Top Ten Tips for Safe Travel

If you are interested in learning more about safety for your abroad experience, please click here for the "Safe Travel Abroad" video.

1.) Local Laws

Laws and systems of justice are not universal. Do not assume that because something is legal in the United States it is legal abroad.

2.) News Updates

Be familiar with local news by reading the local newspapers and speaking with local officials to learn about any potential civil unrest. In the event of disturbances, do not get involved. Before travelling, check with the U.S. State Department to see if any advisories have been issued pertaining to your destination. If you have concerns talk with the UCD QA Coordinator, or the Faculty Program Leader.

3.) Low Profile

Keep a low profile and try not to identify yourself by dress, speech, or behavior as a targetable individual. Do not draw attention to yourself through expensive dress, personal accessories (cameras, radios, jewelry, sunglasses, etc.) or careless behavior.

4.) Awareness

Dress according to what is accepted culturally. Be aware of where you are and your surroundings at all times. Avoid walking alone late at night or in questionable neighborhoods. Do not agree to meet a person whom you do not know in a secluded area. People from other countries may mistake the friendliness of Americans for romantic interest.

5.) Valuables

Do not carry valuables together in one place. While abroad never pack essential documents, medicines, etc; always carry them on you. We recommend a money belt or neck pouch while traveling.

6.) Money

Never carry large amounts of cash! Keep a small amount of cash needed for immediate use in a neck pouch or money belt. Before departure, make photocopies of important documents, (i.e. passport, credit cards, and tickets), and give them to a responsible contact person.

7.) Medication

Take everything needed for the trip, along with copies of all prescriptions and the generic names of drugs. Keep medicines in original drugstore containers. Take extra eyeglasses and the lens prescription.

8.) Passport

Carry two extra passport pictures separately from your passport and a clear photocopy of your passport. If your passport is lost, report it to the local police; get written confirmation of the police report, take the above documents to the nearest U.S. consulate and apply for a new passport.

9.) Airline Tickets

Make a photocopy of your ticket or list its number and all flights along with the name and address of the agency that issued it. Keep this information separate from ticket.

10.) Luggage

Mark all luggage inside and out with your name and address. Put a copy of your itinerary inside each bag. Mark all bags in some distinctive way, so they are easily found. Pack only what you can carry.

HAVE FUN AND ENJOY YOURSELF...!!!