Pre-Trip Safety Preparations

Research Your Destination

For US Travelers: Check the U.S. State Department Travel Advisories for up-to-date safety information on every country. Travel advisories range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel). Register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for the U.S. embassy to assist you in emergencies.

For Canadian Travelers: Visit Travel.gc.ca Travel Advice and Advisories for Canadian government safety recommendations. Register with Registration of Canadians Abroad to stay connected with the nearest Canadian government office during your trip.

Essential Documents

• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date
• Visas for your destination countries
• Travel insurance documentation
• Emergency contact list (family, embassy, insurance company)
• Copies of prescriptions and important medical information
• Hotel confirmations and important addresses

Health and Medical Safety

Vaccinations and Health Precautions

For US Travelers: Consult the CDC Travelers' Health website for destination-specific vaccination requirements and health recommendations. Schedule a travel health consultation 4-6 weeks before departure.

For Canadian Travelers: Visit Canadian government health and safety page and the Public Health Agency of Canada for travel health advice and vaccination information.

Travel Health Kit Essentials

• Prescription medications (in original containers)
• First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers)
• Anti-diarrheal medication and oral rehydration salts
• Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin-based)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and after-sun care
• Motion sickness medication if needed
• Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes

Personal Security and Crime Prevention

Staying Safe in Public

• Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots
• Avoid displaying wealth: Keep expensive jewelry, cameras, and phones concealed when not in use
• Use hotel safes: Store passport, extra cash, and valuables in hotel safe
• Stay in well-lit areas: Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods
• Trust your instincts: If a situation feels unsafe, leave immediately

Protecting Your Belongings

• Divide money and cards among multiple locations
• Use RFID-blocking wallets to prevent electronic pickpocketing
• Keep phone and wallet in front pockets or secure cross-body bags
• Be cautious of distractions - common pickpocket tactic
• Photograph important documents and store in encrypted cloud storage

Accommodation Security

• Choose accommodations in safe, well-reviewed neighborhoods
• Use door locks, chains, and portable door alarms
• Don't advertise your room number publicly
• Know emergency exits and evacuation routes
• Meet strangers in public areas, not your room

Emergency Preparedness

Emergency Contacts

For US Travelers: In emergencies abroad, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. For emergencies in the US, dial 911. The State Department's 24/7 hotline: 1-888-407-4747 (from US) or +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad).

For Canadian Travelers: Contact Global Affairs Canada Emergency Watch and Response Centre at 1-613-996-8885 or +1-800-387-3124 (toll-free from Canada/US). In Canada, dial 911 for emergencies.

What to Do If...

Your Passport is Lost or Stolen:

• Report to local police immediately and get a police report
• Contact your embassy or consulate right away
• Apply for emergency passport or temporary travel document
• Have passport photos and copies of identification ready

You're a Victim of Crime:

• Contact local police and file a report
• Notify your embassy or consulate
• Cancel stolen credit cards and report to bank
• Contact travel insurance company if applicable

Natural Disaster or Civil Unrest:

• Follow local authorities' instructions
• Contact your embassy immediately
• Monitor local news and government travel advisories
• Have evacuation plan and important documents ready
• Stay in contact with family back home

Transportation Safety

Air Travel Security

• Arrive at airport early and stay alert in terminals
• Keep valuables in carry-on luggage
• Follow all TSA/CATSA security requirements
• Don't accept packages from strangers
• Report suspicious activity to security personnel

Ground Transportation

• Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps
• Share ride details and location with trusted contacts
• Sit in back seat and keep doors locked
• Research safe public transportation options beforehand
• Avoid isolated bus/train stops, especially at night