If you will be traveling internationally,
you can make your trip easier and safer with some advance planning.
Your first step will be to make sure you have a valid, signed
passport and if needed, a visa. Make sure you fill in the emergency
information page in your passport. It will be to your benefit
to read the Consular Information Sheets and take notice of any
travel warnings that apply to the countries you will be visiting.
Becoming familiar with the customs and laws of the countries you
plan to visit will be to your advantage. Even though you are a
U.S. citizen, the laws of this country do not apply to you in
other nations.
You will be wise to make two copies of your passport identification
page. If you passport is lost or stolen, this will hasten the
process of getting a replacement. Give one copy to friends or
relatives, and keep another in your luggage or any place separate
from your passport. It is important to make an itinerary and
make sure friends or family have a copy. You will need to have
a way friends can reach you in the event of an emergency. In
addition, register with the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy
through the State Department web site. This will make your location
known in case of emergency.
While traveling abroad, do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and numerous credit cards.
You do not want to make yourself standout as a target for criminals.
Watch your luggage at all times and never accept packages from
strangers. If you plan to purchase antiques or art, deal only
with authorized agents to avoid violating local laws. The same
applies to exchanging currency. If you encounter any trouble
during your trip, contact the closest U.S. embassy immediately.
