KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Obtain A U.S. Passport
Find Internation Travel Information
Get U.S. Visa

Check Entry Requirements:
Verify visa requirements, vaccination rules, and entry forms on official government websites before booking your flight.
- U.S. State Department – Travel Advisories
- CDC – Traveler’s Health
Travel Insurance:
Always purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and theft.
Make Copies of Documents:
Keep digital and printed copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and itinerary in a separate location.
Register Your Trip (U.S. citizens):
Enroll in the STEP Program to receive safety alerts and make it easier for the embassy to contact you in emergencies.

Report theft or loss immediately to local police — get a written report for insurance.
Contact your embassy if your passport is lost or stolen.
Stay calm and polite in all interactions — respect goes a long way in foreign countries.

Check if your health insurance covers international travel.
Know where the nearest hospitals or clinics are — your hotel can help with this.
Stay hydrated, especially in tropical climates.
Be cautious with street food; eat where locals eat and where food is freshly cooked.
Use bottled water if tap water isn’t safe to drink.

Check weather alerts or road conditions before driving.
Keep emergency roadside assistance numbers handy (AAA in the U.S.: 1-800-222-4357).
Inform family or friends of your travel route and expected arrival time.
Carry a refillable water bottle and snacks for long drives or hikes.

Know the local laws and customs — what’s acceptable in one country might be illegal in another.
Avoid political demonstrations or protests.
Learn a few local phrases like “Help,” “Police,” “Doctor,” and “Thank you.”
Always carry a photocopy of your passport; keep the original locked away securely.

Money: Use ATMs inside banks, not on the street. Notify your bank before traveling.
Wi-Fi: Avoid entering passwords or banking info on public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN when possible.
Transportation: Use reputable car rentals or ride apps (Uber, Bolt, or local equivalents).
Accommodations: Read verified reviews and confirm your booking directly with the hotel or host before arriving.
Emergency Phrase Card: Keep a small card in the local language stating allergies or medical conditions.

General Global Assistance:

Global 24-Hour Emergency Line (for U.S. travelers): +1 202-501-4444
Credit Card Emergency (lost/stolen):
- Visa: +1-303-967-1096
- MasterCard: +1-636-722-7111
- American Express: +1-336-393-1111