Personal Security Travel Tips
In addition to being aware of security for your devices while traveling, it's important to be aware of your own physical security. Here are our top 10 tips for keeping yourself safe and being security aware, especially in unfamiliar places.
Be aware of your surroundings. If you are in an unfamiliar area and need directions to your destination, look at the map and directions ahead of time so if you need to use a map to navigate around a city, it is only minimally.
Do not wear headphones or frequently check your phone while walking. Pay attention to who is around you and where your personal belongings are.
Make eye contact with those around you and let others see that you are aware of your surroundings. This makes you a less desirable target.
Keep your personal items, including money, identification, and phone, secured in front of you, such as in a cross body bag. Do not put important or valuable items in a backpack on your back or in a back pocket.
Only utilize designated taxi services or known ride share applications when calling a car. Be sure the vehicle information matches the license plate provided in the app. Be aware of the route the driver is taking and if it matches the correct route to your destination.
Select a reputable hotel and look at the security features of the hotel room, including a second form of door lock. The best option is a deadlock that cannot be accessed from the outside or with an electronic key. Hang the “Do Not Disturb” placard on your door.
Scan a copy of your passport or other identification and email it to yourself or a family member. Should your identification be lost or stolen, this will help you to return home.
Sign up for in-country alerts through the STEP program from the Department of State before you leave the country. The STEP program will alert you to any security incidents in the area you are traveling to.
Do not post your itinerary in advance or your location in real time on social media.
Follow your intuition! Your gut is often spot on.You should remove yourself from a location or individual that does not feel right.