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Travel Safety

Protect your passport and visa

Your passport is the most valuable document you have. Be aware of where your passport is at all times.
  • Hide your passport securely on your person when you will need it close to hand. Keep it handy; you may need to show it to check into hotels or carry as an identity document.
  • Do not leave your passport in a handbag or an exposed pocket. Keep passports in places that are inaccessible to thieves and pickpockets.
  • If you are traveling with a group, do not have one person carry all the passports. Each traveler should hold on to his or her own passport.
  • Have extra passport photos and photocopy of info in case of loss.

Protect your luggage

  • Use TSA locks on your luggage
  • Use only a business or school address and telephone number on your tags
  • Never place valuables in checked luggage
  • Never leave your luggage unattended

Know the local laws

  • You are not protected by the U.S. Constitution or U.S. law while overseas. You are subject to local laws.
  • Ask to contact the nearest embassy or U.S. consulate if you are arrested or detained
  • Stay calm and be respectful of the officers or officials
  • Do not admit anything or volunteer any information
  • Do not sign anything. Decline politely and wait until you have legal or embassy/consulate representation