Safety Tips for Traveling to a Country on the State Department’s Travel Warning List

The State Department has a travel warning list that showcases updates for all the countries in the world and gives them a safety rating. Level 1 is “Exercise Normal Precautions,” while Level 4 is “Do Not Travel.” While it can be difficult to predict what could happen, these warnings act as a guide for risks of violence, terrorism, natural disasters and health concerns. 

Whether you travel to a Level 1 or Level 4 country, you should be as prepared as possible. Here are a few safety tips to consider.

Keep Your Money Safe

Tourists can be an easy target for thieves, try to keep your money as close to your body as you can. Consider having a backup credit card in case yours is lost or stolen, and cash in case there is a disaster and you cannot access your bank. 

Leave money at home with someone you trust so they can wire it to you if there is an emergency. Tell your bank where are you are going, to ensure any activity isn’t flagged as suspicious. If the worst-case scenario does happen, you may need money fast.

If you have additional items of value that you want to secure, ask your hotel if they have a locked safe to store them in.

Have a Plan

If you have to leave quickly, remember you will need to have access to your passport and there may not be time to go back to your hotel to collect it. 

Keep a list of important contact numbers — the US embassy, family at home, your insurance company — on a card with you in case your phone goes missing. 

You may be in a country where you don’t speak the language, so it is important to know your way around. Ask your hotel for an evacuation plan and emergency exits, and be aware of your surroundings. 

Get Travel Insurance

Travel and life insurance can be invaluable and is recommended for all travelers. If there is a medical emergency or disruption caused by a natural disaster, you want to know any expenses will be taken care of. Look for an insurance company that is available day or night.

Remember, even if you already have health insurance, they may not cover you for events overseas. This is something you need to prepare in advance, as it is better to be safe than sorry.

Research the Risks

What are the risks? Take the time to learn about the country and what to expect. You may be able to slightly modify your travel plans to accommodate any risks, as sometimes it is only certain areas of a country that are affected. Your safety is more important than saving money, so make it a priority to choose safe accommodation in a secure location.

Be mindful of strangers and try not to give them too much information about yourself and your itinerary. This will reduce the likelihood of you becoming a target. 

Be Prepared

Always be prepared. Consider whether you can take a friend with you, as it is often safer with two if there is an emergency. Make sure you have any recommended travel vaccines and register as a Smart Traveler.

Tell a friend or family member back home your itinerary, and check in regularly so they know you are safe. Keep any belongings close to you, and invest in a tamper-proof bag. Don’t forget to have fresh water with you, as this could be vital in an emergency.

Be Safe

For non-urgent trips to countries with a risk of Level 3 or 4, you may like to postpone your holiday. If you do need to travel to a country on the State Department’s Travel Warning list, be as prepared as possible. Have a plan and ensure you have good travel insurance. Stay in contact with those at home, and keep your money secure. If the unfortunate does happen, you will want to know you are protected.