United States is a multi-cultural and multi-ethnic nation. U.S. citizen travelers reflect this broad diversity. Most U.S. citizens who travel each year do so safely and without incident. However, travelers may face more risk in some countries based on their ethnicity, national origin, or race. This risk includes racial or ethnic profiling, detentions, questioning, and requests to show identification.
• The police may stop you and request identification documents. Carry proof of citizenship and legal entry (visa). Ask the police to notify the U.S. embassy if you are detained.  Travelers may be exposed to hate speech or hate crimes. Foreigners may also be subject to surveillance.

5. Freedom of Speech.

Some countries have laws protecting free speech and peaceful assembly, including protesting, in a way that is similar to the United States. But other countries have more restrictive laws. In some countries, talking openly or posting on social media about sensitive subjects can lead to fines or arrest. For more information, check out the State Department’s Human Rights reports for specific country information.

6. Stay Connected.

• If you don’t plan to stay in touch on your vacation, let your family and friends know you will not be in regular contact.
•  Not all cell phones work abroad. Check your cell phone coverage and/or whether you will be able to purchase a SIM card overseas that will work in your phone before you depart.
• Don’t share detailed travel information on social media until you return from your trip.
• Download map applications that work with GPS instead of data to ensure you have access to local maps and routes. Keep your mobile device charged.