TIPS FOR SAFE TRAVELS ABROAD

 

Here are some quick tips to make your travel easier and safer.

Register so the State Department can better assist you in an emergency through a free online service at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/. This will help them contact you if there is a family emergency in the US, or if there is a crisis where you are traveling. In accordance with the Privacy Act, information on your welfare and whereabouts will not be released to others without your express authorization.

Make sure you have a signed, valid passport, and a visa, if required, and fill in the emergency information page of your passport.

Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page and visas with family or friends, so you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

Ask your medical insurance company if your policy applies overseas, and if it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. If it does not, consider supplemental insurance.

While in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. The US State Department web site at http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html has useful safety and other information about the countries you will visit.

To avoid being a target of crime, do not wear conspicuous clothing or jewelry and do not carry excessive amounts of money. Also, do not leave unattended luggage in public areas and do not accept packages from strangers.

For detailed information about steps you can take to ensure a safe trip, see How to Have a Safe Trip. And all above all else - have a plan in casae of an emergency. 

source: www.travel.state.gov