How Can US Travelers Stay Safe This Spring Break? Essential Travel Safety Tips for International Destinations – Travel And Tour World

Wednesday, March 19, 2025
As the US State Department prepares to issue its annual spring break travel guidance, it continues to urge travelers to take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable spring break experience abroad. While the advice issued in 2024 remains valid for this year’s season, it is supplemented with updated warnings and suggestions, particularly for student vacationers planning their trips abroad.
Research and Understanding Local Laws

Before traveling to any destination, the US Department of State advises travelers to familiarize themselves with the laws and customs in place in the country they plan to visit. This is particularly crucial as some countries impose severe penalties for actions that may not be considered crimes in the United States. The department specifically points out that possessing substances like cannabis, or even accidentally bringing ammunition into a country, can lead to significant legal consequences.
It is also important to recognize that even seemingly harmless actions, like posting certain content on social media, can have legal repercussions. The US Department of State recently referenced an incident where two Japanese citizens were detained for two weeks for exposing themselves in a photograph at the Great Wall of China. The department emphasized that US authorities do not always have the ability to intervene in such cases.
Travel Advisories and Risk Levels
The US State Department assigns specific risk levels to different countries, which range from level one, indicating normal precautions, to level four, which warns travelers with a “Do Not Travel” advisory. Travelers are strongly encouraged to heed these advisories as ignoring them may invalidate insurance coverage. The risk levels are based on an assessment of potential threats, including crime, political unrest, and other local hazards.
For example, travelers from the US may be particularly vulnerable to scams and fraud, such as dating app scams, taxi fraud, cash dispenser fraud, and fake emergency or consular calls. Travelers are urged to be cautious and vigilant when navigating unfamiliar environments.
Contacting US Embassies and Accommodations
The department stresses the importance of keeping contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate. Travelers should ensure they have these details available in case of emergency. Recent announcements by the Trump administration about plans to close several US consulates, mainly in Western Europe, make this even more crucial.
Additionally, travelers are advised to keep their accommodation contact details and share their whereabouts with hotel or accommodation staff to ensure they can be reached in case of an emergency. Keeping a secure copy of important documents, such as passports and insurance policies, is also recommended, with the advice to store them online or with family members.
Passport, Health, and Insurance Requirements
Before traveling, the US State Department urges all travelers to check their passport validity. Many countries, including popular tourist destinations, require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival.
Health coverage is another key consideration, as Medicare and Medicaid are not accepted internationally. The department recommends travelers verify what their health insurance covers abroad and suggests purchasing travel insurance to handle unexpected medical expenses. This may include coverage for medical evacuation, which can be costly, potentially exceeding $100,000, depending on the location and condition.
Certain destinations may also present specific health risks, such as COVID-19, malaria, or Ebola, and the department advises travelers to check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for up-to-date health information and vaccination requirements. While no destinations currently have a “Do Not Travel” health warning, travelers should remain cautious and prepared.
Enrollment in STEP
To further enhance safety, the State Department encourages travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which provides free access to critical safety and security updates. Enrolling takes approximately 20 minutes and helps US authorities communicate with travelers in case of emergencies, such as natural disasters or civil unrest. In addition, STEP provides a useful resource for family members to stay connected in case of emergencies back home.
Preparing Before Departure
In addition to the safety recommendations, travelers are reminded to take several practical steps before leaving for their trip. This includes unplugging electrical appliances, securing valuables, and ensuring pets are cared for. For students in particular, ensuring proper documentation from their university or college is essential for re-entry into the US and ensuring that travel documents align with Department of Homeland Security guidelines.
Key Takeaways

Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs before travel to avoid legal complications.
Check US State Department advisories for updated risk levels for your destination.
Ensure passport validity, purchase travel insurance, and verify health coverage for international trips.
Enroll in STEP for important updates and emergency contact information.
Take precautions with scams, fraud, and unsafe practices abroad, especially for students.