safe travel guide

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• COVID-19 travel advice

Lower your risk of COVID-19 as you travel for a safe and fun adventure.

Successful travel starts with being prepared for the unexpected. Coronavirus disease 2019, known as COVID-19, is now a part of standard travel planning.

As you choose a destination, travel group or event, add COVID-19 to the list of things to research. When packing for yourself or anyone you're caring for on the trip, consider COVID-19 prevention and testing.

No one wants to plan for the worst. But having a plan in case you catch the COVID-19 virus while traveling can save time if you need medical care.

To start, it can help to ask these basic questions as you make plans.

Am I up to date with my COVID-19 vaccine?

Staying up to date on your COVID-19 vaccine helps prevent serious illness, the need for hospital care and death due to COVID-19 .

If you need a vaccine, plan to get it at least a few weeks before you travel. Protection from the vaccine isn't immediate.

Am I, a travel companion or a person I live with at high risk of serious COVID-19 illness?

Many people with COVID-19 have no symptoms or mild illness. But for older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions, COVID-19 can lead to the need for care in the hospital or death.

If you or those around you are at high risk of serious COVID-19 illness, take extra safety measures during or after travel.

Ask a healthcare professional if there are any specific actions you should take.

Does my destination, tour group or event need proof that I had a COVID-19 vaccine? Do I need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test?

The country you travel to may not need to know your COVID-19 status. But you might need the information for other reasons.

Events, venues or tour groups might require proof that you are COVID-19 negative or are up to date on a COVID-19 vaccine. Check before you go so you have all the paperwork you need.

What's the plan if I get COVID-19 on my trip?

No one wants to get sick while traveling. But in case you do, it helps to know where you can get medical care and whether you'll be able to stay apart from others while you have symptoms.

Put together a COVID-19 kit with rapid home tests, masks, a thermometer, disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Before you leave, gather health information from your healthcare professional. Make sure it gives the details on any health conditions you're managing and medicine you take.

COVID-19 spread during travel

The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person. When the virus is spreading, spending time indoors with a crowd of people raises your risk of catching it. The risk is higher if the indoor space has poor airflow.

The coronavirus is carried by a person's breath.

The virus spreads when a person with COVID-19 breathes, coughs, sneezes, sings or talks. The droplets or particles the infected person breathes out could possibly be breathed in by other people if they are close together or in areas with low airflow.

The virus carried by a person's breath can land directly on the face of a nearby person, after a sneeze or cough, for example. And people may touch a surface that has respiratory droplets and then touch their faces with hands that have the coronavirus on them.

Clean hands

While you travel, one way to lower your risk of COVID-19 is to clean your hands often.

Wash your hands after using the bathroom, before making food or eating, and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If you touch something that others regularly touch, such as an elevator button or a handrail, make sure to clean your hands afterward.

Also, try to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Wearing a face mask is another way to lower your risk of COVID-19 .

Travel brings people together from areas where viruses may be spreading at higher levels. Masks can help slow the spread of respiratory viruses in general, including the COVID-19 virus.

Masks help the most in places with low airflow and where you are in close contact with other people. Also, masks can help if viruses are spreading at high levels in the places you travel to or through.

Masking is especially important if you or a companion have a high risk of serious COVID-19 illness. Choose the most protective mask that fits well and is comfortable.

Get the COVID-19 vaccine

As the virus that causes COVID-19 changes, COVID-19 vaccines are updated, so stay up to date with the recommended shots.

Know when the COVID-19 virus is spreading in your area

Check with health agencies in the area to see where the COVID-19 virus is spreading. Information about the spread of the virus may include the number of people in the hospital with COVID-19 or the number of people who test positive for the disease.

Keep some space around you

Choose outdoor activities and keep some distance between yourself and others. Poor airflow plus lots of people crowded together equals a higher chance you'll come in contact with the virus that causes COVID-19 .

If you can, try to avoid spending time with people who have COVID-19 symptoms or who are sick.

There will likely be times during travel when you don't have a choice about how close you are to others. Here are some tips for air travel, public transportation and lodging.

The risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 from air travel is thought to be low.

Air in the plane's cabin changes over quickly during the flight, being replaced every few minutes in some planes. Airplane air also is often filtered. So germs, including viruses, are trapped before they spread.

The air flowing down from vents above the seats in each row may help keep germs from spreading. Seats also may act as a barrier to germ spread on a plane, unless the person who is ill is sitting close to you.

You can help lower your risk by spreading out to keep distance between you and others when you can and cleaning your hands regularly.

Wearing a mask in crowded areas, such as security lines and bathrooms, can help protect you from COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.

Trains, buses and cars

Trains and buses may have good airflow and air filtering. But check before you travel so you know what to expect. When a vehicle is crowded, wear a face mask and take other steps, such as cleaning your hands.

Taxis and private cars used for ride-sharing may not have air filtering. But in most cases, rolling down a window could be an option to improve airflow.

Rental car companies may post their cleaning policies on the internet, or you can ask directly when you book the vehicle.

Hotels and other lodging

Cleaning protocols at hotels, vacation rentals and other lodging have largely returned to the way they were before the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have questions about how hosts or businesses protect guests, contact them directly. In public areas of hotels, take steps to lower your risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 .

Put safety first

Despite your planning, an illness may delay or cancel your trip. Stay home if you or anyone you're traveling with has:

• Symptoms of COVID-19 , such as fever or new loss of taste or smell.
• Taken a COVID-19 test and is waiting for results.
• Been diagnosed with COVID-19 .

Keep watch for serious symptoms of COVID-19 , such as trouble breathing or chest pain. If you or a person you're taking care of has symptoms that worry you, get help.

Once the fever is gone and symptoms are getting better, you may choose to travel. But for about five days after feeling better, you could still give others the virus that causes COVID-19 . Take extra actions to protect the people around you.

• Wear a mask.
• Keep your distance from others, especially when indoors.
• Clean your hands regularly.
• Keep the air flowing by turning on fans or opening windows when you can.

If you start to feel worse or your fever comes back, avoid being around others again until you feel better.

Stay flexible

With COVID-19 vaccinations, testing and treatment, events and travel are back to typical levels in many places. But as waves of COVID-19 outbreaks happen, it's important to stay flexible with your plans. Knowing whether the COVID-19 virus is spreading in your area or in places where you're traveling can help you make decisions about whether to go and what to put on your agenda.

• Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Understanding how COVID-19 vaccines work. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/how-they-work.html. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• People with certain medical conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Travel advice for the general public. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers-hub/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-travel-advice-for-the-general-public. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. COVID-19. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/infections-diseases/covid-19. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obtaining health care abroad. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/health-care-abroad/health-care-abroad. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Goldman L, et al., eds. COVID-19: Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, community prevention, and prognosis. In: Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Elsevier; 2024. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 16, 202.
• Taking steps for cleaner air for respiratory virus prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/air-quality.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• How COVID-19 spreads. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-covid-spreads.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• COVID-19 overview and infection prevention and control priorities in non-U.S. healthcare settings. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/non-us-settings/overview/index.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Hygiene and respiratory viruses prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/hygiene.html. Accessed May 14, 2024.
• About handwashing. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Masking during travel. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/masks. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Masks and respiratory virus prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/masks.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• How to protect yourself and others. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• About physical distancing and respiratory viruses. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/physical-distancing.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• How can ventilation reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 on airplanes? World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers-hub/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-travel-advice-for-the-general-public. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Bielecki M, et al. Air travel and COVID-19 prevention in the pandemic and peri-pandemic period: A narrative review. Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease. 2021; doi:10.1016/j.tmaid.2020.101915.
• Symptoms of COVID-19. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Preventing spread of respiratory viruses when you're sick. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/precautions-when-sick.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.

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Is it safe to go there? The U.S. travel advisory system, explained

If you’re planning an international trip, here’s how to use the State Department’s country-by-country guide to minimize your risk of encountering crime, violence, or civil unrest.

On October 19, the U.S. Department of State issued a rare advisory that Americans overseas “exercise increased caution” due to heightened tensions and chances of terrorism around the world, spurred by the Israel-Hamas war. It’s part of a system of travel warnings that’s been around in some form since 1978, designed to help citizens assess how safe a destination might be at a given time.

The current version of the system, which launched in 2018, gives fluid rankings from Level 1 (exercise normal precautions) to Level 4 (do not travel), indicating how risky countries (and in some cases, regions) are for Americans to visit. Rankings are based on factors such as crime rates, civil unrest, and the threat of terrorism. They are meant to give “clear, timely, and reliable information about every country in the world so they can make informed travel decisions,” says a State Department spokesperson.  

Not surprisingly, on October 14, the State Department moved Israel and the West Bank to Level 3 (reconsider travel) and Gaza to Level 4.  

Here’s how the advisories work and how to use them.

What is a travel advisory?

The U.S. State Department inaugurated the travel advisory system in 1978, initially aiming warnings at airlines and travel companies. The system was scrutinized after the 1988 bombing of a Pan Am flight from London to New York , which exploded over Lockerbie, Scotland , killing all 259 passengers and crew plus 11 people on the ground.  

Investigations found U.S. authorities had been aware of a credible threat to a Pan Am flight but hadn’t informed the public. In response, the media and consular offices began issuing travel warnings. In 2018 the U.S. introduced its current four-tier advisory system. There are near-identical versions in Canada , Australia , and New Zealand .

To determine rankings, the State Department considers a nation’s political volatility, crime trends, medical care standards, and the threat of kidnappings or terrorism. (Politics also ends up playing an unspoken role.) Some countries, such as Russia , receive a Level 4 ranking partly because the U.S. government may have limited ability to assist citizens there. Others rise to Level 4 due to a crisis, such as the military coup that recently rocked Niger .  

When the travel advisory system relaunched in 2018, it also included state-by-state evaluations for Mexico , which draws more than 11 million American travelers a year. “Some Mexican states are quite safe for U.S. tourists, while others are riskier due to narco-trafficking violence,” says Ryan Larsen , executive director of the Institute for Global Engagement at Western Washington University. Yucatán and Campeche states are currently at Level 1, while six other Mexican states are at Level 4, including Sinaloa.

( Solo female travelers share tips for staying safe on the road .)

Epidemics and natural disasters also can prompt a travel advisory number to rise. Americans may be prompted to reconsider visiting a country recovering from a tsunami or major wildfires, since their presence could hinder rehabilitation efforts. This occurred after the February 2023 earthquakes in Turkey . Such advisories can remain in place for weeks or months.

The strictest-ever advisories came in April 2021, amid the COVID-19 pandemic , says Larsen, who did a thesis   on U.S. travel warnings. At that time, about 80 percent of the world’s countries were at Level 4.

At press time, about 70 percent of the world’s countries were rated Level 1 or Level 2 by the State Department, indicating they’re relatively safe. There are currently 21 countries at Level 3 and 21 at Level 4.

How to use travel advisories

Before booking an international trip, consult the State Department website to see where your destination ranks. While Level 1 and 2 countries are considered relatively safe, you should still register with the U.S. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . This lets Americans overseas use their smartphone to receive travel advisory updates and alerts about emerging dangers in their destination (protests, extreme weather).

Level 3 countries are considered more dangerous for foreign visitors, who should “reconsider travel,” according to the State Department. If you are headed to a Level 3 country, which currently includes Pakistan and Colombia , do wider research on its safety and on the places you’ll visit there, advises Jun Wen , a professor of tourism at Australia’s Edith Cowan University. For instance, while some remote areas in the Colombian Amazon still suffer from drug-related violence, cities such as Cartagena and Medellín are relatively safe. Going on a fully guided group or individual tour can also help you navigate destinations where political unrest or crime might impact your safety.

Travelers should study not only the advisories provided by their own country, but also by the U.S., United Kingdom, and Australia to broaden their understanding of the risks in Level 3 countries, Wen says. As for Level 4 countries, that “Do Not Travel” advice couldn’t be any clearer.

Other countries also issue warnings to their citizens about visiting the U.S. Canada recently informed its LGBTQ travelers they may be affected by laws in certain U.S. states. Australia, meanwhile, cautions its citizens visiting the U.S. to be wary of higher crime rates and gun violence, and even to learn safety strategies for active shooter scenarios.

People who visit countries with Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisories don’t just risk their safety. They also may have travel insurance complications, says Linchi Kwok , tourism management professor at California State Polytechnic University Pomona.

( How travel insurance can—and can’t—help when your plans change .)

They must pay much higher premiums, and their insurance can be invalidated if the advisory for their destination is elevated. “Medical coverage can be minimal, too, particularly if the travel advisory is put up against a disease or an outbreak,” says Kwok. “I encourage Americans to think twice before they travel to Level 3 and especially Level 4 destinations.”

Warnings and their impact on tourism

Travel advisories can be biased, Larsen argues. His research found that, while the U.S. didn’t often overstate the risk of travel to countries with which it had poor relations, it did often understate the danger of visiting nations that were its close allies. Elevating a travel advisory can stoke diplomatic tensions between two countries. Once a country is raised to Level 3 or 4, many tourists will avoid visiting, and many American universities won’t let students join study abroad programs.

The economic ramifications of a level change impact individual businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies. For instance, J 2   adventures , a Jewish-focused tour company, saw most of its fall group trips to Israel canceled after the start of the Israel-Hamas war (and the higher advisory level), says cofounder Guy Millo. “This is not just because of the violence on the ground, but because of practical considerations like accessibility of commercial airline flights,” he says. “Most tourists from North America and places around the globe simply couldn’t get here even if they wanted to.”  

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How to travel safely and responsibly in 2022 and beyond

Wondering how to travel safely during COVID-19? Many of us are longing to travel again, but only if we can do so safely and responsibly.

We’ve put a lot of thought into the safest ways to take a vacation right now. And we plan to continually update this post with safe travel ideas and tips, as travel restrictions change and Coronavirus travel advice evolves.

In this post, we cover: – Safety tips to help you travel again during COVID-19 – Safe trip ideas for 2022 travel in the United States – What to pack for pandemic travel – Places to visit and travel restriction resources by destination 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

Table of Contents

How to travel safely and responsibly right now

Step one: Follow CDC travel guidelines

You should already know and practice hand washing, physical distancing, and wearing of face coverings in public.

Responsible travel right now also means being as self-contained as possible to avoid unnecessary interactions or depletion of supplies in the communities you enter. For this reason, consider bringing your own food and supplies when possible.

Be sure to research and obey local restrictions, especially when visiting a destination outside of your home community. Infection rates, hospital capacity, and testing vary widely. Some communities may not have adequate resources in case of an outbreak.

Please respect if a city, State, or county is discouraging non-essential travel.

The following travel activities are ranked on a scale of 1 to 10 by infectious disease experts according to risk of exposure to the virus (first number from Fall 2020 * , second italicized numbers for fully vaccinated people as of April 2021 * ):

Low Risk: – Going camping (2, 1 ) – Getting restaurant take-out (2, 1 ) – Pumping gas (2) – Grocery shopping (3, 1.4 ) – Going for a walk with others (3) Moderate risk: – Staying at a hotel for 2 nights (4) – Going to a beach (5) – Swimming (6) High risk: – Eating inside a restaurant (7, 3.6 ) – Playing contact sports (7) – Traveling by plane (7, 2.7 ) – Going to an amusement park (8) – Attending a large event (9) – Going to a bar (9)

Consequently, we’ll focus on local camping road trips and staycations as the best way to travel safely right now .

Safe trip ideas

After researching safe travel ideas during Covid, we came up with three trip recommendations. These trip ideas were chosen because they:

• Avoid exposure to crowds and public spaces in transit
• Allow you to cook your own meals or order take out, like you would at home
• Avoid being in vehicles with others outside your group
• Let you control who and what enters your living space
• Provide access to no-contact activities like hiking, scenic drives, and lounging

1. Take an RV Road Trip

Camping or taking a road trip in an RV allows you to social distance and be self-contained as you travel. With your own kitchen, you have control over what comes in and out of your space, just like at home. And with your own bathroom facilities, you can avoid using public restrooms. 

The only difference from staying home vs. a socially distanced RV road trip is that you’ll need to fuel up with gas. By wearing a face mask, watching what you touch at the gas station, and washing hands or using hand sanitizer, this risk can be minimized fairly easily.

Whether you’re driving to reach a destination without airport crowds, or choosing a single stop for a staycation near home, an RV road trip is a great way to get a change of scenery while still maintaining your home safety routines.

Read: How to rent an RV (for beginners)

Outdoorsy is like Airbnb for RVs. It’s where RV owners rent out their RVs when they’re not using them.

If you’ve always wanted to try out a motorhome, or want to upgrade your National Parks road trip with a cute Airstream, consider renting through Outdoorsy. Their customer service and reviews have outranked the other top RV rental companies. You can search listings by vehicle type and location. Some owners will even deliver the motorhome to your door! *Take $50 off your Outdoorsy rental with coupon code: intentional

Browse and book RVs, motorhomes, trailers, and campervans on Outdoorsy here

2. Escape with No-Contact Tent Camping

Camping is rated one of the lowest risk travel activities for Coronavirus transmission. Being outdoors with plenty of space not only limits exposure but it’s good for the soul.

With a little prep, you can bring food to cook your own meals. See our camping road trip packing checklist .

But what about using public restrooms when camping? If you don’t have an RV with self-contained bathroom facilities, the essential business of “eliminating waste” becomes your greatest exposure to indoor, pubic facilities where you may need to touch doors, faucets, etc. 

By adding a few new camping items, it’s possible to avoid public bathrooms on your camping trip.

See our socially distanced, no-contact camping packing list for the pandemic

3. Staycation in a Vacation Rental

With vacation rentals like Airbnb, you can book an entire guest house or apartment. This way, you can keep similar safety practices that you have at home. For example, you can cook at your vacation home, ordering take out or curbside grocery pick up for meals.

You can book your getaway within driving distance from home, or along the route of a socially distanced road trip. Staying near home is a great way to enjoy a change of scenery while avoiding crowds in airports.

Compared to a hotel stay, you’re like to have fewer interactions with staff or other travelers when renting a vacation home.

Read: What safety precautions to take when renting an Airbnb

What to pack for safe, responsible trips

😷 Face Masks  – Cloth face coverings are required in public places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide >  or  designer options at Vida >

🧴 Hand sanitizer  – Bring enough for your entire trip, as alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be in short supply. Shop hand sanitizer >

💊 Medicine  – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder  – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector >   or  Vegan leather clippable >  or  Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test  – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT  valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS >  or  Walmart >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

Travel restrictions by destination

As travel restrictions change around the world, we’re tracking the travel guidelines for specific destinations in an effort to help you make informed decisions about where to travel and when.

Japan travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

Italy travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, paris france travel requirements 2024: what american travelers need to know, jamaica travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, croatia travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, ecuador travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, vietnam travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, philippines travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, thailand travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, canada travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, hawaii travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know, merida mexico travel requirements 2024: what travelers need to know.

Let us know in the comments below what questions or ideas you have for traveling safely during Covid-19.

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Although often in the shadow of its bigger and “hipper” neighbor, Portland, this capitol city (and my former home town) has its share of unique and visit-worthy attractions.  Salem is ideally situated just a short drive from the beach, mountains, and high desert. It is home of the Willamette (Will-AM-eht) River and shares the beautiful Willamette…

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9 Ways To Travel More Safely

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Whether you're traveling within the U.S. or to a foreign country, you should take extra precautions to stay safe. Distractions born of travel — such as taking in the sights, eating delectable food and exploring new cities — can increase your risk.

But it doesn't have to be this way.

These international and domestic travel safety tips will help you reduce your risk so you can enjoy your vacation and avoid trouble as much as feasible. Here's how to travel safely — ranging from actions that can be implemented on the fly and ones that require a bit more preparation.

1. Digitize important documents

Your wallet or purse is filled with important documents that criminals can exploit. Leave unnecessary items at home (like your Social Security card) and make copies of everything else you would need in an emergency, like prescriptions, a backup credit card (so you can at least make a digital purchase in a pinch) and your passport.

Take a picture and upload them to a secure folder on the web. This way, if anything is stolen, you can easily take steps to reduce the damage that criminals can cause. You can easily call the bank to cancel debit and credit cards and request a new ID from the embassy. You can also use a secure digital vault system like 1Password or LastPass to store these documents.

2. Minimize how much cash you carry

It is important to have a little cash when traveling, but most retailers accept credit cards, even abroad. Not having cash minimizes your wallet's value to a thief, and you can dispute unknown charges from a card. Just make sure to carry a card that has no foreign transaction fees when traveling internationally.

3. Look less like a tourist

The more you dress and act like a local, the less risk there is from criminals targeting you as a tourist. Adapting your style to that of the locals, walking with confidence and keeping maps hidden can help you blend in. When using directions on your phone, only look at it briefly while walking.

Further, familiarize yourself with the city and your route before leaving the hotel. If you do need to look up directions for an extended period of time, consider stepping into a store or cafe to do so, rather than staying outside.

4. Share your itinerary with someone you trust

Whether you're traveling alone or with others, share your itinerary with someone you trust back home. Check in once a day to let them know that you've made it to your next destination or back to your hotel. These small steps increase your safety during travel.

It's also wise to create and share a safe word so that family or friends would know if you're in trouble, even if the conversation seems normal to someone else who may be listening. You can take this a step further and consider sharing your live location with a trusted friend or family member via your smartphone.

5. Research travel advisories for destinations

According to the U.S. Department of State, "conditions can change rapidly in a country at any time." Its website keeps a continuous list of travel advisories in destinations around the world. While these advisories don't always mean that you shouldn't travel, they do help make you aware of the potential conditions you'll find when you arrive, or areas to avoid.

Check the State Department website before making travel plans, and again before you depart. Somewhere that may have been safe when you booked your trip may have deteriorated since then.

6. Sign up for Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , or STEP, is a free service from the State Department that allows citizens traveling or living abroad to receive the latest security updates. The information that you provide also makes it easier for the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.

7. Notify credit card companies of your travel plans

Because you may be traveling to cities outside your normal spending patterns, let your bank know your dates and destinations of travel. Many banks allow you to notify them via your online banking portal.

This will minimize the potential of the bank locking your account due to perceived fraudulent transactions, which could leave you stranded.

Additionally, consider bringing a backup credit card.

8. Be careful with public Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi can open your devices and sensitive information to hackers. Using a VPN service is one of the best ways we know of to stay safe in an airport, when exploring your destination or at your hotel. VPN services create a secure connection to protect your personal information when browsing the internet or using web-connected apps on an open connection.

Security.org , a security product review site, conducted a study in June 2020 and found that just 31% of U.S. internet users use a VPN service for public Wi-Fi connections. That means almost 70% of public Wi-Fi users are at risk of being hacked.

9. Get travel insurance

To improve both your physical and financial safety, consider purchasing a travel insurance policy ahead of your trip. This safety net is helpful in avoiding out-of-pocket expenses for emergency medical treatment, trip delays, cancellations or interruptions, lost luggage or evacuations.

Most policies will reimburse travelers for unused accommodations, transit or activities that were nonrefundable but had to be canceled for a covered reason. Similarly, if your luggage is lost by an airline or train company, you’ll likely get reimbursed through the baggage protection on your policy. Plus, if your policy has emergency medical coverage, you won’t be hit with a huge bill for medical attention overseas (where your U.S.-based health insurance is likely not useful).

Some credit cards come with built-in protections, whereas others don’t — in the case of the latter, you will need to purchase a stand-alone policy .

If finding ways to travel safely is your goal …

Now that we've shared some tips on how to travel safely, you can travel with more confidence and less risk. Though implementing most of these tips has little or no cost, they may take time to set up. Investing the time to increase your travel safety will be well worth it if you can avoid dangerous situations that can interrupt or ruin your next trip.

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Find out about travel advisories abroad before you plan your trip. Learn about the benefits of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and how to register.

Check for travel alerts in other countries

Before planning your trip abroad, you can find out if there are any travel advisories in your destination country. These advisories are issued by the U.S. Department of State and include 4 levels of increasing risk:

• Level 1 - Exercise normal caution. This is the lowest level of risk. But be aware there is some risk with international travel, and safe conditions in some countries may differ from the U.S.
• Level 2 - Exercise increased caution. A level 2 alert means you should be aware of heightened risk when you travel.
• Level 3 - Reconsider travel. There may be serious risks involved when you travel to countries under a level 3 alert. 
• Level 4 - Do not travel. In countries under a level 4 travel advisory, there is a higher chance you may encounter life-threatening risks. The U.S. government may also not have the ability to assist you if you experience an emergency.

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To find out what travel advisories may affect your trip, enter your destination country’s name in the search bar.

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The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service from the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. When you enroll, you will receive emails with news, alerts, and travel advisories about your destination country. With STEP, you can also:

• Be in direct contact during an emergency with the U.S. embassy in the country you are visiting
• Stay in touch with family and friends during an emergency

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10 ways to stay safe no matter where you’re traveling

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Mar 31, 2023 • 4 min read

Safety and adventure aren’t mutually exclusive. These 10 tips can help you avoid almost any setback © AnemStyle / Shutterstock

Travel always involves a bit of uncertainty. And there will always be location-specific warnings to observe depending on where you’re going. The good news is there are several proven precautions you can take ahead of time and while traveling to stay safe and navigate any unexpected catastrophes when away from home.

Here are 10 tried-and-true methods to dodge danger and maximize your enjoyment of practically any destination. Remember, safety and adventure aren’t mutually exclusive. And feeling anxious is totally natural. Either way, you got this!

Before you leave

• Check local advisories. Traveling to Iowa comes with a different set of risks than, say, traveling to Africa. The same is true when traveling to Europe, Latin America, Asia, or to any specific country within every continent, let alone specific regions that demand their own precautions. For the latest information, if you’re traveling from the US check the State Dept website , as well as local news reports, and travel guides to your specific destination.
• Get your shots (where needed). Not every location demands special immunizations before visiting. But many of them do, especially less developed countries and continents. What’s more, the pandemic made things a lot more complicated, as certain countries drop or maintain proof of vaccination before entering. Either way, if you’re in the US check with the CDC for any destination-specific shots you might need before boarding your flight.
• Share your plans with emergency contacts. Doing so can be a simple but life-saving act, especially when traveling off-grid, on high adventure trips, or in more dangerous destinations. Tell your friends and loved ones when and where you’re going, what you’re doing, where you’re staying, how you’re traveling, and how they can get in touch with you should anything come up.

• Know common scams. In many countries, individuals might feign assistance and incessantly follow you, only to later demand payment for their unsolicited help. Others might wow you with offers that are too good to be true, work in teams to distract you and take your goods, or worse. Many travel advisories will include this information, but some extra online searches can go a long way to expose and help you avoid any harm to your wallet and/or your safety.
• Get travel insurance. If you really want to cover your bases while abroad, you’ll want travel insurance, such as that offered by Seven Corners . Doing so can help recoup your money if you need to cancel a trip (or your flight is delayed) and cover the cost of treating medical emergencies while traveling, including care at foreign hospitals and medical evacuation, lost bags, early returns home, and many other unexpected mishaps.

While traveling

• Know your limits. Feeling nervous before traveling somewhere new is normal. But if you’re feeling downright sick about your plans, you’ve probably bitten off more than you can chew. The best pre-test of an experience is whether you’re still excited about it, even if it’s something you’ve never done before. After you arrive, however, be sure to listen to your mind and body and back out of anything you’re not comfortable with.
• Eat and drink like your life depends on it. This is especially true on high adventure trips. Dehydration is easily preventable but amazingly one of the leading causes of illness while traveling abroad. So, drink more water than you think, plan for regular bathroom breaks, and stay away from street vendors unless you’re certain they’re free from food poison.

• Secure your valuables. It’s always important to protect your personal property, be it in parked rental cars, beach bags, or wallets and phones in your usually secure pockets. Again, travel advisories will often alert you to higher areas of petty theft but be on the extra lookout when traveling someplace new.
• Avoid getting too close to wildlife (or the edge of a cliff). Many years ago, an American college student was sadly (but unsurprisingly) eaten by a lion after sticking her head out of a car window while at Lion Park in Johannesburg, South Africa. Others become seriously sick after licking psychedelic toads in Sonora. And far too many tourists have fallen to their deaths while snapping selfies at the ends of a cliff. Don’t do it. No photo is worth your life or good health.
• Stay alert. Be on the lookout. If you’re not sure about something, step inside a public building, follow the crowd, and trust your gut, especially if you find yourself in unfamiliar surroundings or cultures. Although you may be tempted to “travel like a local,” don’t do it. You’re probably not as experienced as they are and that’s okay. Instead, travel like a respectful tourist and accept that you don’t know everything. Doing so will keep you safe.

Despite what the news will sometimes have you believe, the world is a safer than it has ever been. Yes, there are risks. But when traveling, these 10 tips can help you avoid almost any setback. Bon voyage!

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• To prevent theft, avoid carrying or wearing anything expensive.
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• Make sure your phone and other personal devices have a "find my phone" or similar GPS tracker for emergencies. Consider sharing your location with a trusted contact back home in case of an emergency.
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• Tell someone you trust back home about your travel plans. Include where you'll stay, any far-away destinations from your accommodation, and an emergency contact.

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U.S. citizens can be targeted by criminals who seek to drug them in order to sexually assault or steal from them. Typically, the drugs are added to the victim's drink without their knowledge. Victims usually cannot tell that their drink has been drugged, and substances like Rohypnol, ketamine, and scopolamine can make a person unconscious and defenseless. Always watch your drink, and physically cover it with your hand if you can.

• If meeting with a stranger, you should strongly consider meeting only in public places and avoiding isolated locations, such as residences or hotel rooms, where crimes are most likely to occur.
• Do not accept drinks from strangers.
• Be aware of how much alcohol you are drinking. Notice any unusual physical symptoms outside of intoxication.
• If you start to feel strange or sick, tell a trusted friend if you can, and call emergency authorities right away. You can call the local police or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate . If you are assaulted, get medical care and resources from the nearest hospital or medical center. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for information on getting help and medical care in the country you are in.

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The Correct Usage of Safe Travels and Safe Travel To You: A Guide to You Journey

Zackary Hooper

Are you puzzled by correctly using well-wishing phrases such as “ safe travel s ” and “safe travel to you”? If so, you’re not alone. As a seasoned traveler myself, I’ve often wondered about the proper etiquette and usage of these expressions, which led me to delve deep into understanding their origins and appropriate contexts.

Table of Contents

This blog aims to guide you through these travel phrase dilemmas while maintaining respect for cultural differences. Hang tight; an enlightening journey awaits!

Key Takeaways

• “Safe travels” and “safe travel” are both acceptable phrases to wish someone a safe journey.
• “Safe travels” is more commonly used when wishing multiple individuals or groups well on their journeys.
• “Safe travel” is used when addressing an individual specifically or referring to travel as a concept rather than specific instances.
• It’s important to be sincere and genuine in your well-wishes, showing care and concern for the person’s safety and enjoyment during their journey.

Understanding the Meaning and Usage of “Safe Travels” and “Safe Travel”

When we wish someone a safe journey, it is important to use the appropriate expression – “safe travels” or “safe travel” – depending on the context.

The significance of well-wishing on journeys

Well-wishing on journeys holds a deep-rooted significance that extends far beyond surface-level politeness. It acts as a verbal token of care and concern , often strengthening bonds between individuals .

Wishing someone “Safe travels” or “Have a safe flight” communicates your desires for their well-being during travel, underlining the shared human experience of venturing into the unknown.

In many cultures around the world, expressions of good fortune for journeys carry symbolic weight and are considered important customs to observe . These wishes also provide comfort and reassurance to travelers setting out on big adventures or navigating unfamiliar paths.

Hence, they serve as an emotional compass guiding us through our collective journey – embodying empathy in its purest form.

Exploring the difference between “safe travels” and “safe travel”

“Safe travels” and “safe travel” are two phrases commonly used to wish someone a safe journey. While they both convey the same meaning and intent, there is a slight difference in their usage .

The phrase “safe travels” is more commonly used , especially when wishing well to multiple individuals or groups. It is often used as a general expression of good wishes for anyone embarking on a journey, whether it’s by land, sea, or air.

On the other hand, “safe travel” is less common but still acceptable . It tends to be used when addressing an individual specifically or when referring to travel as a concept rather than specific instances.

Common Ways to Wish Someone a Safe Journey

Some numerous alternative phrases and expressions can be used to wish someone a safe journey.

Alternative phrases and expressions for well-wishing

When wishing someone a safe journey, you can use several alternative phrases and expressions. Here are some options to consider:

• Bon voyage !
• Have a great trip !
• Arrive safe and sound !
• Wishing you a smooth journey !
• Enjoy your vacation!
• Take lots of pictures!
• Travel safely !
• Have an amazing adventure!
• Best wishes for your travels !
• May your journey be filled with joy!

Proper etiquette for wishing well on travels

When wishing someone well on their travels, it is important to follow proper etiquette . One should always be sincere and genuine in their wishes, showing that they care about the person’s safety and enjoyment during their journey.

Using phrases like “safe travels” or “have a safe trip” are commonly accepted and appreciated. It is also nice to offer additional blessings or well-wishes such as “wishing you a safe journey” or “enjoy your holiday.” Remember to be respectful of cultural differences and norms when expressing these wishes, as some people may have different customs or superstitions associated with travel.

Travel etiquette is all about spreading positive vibes and goodwill for safe journeys without causing any offense.

Examples of Correct Usage of “Safe Travels” and “Safe Travel”

– “I always say ‘safe travels’ to my friends when they embark on a trip abroad.”

– “When my sister went on a hiking expedition, I wished her ‘safe travel’ since it was a singular journey.”

– “Before boarding the plane, the flight attendant announced, ‘Have a safe flight,’ ensuring everyone’s well-being during their travels.”

– “As an avid traveler, I often use phrases like ‘wishing you a safe journey’ or ‘arrive safe and sound’ to convey my good wishes for others.”

Sentences and scenarios demonstrating the appropriate usage

I often find myself using the phrases “ safe travel s ” and “safe travel” interchangeably, but there are actually subtle differences in their usage. Here are some examples to help you understand when it’s appropriate to use each phrase:

• As my friend embarked on her journey, I wished her safe travels.
• It’s common to use “safe travels” when someone is going on a trip involving multiple destinations or modes of transportation .
• When my brother set off on his solo road trip, I wished him safe travel.
• “Safe travel” is typically used when referring to a single journey or specific mode of transportation .
• Before my parents boarded their flight, I said, “Have a safe flight!”
• Saying “have a safe flight” is another common way to wish someone well on their journey by plane .
• As my colleague headed out for her vacation, I offered the traditional phrase : “Bon voyage!”
• “Bon voyage” is an alternative expression that conveys well – wishes for a safe and enjoyable journey.
• When bidding farewell to a friend going on holiday, I said, “Wishing you a safe journey! Enjoy your time away.”
• Combining the wish for a safe journey with an expression of enjoyment can create a more personalized and heartfelt message.

Tips for using the phrases effectively in various contexts

Here are some tips for using the phrases “Safe Travels” and “Safe Travel” effectively in different situations:

• Use “Safe Travels” when wishing someone well on a long journey or multiple trips.
• Use “Safe Travel” when wishing someone a safe single trip or a specific part of their journey.
• Consider the context and duration of the trip before deciding which phrase to use.
• Be mindful of the person’s mode of transportation – for air travel, saying “Safe Flight” is also common and appropriate.
• Customize your well – wishes by adding specific details to make them more personal and meaningful.
• Stay positive and genuine in your delivery – sincerity goes a long way in conveying your good intentions.
• Consider cultural norms and customs when expressing well-wishes – certain phrases may be more common or preferred in different regions or communities.

Addressing the Rudeness Concern: Is it Rude to Say “Have a Safe Flight”?

Is it rude to say “Have a safe flight”?

Discussing social norms and cultural differences

Social norms and cultural differences play a significant role in how we communicate our well-wishes for safe travels. In some cultures, people may find it more appropriate to say “Have a safe journey” or “Wishing you a safe trip” rather than using the phrase “Safe Travels.” It’s important to be mindful of these cultural nuances and adapt our expressions accordingly when interacting with people from different backgrounds.

Additionally, social norms can vary when it comes to expressing well-wishes for specific modes of travel such as flights . While saying “Have a safe flight” is widely accepted in many countries, there are places where this phrase might not be commonly used or even considered rude.

Understanding these social norms helps us navigate diverse situations and ensure that our intentions are positively received across cultures.

Understanding the intention behind the phrase and its impact

When we wish someone a safe journey, it’s important to understand the intention behind our words and the impact they can have. By expressing our well-wishes, we are showing care and concern for the person embarking on their travels.

We want them to have a positive experience and return safely. Our words can provide reassurance and comfort , making them feel supported as they set off on their adventure. So next time you wish someone safe travels or safe travel, remember the power of your words and how they can bring positivity into someone’s journey .

Conclusion: Spreading Positive Vibes and Well-Wishes for Safe Journeys

In conclusion, it is important to spread positive vibes and well-wishes for safe journeys. By correctly using phrases like “safe travels” and “safe travel,” we can show our care and concern for others as they embark on their trips.

Remembering proper etiquette and using appropriate expressions will make our wishes meaningful and heartfelt. So let’s continue to wish everyone a safe journey filled with adventure, good fortune, and happy memories!

FAQs on Safe Travel To You

1. should i say “safe travels” or “safe travel” when wishing someone well on a journey.

Both “safe travels” and “safe travel” are grammatically correct and commonly used expressions to wish someone well on their journey.

2. Can I use “safe travels” for multiple people?

Yes, you can use “safe travels” to wish multiple people well on their journeys.

3. Is there any difference in meaning between “safe travels” and “safe travel”?

There is no significant difference in meaning between the two phrases; they both convey the same sentiment of wishing someone a safe journey.

4. Are there any other alternative phrases to wish someone a safe journey?

Yes, other alternatives include phrases like “have a safe trip,” “travel safely,” or simply saying “stay safe.”

About the author

I’ve been fortunate to visit over fifty countries, each journey leaving a unique footprint on my life’s map. From bustling cities to serene nature trails, I’ve immersed myself in different cultures and experiences, constantly broadening my understanding of the world. On this site, I share my travel stories, tips, and insights, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own journeys. Join me as we uncover the beauty of our planet, one adventure at a time. Please reach out here if you need to get in touch.

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• Storage basket
• Comfortable handles
• Sturdy wheels
• Safety harness
• Travel-friendly size.

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• Bring a backup baby carrier
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